Dog Breed Guide

Maltese

Profile

Size

Extra Small

Country of origin

Mediterranean (Italy is registered as the country of origin)

Origin

Ancient

Bred for

Companion

Height

20 - 25cm (8 - 10in)

Weight

3 - 4kg (7 - 9lb)

Life span

12 - 15 years

Its most striking feature is a pure white, silky coat so long it can reach the floor. Its large black eyes and black nose stand out beautifully against its white face. It has no undercoat and sheds little, but the long coat tangles easily, so daily brushing is essential. A short "puppy cut" is also popular.

Bright and cheerful, the Maltese loves people. Brave despite its tiny size, it barks readily at strangers and noises. It is affectionate and clings to its family, so it does not like being left alone for long.

Tear stains easily turn the hair under its eyes brown, so wipe the area often. Kneecap dislocation (patellar luxation) and dental disease are also concerns.

Good to know

It is said to be one of the oldest companion dogs in the world. The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, in the 4th century BC, wrote of the little dogs of the Mediterranean island of Melita as "perfectly proportioned," and Melita is thought to be today's Malta.

In 16th-century Britain the breed was loved by queens such as Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary was held captive by Elizabeth I for 19 years, and her little dogs comforted her through her long imprisonment. Legend has it that on the day of her execution, one of her dogs was hiding under her skirts.

Despite the name "Maltese," it is not certain that the breed actually originated on Malta. One theory says the name was once a general term for small dogs kept in the port towns of the ancient Mediterranean.