Canis Melitaeus
Breed Description

The Maltese is known by several names throughout history and across different regions. "Canis Melitaeus" is the classical Latin name for the breed, derived from the ancient name for Malta, "Melita." This nomenclature reflects the breed's long-standing association with the Mediterranean island of Malta, though historians debate whether the breed actually originated there or merely became associated with the island through centuries of presence.

The breed has been referred to by various romantic names throughout history, including "The Roman Ladies' Dog," "The Comforter," "The Spaniel Gentle," and "Melitaie Dog." Ancient Greek and Roman writers, including Aristotle and Pliny the Elder, mentioned small white dogs from Malta that were treasured as companions by wealthy citizens. The breed's presence in art and literature spans millennia, with depictions appearing in ancient Greek pottery, Roman artifacts, and Renaissance paintings.

In different languages, the Maltese is known by names that typically reference its geographic association or physical characteristics. In Italian, it is called "Maltese," while in French it is known as "Bichon Maltais." The German name is "Malteser," and in Spanish, it is "Maltés." Despite slight variations in nomenclature, the breed is universally recognized for its distinctive appearance and ancient heritage.

The Maltese is one of the oldest recognized toy breeds, with documented history spanning at least 2,000 years. The breed has been consistently bred as a companion dog throughout its existence, never having a working purpose beyond providing comfort and companionship to its owners. This singular focus on companionship has shaped the breed's temperament and characteristics, making it one of the most devoted and human-oriented breeds in existence. The Maltese's elegant appearance and affectionate nature have ensured its continued popularity across cultures and throughout centuries, maintaining its status as a treasured companion dog to this day.

The Maltese is recognized by all major kennel organizations worldwide, with breed standards that emphasize the dog's pure white coat, compact size, and elegant appearance. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has recognized the Maltese since 1888, classifying it in the Toy Group. The AKC standard specifies that the Maltese should weigh under seven pounds, with four to six pounds preferred. The standard emphasizes the breed's gentle, affectionate nature, elegant appearance, and distinctive flowing white coat that reaches the ground in show dogs.

The United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognizes the Maltese and places it in the Companion Dog Group. The UKC standard is similar to the AKC's, emphasizing proper proportion, correct movement, and the breed's characteristic temperament. The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) recognizes the Maltese with standards closely aligned to international guidelines, maintaining emphasis on the breed's toy size, pure white coat, and affectionate disposition.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes the Maltese as a breed of Italian development, though acknowledging its ancient Mediterranean origins. The FCI classifies the Maltese in Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 (Bichons and related breeds). The FCI standard allows for a slightly larger size range than some other organizations, permitting dogs up to approximately 10 inches in height. The standard emphasizes the breed's lively and intelligent expression, pure white coat, and elegant carriage.

The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom has recognized the Maltese since the late 1800s and places the breed in the Toy Group. The UK standard emphasizes the breed's compact size, gentle nature, and flowing white coat. The breed has been popular in the UK for both showing and companionship since Victorian times, when Queen Victoria famously owned Maltese dogs, further increasing the breed's prestige and popularity.

The American Maltese Association, founded in 1906, serves as the official AKC parent club for the breed in the United States. The organization maintains the breed standard, provides educational resources about health, grooming, and training, and hosts national specialty shows. They also coordinate rescue efforts and work to preserve breed health through encouraging health testing and responsible breeding practices. Similar breed clubs exist in countries worldwide, all dedicated to preserving the Maltese breed's unique characteristics, health, and temperament. These organizations work collaboratively to ensure the Maltese continues to thrive as one of the most beloved toy breeds globally.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Recognized - Toy Group since 1888"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Recognized - Companion Dog Group"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized - Group 9, Section 1 (country of patronage: Italy)"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Recognized - Toy Group"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Recognized - Toy Group"

The Maltese is a small, compact dog covered from head to foot with a mantle of long, silky, pure white hair that flows to the ground in show specimens. The breed stands just seven to nine inches tall at the shoulder and weighs under seven pounds, with four to six pounds being ideal. Despite their tiny size, Maltese are well-proportioned and sturdy for a toy breed, with surprising substance beneath their flowing coat. The overall impression is one of elegance, beauty, and refined dignity.

