The Maltese: The Aristocrat of the Royal Womb. A Complete Guide to the Ancient Breed
- dogpediaitaly
- Oct 14
- 15 min read
The Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds in the Mediterranean region, with a history spanning thousands of years. Considered a toy and companion dog , it is universally recognized for its beautiful and distinctive snow-white coat, which is long, silky, and has no undercoat. This trait makes it one of the most desirable hypoallergenic breeds for owners with allergies. Despite its small size and delicate appearance—a traditional "lap dog"—the Maltese has a big heart and is lively, incredibly intelligent, and surprisingly brave. Its Maltese personality is characterized by deep loyalty and a strong need for human interaction. Those who choose a Maltese are adopting an affectionate and playful companion, but must be prepared to devote time and intensive care to its luxurious coat and social needs.
1. Detailed history and origins of the breed
The history of the Maltese is not only long, it is also legendary. This ancient breed is one of the longest-lived in Europe, dating back over 2,000 years. Its history is closely linked to antiquity, luxury, and nobility.
Originating from the Mediterranean region (Melitae Kinidia)
The exact geographical origin of the Maltese is disputed, but it is generally accepted that it originates from the islands or port cities of the central Mediterranean.
The mystery of "Melita": The name derives from the Latin and Greek "melita," meaning "honey," or more likely from one of the ancient port cities named Melita. Major theories suggest the island of Malta (as the modern name suggests), ancient Melita (now Mljet), a small island in Croatia , or even Sicily. Regardless of the exact location, the Maltese was a seal prized by traders who took it on board to trade for valuable goods or to ward off rodents (although this function declined over time).
Ancient Documentation: References to a small lapdog date back to 300 BC. The Greek philosopher Aristotle mentioned a breed he called Canes Melitenses in the 4th century BC. The most poignant evidence has been found in Egyptian tombs and on Greek vases, which frequently depict lapdogs bearing a striking resemblance to the modern Maltese, often leashed or perched on the laps of aristocratic women.
The status symbol in the Roman Empire
During the heyday of the Roman Empire, the Maltese became the ultimate symbol of luxury and social status.
Role as a status symbol: Roman matrons considered the Maltese not only a loving companion, but also a true fashion accessory. They were taken everywhere and received the care and attention deserved by a family member. The Latin poet Strabo (1st century BC) described these dogs as being carried on their laps and dressed in elaborate garments. Their role as lapdogs was cemented.
The Renaissance and England
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the breed survived and was loved by the nobility and kings throughout Europe.
Royal Patronage: During the Renaissance and the Tudor era, the Maltese experienced a new era of great fame, especially in England. It was the favorite dog of queens and ladies-in-waiting. Among its most famous owners were Mary, Queen of Scots, and much later, Queen Victoria. European queens often had their Maltese sit on their laps, cementing its image as an aristocratic lapdog .
Danger of extinction: In the 18th century, attempts were made to further miniaturize the breed, with devastating consequences for its health and survival. Fortunately, breeders recognized their error and worked to restore its original size and robustness.
Standardization and the modern arrival
The breed as we know it today was formed and standardized in the 19th century.
English influence: It was the English who developed the modern standard. The breed was originally called the "Maltese Terrier," a name that was later abandoned because the dog lacked typical terrier characteristics.
Official recognition: The Maltese was one of the first recognized breeds. Today, the standard is administered by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which places it in Group 9 (Companion and Service Dogs), thus confirming its historic and paramount role.
Historical period | Primary role of the Maltese | Contribution to the race |
Antiquity (4th century BC) | Womb animal, bargaining chip, rodent hunter in the harbor. | Determining the toy dog's size and affectionate temperament. |
Roman Empire | Symbol of luxury and fashion accessory. | Consolidation of the elegant appearance and the white coat. |
Renaissance/Victorian Era | Companions of queens and nobles. | Risk of extreme miniaturization, then restoration of robustness. |
19th century (modern) | Companion dog par excellence. | Standardization and international recognition. |
2. Physical characteristics and breed standard
The Maltese is the epitome of grace and elegance in the dog world. His physical characteristics are subject to a strict standard designed to preserve his iconic beauty and robust build despite his toy size.
Dimensions and structure (FCI standard)
The Maltese is a miniature dog whose body is slightly longer than it is tall, giving it an elegant, compact silhouette.
