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To say that the Maltese dog breed is good-looking is an understatement. These tiny canines are irresistibly cute and are one of the most loved breeds today.
Maltese are characterized by their flowing white fur, and big soulful eyes which can make any dog person instantly love them.
Keep reading this guide as we outline 15 less-known facts about Maltese dogs that will intensify your big love for this breed.
15 Facts about Maltese Dogs
1. Maltese dogs have an ancient history
These furry companions may look tiny, but they have a rich history that goes back to the central Mediterranean area, thousands of years ago.
The Greeks and the Egyptians are some of the few ancient civilizations that have displayed artwork depicting this breed, dating back centuries.
2. They got their name from ‘Malta’
Many people believe that the Maltese breed derived their modern name from the Mediterranean island of Malta.
This theory stems from the fact that Malta was a thriving hub in ancient times, and the small, white dogs that resemble today’s Maltese were found in the region.
3. Maltese come from spitz-type dogs
The exact origin of Maltese dogs is a subject of debate, but it is widely accepted that they descended from spitz-type dogs.
Maltese’s thick, white-coated body and their subtle wolf-life appearance are some of the remaining attributes of their ancestors.
4. Their coat has a unique texture
The coat on the Maltese breed is somewhat unique and different from those of other canines. Their all-white coat is single-layered, fine, silky, and straight.
With no waves and curls on their long hair, Maltese dogs are good candidates for meticulous grooming and haircut styles.
5. Maltese are decent watchdogs
Don’t let the tiny size fool you, because unlike other small breeds, Maltese dogs are rather protective of their household and humans.
They can form excellent watchdogs, thanks to their alert nature and ability to sound an alarm at the sight of a stranger.
6. Maltese can be vocal
Maltese are not the type of dogs who would keep quiet when they want immediate attention from their owners.
These tiny dogs will happily bark, howl, or use any other vocalization when necessary to alert you about something. This forms part of why they are decent watchdogs.
7. They are tiny but sporty
You might think Maltese dogs are weak, based on their tiny size alone, but far from it. These cute canines are agile and athletic.
Maltese love getting sporty, and their energetic nature makes them suitable for intensive activities like hiking, playing flyball, or agility training.
8. Maltese are Intelligent
Maltese dogs are smart, meaning they can learn new things quickly. This high canine IQ makes them good candidates for obedience and command training.
The best training approach for Maltese should leverage positive reinforcement methods to make the best out of every session.
9. They come in different sizes
You may have thought that the Maltese breed only comes in one size, but the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes two variants.
According to the official breed standard, Maltese dogs should have a weight range of between 4 – 6 pounds, but those with an exceeding weight of up to 10 pounds are also recognized.
Though not official, some breeders can come up with Teacup Maltese dogs, for people who love extra-tiny companions.
10. They can be high-maintenance
If you’re planning to adopt a Maltese dog, you should adequately prepare for a relatively high-maintenance routine, at least in the grooming department.
Their all-white coat calls for everyday combing, regular brushing, and bathing to prevent painful mats and tangles.
A regular and consistent grooming routine will also help keep your dog’s fur soft and shiny with improved external features.
11. Maltese were loved by the Roman rulers
The Maltese was already a well-known breed way back in the 5th century. They became a status symbol and a fashion accessory for Roman nobles.
The breed was also a common theme in Roman culture, showing up in all sorts of legends, poems, and tales, where they represented loyalty.
12. Maltese dogs love their humans
If there’s one thing Maltese owners can attest to is how their little cuddle bugs love them so much. Maltese dogs are affectionate and always prefer sitting by their humans.
13. They are good for apartment living
If you’re looking for a loving dog who can slot into your small living space, look no further than this cute lap dog.
With a healthy weight of below 7 pounds, Maltese dogs are a fantastic choice for people residing in urban areas, especially in apartments.
Remember to provide enough daily exercise to keep your Maltese dog in good shape despite living in close quarters.
Aim for daily brisk walks, indoor games, morning runs, and occasional trips to a nearby dog-friendly park to meet the dog’s exercise demands.
14. Maltese can be sensitive to extreme weather
The all-white Maltese coat provides sufficient insulation, but they can be overpowered when the weather gets too hot or too cold.
When the weather becomes too hot, they can easily overheat since their bodies are not built to handle high temperatures for long periods.
Likewise, in colder climates, despite their coat, they may struggle to maintain their body heat and can quickly become chilled.
It’s prudent to prepare in advance when the temperatures rise above or fall below acceptable levels to keep your cute lap dog in good health.
15. Maltese dogs have a longer life expectancy
If you’re thinking about getting a Maltese for your household, you should prepare to share your life with them for an average of 12 – 15 years.
This should not mean you neglect basic care and wait for your dog to live long. Remember to provide the essentials and keep your dog healthy to enjoy a longer lifespan.
Conclusion
Maltese dogs are loving and loyal companions who can make great furry additions to any family or household.
They are relatively low-maintenance in terms of space, but their beautiful, silky coats require regular upkeep.
While they don’t need excessive amounts of exercise, they do need a fair amount of activity to stay healthy and happy.
Related Reads:
15 Convincing Reasons to Own Maltese Dogs
Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
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