The pure white silky coat, black nose and eye rims are distinctive of the breed. The Maltese should weigh between 4 and 7 pounds according to the AKC standard and should measure 10 inches or less at the shoulder.

They are generally very healthy little dogs, who basically don’t realize they are a toy breed. They run and play with all the vigor of a larger breed, but they are equally happy to spend time on your lap. They are beautiful, loving and intelligent companions who want nothing more than to please their human family.

Living with a Maltese, or several Maltese, is an experience that will bring joy to each and every day. They are devoted, easily trained and always eager to share their affection. Because of their wide range of abilities, Maltese can be obedience trained, compete in agility, or even become therapy dogs.

They are good with other pets in the household, although a large dog could injure them. They love children, but because of their small size, should not be handled by a young child due to the risk of being dropped. A Maltese puppy is fragile and requires extra care to ensure that its needs are met. Care must be taken to prevent the puppy from being subjected to dangerous situations at all times.

The Maltese coat is one of the most distinctive qualities of the breed. In order to maintain a coat in good condition, a commitment to “daily” grooming must be made. The coat should be kept clean and brushed daily. Most Maltese look forward to this time spent pampering them. The coat may be kept in a puppy clip at a length of about 2 inches, which will shorten the time spent bathing and drying. Some Maltese are prone to tear stains on the face. There are many products available, which will reduce tear stains, but all of them require daily use in order to be effective.

In short, a Maltese is not a low maintenance dog – but then look at what you get in return. Few breeds can match the elegance, charm and beauty of a Maltese!

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