Size: It is a very small breed.
Physique: Despite its small size, the body should be strong and compact, with a straight back and deep chest. Its gait is described as "trotting and free," which, in contrast to its lapdog appearance, suggests agility and liveliness.
feature | Males (FCI standard) | Bitches (FCI standard) | Notes on the standard |
Height at the withers | 21−25 cm | 20−23 cm | Maintain the classification as a toy dog without being overly fragile. |
Body weight | 3-4 kg | 3-4 kg | Lightness is essential for the role of lapdog. |
Head | Proportional, slightly rounded skull, pronounced stop. | Similar | It must be in harmony with the body. |
The Coat: The Glory of Racing
The coat is the most distinctive and demanding physical feature of the Maltese .
Color: The color required by the FCI standard for the Maltese is pure white . Slight shades of light ivory are tolerated but not desirable for exhibition purposes. Markings of any other color are considered a serious fault.
Structure: The coat is exceptionally long, dense, glossy, and silky, with a silky texture. It should hang heavily on the sides of the body. Crucially, the Maltese has no undercoat . This is the main reason for its classification as a hypoallergenic breed , as the absence of an undercoat drastically reduces hair loss and, consequently, shedding (the true cause of allergies).
Length: The coat should be long enough to reach the ground when unshorn. In show dogs, the head and tail are often gracefully styled.
Pigmentation and eyes
Pigmentation is crucial for the contrast and expressiveness of the breed.
Nose and eyelids: Must be strictly black . Pink or insufficient pigmentation is a serious fault, as it detracts from the lively and alert expression.
Eyes: Large, round, dark ochre, and intelligent. The only cosmetic and hygiene problem related to the eyes is tear staining . Due to the narrow tear duct and the white coat, tears oxidize and form unsightly reddish streaks under the eyes. This is not a conformational defect (like other defects in brachycephalic breeds), but it does require constant and careful grooming of the Maltese .
Tail: Elegantly curled over the back.
In summary, the Maltese is a structurally sound and balanced dog, with particular attention paid to the care of its coat to maintain the standard of pure elegance and the absence of undercoat.
3. Temperament and character of the breed
The Maltese's temperament is one of his greatest strengths and makes him a highly desirable companion. This lapdog combines the affection and sweetness of a lapdog with a surprising dose of vigor and courage.
Affection and social dependence
The Maltese is a dog that lives for interaction with humans, a real “shadow” for its owner:
Unconditional love: The Maltese develops an extremely strong and deep bond with its family members. It's not a dog that likes to be left alone; it wants to sit on your lap, sleep in bed, and follow its owner around the house.
Separation anxiety (challenge): The downside of this intense bond is potential separation anxiety . If left alone for extended periods, the Maltese may become destructive, bark incessantly, or develop neurotic behavior. They must be gradually introduced to being alone from an early age, ideally with the help of toys or food puzzles .
Lively spirit and courage (The “Miniature Lion”)
Don't let their size fool you. The Maltese is full of energy and has a proud personality.
Play and Activity: Although a lap dog , he needs plenty of daily exercise, which can consist of lively games indoors and short walks. He is very playful and retains his almost puppy-like nature throughout his life.
Alertness and barking: The Maltese is an excellent watchdog . He readily barks to signal suspicious noises or the arrival of strangers. This trait can become problematic if barking inhibition training is not implemented early, especially in apartments .
“Small Dog Syndrome”: If a dog is not properly trained and over-pampered, it can develop “small dog syndrome” and become bossy, jealous, or even aggressive toward larger dogs because it believes it is the boss of the world.
Intelligence and training
The Maltese is an intelligent and pleasant dog breed , but requires consistency:
Easy training: Quickly learns basic commands and tricks . Excellent for sports like agility ( toy version ) and obedience. Positive reinforcement and food rewards are extremely effective.
The challenge of housetraining: Toilet training is often the biggest challenge. Due to their small bladders and the fact that they are often kept indoors, many Maltese owners find it difficult to achieve complete consistency. Patience and a consistent routine are essential.
In short, the Maltese is a dog with a balanced temperament, extroverted, and deeply devoted. He is an ideal companion for those seeking a strong emotional bond, but requires a present and consistent owner capable of balancing affection with strict discipline to prevent his little courage from turning into domestic tyranny.
