Maltese - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Names

Today, they are mostly known as Maltese, but this was not always the case. Some of the names that have circulated in various generations have included the Maltese Lion Dog, the Melitaie Dog, the Maltese Terrier, the Spaniel Gentle, the Roman ladies’ dog, and a few others as well.

2) No fear

They might be tiny, but they probably dont know about it. Maltese is a very brave and fearless dogs who would stand in for themselves or their owners against other dogs or people of any size.

3) Reverse Sneezing

Maltese dogs are known for doing kinda wierd sound when sneezing. Instead of a sneeze we are used to, they are making sound similar to gagging or honking. This is happening mostly when the Maltese pup is overly excited. It is not dangerous and it ends after a minute or so.

4) Emphaty

It seems that Maltese is great at reading our emotions and they act accordingly to it. When we are happy, they seem happy and when we are sad they are also sad. This makes them great adepts for being extraordinary therapy dogs.

5) White Color

It is believed, that the Romans are responsible for the pure white coat color of Maltese. During the Roman times, the white color was sacred symbol of roman emperors. And since Maltese was a favourite royal pet, the emperors wanted that they show pureness and divinity.

6) No shedding

Maltese dogs typically dont shed. It might sounds wierd, if we look at their beautiful long silky hair, but it is because the breed does not have an undercoat lying beneath their long white hairs that cover their body which makes them very low to non shedding.

7) Appearance

Their appearance is noble and dignified as well as gentle and cute. They have dark alert eyes and beautiful long silky coat. The size of a Maltese should be between 8-10 inches which is 20-25 cm and weight between 6,5 – 9 pounds which is 3-4 kgs.

8) Terrier or Spaniel?

There is an ongoing debate between dog enthusiasts whether the Maltese dogs are better fit for the Spaniel or Terrier category. The Maltese definitely share some of the similarities with Spaniel type of dogs we know today, but since the decision was not made yet, they are still listed as a Toy breed.

9) Celebrities

Maltese is a popular breed choice among many celebrities. The list of Maltese dog lovers and owners includes Heather Locklear, Eva Longoria or Halle Berry.

10) Living with

The maltese is a typical indoor dog. The only problem might be, that they are little bit harder to housebreak, but with a little bit of patience and consistency, they will learn it. Daily longer walk is enough to deal with their energy level.