The Maltese head is characterized by a slightly rounded skull and a moderately short muzzle that tapers to a delicate black nose. The stop is well-defined, and the face has an alert, intelligent expression enhanced by large, dark, round eyes that are set far apart. The eyes are rimmed with black pigment, creating a distinctive and appealing expression often described as "soft" or "gentle." The ears are low-set, heavily feathered, and hang close to the head, blending into the flowing coat. When alert, the ears may lift slightly but should never stand erect.

The most distinctive feature of the Maltese is its spectacular coat. The hair is single-coated, lacking the undercoat found in many breeds, and grows continuously like human hair. In show dogs, the coat is allowed to grow to full length, sweeping the ground and parting naturally down the center of the back from head to tail. The texture is silky and straight or with a slight wave, never woolly or curly. While pure white is the standard color, slight lemon or tan markings on the ears are permissible though not preferred.

The Maltese body is compact and square in proportion, meaning the length from withers to tail root approximately equals the height at the withers. The topline is level, the chest is fairly deep with well-sprung ribs, and the loin is tight and strong. The tail is set high and carried gracefully over the back with the tip falling to the side, heavily feathered with long, flowing hair. The legs are straight and fine-boned with small, round feet featuring black paw pads. Movement is smooth and flowing, with the coat appearing to float as the dog moves. The overall appearance combines the beauty of a refined toy dog with the substance and soundness of a well-constructed small breed, all wrapped in a stunning white coat that requires dedicated maintenance to keep in pristine condition.

The Maltese is one of the most ancient of all toy breeds, with a documented history spanning at least 2,000 years and possibly much longer. Archaeological evidence suggests that small white dogs similar to the Maltese existed in ancient Egypt, with depictions found on pottery and other artifacts dating back to 600 BC. However, the breed's strongest historical association is with the island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea, from which it derives its name. Ancient writers including Aristotle, who called the breed "Canis Melitaeus" around 370 BC, and Pliny the Elder in the first century AD, referenced small dogs from Malta that were treasured companions.

The Maltese's history is intertwined with Mediterranean civilization and trade routes. Phoenician sailors are believed to have carried these small dogs throughout the ancient world as trade goods and gifts. The breed became particularly associated with wealthy women in ancient Rome and Greece, who carried them as fashion accessories and companions. Roman artwork depicts small white dogs on cushions and in the arms of noble women. The breed was so valued that it commanded prices equivalent to a year's wages for an average worker.

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the Maltese continued to be favored by European nobility and royalty. The breed appeared in paintings by famous artists including Goya and Sir Joshua Reynolds, often depicted with aristocratic women and children. Queen Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Victoria, and other European monarchs owned Maltese dogs. The breed's association with royalty and nobility enhanced its prestige and ensured careful breeding practices to maintain its distinctive characteristics.

The Maltese nearly became extinct during the 17th and 18th centuries as breeders attempted to miniaturize the breed to even smaller sizes, sometimes as small as squirrels. These breeding experiments resulted in unhealthy dogs and threatened the breed's survival. Fortunately, dedicated breeders restored the Maltese to a healthier size by crossing the remaining dogs with small spaniels and miniature poodles. By the early 19th century, the breed had been re-established with the characteristics we recognize today.

The Maltese was introduced to England in the early 1800s, where it quickly gained popularity among the upper classes. The breed was exhibited in the first dog shows in England during the 1860s, with specimens imported from Malta and Italy. Early British breeders established breeding programs that would influence Maltese worldwide. The breed was recognized by The Kennel Club of England in 1859, making it one of the first breeds officially recognized.

