Although some samples are confident and outgoing, most are usually quiet and peaceful. In any case, it all comes down to training and socialization. If you spoil or indulge him excessively, chances are he will end up insecure, over-dependent, or yappy and obnoxious. Fortunately, Maltese are very responsive to respect training, and tend to thrive in agility and competitive obedience. However, a doggy door leading to a small potty yard outside or an indoor litter box may be needed, since the dog can be especially hard to housebreak.
The history of the Maltese dog can be traced back to at least 2 millennia. In fact, the dog was documented by writers, poets, and artists during the early influential cultures of Egypt, Rome, and Greece, with notable mentions from Aristotle himself. They were highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, who represented the dogs on memorable artifacts, while the Greeks set up tombs for their Maltese. The dog was also riddled with myths and misconceptions, as people believed that the Maltese possessed the ability to cure people of diseases. This led to one of its moniker “The Comforter”.
Interestingly, the exact origin of this small dog is uncertain. The most popular theory is that the breed was developed from the Spaniel-type or Spitz dogs in the Isle of Malta (Mediterranean Sea). Other tales suggest that he originated from Italy, while still others claim that he was developed in Asia, from where he played a role in developing several other small Asian dogs. Regardless of his origin, the Maltese didn’t have a hard time finding his way in people’s hearts. The French aristocrats in the 15 century, for instance, were particularly fond of the breed. The dog soon found itself in the British Isles during Henry VIII’s reign, and had become an adored pet for royal and noble ladies by the end of the sixteenth century. A few noteworthy enthusiasts included Queen Victoria, Mary Queen of Scots, and Queen Elizabeth I. These small dogs were even included in portraits of beautiful women by famous painters like Sir Joshua Reynolds and Goya. Sadly, the breed was almost destroyed in an attempt to reduce the dog to the size of a squirrel between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
To save the dog, breeders had to mix East Asian miniature dogs with miniature spaniels and poodles, leading to a variety of new Maltese species. Most people believe that the modern Maltese are directly related to the Havanese, Bolognese, and Bichon Frise breeds. Majority of Maltese today can be traced back to the English breeders of the 1800s. During the 1870s, they could be seen in Westminster Kennel Club shows and, by the 1950s, most of the breed had been registered with the AKC (American Kennel Club). Since then, the Maltese have grown to become extremely popular at dog shows, winning the Toy Group and “Best in Show” competition on a frequent basis.
