Maltese
Description
Ever wonder why the Maltese has been cherished for nearly 3,000 years? This tiny dog, originally from Malta, was a favorite among ancient aristocrats in Greece, Rome, and Egypt. With a history that stretches back to Phoenician sailors discovering them around 1500 B.C., the Maltese has a noble past that few breeds can match. They’re small but packed with personality, often acting as a perfect lap companion. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese dogs can be surprisingly feisty and make good watchdogs. They’re not the best fit for families with young children, as they need a firm leader to prevent unwanted barking or snapping. Their charming, silky white coat and compact 7-pound frame make them a standout in any setting. Isn’t it amazing how such a small dog carries so much history and character?
Grooming
The Maltese’s long, silky coat requires regular care to keep it looking its best. Because their hair grows continuously and sheds very little, mats can form easily, especially behind the ears and under the armpits. Brushing or combing 3 to 5 times a week is essential to prevent tangles. Light trims around the sanitary areas and feet help maintain cleanliness between full grooming sessions. Bathing every 3 to 6 weeks keeps the coat fresh, but be sure to dry it straight to avoid frizz or mats. A full professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended to maintain the coat’s elegant appearance. Maltese coats are mostly white, sometimes with lemon or tan markings and black points—watch for tear stains on the white fur, which can be gently cleaned with a damp cloth. - Brush 3–5 times weekly, focusing on ears and armpits - Bathe every 3–6 weeks, dry coat straight - Light sanitary and foot trims between grooms - Full groom every 4–6 weeks Pro tip: Use a slicker brush combined with a fine-tooth comb to catch mats early and keep the coat silky smooth.
Learn the Silky routine:
→ Complete Silky Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Maltese really need? Just about 25 minutes a day, usually in one session, is enough to keep this small dog happy and healthy. Their low activity level means they’re content with a gentle walk around the neighborhood or some light playtime in the yard. A typical routine might be a 10-minute stroll in the morning to stretch their legs, followed by 15 minutes of relaxed walking or sniffing in the afternoon. Because they’re small and delicate, avoid rough terrain or overly long walks that could tire them out. Example routine: - Morning: 10-minute easy walk around the block - Afternoon: 15-minute sniff and stroll in a quiet park This plan keeps your Maltese engaged without overdoing it, helping them stay calm and content indoors.
Boarding
When boarding a Maltese, a crate sized between 24 and 30 inches works best to give them enough room to stretch but still feel cozy. These dogs enjoy calm environments and benefit from daily exercise paired with quiet decompression time to reduce stress. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the Maltese feel secure. Because they can be a bit feisty, gentle play that respects their small size is ideal. Enrichment like puzzle toys or soft chew items can keep them mentally stimulated without overwhelming them. Remember, Maltese dogs thrive on consistency and gentle handling. Boarding staff should keep interactions calm and avoid sudden loud noises or chaotic playgroups. This approach ensures your Maltese stays relaxed and happy while you’re away.