The Maltese is a lovely dog, a white ball with an exceptionally nice disposition. With remarkable ease, in just a few seconds, it can melt the human heart. He is a companion dog, an excellent family friend, although his long and interesting pedigree indicates various predestinations.
The Maltese is one of the oldest breeds in the world. It is believed to come from the island of Meleda (or Melita) in the Mediterranean Sea, mistakenly considered to be Malta. Its roots go back to ancient times, where it was known primarily as a companion dog. Though some sources indicate that this small tetrapod was originally bred for hunting rodents. The Maltese "conquered" Great Britain in the XNUMXth century, when he became famous as a representative of a dog breed, especially valued among the aristocracy. He made himself at home in no time at the British court. He was the favorite of Queen Maria Stuart and Henry VIII, and reached its peak of popularity during the reign of Elizabeth I. It was believed then that the Maltese was magical and was credited with healing properties.
The Maltese man quickly wins human sympathy, certainly also thanks to his appearance. The description of the breed (Group IX Group FCI, Section 1, Standard No. 65) shows a truly adorable dog. It is a small quadruped, reaching about 20-25 cm at the withers and weighing a maximum of 4 kg. Maltese hair is long (up to 22 cm for an adult), silky and snow-white, although shades of ivory are also acceptable. It is smooth, always straight, and not wavy or curly. This pooch's hair can only be frizzy on the paws. Maltese practically does not moult. His eyes are round, usually dark ocher in shade, with a black frame. The nose is large, black and rounded. The ears are triangular and set high, and the tail is long and set on the line of the rump. The silhouette of the Maltese is a bit elongated, with a straight back and a broad, strong rump. The limbs are short, straight, parallel and close to the body.
Here are the suggested sizes for adult dogs of this breed. They were selected on the basis of many years of experience in sewing accessories and the most common choices of other dog owners of this breed. Remember, only measuring will give you 100% certainty - every dog is different.
The long and dense coat of the Maltese requires time-consuming care. So that it does not form tangles, it is worth combing it every day. Use a natural bristle brush and a conditioner designed to detangle long hair. The frequency of bathing depends on the preferences of the owner, however, if the pet is to be exhibited, it should be done every week. This will allow you to maintain a stately hairstyle in a shiny white color. It is worth using shampoos and conditioners intended for white fur for care. After bathing, you should always dry your dog well, using a dryer set to minimum heating. The Maltese should also regularly trim their hair around the ears, take care of hygiene around the eyes, remove tartar and check the condition of the claws.
Research shows that this breed has a very long tradition. The Maltese was bred in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Although the exact origin of the Maltese is unknown, we know that already in ancient times he accompanied rulers, people from the highest social classes, and also ladies of the court.
It is incorrect to say that the Maltese is a sickly breed. This dog is in good health and has a long life (average life expectancy is 14-16 years). Of course, this does not apply to the aforementioned "miniature" Maltese, which is more sensitive.
This small, inconspicuous ball can do a lot. The Maltese is very lively and lively. It does not resemble the proverbial couch potato and can be easily engaged in all agility games (e.g. agility). Even gravity does not interfere with his daily life. The Maltese dog eagerly jumps out of his hands and is not afraid to jump from high shelves. So you have to be very careful with him.
Dogs of this breed accompanied at official exits, among others: Elizabeth Taylor, Halle Berry, Edyta Herbuś and Julia Wieniawa.
Miniaturization is a trend of the present times, although the first attempts to breed a Maltese in the mini date back to the XNUMXth century. The name Maltese "miniaturka" was created relatively recently to describe a separate breeding line.
The fur of the white ball is actually not allergenic or slightly allergenic. However, we must remember that there are no hypoallergenic dogs. Maltese, like any other pet, can be allergic. The allergen does not have to be fur, but e.g. saliva.
We all know the white ball is cute. The Maltese knows it too, and is able to cleverly use the advantages of his beauty. He knows how to convince the owner to fulfill his request, staring at him with disarming eyes, touching him with his paw and nudging his nose. Quickly learns behaviors that touch the caregiver and all household members.
Pyometra is a serious threat to the life of any female dog. Sounds dangerous? And rightly so. However, it's not a death sentence, as long as we react quickly and sensibly. This inflammation can strike suddenly, often right after heat, when everything seems to be returning to normal. Yet, something begins to go wrong. The dog becomes lethargic, refuses to eat, drinks more frequently… and that should set off a red flag.
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