Maltese - AKA
The Roman Lady's Dog

The Maltese is also known as The Shock Dog, the Comforter and The Spaniel Gentle.  

The commonly called "Maltese Poodle" is incorrect. This is an unrecognized larger breed with a curly coat. 

This ratter is lively and playful and makes a great family pet, bonding with the entire family, although (as with all types of dogs) very young children need to be constantly monitored as these toy breeds have a fragile frame that can be easily hurt or worse.  

Naturally as with all toy dog breeds, with a single coat, this Canes Meliteris is sensitive to extreme climatic conditions, therefore they need to be kennelled indoors preferably on your bed!  Human companionship is very much part of their general well being and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods of time.

This petite dog breed can be a challenge to house train, and with some determination, this breed can be trained to use "pee pads".

This intelligent, tiny dog is energetic with a sparkly, fearless and sweet natured personality.

These small dog breeds are highly alert and will let you know when someone has arrived at your front door.

When choosing this tiny, sweetheart be prepared to be the focus of their attention and you in turn will benefit from a devoted, lap dog,  Not usually noisy, but fearless, when he thinks his family is under threat.  Some daily exercise is always appreciated by your pooch but is not essential if the owner is elderly or unable to do a daily walk.  As with most small dog breeds, just being the centre of your attention and pampering is all these little angels want and need.

Daily grooming of this beauty is essential to avoid their fine silky coat becoming.  A daily brush is all that is required to keep his prized coat sparkling white and tangle free.  Regular cleaning of the eye area is essential to prevent tear stains on their beautiful little faces.  No trimming of their coat is required but a twice annual professional grooming is recommended.  Some owners prefer a "puppy cut" which is a shortish (an inch or so) cut which helps to eliminate the daily grooming regime, however, their long silky coats are the trademark of a genuine Maltese and one of the joys of owning this precious pooch.

This lap dog has a gorgeous, long straight coat which reaches the ground.  Giving this little tot a "skimming" motion.  A distinctive trot makes the Malltese appear to be gliding. The preferred color is completely white but some lemon or pale ivory is permissible.  Black nose, dark eyes and eye rims and pads black. The Maltese dog does not have any undercoat and does not molt, making them a very popular choice of dog for people who are hypo allergenic.

Their coat needs to be brushed which removes any dead hair. In addition a regular bath with a "leave-in" conditioner is recommended.  "Wrapping the hair" to prevent snagging is an option, but this is an extreme measure for a house pet. 

This little mite is prone to suffer from Dog Separation Anxiety and in its later years, White dog Shaker syndrome is possible, which can be treated with medication. Heart problems and patellar luxation are other common heath issues, but this is generally a healthy dog breed with a long life expectancy.

The Maltese dog breed is one of the oldest breeds reflected in ancient Egyptian tomb paintings.

For additional information on the Maltese Dog

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