Maltese is one of the oldest of dog breeds which is popular as a household pet in many parts of Europe. It originated in Malta and is a member of the toy group or poodle.

Physical Appearance:

• Build: The body is tiny, compact with the length equaling the height.
• Height: Maltese stands only 5-9 inches high at the shoulder
• Weight: Adult Maltese range from 3 to 12 lbs (1.4 to 5.5 kg)
• Coat: The coat is long, straight, dense and silky white that does very little shedding but will mat unless combed out every day for about 15 minutes.
• Color: Pure white (light ivory acceptable-off white)
• Head: Slightly rounded
• Teeth: Even, edge-to-edge bite, or a scissors bite
• Eyes: Dark, round eyes is surrounded by darker skin pigmentation, this gives Maltese their expressive look.
• Ears. Their drop ears has long hair
• Nose: Their nose can fade and become pink or light brown in color, and in most instances will become black again with increased exposure to the sun.
• Tail: Long-haired plume carried gracefully over the back
• Limbs: Fine-boned (very graceful and flexible)
• Feet: Small and round (very fluffy)
• Life Span: Median 12-15 years

Characteristic and Temperament of Maltese:

• Maltese are very lovable, fairly obedient, and loyal as companion
• They can easily get along well with other dogs.
• Maltese are very alert as watchdog. However it is too snappish to be the pet of small children.
• Even though Maltese is very small in size, they seems to be fearless.
• They tend to get very lonely if their master is not with them and they doesn't like being left out.
• They enjoy running and prefer to play the games of chase rather than play with toys.
• Even as the Maltese ages his/her energy level and happy personality remains constant and does not diminish much.
• Maltese do not require much physical exercise, although they should be walked daily to reduce problem behavior.
• They are very demanding and love to cuddle and often seek this kind of attention.
• Maltese are very active in the house and prefer enclosed or small spaces,
• When there is a strangers they will make a loud bark but they will quiet down once they sense that the person means no harm

Maltese is an ideal pet of people prone to allergic reaction. Maltese are considered to be largely hypoallergenic that is why people who are allergic to most dogs may not be allergic to the Maltese

Common Health Problem of Maltese: The Maltese can easily develop skin, respiratory and teeth problems. Maltese are prone to bad teeth and it is not uncommon for they to begin losing their teeth at the age of 8 to 9. They are also often uncomfortable in hot as well as damp weather, that is why they shiver very easily without any medical reason.

Tear Stain. Daily cleaning is fully required as Maltese would then get tear-staining. Tear stain can be readily removed if a fine-toothed metal comb, moistened with lukewarm water, is carefully drawn through the snout hair just below the eyes. This maintenance activity must be performed every two or three days, as a layer of sticky goo is quick to redevelop. Many veterinarians recommend avoiding foods treated with food coloring and serving distilled water to reduce tear staining. Also, giving the dog plenty of water may help too.