Menu Content/Inhalt
Welcome arrow About Maltese
About the Maltese Breed PDF Print E-mail
Written by myhomestead.ca admin   
Saturday, 03 June 2006

 

 FIRST AND FOREMOST:

MALTESE ARE NON ALLERGENIC 
THEY DO NOT HAVE A HEAVY DOG SCENT. They usually pick up your perfume or cologne instead.
They are also considered to be non shedding, although tiny bits of hair may be found, it is not even comparable to a shedding dog, Maltese have hair, very similar to you and I. (Little bits of our hair can be found on our clothing as well.)

Coat:  The Maltese has an elegant mantle of long, silky hair. The coat is straight, lacks an undercoat, and is white in color. There can be lemon in the ears or coat, this is acceptable. The Maltese have hair that must be brushed on a regular basis. A little hair comes out in the hair brush when they are combed, as human hair does. It does not fly everywhere, it stays in the brush, just as human hair does. Their luxurious cloak of white is the hallmark of the Maltese.

Overview:  The Maltese is considered to be the oldest of the European Toy breeds. Nobles, royals, and aristocracy favored them. They are very well mannered and affectionate. The Maltese displays a graceful and regal demeanor.
Character:  The Maltese exudes great joy and delight. They are highly intelligent, animated, and playful. They are very social. They are happy and content being the center of attention whether they are with their family or in the show ring. This endearing breed is bright, loving, and a deeply devoted companion.
Temperament:  The Maltese are the oldest breed and the most gentle and well mannererd of all the small dog breeds. They are trusting, and obedient. They enjoy living with other dogs are typically good natured and amiable and love to be held and cuddled. They love children but children should play careful around them as they can be quite tiny.  Maltese love the whole family but most often will establish a close bond with one person. They do not do well when left alone for long extended periods of time. They can be protective of their owner and family. They make good little watch dogs and will alert the family to a stranger at the door. They welcome old friends. They are a playful, sociable and agile breed. The Maltese commit themselves fully to their owner and families.
Care:  The Maltese coat requires regular brushing and combing to prevent matting if kept long. The coat is extremely soft and silky, so gentle care is highly recommended. They need to be bathed or dry shampooed on a regular basis. The eyes need daily cleaning to help with the staining. It is also important to keep their ears clean and free from stray hair. They may be prone to eye problems, skin disorders, and respiratory problems. The Maltese do not do well in very hot climates or damp conditions. They may be finicky eaters and suffer indigestion. Dental hygiene is important to prevent tooth loss.
Training:  The Maltese can be trained by crate training and go outdoors or paper trained or even using a litter box. They do best with early socialization. Training must never be harsh in nature. It must be done with gentle love, consistency, reward, and patience. They are adept at learning tricks. The Maltese does not need extensive obedience training, as they are naturally obedient to their Master.
Activity:  The Maltese does not require a high level of exercise. They are suitable for apartment or condominium living. They enjoy a daily walk, indoor play sessions, or a romp and run in a secured small yard. The Maltese loves to be social, so a play date at the park is always welcomed. They must be supervised and securely leashed so no harm will come to them from a larger dog.
Last Updated ( Sunday, 30 November 2008 )
 
Next >