ORIGIN OF THE MALTESE
Although widely referred to as the "Maltese Terrier" we are really a "Toy" and simply called Maltese. It is a misnomer that we are terriers or spaniels as we are sometimes labeled. That we even came from the island of Malta or are similar to the dogs worshipped by the ancient Egyptians no one is certain. There is little doubt that we are one of the oldest of the dog breeds. Records date back to 6000 BC We were a prized possession of the people of Malta; an exotic article of trade in the Middle East.
PURPOSE
We are not working dogs as such, although some of us have gained excellent results in obedience trials and even make good watch dogs. We are there just to give love and shower affection on, let you know who is at the door and generally make everyone who meets us happy and welcome. Of course we are very intelligent and very lively. We love to be pampered.
ENVIRONMENT/EXERCISE
We are definitely "house dogs" although a securely fenced garden is a joy to play in, we prefer to be inside with you. If you live in a flat or unit we are content to take a walk daily on a lead. Good for your health as well as ours. If we ride in the car with you, don’t leave us in hot weather in the car for any length of time EVER!
GROOMING
although we love to look glamorous and wear our best bows on special occasions, we don’t have to be kept in this condition. You can give us a trim and shape us in the latest style. We do love a bath once a week and a brush every day. (Most essential to keep all the knots and matts at bay.) Remember to blow dry thoroughly after a bath; we don’t want to catch a cold or chill. We really do need adult care. Our grooming aids can be quite expensive. We need a good bristle brush. A small face comb, scissors for trimming away hair from the pads of our feet, nail clippers (as we are inside most of the time our nails fail to wear down.), boracic acid and a toothbrush for cleaning eye stained areas.
FEEDING
We can be fussy eaters, so if you don’t want to make a rod for your own back, please start us off correctly. Any one of our dedicated breeders would be only too happy to supply a diet chart explaining our likes and dislikes. Being a toy, our intake is not the same as the larger breeds. But as a general rule we require 4 meals a day till we are 6 months of age, 2 meals a day till we are 12c months of age and then adjusted to one meal a day thereafter. Always have on hand plenty of fresh water to drink
Now you know a little about the Maltese and have decided this is the dog for you. Talk to ethical breeders referred to you by the affiliated Maltese Club in your State. Go to Dog Shows and talk to the breeders there. Do not be in a hurry. Good things come to those who wait. Reputable breeders do not have puppies available all the time, but their puppies will be worth waiting for.
