Maltese

• One of the gentlest of all Toy Dog Breeds

• One of the oldest dog breeds;  oldest record of this dog dates back to around 500 BC

• Comes from the Central Mediterranean area

• Known as the Ancient Dog of Malta

• Choice dog of royalty; the Aristocrat of the Dog World for over 28 centuries

• First entered in the Westminster Dog Show in 1879

• Life Span  15 or more years, 18 years not unheard of

• Pure white or light ivory coat

• Weight 3 - 7 lbs.    Height  8 - 10 inches

• Hair, if not cut, should brush the ground about 8-1/2"

• Thrives on love and attention

• Devoted

• Playful, lively, yappy

• Can be snappy with kids if not socialized as puppy

• Very intelligent dog

• Humans must be master or the dog will take over

• Loves to play outside and jump in puddles

• Sunburn

• Skin problems

• Respiratory, eye and tooth problems

• Discomfort in hot weather

• Needs to be kept dry

• Prone to sunburn (do not leave outside for extended periods)

• Avoid going out in weather extremes; needs to be kept out of damp areas and is uncomfortable in heat

• Dry well after bathing and clean ears

• Long hair needs groomed regularly