The Maltese came to America in the late 1800s, with the first specimens registered by the American Kennel Club in 1888. Early American Maltese were imported primarily from England and Malta, establishing the foundation for American breeding programs. The breed gained gradual popularity but remained relatively rare until the mid-20th century. The founding of the American Maltese Association in 1906 provided organization and direction for breed development in the United States.

The latter half of the 20th century saw a surge in Maltese popularity in America. The breed's small size, hypoallergenic coat, and affectionate nature made it increasingly attractive to urban dwellers and families seeking a companion dog. Celebrity ownership and media appearances further increased the breed's visibility. By the 21st century, the Maltese consistently ranks among the top 20 most popular breeds registered with the AKC, a testament to its enduring appeal.

Today, the Maltese remains one of the most popular toy breeds worldwide. While primarily kept as companions, some Maltese work as therapy dogs, bringing comfort to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities. The breed's influence extends beyond its role as a companion, as it has been used in developing several other breeds and designer crosses. Despite modern popularity, responsible breeders continue to maintain the Maltese's ancient lineage, health, and temperament, ensuring this historic breed thrives for future generations.

The Maltese temperament is characterized by exceptional devotion to their owners and an intense desire for human companionship. These dogs form extraordinarily strong bonds with their families and thrive on attention and physical closeness. Maltese are quintessential lap dogs who prefer to be near or touching their favorite people at all times. They excel at reading human emotions and often provide intuitive comfort when their owners are sad or stressed, making them naturally talented emotional support animals.

Despite their tiny size and elegant appearance, Maltese possess a surprisingly bold and fearless personality. They display confidence beyond their physical stature and will alert owners to strangers or unusual occurrences with enthusiastic barking. This watchdog tendency makes them excellent alarm systems, though their small size means they pose no physical threat. The breed is naturally alert and aware of their surroundings, traits that have been preserved throughout their long history as companions to nobility who valued dogs that would alert them to approaching visitors or threats.

Maltese are playful and retain a puppy-like quality throughout their lives. They enjoy interactive games, learning tricks, and participating in family activities. However, their play style is gentle and appropriate to their delicate build, favoring chasing soft toys and gentle tug games over rough play. Mental stimulation is important for this intelligent breed, and Maltese enjoy puzzle toys and training sessions that challenge their minds. Without adequate mental and physical activity, they can become bored and may develop attention-seeking behaviors.

The breed can display a stubborn streak, particularly regarding housetraining, which can be challenging due to their small size and sometimes finicky nature about weather conditions. However, Maltese are intelligent and responsive to positive reinforcement training methods. They are sensitive dogs that do not respond well to harsh corrections, which can damage their confidence and trust. Patience, consistency, and reward-based training achieve the best results with this breed. Many Maltese excel in obedience trials, agility, and trick training when properly motivated.

While generally friendly, Maltese can be reserved with strangers, preferring to observe new people before deciding to interact. Proper socialization from puppyhood helps develop confidence and prevents excessive shyness or fearfulness. Some Maltese can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, as they are intensely attached to their families. This breed is best suited to households where someone is home frequently or where they can accompany their owners throughout the day. When their social and emotional needs are met, the Maltese is a delightful companion that brings joy, entertainment, and devoted affection to their families.

The Maltese is ideally suited to family life, thriving in homes where they receive abundant attention, gentle handling, and companionship. These dogs are happiest when included in all family activities and do not do well when relegated to a backyard or left alone for long periods. Maltese form strong attachments to all family members and can adapt to various household compositions, from singles and couples to families with children. Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them particularly well-suited to apartment living and urban environments.

With children, Maltese can be wonderful companions when certain precautions are taken. Due to their tiny size and delicate bone structure, Maltese are vulnerable to injury from rough handling or accidental drops. They are best suited to families with older children who understand how to interact gently with small dogs. Very young children may not have the physical control or understanding necessary to handle a Maltese safely. When raised with respectful children and supervised during interactions, Maltese can form loving bonds and be patient playmates. Teaching children appropriate ways to pet, play with, and handle the dog ensures positive relationships.

