Maltese Fun Facts: Aristocratic Breed

Please don your crowns and jewels, because we're talking about one of the most aristocratic little dogs in all the land: the incomparable Maltese. You may think of the Maltese as just a fluffy lap dog, and that's mostly true, but this breed also carries a long and fabled history worth celebrating.

Below are a few fun facts about this charming companion, plus how you can meet one in person.

An Ancient Breed With Royal Roots

People are often surprised at just how far back the Maltese can be traced. As one of the oldest breeds still in existence, the Maltese is said to date back more than 2,800 years, gracing the laps of ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians.

Romans prized their pure white coats, since the color white was considered sacred.
Ancient Egyptians built elaborate tombs in their honor.
In Greece, they were painted on ceramics and murals to show their popularity.

That's a lot of love for such a small dog. You can explore more about the breed's background and standard through the American Kennel Club's Maltese breed profile.

Favored by Queens and the Wealthy

The Maltese was the beloved companion of queens and royalty alike, including Marie Antoinette, Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria. Pampered pups were often fed from golden dishes and wore real diamond collars.

That popularity among the rich and famous continues today. The richest Maltese in history, a dog named "Trouble," was bequeathed nearly $12 million by her owner, real estate magnate Leona Helmsley, in 2007. Now that is a serious perk.

Small but Mighty

You might assume that such a diminutive dog isn't athletic, but you'd be mistaken. The Maltese is an excellent jumper with little fear of gravity, which makes it prone to leaping onto couches and beds and snatching items placed up high.

Personality-wise, the Maltese is:

Loving and gentle with family
Fearless and fiercely loyal
A little wary of strangers, so introductions may take time and patience

Understanding That Signature Coat

Maltese are often described as non-shedding or hypoallergenic, which can be confusing. Rather than fur, they have hair that grows much like a human's, shedding gradually throughout the day rather than in clumps. Because of this, they carry far less dander, which is what many people are actually allergic to.

Grooming Needs to Keep in Mind

The trade-off is that their hair grows continuously, so a Maltese needs daily brushing to prevent mats and regular haircuts to keep the coat tidy. For guidance on keeping a coated breed healthy, the VCA guide to dog grooming basics is a helpful resource.

Is a Maltese Right for You?

If you want a devoted, portable companion with centuries of charm behind it, the Maltese may be your match. Just be ready for regular grooming and gentle socialization to help your pup feel comfortable around new faces. If you love small companion breeds, you may also enjoy meeting our Yorkshire Terriers and Morkies.

Curious to meet a spunky little Maltese in person? Stop by to see our available puppies, or ask our team about financing and payment options when you visit Petland Pensacola.