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The Maltese dog may be on the small side, but it sure packs a punch when it comes to a big heart. Extremely devoted and loving, these perky pups love to be at your side every minute of the day, or better still on your lap.
Maltese may look like characters straight out of a Disney film, with their soft snowy fur, round ears and black button noses. And in truth, owning a Maltese can be just as fun as a being in a real life furry-tail.
Maltese dog personality
Maltese are lapdogs that love to play and adapt well to indoor living. These diminutive pups have a talent for jumping high and score a 10 on the agility scale.
Because they’re small, affectionate, and playful Maltese make great companions for other dogs and kids. Although, their playful streak can get them into a pickle as they don’t always realise when other dogs have boundaries.
Add their playfulness and their size together with their tendency to bark a lot (like most toy-sized dog breeds), and you can see why it’s a good idea to keep close watch of your Maltese when they’re outdoors to keep them safe from other dogs.
Here are some interesting breed facts:
- Dog group: Toy dog
- Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
- Weight: 3 – 4 kg
- Coat: Single coat, coloured white
- Eyes: Brown (blue and green eyes don’t occur with this breed)
Watch this video of cute moments with Maltese puppies:
Maltese dog breed history
There’s some confusion as to whether the Maltese dog breed originates from the Mediterranean island of Malta or not. There’s no absolute consensus, but everyone agrees this pup does have its origins somewhere in south-central Europe.
Another fact is that the Maltese is an ancient breed; it even gets a mention from Aristotle in 370 BC. Which means this lovable lapdog has been our friend and seen us through many historical changes.
Are Maltese dogs hypoallergenic?
Yes, despite their long, silky fur, Maltese hardly shed – making them partially hypoallergic. Unlike the Border Collie and Labrador Retriever, these pups don’t have an undercoat and have hair rather than fur. Despite their long-look locks, they only have a single layer coat which they need to keep, hence less shedding.
This could sound like good news if you’re not big on grooming. However, your Maltese’s routine pet care needs include brushing its hair twice a week to keep it tangle-free. Also note underlying health conditions can result in Maltese hair loss, so speak to your vet if this happens.
In addition, it’s a good idea to get give them a regular hair cut to keep their luscious fringe out of their eyes.
Another common care need for this breed is educating yourself on how to remove dog tear stains. Only if they bother you, of course.
Separation anxiety in dogs
Separation anxiety in pets is a big watchword with this breed. The Maltese dog can quickly get sad and lonesome without adequate attention. Playtime for dogs is a valuable way to bond and keep your pup healthy and happy.
If playtime includes dog parks or visits to the beach, take care of your pup’s delicate skin that sunburns easily. Read how to keep your dog safe at the beach and how to keep pets safe in summer.
This breed is more prone to getting cold than bigger dogs, so if you’re heading out on a frosty day, check out these great dog jackets.
Dog insurance
Like any purebred dog, a Maltese may be prone to some health conditions such as heart failure, dental and eye problems. As a Maltese mum or dad, being in the know can help you and your vet plan your dog’s lifestyle to keep them in optimum health.
Check out our Deluxe dog insurance plan which includes dental, hereditary conditions (after a stand down period), operating costs and much more. With a high annual defined benefit limit you can focus on your pup rather than your pocket.
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