The Maltese is a small dog, like a toy spaniel, weighing from 3 to
7 pounds. Its coat is long and silky, pure white or cream. There is no undercoat.
It has a black nose and drooping ears that are covered with long hair. The eyes are dark and alert. The legs are short as well as the tail which is well-feathered.
These dogs make wonderful pets and companion dogs. They are intelligent and very affectionate.
There are estimates that the Maltese breed originated around 6,000 B.C. The ancient Greeks and Romans thought the dog originated on the Island of Malta. However, there is no evidence that proves this. The general thought is that the Maltese is descended from a Spitz-type dog bred by the peoples of south central Europe.
The breed was distributed as an exotic article of trade from the ancient island trading center of Malta, hence the name.
Check our Gift Shop to see if there are any Maltese in stock.
The Kennel Index
