The Maltese is a delightful pint-size dog. Its stuffed-toy appearance wins the hearts of many and its natural animation makes it appear as a beautiful little mechanical dog. The Maltese is a friendly and loveable pet. More Maltese positive features include charm, an excellent memory and trainability. The Maltese usually does well in obedience training. It is an excellent choice for older children and those who are carefully taught the proper manner in which to handle tiny breeds.

Some writers claim the Maltese's origin to be around 1500 B.C. Others say the breed as described by ancient historians appeared much different from the petite little dog we know now as the Maltese. It is thought that Phoenician sailors introduced the Maltese ancestors to Malta making it one of the oldest European toy breeds.

Because of European references to its early form the Maltese is believed to be of spaniel heritage like the Bichon. In American it is sometimes believed to be more closely related to European terriers. Positive facts place the Maltese in Europe during the 18th century. The first class for Maltese was in London at the Agricultural Hall in 1862. The American Kennel Club accepted its registration in 1888.

In England the tiny dog was well known as a rat catcher. More recently of course the Maltese has the reputation of a lady's favorite lapdog. The Maltese is known as one of the best therapy dogs due to its loving nature.

The Maltese stands about 9 inches tall and weighs between 4 and 6 pounds. The body is square and solidly constructed set upon straight legs. Characteristic of the breed is its dark eyes, black lid margins, lip margins, and nose rubber. The Maltese carries its long plumbed tail over its back. The coat of a Maltese is snowy white and parts along the spine covering its body with long, flat and silky hair.

Although you may be attracted to a Maltese because of its long, snowy white coat are you able to cope with the reality of keeping it clean and well groomed? If the Maltese is not brushed and combed on a regular basis (several times a week it not on a daily basis) the coat will tangle and mat. Some dogs have been neglected to the extent that they are completely covered in a felted mass that has to be shaved off with a fine clipper next to the skin. Therefore, thorough brushing on a daily basis or at least three times a week is very often the grooming requirement of a Maltese.

As with most toy dogs this size they require minimal exercise. Running around your house or backyard is often enough to keep them in tip top shape.

Probably the best type placement for a Maltese is in a home where they can be pampered and groomed to perfection. They are probably not a good choice as companions to younger children. An older child who is taught how to handle the Maltese is permissible.