Maltese

The Maltese is an ancient toy lapdog developed across central Mediterranean coastal ports.

Historical references to small white dogs known as canes melitenses appear in classical writings from Greek philosopher Aristotle during the fourth century BC. Ancient Roman poets, including Strabo, celebrated them as domestic companions of noble matrons. While the adjective Maltese derives etymologically from the Semitic word màlat meaning haven or harbor, modern breed standard stewardship was assigned to Italy under the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, which placed the breed in Group 9 among Bichons and related companions. The Kennel Club granted registration during the nineteenth century, establishing international exhibition standards.

The dog presents a compact, elongated profile carried on fine-boned limbs. Adult males stand 21-25 cm (8-10 in) at the withers, while adult females measure 20-23 cm (8-9 in). Total body weight remains standardized at 3-4 kg (7-9 lb). The pure white mantle lacks an insulating undercoat, falling straight, glossy, and silky to the ground without waves or curls. Dark pigmentation marks the rounded eyes, black eye rims, lips, and nose leather, creating a sharp contrast against the pristine facial hair.

The standard describes the Maltese as lively, affectionate, very intelligent, and gentle-mannered. It adapts well to apartment living but requires consistent companionship and early socialisation to prevent separation anxiety. Daily grooming is essential to keep the long single coat free from painful mats and tangles, supplemented by frequent facial cleaning to remove red tear stains around the eyes. Primary health vulnerabilities include medial patellar luxation, congenital portosystemic shunts, dental calculus accumulation, progressive retinal atrophy, and tracheal collapse under pressure.