Maltese
The Maltese has been a treasured companion dog for more than 2,000 years.
Height: 8 to 10 inches at shoulder
Weight: No more than 7 pounds
Coat: long and silky
Life span: 12 to 15 years
Breed Group: Companion Dogs
Gentle and fearless, the Maltese greets everyone as a friend. His glamorous white coat gives him a look of haughty nobility, but looks can be deceiving. This is a sprightly, vigorous dog who excels not only as a companion but also as a therapy dog and competitor in such dog sports as agility, obedience, rally, and tracking. But most of all, he loves to be with his people.
Maltese profile on DogTime.com
General Characteristics
Drooling potential
  
  
  
  
  
Ease at being home alone
  
  
  
  
  
Ease of training
  
  
  
  
  
Friendly toward strangers
  
  
  
  
  
Vigor
  
  
  
  
  
Wanderlust
  
  
  
  
  
Mouthiness
  
  
  
  
  
Potential for weight gain
  
  
  
  
  
Sensitivity
  
  
  
  
  
Affectionate with family
  
  
  
  
  
Compatible with kids
  
  
  
  
  
Easy to groom
  
  
  
  
  
Energy level
  
  
  
  
  
General health