Maltese generally coexist peacefully with other pets, including dogs and cats, when properly introduced and socialized. Many Maltese owners keep multiple dogs, and the breed often enjoys having a canine companion. However, their fearless nature means Maltese may not recognize size differences between themselves and larger dogs, potentially putting them at risk. Supervision during play with larger dogs is essential to prevent accidental injury. Most Maltese are gentle with cats and other small pets, showing little prey drive or aggressive tendencies.

Living space requirements for the Maltese are minimal, making them ideal for apartments, condos, and small homes. They do not need a yard, as their exercise needs can be met indoors and through short walks. However, they should never be kept outdoors or in a kennel environment, as they are indoor dogs that need to be part of the family. The breed is sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly heat, and should be protected from harsh weather conditions during bathroom breaks and walks.

Establishing routines and boundaries is important for a well-adjusted Maltese. Despite their small size and cute appearance, they benefit from consistent training and clear expectations. Maltese can develop "small dog syndrome" if allowed to rule the household without structure, leading to behaviors like excessive barking, possessiveness, or aggression. Treating them as dogs rather than toys, with appropriate training and socialization, produces confident, well-behaved companions. Families who provide structure, affection, gentle handling, and inclusion in daily life will find the Maltese to be an exceptional companion that enriches family life with love, entertainment, and devotion.

Training a Maltese requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods that respect the breed's sensitive nature. Maltese are intelligent and capable of learning a wide variety of commands and tricks, often surprising owners with their quick comprehension. However, they can be stubborn, particularly about housetraining, which represents one of the biggest challenges for owners. The breed's small bladder capacity and reluctance to go outside in bad weather contribute to housetraining difficulties. Crate training, frequent scheduled bathroom breaks, and consistent reward for outdoor elimination help establish reliable bathroom habits.

Positive reinforcement training using treats, praise, and play achieves the best results with Maltese. This sensitive breed does not respond well to harsh corrections, yelling, or physical punishment, which can damage their confidence and trust in their owner. Instead, rewarding desired behaviors and redirecting unwanted ones creates a willing, enthusiastic training partner. Maltese are food-motivated and typically respond well to small, tasty training treats, though some individuals may be finicky and require experimenting to find their favorite rewards.

Early socialization is crucial for developing a confident, well-adjusted Maltese. Exposure to various people, animals, environments, sounds, and experiences during the critical socialization period (approximately 3-14 weeks of age) helps prevent fearfulness and anxiety later in life. Puppy socialization classes provide structured environments for learning basic obedience while interacting with other puppies. Continued socialization throughout the dog's life maintains confidence and prevents the development of anxiety or reactivity.

Despite their toy size, Maltese can excel in various dog sports and activities. Many compete successfully in obedience trials, rally, and agility, where their small size allows them to navigate obstacles with agility and speed. The breed's intelligence and trainability make them excellent trick dogs, and teaching new tricks provides mental stimulation. Some Maltese work as therapy dogs, visiting hospitals, nursing homes, and schools where their gentle nature and small size make them approachable for people who may be intimidated by larger dogs.

Exercise requirements for the Maltese are moderate and easily met through short daily walks and indoor play sessions. Most Maltese are satisfied with 20-30 minutes of walking per day, split into multiple shorter walks if preferred. They enjoy exploring their neighborhood on leash and benefit from the mental stimulation of new sights and smells. Indoor play sessions with toys provide additional physical activity and bonding opportunities. Despite their small size, Maltese should not be carried everywhere, as regular walking maintains muscle tone, joint health, and appropriate weight.

Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys that dispense treats challenge their problem-solving abilities and provide entertainment. Rotating toys prevents boredom by maintaining novelty. Short training sessions throughout the day keep their minds engaged and reinforce desired behaviors. Interactive games like hide-and-seek or finding hidden treats tap into their natural intelligence and provide fun bonding activities. Owners who commit to regular training, appropriate socialization, and daily mental and physical stimulation will be rewarded with a well-behaved, confident Maltese that showcases the best qualities of this ancient and beloved breed.

