The Maltese Dog

Stevie and Nicki owned and bred by Sharon A Pearson of Foxstone Maltese.

The Maltese dog is one of the oldest of all dog breeds dating back to earlier than 400 BC. Its origin is not certain, but it is believed to derive its name from a group of Mediterranean Islands, the largest of which being Malta. It is also believed that both the ancient Greeks and the ancient Romans possessed ancestors of the modern breed.

The Maltese dog is a lovely snow-white dog with dark loving eyes that touch your heart. It is a very special bred. Its beauty and personality make it a real charmer! This faithful and lovable companion captures your heart and gives you endless enjoyment.

The Maltese dog weighs less than seven pounds and in many ways is the ideal small dog. It is self-assured, calm and responsive to its owners moods. It is always willing to please and has the enthusiasm to match. It has more than average intelligence and is easily trained and housebroken. It my look as delicate as a white rose, but in reality for a tiny dog it is quite hardy. It loves affection and returns it in large doses!

The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 1888.

The Maltese Dog at a Glance:

Origin	The Maltese originates from the Island of Malta situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea in Europe. This breed is one of the oldest of all dog breeds dating back to earlier than 400 BC.
Original Use	Companion, watch dog.
Use Today	Companion
Temperament	It is a very gentle, affectionate and good natured companion. It has lots of energy and loves to run and play. It can be fearless and attempt to chase dogs much larger than itself.
Acceptance of:	Other Dogs - Average
	Other Pets - Average
	Strangers - Reserved
	Children - Very accepting of children, although supervision with very young children is recommended.
Watchdog Ability	Excellent
Guard dog Ability	Poor
Ease of Training	Good
Living Conditions	Ideal for apartment or urban living. Not suited for outdoor living.
Exercise	Exercise needs can be met by indoor play or by a short walk outside.
Coat	The coat consists of long silky hair that lays flat over the sides of its body. It does not have an undercoat.
Grooming	Although the Maltese is a "long haired" dog, it sheds surprisingly little. A quick brushing once or twice a week will remove dead hair and keep the coat in top shape.
Colors	The Maltese dog is always white in color.
Height and Weight	Ideal weight is 4 to 6 pounds (1.8 to 2.75 kg) while the ideal height is 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.
Life Expectancy	14 to 15 years.
Group	The AKC places the Maltese dog in the toy group.

Ch. Foxstone's Freedom Flight aka P'Nut, owned and bred by Sharon A Pearson of Foxstone Maltese.

Picture Courtesy of Ernie and Juleen Fehr.

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