Are you looking for a pet for your family and don't know which one to choose? Are you a lover of small and playful dogs? Then the Maltese is the ideal dog breed to please you. Small, adorable, energetic and playful are some of the main characteristics that define the behavior of this little friend, who will undoubtedly bring great joy to your family.
- Small size .
- Weight : Up to 5kg.
- Hair type : Long and dense.
- Character : Loving, playful, happy and intelligent.
- Health : Good health.
- Life expectancy : Between 12 and 15 years.
Are you interested? Then don't stop reading this article. Where you will not only learn about the origin and physical characteristics of the Maltese Bichon, but we will also talk about its care and the health that this little friend must have to reach its maximum life expectancy.
History and origin of the Maltese Bichon
One of the most controversial topics in reference to the Maltese is its origin. Because even today, the genuine origin of this dog breed has not been precisely determined . However, there are data that have been used to establish the origin of the Maltese Bichon in the Mediterranean, around the year 7,000 BC, where it was spread by Phoenician traders.
This theory establishes the Maltese as one of the oldest breeds in the world. Added, furthermore, to the diversity of ancient figures similar to the appearance of the race, which further proves its existence in places like Greece or Egypt.
The name of the breed, on the other hand, is awarded to the Mediterranean island of Malta. However, the Maltese Bichon has received other names throughout history, such as “Melitae”, “Maltese Lion Dog”, “Melenudo” and so on. Always predominating, the Maltese Bichon is the one indicated for the breed.
Its involvement in the culture and royal lineage in ancient Egypt is also recorded in history, in fact, it is alluded to that the Maltese was part of royal families. While, in Rome, it is alluded to that this animal was the favorite for women.
One of the curiosities that stand out in the original history of the Maltese Bichon is that they were used on the Island of Malta for commercial activity. Because the Maltese exchanged or sold it in other lands. Which made its recognition extend to places outside the Mediterranean.
Its popularity also increased the need to “improve” the breed and, in the 18th century, the Maltese was crossed with breeds such as poodles, among others, generating a considerable number of breeds related to the Maltese . However, it was in 1954 when the Maltese was officially recognized as a breed. And in November 1989, the Maltese Bichon was approved in its current standard.
Physical characteristics of the Maltese Bichon
Although it is a tiny breed , there is a lot to say about the physical characteristics of the Maltese Bichon. Starting with its size, which usually does not exceed 25 centimeters in height, combined with a weight of no more than 5 kilograms, this small animal is ideal for playing with children or older people.
One of the most outstanding characteristics of the Maltese Bichon is its eccentric coat, which gives it elegance and tenderness at the same time. Satin white in color, with a completely silky and extensive texture, makes this one of the greatest attractions of this breed.
His tiny head, according to his height. Which makes it look a little wider than it really is, thanks to the extensive and dense fur that covers it. For its part, the ears of the Maltese Bichon have a semi-triangular, pendulous shape, which attributes a lot of tenderness to this breed. Brown eyes, black tail, both small according to the diameter of its head.
The hairy tail of the Maltese Bichon is another of its curiosities, since its structure is thick at the root and then tapers until it reaches the tip. Its size represents around 60% of the height of the canine.
Its legs, also tiny in size, but very consistent with its height and shape, provide great agility and speed to this canine. Due to its size and light build, you might think that it is a fragile and fearful dog breed, but it is quite the opposite. His tiny build is favorable for the great speed that this little friend possesses.
Character of the Maltese Bichon
As if the tender appearance of the Maltese Bichon were not enough, its character brings it much closer to being the ideal pet for any family . It is one of the most loving, playful, happy and intelligent breeds that exist in the canine world.
Loving and faithful
It is a breed that easily adapts to your home. It is highly affectionate, so it requires constant pampering. And it is very likely that he will not leave his owner for a moment because he is truly faithful and affectionate , so in homes with children he can be the perfect pet.
Playful and attentive
A notable aspect of the Maltese's character is its fun and tireless spirit. Although as puppies, they spend most of their time sleeping. As he grows, his desire to always stay active develops, he loves games. But it is also a very attentive dog and remains in a constant state of alert in any situation.
Obedient and intelligent
The qualities do not stop. The Maltese is also a very obedient dog . In general, it is usually established to follow and obey one member of the family more than the others. With this person you will generate greater attachment and will respond to your orders to a greater extent.
