The Maltese is an elegant ancient toy dog originating from Malta, famous for its silky pure white long coat, weighing only 3 to 4 kilograms. For thousands of years, it has been a beloved companion dog for European nobles and remains one of the most popular indoor pet breeds worldwide.
In terms of personality, Maltese dogs are extremely affectionate, loyal and clingy. They form deep bonds with their owners, always following people around the house and loving to curl up on laps for cuddles. Though gentle and friendly to familiar family members and well-behaved older kids, they are alert little watchdogs that will bark to warn of strangers. They are clever and playful, enjoying indoor games and short walks. However, this breed hates being left alone for long hours and easily suffers from separation anxiety, which may lead to excessive barking. Early social training can help them become more calm and sociable with other pets and strangers.
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Grooming is the most important part of raising a Maltese. Their long hair tangles easily, so daily brushing with professional combs is necessary to avoid mats. Regular trimming or professional grooming every six to eight weeks keeps their coat tidy and prevents ugly tear stains around the eyes. Bathe them once every one to two weeks with mild dog shampoo specially designed for white coats.
For daily feeding and exercise, offer small portions of high-quality dog food twice a day to avoid obesity. Around 30 minutes of light exercise, split into two short walks daily, meets their activity needs, making them perfect for apartment dwellers. Besides, owners need to regularly clean their ears, trim nails and check dental health to prevent common small-breed illnesses like dental problems and patellar dislocation. With delicate care and enough company, a Maltese can live a healthy life of 10 to 14 years and bring endless warmth to families.
