Read About Maltese Dog Show

Maltese Dog, the oldest of the toy breeds, is a loving companion and a star at dog shows. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Maltese Dog - Dog Breed Facts

1. AKC Group:

   Toy Group.

2. Size & Weight:

   8-10 inches; 4-7 lbs.

3. Coat:

   It has a single coat. The coat is heavy, long, straight and silky.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The skull is slightly round at the top. The muzzle is of medium length.

5. Body:

   It has a compact body and a level topline. They have sloping shoulders and their chest is deep. Their feet are round and small.

6. Colors:

   They come in only white color.

7. Life Expectancy:

   15 years and more.

8. Popularity:

   They are popular as show dogs (AKC rank: 19)

9. Habitat:

   They are good for apartment life as the are pretty active indoors and can adapt well without a yard.

Maltese Dog - Dog Breed Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Malta.

2. Lineage:

   Oldest of the toy breeds, it's believed to be developed in Italy.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   1888

4. Historical Information:

   The oldest of the toy breeds it made a good ladies companion. They were bred right from the beginning to make adorable house pets and at present they are known to be good show dogs.

Maltese Dog - Dog Breed Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   They should be trained with consistence and patience. Maltese dogs are good at learning tricks.

2. Temperament:

   Maltese dogs are gentle, obedient and playful dogs. They have a protective nature and tend to bark and bite if they feel they are threatened.

3. Child Friendly:

   They usually get along with children fine. But they tend to get aggressive if the child provokes them.

4. Behavior:

   They are protective and bark if they feel threatened.

5. Habits:

   They like jumping in puddles. Give them a bath immediately to keep the coat clean.

Maltese Dog - Dog Breed Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are prone to slipped stifle, skin and respiratory problems. They should not be exposed to excess heat.

2. Feeding:

   The dog should be given food with good carbohydrate content. Dry dog food and biscuits help to keep the dogs teeth strong.

3. Exercise Needs:

   Little exercise is needed as they are quite active indoors. They can be taken for daily walks.

4. Grooming Needs:

   Regular brushing and baths are necessary to keep the coat smooth and shiny. Clean the eyes, beard and ears regularly.

5. Special Household Needs:

   A leash is required when taking the dog for walks.

6. Travel Needs:

   Have a good stock of water when traveling in hot conditions.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   It doesn't get along with other pets.

Maltese Dog - How to Choose your Dog Breed

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Check the puppy's knees and teeth for problems. The puppy's eyes should not be dry as it's a problem usually found in this breed.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Brushes for coat care, feeding bowls, bedding, a leash, some toys and chews.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Small objects should be kept out of reach. The same applies to power chords too.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   These dogs like it when they are cuddled. They need plenty of human companionship and shouldn't be left alone for a long time.