The Maltese is a breed whose origins are shrouded in antiquity.

There are several different versions of their history. One thing is for sure,
they have been popular for millennia!
Art objects dating back as far as 5000 to 10 000 years
show similar dogs. They may have originated in Asia, or perhaps the ancient Egyptians
bred the ancestors of the Maltese. It is believed that the Phoenicians introduced the breed
to the island of Malta around 500 B.C. and the breed derives its name
from this island. Malta provided an environment relatively free of outside influences,
allowing the Maltese to retain their unique characteristics.

The Maltese were favourites of the Greeks and Romans and were carried everywhere
their human companions went (little has changed since!) Renaissance paintings show
that the Maltese were popular in Italy. They were known in Britain in the 16th century and
may have been brought there by invading Romans or returning Crusaders.
Maltese are possibly the oldest of Europe's toy breeds and are widespread
throughout the continent. Maltese have always been lap dogs, favoured by the
nobility across time and cultures, but some historians say that Maltese
were also once renowned for their rat-catching abilities!

There is some debate whether they are of terrier, bichon, or spaniel stock,
but the Maltese have also been known as the Maltese Terrier and the Bichon Maltaise.
Maltese also remain popular in Europe, as well as in Canada and Japan.

Maltese are small dogs, usually 25 cm (10 in) tall and weighing 1.8 - 2.7 kg (4 - 6 lb).
They have a long, straight, silky white coat which can reach all the way to the ground.
Small areas of lemon coloured or light tan markings are also common,
especially on the head. Their hair is parted down the centre from their nose
to their tail. The tail is a long-haired plume carried gracefully over the back.
When they wag their tails, Maltese look like they are waving a fan!
Their eyes are dark brown, and they have a black nose, black eye rims, and black lips.
These dark features contrast with their white fur to give Maltese
the appearance of stuffed animals! Their toe pads are also black.

Maltese are among the gentlest mannered of all little dogs.
They are affectionate and form very strong bonds with their owners.
Maltese are also intelligent and alert. Maltese are very clean animals
and are easily trained. Like all toy dogs, Maltese are lively and playful.
They are sturdy, strong little dogs and seem to be without fear, but children need to take
care not to injure them. Maltese are undaunted by larger dogs and may get
themselves (and you) into trouble! They enjoys a wide variety of chew-toys,
including rawhide, beef chews, pig ears, and the occasional item
of clothing (usually just to get attention!).

Maltese are a fine pet for those with limited accommodations because
their exercise needs are minimal. Maltese can also be quite choosy about their
food and may prefer their owner's food to their own.
When a Maltese drinks, a great deal of water ends up in his or her beard,
and this can be quite a shock when they come to kiss you right after drinking!