Maltese (maltese)

The Maltese boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with its origins believed to be in the Mediterranean region. This breed was highly prized by the Greeks and Romans, often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of luxury and refinement. The Maltese was introduced to England during the Crusades, where it quickly became a favorite among the aristocracy. Over the centuries, the breed has maintained its status as a beloved companion, known for its beauty and gentle disposition.

The Maltese's lineage is thought to include influences from miniature spaniels and poodles, contributing to its distinctive appearance and charming personality. Despite its long history, the breed has remained relatively unchanged, continuing to captivate dog lovers with its elegance and grace. Today, the Maltese is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide and continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a small, affectionate companion.

The Maltese is a small, compact dog with a fine-boned yet sturdy build. Its most striking feature is its long, silky coat, which flows gracefully down its sides. The coat is pure white, adding to the breed's regal appearance. The Maltese has a slightly rounded skull with a moderate stop and a medium-length muzzle. Its large, dark eyes are set moderately apart, giving it an expressive and intelligent look. The ears are low-set and heavily feathered, complementing the breed's overall elegant appearance.

The Maltese lapdog loves people very much and tries to spend as much time as possible with her masters. They are very funny, playful, a little goofy, like a variety of activities and can rarely sit still. They require various games, like toys, sometimes they can’t get along with children - in order to avoid this, it is necessary to teach a dog to have a child in the house from an early age. The situation is similar with cats. The Maltese lapdog retains its playful temper throughout life, and only in old age does this trend weaken. They have at least one negative trait - they really like to cast their voices, or simply bark, both on the street and at home. Accordingly, the owner is required to properly educate, otherwise he will not see peace. Educational work should be carried out without aggression, in a calm, slightly strict tone, limiting the dog’s desire to bark for no reason. Due to its vocal character, the Maltese lap dog is on the top of the list of the most abandoned breeds. At the same time, they are great as a companion. They have a good, kind, open character, they are, so to speak, smart in moderation - they well understand a person and his emotional state, are able to empathize. Loneliness is poorly tolerated.

Historically kept as a companion dog, the Maltese has always been valued for its beauty and charm rather than any working ability. Its primary role has been that of a lapdog, providing comfort and companionship to its owners. In modern times, the Maltese continues to excel in this role, often participating in dog shows where its stunning coat and graceful demeanor are showcased. Additionally, the breed's hypoallergenic qualities make it a popular choice for therapy work, offering emotional support to those in need.