Maltese Breed
Maltese Breed Introduction
The Maltese breed is a very lively, though somewhat territorial, dog breed. Nonetheless, Maltese dogs are more often known for their small size, weighing as little as 4-6 pounds.
The Maltese's Behavior
The Maltese dog breed is considered one of the most energetic toy dog breeds. Maltese dogs are known to have occassional wild outbursts of running and jumping. The dogs are also generally considered very agile. Companionable dogs, they do not like to be left alone long. They can also be a bit territorial and do not always get along well with strangers or children. In fact, since small children may easily injure this dog, they should be kept away from this breed.
Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.
The Maltese's Physical Characteristics
Here are some of the characteristics of the Maltese breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
* Size: 4-6 pounds
* Coat: single coat that is long, flat, and silky, hanging over the sides of the body
* Color: white
* Eyes: not far apart, very dark, round, with black rims
* Ears: low-set with heavily feathered long hair hanging close to the head
* Muzzle: medium-long, tapered
* Nose: black
* Tail: long-haired, plume-like, carried over the back, with the tip lying to one side
The Maltese's Origins and History
Country/Region of Origin: unknown, possibly Asia
Original purpose: pet
Name: associated with the isle of Malta, where a Maltese dog was kept by the Roman governor.
Historical notes: It is thought that the Maltese dog breed is descended from a Spitz-type dog and then bred to be small in size. The exact origin is unknown; the breed may have started in Asia. The dog was around in the Roman Empire, and even was mentioned in a poem by Martial. Maltese dogs have been the preferred dog of many monarchs: Mary Queen of Scots, Elizabeth I, Victoria, Marie Antoinette and Josephine Bonaparte.
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