Toy group · Malta
Maltese
Also called Maltese Lion Dog, Melitae Dog, Roman Ladies Dog.
What makes them remarkable
Long before modern lapdogs, small white dogs associated with Malta were admired in the ancient Mediterranean.
- Gentle
- Playful
- Charming
- Affectionate
- Fearless
- Size
- Toy
- Weight
- 2 to 3 kg4 to 7 lb
- Lives
- 12 to 15 years
- Energy
- Moderate
- Trains
- Moderate
- Barks
- Moderate
Training
Training a Maltese
Toy breeds. Train them like a dog, not an ornament. Small dogs skip the manners work because they can be picked up.
Housetraining Patience
Start here
Small bladders require frequent toilet breaks. Establish a strict schedule and use indoor toilet options.
Prevent Small Dog Syndrome
Train with same expectations as larger dogs. Carrying everywhere creates behavioural problems.
Rewards first
A sensitive breed that does best with a gentle hand and rewards. Harsh methods make them shut down.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Maltese and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred for company. Small in body, and often bigger in personality than the owner expected.
Gets on with
- ChildrenModerate
- Other dogsHigh
- StrangersHigh
- CatsHigh
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 20-30 minutes daily. Short walks and indoor play sessions sufficient.
- Grooming
- Very high maintenance. Daily brushing to prevent mats. Regular professional grooming recommended.
- Drool
- Very Low
- Coat
- Long, Silky, Single coatWhite
- In a flat
- Can work, with enough exercise outside it.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Luxating Patella
Moderate
Kneecap displacement common in small breeds
Dental Disease
Moderate
Overcrowded teeth lead to early dental problems
White Dog Shaker Syndrome
Mild
Tremor condition affecting white-coated dogs
Where they come from
History
One of the oldest toy breeds, dating back over 2,000 years. Favored by ancient Greeks and Romans as companions. Named for the Mediterranean island of Malta where they were refined.
- Trouble · Leona Helmsley's Maltese who inherited $12 million in her will
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