Profile of the Maltese

Description:

The Maltese is among the small breed of dog. It has a long-luxurious-silky-fur-coat. Unlike most other breed of dogs, the Maltese's fur coat only comes in white. Many other breeds have different color coats: brown, black, white, grey, and so on. The Maltese has a very short muzzle to match its small, round head. The Maltese has not undercoat. Its fur should be poker-straight with no kinks, waves, and/or curls. The Maltese has long ears and a long tail, which are both covered with long, white fur.

Average life span:

The Maltese lives an average life span of 15 years. The maximum years can go up to 20. It is very important to fit this breeds needs in order for the dog to live a long, healthy life. One important key item is for this breed to stay out of the damp.

Height:

The height of your Maltese will depend on its gender. Male Maltese stand to be 8 to 10 inches ((21 to 25cm) tall, and the female Maltese stands to be an average height of 8 to 9 inches ((20 to 23cm). Your Maltese should stay within these height limitations. It is not common for the Maltese to grow taller or stand shorter than the previously listed heights for both genders.

Weight:

Unlike the Maltese height, there is no differing in weight. Both genders tend to float around the same weight. The female and male Maltese will weigh to be 6.5 to 9 pounds (3 to 4kg.) The Maltese should stay within these weight limits. Try not to allow your Maltese to weigh 3.5 pounds less or 4 pounds more than the breeds weight limits.

Temperament:

The Maltese's temperament is lively and loving. This particular breed is very energetic, despite its snooty-stuck up-looks, and highly intelligent. This breed is also very gentle, caring, devoted, and trusting to their master(s). Excellent at learning new tricks when given treats, of course. Sudden sounds tend to make the Maltese jump and become alert very quickly. The Maltese is snappy toward inconsiderate children, and should be watched while around them. This breed has a known record of being difficult to housebreak, and is sometimes a picky eater.

Health Problems: