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Characteristics, History, and Health
Maltese
The Maltese breed is one of the oldest toy dog breeds, with a history that stretches back nearly 3,000 years. Originating from the Mediterranean island nation of Malta, these dogs were adored by aristocracy throughout ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Phoenician Sailors visiting the island of Malta around 1500 B.C. for trade are credited with first discovering the breed. Maltese have been associated with nobility, luxury, and refinement, often depicted in paintings and writings of the period. Their exact ancestry is unknown, but they are considered a progenitor to many of the small white European toy breeds seen today. The breed was brought to England in the early 1300s when ladies of the upper-class also took a liking to this small breed. The first Maltese was not seen in the United States until 1877 at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show.
Main Info
- Origin
- Malta
- Alternate Names
- Roman Ladies' Dog, The Comforter, Spaniel Gentle, Ye ancient dogge of Malta
- Life Expectancy
- 12-15 years
- Average Male Height
- 7-9 inches
- Average Female Height
- 7-9 inches
- Average Male Weight
- Under 7 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- Under 7 pounds
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Silky
- Coat Colors
- White, White & Lemon, White & Tan
- Coat Pattern
- Black Points
Genetic Predispositions and Health
The Maltese can suffer from deafness, dental conditions, shaker syndrome, portacaval shunt, patellar luxation, open fontanelles, entropion, hypothyroidism, hydrocephalus, distichiasis, hypoglycemia, patent ductus arteriosus, chondrodystrophy and intervertebral disc disease (CDDY and IVDD risk) with or without chondrodysplasia (CDPA), and glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSDIa). As for all breeds, genetic screening for hereditary conditions is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
The Maltese loves to be spoiled and is the perfect lap dog. Although they are small, the Maltese can also be feisty and rambunctious. They are companion dogs but can be over-coddled. Although small in stature, they can make great watchdogs, as they bark at other dogs and strangers. If the Maltese becomes the pack leader it may lead to unnecessary barking and snapping at strangers, other dogs, or even children. Thus, there must be a firm chain of command to keep this breed from acting out. The breed is not recommended for families with younger children.
Fun Facts
The Maltese breed is known for its long, silky, pure white coat. Unlike most breeds, the Maltese has hair, not fur, which continuously grows much like human hair and typically does not shed.
The Maltese breed has been recognized by the AKC for over a century, with official recognition dating back to 1888.
The Maltese's coat can grow to the floor length, resembling a tiny walking mop when not styled.
Ancient Greeks built tombs for their Maltese dogs, and Aristotle referred to the breed as "perfectly proportioned" despite its diminutive size. Roman Aristocrats were said to not be fully dressed without their "Roman Ladies' Dog" peeking out.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/maltese/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/maltese
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_maltese
https://fci.be/en/nomenclature/MALTESE-65.html
https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/160/
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