Maltese are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 12-15 years, though many live well into their late teens with proper care. The breed benefits from its ancient lineage and relatively stable breeding practices, though like all purebred dogs, Maltese are susceptible to certain hereditary health conditions. Responsible breeders perform health testing on breeding dogs to minimize the incidence of genetic diseases, and owners should partner with veterinarians to maintain their Maltese's health throughout life.

Luxating patella is one of the most common orthopedic problems in Maltese and other toy breeds. This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal position, causing lameness, pain, and difficulty walking. Severity ranges from grade 1 (mild, occasional slipping) to grade 4 (severe, with the patella permanently displaced). Mild cases may require only weight management and restricted jumping, while severe cases may need surgical correction. Reputable breeders have breeding stock evaluated for patellar stability by veterinarians. Maintaining ideal body weight reduces stress on joints and may prevent progression of mild cases.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary eye disease that can affect Maltese, causing gradual vision loss leading to blindness. Several forms of PRA exist, with symptoms typically appearing in middle age or later. Genetic testing is available for some forms, allowing breeders to make informed breeding decisions. While there is no treatment for PRA, affected dogs can adapt well to vision loss with patient owner support and environmental modifications. Annual eye examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists can detect early changes and monitor progression.

Portosystemic liver shunt is a congenital condition that occurs in some toy breeds including Maltese. This vascular abnormality causes blood to bypass the liver, preventing proper toxin filtering and causing various symptoms including poor growth, lethargy, seizures, and gastrointestinal issues. Diagnosis requires blood tests and imaging studies. Treatment may involve dietary management, medication, or surgical correction depending on the type and severity of the shunt. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment allow many affected dogs to live normal lives.

Heart problems including patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and mitral valve disease can affect Maltese. PDA is a congenital condition where a fetal blood vessel fails to close properly after birth, requiring surgical correction. Mitral valve disease is more common in older dogs, causing heart murmurs and potentially leading to congestive heart failure. Regular veterinary examinations including heart auscultation help detect heart problems early. Treatment may include medications to manage heart function and reduce symptoms.

Dental disease is particularly problematic in Maltese and other toy breeds due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Without regular dental care, Maltese can develop severe periodontal disease leading to tooth loss, pain, and systemic infections affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste, regular professional dental cleanings under anesthesia, and dental-friendly treats and toys help maintain oral health. Untreated dental disease significantly impacts quality of life and can shorten lifespan.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can affect Maltese puppies and occasionally adults, particularly those under four pounds. Small toy breeds have high metabolic rates and limited glycogen stores, making them vulnerable to blood sugar drops. Symptoms include weakness, trembling, disorientation, and potentially seizures. Feeding multiple small meals daily and ensuring the dog eats regularly prevents hypoglycemic episodes. Immediate treatment with honey or corn syrup on the gums followed by feeding can reverse acute episodes. Chronic hypoglycemia requires veterinary evaluation to rule out underlying causes.

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining Maltese health throughout life. Annual wellness examinations allow early detection of developing problems before they become serious. Puppies require a series of vaccinations to protect against infectious diseases, with booster vaccinations continued throughout life according to protocols based on risk assessment and lifestyle. Parasite prevention including heartworm, flea, and tick control should be maintained year-round according to veterinary recommendations.

Weight management is important for Maltese health and longevity. Obesity exacerbates joint problems, contributes to heart disease, and reduces lifespan. Maltese should have a visible waist and ribs that can be felt easily under a thin layer of fat. High-quality diet appropriate for toy breeds, portion control, and regular exercise maintain ideal weight. Avoiding excessive treats and table scraps prevents weight gain. Working with your veterinarian to establish appropriate feeding guidelines ensures your Maltese maintains healthy body condition throughout life.

