The Maltese is probably among the earliest breeds that have been considered by the upper class as an acceptable and in fact, trendy household companion. Dating back as early as 500 B.C. Greece, evidence tells that the Maltese existed, enjoying the favor of people in high ranks and of noble blood. Early historical accounts prove of this circumstance.

Centuries old poems and paintings had been unearthed depicting and illustrating this pearly white haired creature, and all artifacts evidenced a well-adored Maltese. One account, at the time of Queen Elizabeth I, even described this breed as tiny as a squirrel and are being fashionably held by ladies in their bosoms, in to their beds, and arms during carriage rides. These accounts are indelible proofs to the title “the aristocrat of dogs” of the Maltese.

This breed, even then, suggests fastidiousness, loyalty, and utter neatness. It is covered all over with a very long mantle of silky and pearly white straight hairs which add to its ostentatious appearance. Record has it that even in the 16th century, this breed’s price tag ranged at $2000 and considering the dollar value then, such amount could have been equal to a five figure amount.

The origin of the Maltese is, up to this day, arguable since parties suggest that the breed either hailed from Malta or a Sicilian town called Melita. Both theories have historical evidence to back them up, additionally; these evidences suggest the existence of the Maltese in both places at the same era! The adjective Maltese, too, is a Semantic word which means “malat”, the root name of both Malta and Melita.

The standard color of Maltese is pure white, however, there appears to be a cream-colored and lemon-colored Maltese; these colors are permissible but not in the competition field. Its average weight ranges from 3 to 7 lbs and its coat is generally long and silky; Maltese doesn’t have a second layer of coat. The Maltese’s hair is also not prone to excessive hair fall and so those who have allergies are safe to adopt this breed.

Maltese is everything aristocrat starting from its imposing frame and appearance to its time and money consuming hair and body grooming. Their lovely white fur, in able to preserve their sparkle, must be constantly cleaned from tear stains. As often as every three days, the hairs around their eyes must be combed with a warm and moist metal comb in order to be able to remove the tear stains.

This breed had been popular by different names over the years and some of these are: Melitaie Dog, Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta, Majestic Creature, Maltese Lion Dog, Maltese Terrier, and Spaniel Gentle. However, even then the Maltese has always been a fearless, high- spirited, playful, and mischievous dog despite its diminutive size. Don’t expect this breed to slow down any time soon though for they remain as active even as when they age.

The Maltese does not really require an intense physical activity unlike other breeds. Much to your liking, this dog enjoys running around, chasing, and romping but only to limited spaced areas such as small yards and living room. Conspicuously, due to these traits, the Maltese is fit to live in a quiet, orderly, and urban type of dwelling.