Maltese

Melitaie Dog, Roman Ladies Dog, Ancient Dog of Malta
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Maltese is a small, ancient breed of companion dog known for its long, white, silky coat and gentle, playful temperament. These dogs are very affectionate with their families, good with children, and adapt well to various living situations, requiring daily grooming and low exercise needs.

Origin and Purpose

  • Ancient companion dog
  • Developed in Malta

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female8-10 inchesUnder 7 pounds
Male8-10 inchesUnder 7 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Pure white
Type
  • Silky
  • Straight
Length
  • Long

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low
Grooming
  • Daily
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Medium in size
  • Somewhat rounded
Skull
  • Slightly rounded
Ears
  • Set close to the head
  • Covered with hair
  • Drooping
Eyes
  • Dark
  • Round
  • Alert
  • Set well apart
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Tapering
  • Fine
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
  • Level bite acceptable
Neck
  • Sufficient length
  • Slightly arched
Forequarters
  • Shoulders sloping
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Fine boned
Hindquarters
  • Strong
Hind Legs
  • Straight
  • Fine boned
Feet
  • Small
  • Round
  • Black pads
Tail
  • Set on high
  • Carried arched over the back
Gait
  • Smooth
  • Free
  • Effortless

Temperament

  • Gentle
  • Playful
  • Intelligent
  • Responsive
  • Fearless

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate
Good with Children
  • Generally good
  • Needs supervision
Good with Dogs
  • Good with other dogs
Good with Cats
  • Good with cats
Openness to Strangers
  • Friendly
Playfulness Level
  • Playful
Protective Nature
  • Not very protective
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable

Working Roles

  • Companion dog

Exercise Needs

  • Low

Health

  • Prone to dental issues
  • Luxating patella
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy

Additional Notes

  • Prone to tear staining
  • Sensitive to cold
  • Requires regular grooming

References