Maltese lapdogs, or, as they are also called, maltese, belong to the category of the oldest dog breeds bred by man. For over several centuries, maltese has not lost its popularity and remains a universal favorite in every home. This small and cheerful dog is created in order to love and be loved.
Faithful friend
This is the perfect companion that will accompany the owner everywhere. Despite the small dimensions of Maltese, the Maltese lap-dog has strong personal qualities - devotion, kindness and quick wits. Thanks to the playful disposition, the pet does not lose heart under any circumstances, raising the mood of its owner. Despite its effeminacy, a little white doll is either not very toy or very unpretentious. However, the Maltese lap-dog (Maltese), whose appearance attracts millions of views, requires complex and expensive care.
Breed history
Scientists claim that these cute pets appeared in the VI century. BC. The evidence of such assumptions is the ancient Greek vase found during excavations, whose age is more than 2500 years. It depicts a miniature dog, which bears a striking resemblance to modern representatives of this breed.
The first references are found in ancient documents and primary sources, where the dogs were called Melitaie. This name they got from the ancient Greek island of Malta (formerly Melitia). But it is impossible to precisely state the Maltese origin of the companion dogs. There is also a version about their Egyptian roots. There is evidence of this in the form of ancient written sources, where in the life of aristocrats Maltese is depicted. The Maltese lap-dog most likely ended up in Malta only thanks to the active trade between the countries of Europe and Africa.
King's favorite
It is indisputable that these snow-white dogs were most appreciated in diplomatic and royal circles. They were more desirable than silk and precious stones. European countries first became acquainted with cute Maltese thanks to Roman legionaries and merchants who brought universal favorites to Britain in 55 BC. Since then, the Maltese lap-dog is firmly rooted in the hearts of European aristocrats.
Maltese is considered the oldest show breed, which has won prizes for many years in a row. For the first time these incredibly beautiful dogs were shown to the public in 1862 in London, and in 1877 in New York.
It was believed that the most purebred and beautiful representatives of this breed lived at the beginning of the XX century in France. Therefore, the Queen of Scotland, Mary Stuart, ordered a dog from this country. According to legend, a Maltese lapdog accompanied the hostess until her death. After Mary was beheaded, a faithful and devoted friend of Maltese was found under her skirt.
The Maltese lapdog was the darling of the British Queen Victoria. In 1841, a gift from two ivory dogs was intended for the royal person . During a sea voyage from the Philippines, their wool became very tangled and dirty, so the captain did not dare to present a present, but gave it to his brother. Having experience in the maintenance of mastiffs, the breeder focused on a new object for himself. Later he managed to form several generations of maltese, who became the ancestors of the British, European and American gene pool of these sociable and cheerful dogs.
Despite a long and rich history, in the modern world the most beloved and desired breed continues to be the snow-white Maltese lapdog.
Maltese: character and care
The Maltese lapdog is distinguished from other breeds of dogs by a high level of intelligence. Despite the low ability to learn and perceive commands, maltese has a good memory and excellent quick wit. A small and fluffy animal created for love and performs a purely decorative function. Therefore, it is not worth loading the lap-dog with excessive training.
The pet has a good intuition and unmistakably feels the mood of its owner. Communication with the pet has a favorable therapeutic and relaxing effect, since, in fact, maltese is the embodiment of good and positive. Their behavior is based on soft and affectionate manners, intelligent character.
Despite their miniature, the Maltese lapdogs are fearless and selfless. In the event of the slightest threat, the animal will protect its owner to the last. This behavior is due to genetic predisposition and insane devotion to its owner. Any sharp or loud noise can provoke a protective reaction and cause a loud and impressive barking in a sweet Maltese.
Socialization
The Maltese lapdog is cheerful and energetic. She is characterized by curiosity and a passion for adventure. At its core, it is a restless optimist who energizes everyone around him. The dog is very sociable. Even to strangers, guests of the owner and all positively-minded she treats with affection and kindness. Easily finds a common language with other animals in the house, not paying attention to their breed and size. Acquaintance with a cat usually goes quietly, although sometimes Maltese may show discontent.
Care Features
Wool is a distinctive feature that the maltese breed possesses. The Maltese lap-dog requires careful and daily care, which consists in combing, washing and cutting. To do this, you need several types of combs (with rare and frequent cloves), a rubber-based brush, special shampoos and conditioners.
Combing must be carried out regularly. The most optimal regimen is every day. Particular attention should be paid to the inguinal zone, since the hair in this place is thin and thick. You need to start combing from the chest, abdomen and paws, while you need to be as careful as possible, since the comb can damage the delicate skin of the pet. Before starting the procedure, it is recommended to spray the wool with a special antistatic agent.
Haircuts should be done at least once during 10-14 weeks. Entrust it better to a professional groomer.
It is advisable to bathe a Maltese lap-dog once every two weeks, but more frequent washing is allowed. Before bathing, the dog needs to be combed. To perform water procedures, it is necessary to purchase special products at a pet store. After washing, the maltese should be wet with a towel, but in no case should it be rubbed. Wool can be dried using warm air. For this purpose, a hairdryer is ideal.
Once every two weeks, it is recommended to trim the hair between the fingers. This should be done carefully, as their paws are very tiny. After each meal, wash the hair near the mouth, otherwise it will lose its natural shade.
Ear control is equally important. Auricles need to be cleaned with cotton buds. Periodically, you need to remove scissors that have grown in the ears with scissors. Maltese often suffer from a variety of eye diseases, so the eyes should be washed with special lotions and wiped with a napkin as often as possible.
You should brush your teeth every day, using a children's toothpaste or meat-flavored paste for maltese.
Maltese lap-dog: description of the dog breed
Maltese is a
miniature type of
dog . This is a decorative animal that does not have sports inclinations and is heavily malleable to training. The length of the body of the Maltese lapon exceeds the height at the withers. The case has a narrow and elongated shape. The head, tail, paws and body are covered on all sides with long, thick and snow-white hair.
The weight of the representatives of this elegant breed is from 2.9 to 4 kg. Height:
- male - 20.3-25.5 cm;
- females - 17.7-22.8 cm.
Conditions of detention
The only possible conditions of detention is life in the apartment. City apartments of any type and size are ideal for this unpretentious breed. Maltese do not need walking. For the toilet, you can buy a special tray, which is easily accustomed to the Maltese lapdog. Maltese customer reviews characterize as a loyal companion, it should be near the owner. Therefore, it is better to have a berth in the immediate vicinity of your own.
Maltese need fresh air. Try to walk with your pet more often and ventilate the apartment. Be wary of drafts, as even a common cold can kill an animal. Do not allow direct sunlight to fall on the berth of the Maltese lapdog, and also hide all wires and sharp objects.
Cost
Where to buy maltese? The Maltese lapdog, the price of which depends on many factors, is now available to everyone. Before buying a puppy, you should choose a trusted kennel with good reviews. The cost of representatives of snow-white animals consists of aggregate data on exterior indicators, pedigree, breeding value and parental titles. Maltese lapdog (maltese) - a dog whose price varies from 25 to 60 thousand rubles.
Customer reviews
Acquiring a Maltese lap-dog, a man, first of all, he expects her devotion and affection. Owners of small dogs Maltese celebrate their obedient and friendly disposition. Children love a snow-white animal for a cheerful mood and curiosity. The Maltese lap-dog easily gets along with other animals, regardless of their breed and size.
Maltese is a pet that will become a true friend for every member of the family. The playful and cheerful nature of the pet charges positive for the whole day. The Maltese lap-dog is an ideal companion for everyone, regardless of status and financial situation.