Maltese
Even though the breed is known for its coat, its body structure, facial expression and overall carriage are essential components of the type. The Maltese is a diminutive dog with a compact, square body, covered all over with long, flat, silky, white hair hanging almost to the ground. The expression is gentle yet alert. It is a vigorous dog, with a jaunty, smooth, flowing gait. The well-built Maltese seems to float over the ground when trotting. They are one of the most gentle mannered of all little dogs, but are also full of energy and very playful, making them great family dogs. Maltese are highly intelligent and know very well how to use their charm to get their way. If given the chance, they become easily spoiled. This isn’t a problem for dog savvy owners, but many pet owners will give in, often resulting in a pet with poor manners. It is not recommended that Maltese go to homes with young children, where as tiny puppies, there is the possibility of being stepped on or dropped by a child.
| Origin: | Italy Malta |
| Breed Group: | Toy (AKC:1888) Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC) |
| Health Issues: | 3 stars Hypoallergenic: Yes |
| Life span: | 15-18 years |
| Name: | Maltese |
| Stranger Friendly: | 5 stars |
| Weight: | 6.5-9 pounds (3-4 kg) |
| 09: | Bruno |
| Exercise Needs: | 1 stars The Maltese does not require a great amount of exercise. It can have its needs met by indoor play and activities, and enjoys playing chase. |
| Shedding Level: | 1 stars Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes. |
| Size: | Smallest |
| 01: | Charlie |
| 05: | Teddy |
| Child Friendly: | 4 stars Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Other names: | Maltese Dog, Maltese lion dog |
| Rank: | Boy Names |
| 02: | Buddy |
| 07: | Harley |
| Apartment Friendly: | 5 stars The Maltese is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. |
| Barking Tendencies: | 5 stars Frequent |
| Cat Friendly: | 5 stars |
| Height: | Male: 8-10 inches (21-25 cm) Female: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) |
| Litter Size: | 3-5 puppies |
| Trainability: | 2 stars Difficult Training: Encouragement rather than harsh words should always be used when training the Maltese. They are very sensitive. Maltese are very difficult to housebreak and may need to be paper or box trained. |
| 03: | Toby |
| 06: | Oliver |
| Grooming: | 3 stars Moderate Maintenance: Beyond regular weekly grooming the occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pet. Their strong fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris which can result in an infection. Teeth should be brushed regularly. |
| Popularity: | 2022: #38 2021: #39 2020: #38 2019: #36 2018: #37 2017: #33 2016: #33 2015: #31 |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Watchdog Ability: | 3 stars |
| 04: | Gizmo |
| Colors: | White |
| Dog Friendly: | 5 stars |
| Playfulness: | 3 stars |
| Puppy Prices: | Average $1500 - $2500 USD The Maltese are one of the most expensive breeds of small dog breeds. Usually, the average cost of purchasing a pet quality puppy from a reputable breeder is about $1,500 to $2,500. However, for a Maltese puppy with top breed lines and a superior pedigree, you may need to pay between $3,000 and $5,000. |
| Temperament: | Active Docile Easygoing Gentle Intelligent Playful Responsive Sweet-tempered |
| 08: | Jake |
| 10: | Diesel |
| Adaptability: | 5 stars |
| Intelligence: | 4 stars Ranking: #59 Full Ranking ListThey are ranked 59th out of 79 in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs which indexes obedience and the ability of a dog breed to follow commands, with very light focus on skills seen outside of working breeds, such as emotional intelligence. |