Behavioral characteristic | Detailed description | Impact on the owner |
affection | Extremely devoted to the owner; needs constant contact. | High risk of separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. |
Liveliness | Surprising energy for a lapdog ; maintains a playful nature. | Requires play and daily mental stimulation. |
surveillance | Readiness to bark alarm. | Need for anti-barking training when living in an apartment . |
intelligence | Commands and tricks are easy to train. | Toilet training ( potty training ) requires consistency and patience. |
4. Main skills and strengths for the selection line
Although the Maltese 's primary role is as a companion and lap dog , the breed possesses numerous strengths and abilities that go beyond mere aesthetics and sociability. These strengths have ensured its success for millennia.
1. Social and therapeutic skills (company line)
The historical function of the Malteser has evolved into the area of emotional support:
Therapy and emotional support dog: Thanks to their extremely affectionate nature, portable size, and tolerance of physical contact, the Maltese is an excellent pet therapy dog . Many dogs are excellent for visits to hospitals and nursing homes, providing comfort and relieving anxiety.
Ideal companion for seniors: His size and moderate exercise needs make him the perfect companion for seniors or people with limited mobility. He can also get plenty of exercise while playing indoors.
2. Versatility in dog sports (performance/agility line)
Although not a German Shepherd, the Maltese's intelligence and agility are remarkable in certain disciplines:
Agility (Toy Class): The Maltese proves to be extremely agile and fast in agility courses designed specifically for toy dogs . His reward motivation and desire to please his owner make him an enthusiastic competitor.
Obedience and Rally: Their intelligence allows them to quickly learn complex command sequences. Many Maltese owners achieve excellent results in obedience and rally competitions, demonstrating that this breed is much more than just a lapdog.
3. Hypoallergenicity (genetic strength)
Its coat genetics are a tremendous strength in terms of commercial appeal and coexistence at home:
Hypoallergenic coat: The lack of an undercoat and very little shedding (more similar to human hair) make the Maltese one of the few recognized hypoallergenic breeds . While no dog is completely hypoallergenic (the allergy is caused by dander and saliva), the Maltese is generally well tolerated by people with mild to moderate allergies to dog dander.
Household Cleaning: Less hair loss means less hair scattered around the house, making cleaning and housekeeping much easier, especially for those who live in an apartment .
4. Durability and robustness
Despite its fragile appearance, the Maltese is a relatively robust dog breed :
High life expectancy: Their life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years, and many regularly exceed this limit, especially with excellent care, health and nutrition .
Easy to Carry: Its toy dog size makes it extremely portable, making it easy to carry and travel, a great advantage for owners who enjoy traveling with their dogs.
Dexterity/Strength | Description | Main advantage |
Hypoallergenicity | Silky coat, no undercoat, minimal hair loss. | Suitable for allergy sufferers; reduced cleaning service. |
Animal therapy | Affectionate nature, perfect size and contact tolerance. | Excellent for emotional support in healthcare settings. |
Agility/Obedience | Intelligence and agility in toy classroom courses. | Mental stimulation and versatility for active owners. |
portability | Low weight (3-4 kg) and small size . | Easy travel and management while living in an apartment . |
5. Weaknesses and potential challenges of the breed
The Maltese 's elegance comes at a price, especially in terms of care and health. Because they are lap dogs , they have certain physical and behavioral vulnerabilities that future owners must be aware of to ensure their Maltese's optimal health .
1. Physical weaknesses and weaknesses
While its size is a plus for portability, it also makes it fragile:
Trauma and falls: Due to their small size, Maltese dogs are extremely susceptible to accidental injuries. A jump from a sofa, a fall from an arm, or a misstep by an adult or child can cause serious bone fractures. Extreme caution is advised.
Hypoglycemia (in puppies): Maltese puppies have very limited fat reserves and can quickly develop hypoglycemia (a sudden drop in blood sugar levels) if they don't eat regularly (every 4–6 hours). This requires constant attention to their diet during the first few months of life.
2. Common orthopedic problems
Like many small dog breeds, the Maltese is prone to joint problems:
Patellar luxation: This is the most common orthopedic condition. It involves the kneecap slipping out of its normal position. This can lead to a wobbly gait and, in the long term, arthritis. It's important to purchase puppies from breeders who perform orthopedic examinations of their breeding animals.
