Maltese Dogs: May Be The Oldest Toy Dog Breed
The Maltese dog breed has existed for a very long time. In fact, references to these dogs can be found in writings from as far back as 300 B.C. From as early as the fifth century, Maltese can be seen in Greek art. This dog breed is likely the oldest of all European Toy dog breeds. Despite its name, this breed may originate from the island of Malta but is associated with that country today.
This toy dog is closely related to the Bichon and Havanese.
Many regions of Asia and Europe received Maltese dogs as exports. The majority of the original Maltese, after traveling to so many different parts of the world, continued to live in a remote environment, far from other canines. Because of this, pure breeding has preserved this small dog’s distinctive and noble appearance over many years.
Although the Maltese of today are white, they have historically been found in a variety of different hues as well. These dogs never lost their stunning, long, silky coats that dazzle the eye, regardless of color changes.
By the beginning of the 14th century, Maltese dogs had been introduced to England. The upper class in this area essentially began to adore them. Maltese dogs were favored by wealthy households as pets to display their affluence. It is believed that this breed was on the verge of extinction somewhere in the early 1800s, despite being well-liked at the time.
A short while afterwards, two Maltese dogs were brought to England from the Philippines as a gift for Queen Victoria. The animals were given to other individuals after failing to reach their objective. These two dogs’ pups were the first of their breed to be displayed in England. Despite having no connection to Terriers, they were referred to as “Maltese Terriers.”
Finally arriving in the country in the late 1800s, perhaps about 1875, was the Maltese dog breed. They were known as “Maltese Lion Dogs” at the time. The Maltese was one of the first dog breeds that the AKC recognized, and it has since grown in popularity.
Personality of the Maltese Dog
The Maltese should be your first choice if you’re seeking for a gorgeous lapdog. The Maltese is a dog that deserves admiration and pampering and is the ideal pet for someone who appreciates holding and petting their dog frequently. Also, despite their seeming innocence, these dogs may be highly aggressive and brave. They frequently engage larger dogs in combat, which makes them excellent watchdogs.
Maintaining Your Maltese
The Maltese needs some daily activity, just like any other pet. These requirements can be readily satisfied with a fast lap of the yard or a brief leash walk. When not exercising outside, it is advisable to keep them indoors because they are not outdoor dogs. They enjoy being cuddled and pampered. Constant brushing is a necessary for maintaining a clean and transparent coat. Depending on how long you want the hair to grow, monthly cutting may also be necessary.
Healthcare Concerns
Maltese dogs can live up to 15 years, with a typical lifespan of 12 to 13. There are no significant health issues to be concerned about, although minor problems including portacaval shunt, entropion, patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, open fontanel, distishiasis, hydrocephalus, and dental abnormalities do occasionally arise.
In 1877, the first Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was held in New York City, when a white dog was displayed as a “Maltese Lion Dog.” From that point on, they were sporadically mixed with poodles, and a stud book was formed in 1901 based on the progeny of two females. This registry contained about 50 dogs by the 1950s. The American Kennel Club recognized the Maltese as a breed in 1888. The AKC parent club for the breed is the American Maltese Association.
