Ten Reasons to Love a Maltese

The Maltese is an ancient breed of all-white longhaired toy dog that originated on the Island of Malta. The Maltese commands a loyal fan base of breeders, owners and rescuers in Europe and North America. Ancient Greek Maltese owners built tombs for their beloved companions, according to "The Howell Book of Dogs." Owners would argue that there are far more than 10 reasons to love a Maltese.

  1. Small Size

    • Maltese dogs are portable without being too fragile. Although the breed standard prefers Maltese to be 4 to 6 pounds, "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs" notes that they can weigh up to 8 pounds. This makes the Maltese great for living in apartments, trailers or other small homes.

    Less Exercise Needed

    • Although Maltese dogs still needs a brisk daily walk and a daily game such as fetch, they do not require the major exercise of dog breeds bred to herd livestock, hunt or pull sleds. Maltese were bred as home companions, states "The Howell Book of Dogs."

    Highly Intelligent

    • Maltese learn tricks and basic commands quickly if trained with positive reinforcement, Maltese want to please their people, which makes them more attentive to people's commands.

    Good With Cats

    • Unlike many other dog breeds, Maltese can get along with cats, especially if introduced to cats when they are still young puppies. Maltese may chase cats but are not prone to harming cats, according to "Maltese."

    Good Watchdog

    • Despite its small size, the Maltese makes a great watchdog, according to "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs." They will fearlessly warn their humans about any stranger with loud and fierce barking.

    Always In Fashion

    • The Maltese has been a fashionable breed for centuries. According to the American Kennel Club, Maltese dogs sold for the equivelent of $2,000 back in the 1500s. But many purebred and part-bred Maltese can be adopted for far less money from animal shelters.

    Good with Older Children

    • The Maltese's natural playfulness makes it a great companion for gentle, quiet children over 8, according to "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs." However, in general, no dog and child should be left unsupervised.

    Normal Nose Length

    • Unlike brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds such as the bulldog, pug or Pekingese, the Maltese sports a nose length proportional to its body. The Maltese is free from health and breathing problems that plague brachycephalic breeds.

    Life Span

    • The Maltese tends to live longer than larger breeds of dogs, averaging 13 to 15 years. Compare this to the Irish wolfhound, which only averages 6 to 8 years, according to "The Howell Book of Dogs."

    That Face

    • As one of the world's oldest toy breeds, Maltese certainly resemble toys with their bright white or silver-white faces and shining black eyes and noses. Although show dogs need to sport full-length coats that cover the face, pet Maltese owners can clip their dogs' coats so hair does not cover that remarkable face.