Severe dental problems: Due to their small jaws, their teeth are closely spaced. This crowding promotes the rapid formation of plaque and tartar, leading to periodontal disease at an early age. If left untreated, dental disease not only causes pain and tooth loss, but can also spread to the kidneys, heart, and liver, drastically shortening the Maltese's life expectancy .
3. The hygienic and aesthetic challenge (hair care)
Although the fur is hypoallergenic , it represents a great responsibility:
Intensive grooming: The silky coat mats extremely easily. Grooming the Maltese requires daily brushing to prevent the formation of painful mats, which require a full clipping.
Tear stains: Tear flow (due to narrowed tear ducts or allergies) stains the fur under the eyes reddish-brown. Removing these unsightly stains requires regular grooming and the use of special products.
4. Behavioral problems (fear and training)
Excessive vocalizations: Although they are good watchdogs, their tendency to bark easily, especially in apartments, can become a serious problem if not counteracted through training.
Difficulty with potty training: As mentioned above, potty training is notoriously difficult and requires much more patience and consistency than with larger breeds.
Main weaknesses | Possible problems | Necessary management solutions |
Physical fragility | Fractures, dislocations due to jumping/falling. | Constant protection; avoid rough play, do not leave alone on the bed/sofa. |
Dental health | Early periodontitis, systemic infections. | Daily brushing; regular professional dental cleanings. |
Hair care | Painful lumps, unsightly tear stains . | Daily brushing; bathing every 1–3 weeks; daily cleaning of the eye contour area. |
Vulnerability of puppies | Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). | Frequent and controlled meals; watch for signs of lethargy. |
6. Care, health and nutrition: A personalized approach
Ensuring your Maltese's health requires a proactive approach and careful grooming . Due to their biological characteristics as a lap dog , they also have specific nutritional needs.
Careful care
As a hypoallergenic breed that does not shed, the Maltese requires a lot of grooming to avoid knots that can cause pain and skin infections.
Daily brushing: This should be done daily with a wide-toothed metal comb and a pin brush. Work in layers to ensure you reach the hair root.
Bathing: Bathing is necessary every 1 to 3 weeks. Use a lightening shampoo specifically formulated for white hair to prevent yellowing. It's important to dry the coat completely (especially with long hair) to prevent fungal infections or colds.
Long-hair care: Many owners opt for a "puppy cut" (short haircut) to reduce grooming. However, according to breed standards, the coat should be left long and often tied in a bun to protect the eyes.
Care routine | frequency | Tools/Important Notes |
Brush | Daily (at least 15 minutes) | Metal comb, pin brush, detangling spray. |
bathroom | Every 1–3 weeks | Brightening shampoo, silky conditioner, complete drying. |
Dental care | Daily (toothbrush and special toothpaste) | Daily brushing; annual professional cleaning at the vet. |
Eye cleansing | Daily (up to 2 times daily) | Special moist wipes; prevent excessive tearing. |
Toy dog food (Maltese food)
When feeding the Maltese, its size and high metabolism must be taken into account:
High-quality food: Due to the risk of hypoglycemia in puppies and intestinal sensitivity, a diet based on dry food for toy dogs is essential, which is higher in calories and sized to fit the puppy's small mouth.
Meal frequency: Puppies should eat 3–4 times a day. Adult dogs should eat twice a day. Don't skip meals, especially with puppies.
Stain management: Some additives or dyes in low-quality food can worsen cracking and staining . It's best to choose a diet based on white proteins (chicken, fish) and avoid foods rich in beta-carotene (which can increase redness).
Preventive health
In addition to orthopedic checks for patellar luxation, dental care is the key to a long life for the Maltese :
Brushing your teeth: Daily brushing is the only way to slow the progression of periodontal disease. It should be taught from a young age.
Veterinary Examinations: Annual examinations should include thorough dental examinations. Maltese dogs often require professional dental cleaning (under anesthesia) starting at 3–4 years of age.
In short, the care, health and nutrition of the Maltese require daily and careful work, which is rewarded with a healthy, happy and incredibly beautiful companion.