Maltese Bichon Puppies
Bichon Maltese puppies are not only charming, but they are also usually calm and quite obedient. They stand out as a puppy for life, due not only to the permanence of their tiny size, but also because they maintain their spirit of play and tenderness. These small animals usually remain in constant rest within the home. In addition to staying attached to their owner.
It is important from puppies to show them how to behave on different occasions, such as being left alone at home. Training is a key element to forge the behavior of the Maltese from puppies, in this case. It requires rigor, character and adequate training not only to perform pirouettes, but also to maintain composure when necessary.
Nutrition and health of the Maltese
In general, the Maltese is usually a breed that enjoys very good health . Their life expectancy is between approximately 12 to 15 years, of course, depending on the care provided. However, there may be occasions in which due to its size, build, environment or diet, some diseases appear, such as suffering from patella luxation. In this case, it is necessary to prevent overweight in the dog to avoid these evils.
The extension of the Bichon Maltese's fur in the eye area, as well as external factors, can cause ocular irritability and even conjunctivitis, which is evidenced by an increase in tear fluid and redness in the area surrounding the eye.
Stomach sensitivity is another aspect that must be known about the Maltese Bichon, as inadequate feeding can cause serious stomach discomfort. Decreased glucose is also common in the Maltese; drowsiness, vomiting or diarrhea may be indicative of this condition.
Feeding
Food is a transcendental issue that will directly influence the health of the Maltese. As explained in the previous paragraphs, feeding it improperly can cause overweight or stomach problems.
The main thing is to supply the Bichon Maltese with good quality food for mini dogs , intended for canine consumption. Human food can contain ingredients that can cause stomach allergies, due to the lack of enzyme to process them.
In the case of adult Maltese Bichons, it is necessary to regulate food consumption, several times a day and in controlled quantities so as not to exceed the canine's weight. An estimated 35% meat and 20% protein and fat is ideal for the nutritional content that canines should ingest.
Care of the Maltese Bichon
In addition to the general care that all dog breeds need (hygiene, feeding, among others), the Maltese Bichon requires some special care to stay healthy and fully extend its life expectancy.
Fur
As mentioned, the coat is one of the most notable attractions of the Maltese , so its care is essential. Brushing should be carried out very frequently, if possible daily, using a brush specially designed for this purpose. If you decide to let the canine's hair grow, it must be cared for and combed with great subtlety to avoid knots.
Bathing and cutting the coat for the Maltese can take four weeks or more. Depending on the length and growth of the coat.
Exercise
Although the Maltese is not a dog that requires rigorous exercise, it loves outdoor activities. Especially the walk. That is why it is recommended to give up to three walks a day for puppies and later one when the Maltese is already an adult.
Teeth, ears and eyes
The Maltese's tiny teeth can prevent the appearance of tartar from being visible to the naked eye. To avoid this, it is advisable to accustom the canine to dental cleanings at least once a week.
It is important to remember that keeping the fur short in the eye area is essential to avoid irritation caused by the hair rubbing in this area. Just as keeping the Maltese's ears clean will prevent infection in the future.
Vaccines and dewormers
Another important aspect in the health of the Maltese is compliance with its vaccines and dewormers on the dates indicated by the veterinarian, from puppyhood. This will keep your immune system strengthened and counteract different diseases.
Education and training of the Maltese Bichon
Training a Maltese can be as entertaining as any other activity. Let us remember that among its qualities is obedience and if we add to this that it occupied position No. 59 on the list of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world according to the psychologist and trainer Stanley Coren.
First of all, we must keep in mind that this little friend loves to be in the air, so choosing this space for training will be very favorable. A daily walk accompanied by the socialization that it is allowed to do will give the Maltese the opportunity to associate aspects of its environment.
Around 20 or 25 minutes a day dedicated to practice and training with the Maltese will be enough to acquire basic behavioral practices. For example, establishing schedules for walks, sleeping, eating, among other activities.
Correcting inappropriate habits is another important task to carry out with your Maltese, so that unwanted behaviors disappear. In this case, doing it using positive reinforcement will be of great help, instead of doing it aggressively. Ignoring bad behaviors and stopping the actions they carry out at the moment, when faced with inappropriate behavior, will alert you to it. At the same time, you must remember to reward him when he does things well.
These are some practices that you can start to progressively train your Bichon Maltese breed pet , in a simple and very practical way.
Conclusion
In short, one of the most recommended breeds as a pet for the whole family is the Maltese . If what you need is a recharge of cuteness, games and entertainment, this little friend is the ideal companion, with an interesting story and origin that will catch anyone's attention. With proper care, you can enjoy this pet for a long time.
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