Meet the Maltese Dog

Known for more than 28 centuries as “the ancient dog of Malta,” the Maltese definitely holds honors as one of the aristocrats of the dog world. Their place in history well documented, it is known that the Maltese has been immortalized in rhyme, as well as art, and it is believed that this unique little breed of dog may have been worshipped by the ancient Egyptians. Century after century, this dainty little dog has been a symbol of outstanding taste, wealth, refinement and cleanliness. Few people meet a Maltese and don’t fall under his spell.

There are several factors to take into consideration, before rushing out to get a pet Maltese. Will he fit in with your family and other pets? Think carefully before you make a hasty (and often a rather expensive) decision.

Do you have the time commitment to make to a small dog? Maltese are very affectionate little dogs and do not do well, if left alone for long periods of time. They enjoy companionship and affection, and can easily become very lonely and prone to barking, having accidents on the carpet, and showing other symptoms of canine separation anxiety. While short periods of time alone are fine, it isn’t fair to get a Maltese if you have too hectic a time to be able to pay much attention to a small dog. If your life is that busy, save yourself some money and your little dog some heartbreak and buy a fish instead.

What about your other pets? This should always be taken into consideration, as well. The Maltese, while friendly and rambunctious, is still a delicate little animal and can easily be hurt by larger, more aggressive dogs, or large-breed puppies who have yet to learn their own strength and what not to bite. Provided you are bringing him into a safe environment, however, the little Maltese toy can often fend surprisingly well for himself.

How does the Maltese get along with children? In truth, the Maltese is wonderfully affectionate and he loves almost everyone. The only problem is that, being as small and dainty as he is, he can be easily hurt if squeezed to hard or dropped. Because of this reason, many reputable breeders will refuse to sell a Maltese puppy to anyone who has a small child, under 5 years of age. Maltese puppies are especially huggable and sweet, but it’s very easy for one to be easily hurt. For this reason, hold off on getting your Maltese puppy until you know that your son or daughter is old enough to realize what hurting is, to know better than to hurt, and can actually help care for the new puppy, rather than just feeding it.

The Maltese is an adorable and sweet little member of the canine world and, if you have the time to properly care for him, will make a wonderful addition to your family. As with adopting any pet, be sure to give it time and thought, as well as making sure to get agreement from all members of the household before bringing home a new puppy. If you’ve done all this and you know you’re bringing a puppy home to friendly and safe surroundings, then a Maltese puppy may just be the one to steal your heart.