7. Breed behavior in the family: Who is it suitable for?
The Maltese is an excellent family dog , but its compatibility depends on the lifestyle and composition of the household. It is a breed that adapts to a variety of contexts, provided it receives constant attention and a protected environment.
Suitable for living in an apartment
The size of the Maltese makes him the archetype of the ideal apartment dog :
Size and exercise: They don't require a garden or large outdoor areas. Their exercise needs can be met through short walks and active play sessions indoors.
Beware of noise: It is important to control his tendency to bark as a warning, especially in apartment buildings or densely populated urban areas, through consistent training.
Compatibility with seniors and singles
The Maltese is an excellent companion for people who spend a lot of time indoors:
Companionship and affection: His affectionate nature and desire to lie on your lap make him a loyal companion for seniors or single people seeking a deep emotional bond. His portability also makes visits and travel easier.
Low pulling force: Since he is not a strong dog, he is easy to walk on a leash, which is an advantage for less strong or older owners.
Behavior towards children
Dealing with children requires caution due to the physical fragility of the toy dog :
Big Kids (Yes): The Maltese is generally playful and friendly. They are well-suited to families with children over 6-7 years old who have learned to handle a small dog respectfully and gently, avoiding dropping or squeezing too tightly.
Small children (Caution): This is not the best choice for households with infants or small children. Their natural clumsiness or tendency toward rough play can lead to serious injury, and the dog may react by biting if frightened or injured. It is important to always supervise interactions with children.
Compatibility with other pets
In general, the Maltese is sociable, but with limitations:
Other dogs: With early socialization, they live peacefully with other dogs. However, they may attempt to dominate much larger dogs (due to "small dog syndrome"). Handling large breeds should always be supervised due to the risk of injury.
Cats: They often live peacefully with cats when they come into the home as kittens.
Ideal owner profile | Suitable (Yes/No) | Main motivation |
Older people/pensioners | Yes | Low exercise requirement, excellent lap dog . |
Families with children | Only with children 6 years and older | Physical fragility; risk of injury to the dog from small children. |
People who work hard | NO | High risk of separation anxiety ; constant need for interaction. |
Allergic | Yes | Hypoallergenic breed thanks to the genetics of the coat without undercoat. |
Care lovers | Yes | The Maltese requires daily and constant commitment to caring for the Maltese coat . |
8. Famous examples: Royal, cinematic and historical icons
The fame of the Maltese is not limited to the present; this ancient breed has left an indelible mark on history, art, and popular culture, and is often considered a symbol of wealth and status.
Historical icons and royal patronage
The Maltese has always been a favorite of the nobility and royalty:
Mary, Queen of Scots: The ill-fated Scottish queen was said to have been so attached to her Maltese dog that she even took it with her to the scaffold. After her execution, the dog was found hidden under her robes.
Queen Victoria: The Maltese was one of the dog breeds that enjoyed the patronage of Queen Victoria in the 19th century. Her passion for the Maltese helped establish the breed as an elite dog in Great Britain.
Marie Antoinette: The French queen owned a Maltese named Thison. According to tradition, the empress hid him under her clothing during the royal family's escape from the French Revolution.
References in classical art and literature
The presence of the Maltese is also documented in the masterpieces of art and philosophy:
The works of Goya and Titian: Many Renaissance and Baroque painters, such as Tiziano Vecellio (Titian) and Francisco Goya, included the Maltese in their portraits of aristocratic women, not only as a companion, but also as a symbol of the wealth and purity of the model.
Greek Philosophy: As mentioned above, Aristotle first mentioned the Canes Melitenses in the 4th century BC. Later, poets and writers such as Callimachus of Cyrene wrote tributes to these small lapdogs.
The Maltese in modern pop culture
Today, the Maltese continues to enjoy great popularity as a companion dog for celebrities, particularly because of its portability and photogenic appearance:
Maltese and Hollywood: The Maltese is a favorite of many Hollywood icons. They are often chosen for their loving nature and elegant appearance.
Film Appearance: Although the Maltese is not the subject of epic films like other breeds, its pampered, beloved lapdog archetype appears in many romantic comedies and television series, often symbolizing the comfortable lives of its owners.
These examples demonstrate that for millennia, the Maltese has been the preferred companion of those seeking a dog that is both a luxurious accessory and a loyal friend, cementing its reputation as one of the most coveted lapdogs in history.
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