The M altese is a toy-sized breed of dog that emerged from the Mediterranean, with Italy sponsoring the breed. The origins are associated with Italy, M alta and the island of Mljet (Croatia). Even so, its origin is somewhat uncertain. The breed was genetically selected to achieve smaller and smaller individuals and thus reach a miniature size. In this breed file on our site we present the characteristics, character and care of the M altese BichonTake note!
Origin of the M altese dog
As we mentioned in the introduction, the origin of the M altese dog is not entirely clear The vast majority of historians associate the origin of the M altese bichon to the island of M alta, in the south of Sicily, although the International Cinological Federation (FCI) does not describe it that way. There is confusion between the data and evidence of the existence of bichon dogs 2,000 years ago and the origin of the word "M altese".
The FCI explains that it is a Semitic derivation of the word "malàt" and that M altese does not mean that it comes from M alta. On the other hand, it was the Phoenicians who brought the ancestors of this race from Egypt more than 2,000 years ago. In the tomb of Ramses II there are stone statuettes in the shape of today's M altese.
What is known for sure is that the bichon was a great representative of high roy altyIn addition, it is worth mentioning that the first written record of the M altese dog was made by Aristotle, who described it in approximately 370 BC. Finally, we cannot forget that this breed of toy dogs almost disappeared the "breeders" of the XVII and XVIII centuries and their desire to want to make them perfect and smaller.
Finally, in 1954, and under patronage, the FCI recognized the M altese dog as an official breed.
Physical characteristics of the M altese dog
The M altese is a very small dog that is usually around between 3 and even 4 kilograms and no more than 25 cm high Due to its size, it is perfectly suited to small apartments. Some of the most outstanding characteristics of the M altese Bichon are the following:
- The nose is black: besides it has a medium-length snout with a slightly pointed shape.
- It has floppy ears: they are very characteristic of the M altese dog, as well as having a lot of hair on them.
- The eyes are black: just like the nose.
- Its tail has a curly rise: it sits on its back and is very thick.
- He has a well-proportioned build: both the head and the body correspond in size and, in addition, the skull has a rounded shape. Even so, its legs are short.
- Highlights the white coat: a single layer of smooth, long and silky fur.
M altese Colors
Organizations only allow the color white, although we can find it with golden spots. If we do a historical review, due to the multiple crosses that were made with the M altese Bichons in the 18th century, up to nine different breeds with different colors emerged, obviously.
From 1902 to 1913 solid or parti-colored bichons were accepted in England. Even so, it was not until 1950 that white was established as the only color for the M altese.
As you already know the characteristics of the M altese, you may be wondering how to know if a M altese is authentic? We tell you the answer in this post on our site.
M altese Character
In general, the M altese Bichon is a happy and fun dog, as well as affectionate with its caretaker. He is a good companion dog and is nothing solitary, he likes to enjoy people and pets. It has a protective nature and will love having toys and other things to chew on. It should be noted that the M altese dog is somewhat nervous and playful and therefore suffers if he spends too much time alone at home.
He is an ideal dog for adults although he may not relate well to children who demand too much play, manipulate him excessively or treat him like to a toy. If we explain to them how they should relate to the dog, there will be no problem.
We must also bear in mind that due to its small size, the M altese dog can see other dogs as a threat. Therefore, we will encourage him to play and socialize with other pets, in this way we can enjoy the company of several dogs at the same time.
How to properly socialize a puppy? Find out the answer in this post on our site.
M altese Bichon Care
M altese dogs require extra care that is not as common in other breeds. These cares are:
- Feeding: it is highly advisable to feed them with good quality feed, since it is a dog that will affably ask us for human food and if we encourage it, it can end up rejecting the feed. Giving it human food is a problem, since it does not have some enzymes that catalyze certain foods and this can initiate an allergy.
- Exercise: they don't need a lot of physical exercise and walking twice a day will be enoughto meet your needs. Ideal for people with little mobility. Even so, we recommend going for walks with him so that he does not lose his social habit and enjoys the environment.
- Grooming: because of his long, fine hair we must take care of brush him regularlywith special combs. It is possible that skin problems or knots appear and for this reason some owners bathe too frequently (normally every month and a half). In the hairdresser they will inform us of the types of haircuts of the M altese bichon. The most characteristic is to leave their hair long and simply cut the ends (typical in shows) although many prefer to cut the hair drastically, achieving the puppy effect. We will also take into account the daily grooming which includes cleaning the eyes, tear duct and muzzle. It is a good way to prevent the formation of brown spots around these areas. You may be interested in consulting How to bathe a M altese puppy.
Now that you know what the characteristics of the M altese puppy are and how to care for them, let's focus on their education.
M altese Bichon Education
He is a very intelligent dog that will have no difficulty learning tricks and being disciplined. They can be trained to do somersaults, stand on their hind legs, etc. Of course, it is essential to socialize him, since he is a small dog that alarms and when the doorbell rings, he may begin to show hostile attitudes towards people who do not show him affection or attention.
As for the relationship with children it is somewhat complicated. Both because of his long hair and because of his special character, he does not always fit well with them. What the M altese likes is to be treated with respect and affection, never hitting or pulling hair. Although this is not a generality, it may not be the most suitable dog for them because they can get angry if they do not feel well. In addition, due to their small size, it is common for bones to break or fracture if children play with them too roughly.
The Bichon M altese perfectly accepts the company of other dogs and pets, although it has a predilection for those of the same breed. He is very communicative and active, so he will play elegantly with his companions.
M altese He alth
Although in general, the M altese is a he althy dog, it can have some he alth problems or diseases such as:
- Knee or patella problems: Being overweight aggravates and promotes this disease. For this reason, we will ensure that the doses of food it receives are adequate for its size and daily physical activity.
- Allergies to certain human foods.
- The type of hair can also cause conjunctivitis or eye irritation.
Other diseases that affect them can be cancer, heart disease or kidney failure. Regular visits to the vet will prevent and facilitate the detection of these problems.
Where to adopt a M altese?
Now that you know the M altese dog, its characteristics and care, you are probably thinking of adopting one. Whether it is for its spectacular physique or for its curious character, the M altese is a dog that needs attentionn because, as we mentioned before, it does not tolerate good loneliness.
The good thing about the M altese dog is that it is a very popular breed of dog, so in Spain there will be no problem finding it. You can go to any animal protector or shelter to see if they have a purebred specimen.
In case it is not there, from our site we want to emphasize that the important thing when having a dog in our lives is not its physical appearance, but give you the best possible care.
Curiosities
The M altese Bichon is one of the oldest dogs in Europe, they stood out at the time of the Roman Empire where they were stray dogs that eliminated city rats. At some point they caught the attention of the nobles and settled in the great houses where they were very pampered and pampered. Centuries later in the Renaissance they were also the company of people with high economic possibilities.
