Description of The Maltese Dog

The Maltese is fine-boned, but sturdy. The frameis compact. The body length from the withers to theroot of the tail is approximately equal to thedog's height at the withers (from the ground).

The Maltese is easily recognizable by its beautiful mantel of long, silky, straight white hair. This shiny, thick coat of hair is about 8 1/2 inches long.  It hangs luxuriously down each side of the body from a center part which extends from the nose tothe root of the tail. This feature has been described as the "crowning glory" of the Maltese appearance.  A properly structured Maltese appears to float along the ground under its cloud of flowing white hair.

The tail is a long-haired plume. It forms a single curve and is carried gracefully over the back in a cascading manner.

The Maltese have drop ears, set slightly low. They, too, are covered profusely with long hair.

The coat is single, with no undercoat. It is anon-shedding coat, making the Maltese a virtually hypo-allergenic breed. The coat color is white, although ivory is also acceptable.

Daily combing and brushing of the long coat is vital.The eyes must also be cleaned daily to prevent tear stains.  The hair on top of the head is very often gathered and secured up in a topknot to keep itout of their eyes. The beard also needs to be cleaned after meals to prevent food staining.

As with all white dogs, the Maltese require regularbathing. Care must be taken to be sure that these little dogs are thoroughly dry and warm afterward.

The dark eyes of the Maltese are round and open witha lively, attentive expression. They appear larger than would be expected. The black eye rims enhance the captivating beauty of the large dark eyes ofthis little white toy dog.

The Maltese is first noted to have appeared in the United States in 1877.  It was registered by the AKC in 1888 and placed in the "Toy Group."