Maltese – Dogs of Royalty
There are few breeds that can rival the maltese for sheer boldness and
loyalty. This is a dog that, even in his later years, will respond well to
you and to the affection you have provided. On the other hand, there are few
breeds that can rival the maltese in terms of stubbornness and the "I'll do
this if I get a reward" attitude. This is a little dog with a big
personality and you will never have a dull moment.
The maltese originated in ancient Greece but became closer to the dog we
know today when it was later brought to Italy and mixed with other breeds.
It was meant to be a companion from the start, which is why those traits
still exist today. From Malta, this was a dog revered for its intelligence
and nature. That still exists today.
And with good reason. The maltese is a loving companion, fiercely
intelligent and able to provide enjoyment to its owners with its frisky
nature. It is also a capable watch dog, willing to bark at noises it deems
unusual. For large families or single households, this breed will do well...
assuming you have it properly trained. That high intelligence can make the
maltese stubborn and less willing to follow orders. It has a typical little
dog mindset and tends to do as it pleases. Luckily, it is a loyal animal and
will try to follow your orders. Just don't be surprised if you need to tempt
it with rewards.
Because of that, training is essential. You need to enroll your maltese in
classes as soon as you get him. This will teach you how to get the results
without resorting to food. The maltese can easily become overweight due to
its small frame; you have to learn to give command without relying on food.
Also, this breed may have difficulty with housebreaking. Positive
reinforcement works best with the maltese. Yelling or punishment tend to
result in poor effects. Give the maltese something positive, however, and
they respond well.
This breeds lives usually fifteen years. Some can live longer, depending on
their general health. That all usually depends on whether you have kept them
out of the cold. The maltese is highly susceptible to chills and colds. Keep
them indoors during winter months as much as you can. During summer months,
just watch out for sunburn. Their coat doesn't offer as much protection as
other breeds.
The maltese can also be picky eaters, going back to their stubborn streaks.
You must not indulge them with too much food. Keep them on regular eating
schedules and don't let them dictate what they will and won't eat.
Stubbornness aside, these are happy and loving dogs that do very well in
small environments and who make great companions. You just have to be able
to train them.
