MALTESE INFORMATION

The Maltese has a coat of long silky hair and very dark alert looking eyes. Maltese are a wonderful choice for people with space constraints. They have minimal exercise requirements that can be met with indoor play, however the Maltese enjoys outdoor walks as well.
Maltese's life expectancy is 12 to 16 years.
 

Maltese Size

Height at the shoulder: 20-25 cm (8-10 in)
Weight: 1.5-4 kg (3-9 lb)
 

Maltese Colours

Maltese have a beautiful white coat.
 

Maltese Temperament

The Maltese is very affectionate due to centuries of being bred as a companion dog. They are intelligent, playful and a deeply devoted companion that love to be held and cuddled. These cute little dogs also have a lively side and are known for their occasional wild outbursts of physical activity running around in circles at top speed with amazing agility.
 

Maltese History

Some have placed the Maltese's origin three thousand years ago and Charles Darwin himself thought they originated at 6000 BC. These beautiful little dogs can be seen in art dating back as far as 3,000 years. The Maltese obtained their name from the Island of Malta where they originated.
Upper class women carried them in their sleeves and even brought them to bed with them. The Maltese often had its portrait painted as it lounged on the laps of aristocratic ladies. Some royals that owned Maltese were Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria, Josephine Bonaparte and Marie Antoinette.
The Maltese was one of the first purebreds to be exhibited at dog shows in North America.

Maltese Pictures