Spaying or neutering provides health benefits and prevents unwanted litters. Female Maltese benefit from reduced risk of mammary cancer and eliminate the risk of pyometra (uterine infection). Male Maltese benefit from reduced risk of testicular cancer and certain prostate problems. Timing of spay/neuter surgery should be discussed with your veterinarian, as recent research suggests waiting until growth is complete may provide orthopedic benefits. Regular dental care, appropriate preventive medicine, proper nutrition, and attentive monitoring for health changes help ensure Maltese live long, healthy, comfortable lives as beloved family companions.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Canis Melitaeus's health and longevity.

Maltese grooming is extensive and non-negotiable, requiring significant time investment and financial resources throughout the dog's life. The breed's beautiful, flowing white coat is its most distinctive feature but also its most demanding characteristic. Daily grooming is essential to prevent mats and tangles, and professional grooming every four to six weeks maintains coat length and cleanliness. Prospective owners must understand that grooming represents a major commitment and should not be underestimated when considering this breed.

Daily coat care involves thoroughly brushing and combing the entire coat to prevent mats from forming. A pin brush or slicker brush removes tangles, followed by a metal comb to ensure no hidden mats remain. The coat must be brushed in sections, working from the skin outward to prevent mats at the roots. Areas prone to matting include behind the ears, under the front legs, the belly, and around the rear end. Even with daily brushing, the long coat requires professional grooming to maintain proper length and condition.

Many pet Maltese are kept in shorter "puppy clips" or "pet clips" that are easier to maintain than the floor-length show coat. These practical clips typically keep the coat between one-half inch to two inches long, significantly reducing grooming time while maintaining the breed's elegant appearance. Regular trimming every four to six weeks keeps the coat at the desired length. Show dogs require far more intensive grooming to maintain the full-length coat that sweeps the ground, often requiring oil treatments, wrapping, and daily maintenance by experienced handlers.

Bathing Maltese requires care to maintain the white coat's pristine condition. Regular baths every two to three weeks help keep the coat clean and white, though frequency depends on lifestyle and activities. Using high-quality dog shampoo formulated for white coats helps prevent yellowing or staining. Conditioning the coat after shampooing maintains silky texture and reduces tangling. Many Maltese develop tear stains under their eyes, creating reddish-brown discoloration on the white facial hair. Daily cleaning of the eye area with tear stain remover solutions or wipes helps minimize staining.

Eye care is particularly important for Maltese, whose large, prominent eyes are prone to discharge and tearing. Gently wiping the eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth or special eye wipes removes debris and discharge. Keeping facial hair trimmed short around the eyes reduces irritation and staining. If tear staining is severe or sudden, consulting a veterinarian rules out underlying health issues such as blocked tear ducts, infections, or dental problems that can contribute to excessive tearing.

Nail trimming should be performed every two to three weeks, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort and affect gait. Many Maltese resist nail trimming, making early habituation important. Using a quality nail clipper or grinder designed for small dogs, combined with patience and rewards, makes the process easier. If uncomfortable performing nail trims, professional groomers or veterinarians can provide this service. Regular ear checks and gentle cleaning with appropriate ear cleaners prevent wax buildup and infections. The breed's drop ears and hair growth inside the ear canal can restrict air circulation, making regular cleaning important.

Dental care is crucial for Maltese, as toy breeds are particularly prone to dental problems. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste prevents tartar buildup and periodontal disease. Starting dental care early in puppyhood establishes this routine. Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are typically necessary every one to two years. Providing appropriate dental chews and toys between brushings helps maintain oral health. Owners who commit to the extensive grooming requirements of the Maltese are rewarded with a dog whose stunning appearance never fails to attract admiration and whose beautiful coat reflects the care and attention invested in its maintenance.

If you're looking to adopt a Canis Melitaeus, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Canis Melitaeuss waiting for their forever homes.