" THE MALTESE TOY DOG IS A GOOD COMPANION. "

The Maltese are the gentlest mannered of all the little dogs yet they are lively and playful. They are in the toy group but are hardy little companions.

HISTORY

They descend from the most ancient dog breed in recorded history. They are estimated orgin date is around 6000 B.C. in Malta. They were popular in England in the late 16th Century. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Maltese have long pendent ears, dark, round, large eyes with deep dark rims, thier muzzle tapers slightly with a black nose. They are pure white although they can be light ivory. Their coat is a single, shiny, thick and heavy that hangs straight to the ground from a part in the center of their back. With their jaunty, flowing gait they appear to float when they move.


Weight: 4-6 pounds
Height: 9-10 inches
Life Span: 12-14 years

CHARACTERISTICS AND TEMPERAMENT

• Spirited
  
• Lively
  
• Playful
  
• Gentle
  
• Trusting
  
• Devoted to master
  
• Loving
  
• Highly intelligent
  
• Graceful
  
• Lovable
  
• Good at learning tricks
  
• Sheds little
  

This breed is great for apartment living. They are very active indoors andenjoys regular walks. They were bred for companionship so they don't like to be left alone for long hours. They are not good pet for family with small children becasue they can be easily injured but older children they are a devoted family pet. They also do well with other animals. They preserve a puppy's attitude even when they grow older.

Generally healthy breed but prone to:

• Luxating patilla
  
• Eye problems
  
• Respiratory problemsa
  
• White dog shake syndrome
  
• Teeth problems
  

GROOMING

The Maltese needs daily combing and brushing, bathed regularly and clean eyes daily. Clean ears weekly becasue drop-eared dogs have excessive hairs in the ears. Need to remove excess hair to allow air to circulate in the canal. Clip mails every 2-3 weeks.

A daily sunny frolic outdoors will keep his nose healthy and shiny black. They are friendly characters so they will aproach bigger dogs which may not be good so keep him on a leash for your walks.

Basic obedience training is sufficient because they are naturally obedient.

May be difficult to housebreak. They can sometime be picky eaters so include small biscuits and dry dog food in their diet. When purchasing a puppy look for a friendly and active one. They should not be sold until they are 12 weeks old and by then they should have started on their shots. Of course, beware of whom you purchase a puppy from, you want a reputable breeder.