Overview
The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds in Europe, kept as a lapdog around the Mediterranean for over two thousand years. It is a tiny dog under a long, silky white coat, often kept in a shorter pet trim, with dark eyes and a cheerful, trusting nature.
Walkers are rarely troubled by a Maltese's behaviour. They are friendly, playful and devoted. The job is protecting a very small dog from the world: from heavy feet, from large dogs, from cold, from puddles that reach its chest and from a coat that becomes a mud mop in bad weather.
Exercise and walking needs
Half an hour a day, in two short walks, is enough for most. Maltese are lively and enjoy going out, but their legs are short and they tire sooner than their enthusiasm suggests. A slow potter with sniffing and a bit of play is ideal.
Cold, wet weather is hard on a tiny dog. A coat in winter, dry paths where possible, and a towel waiting at the end of the walk make a big difference.
On the walk
- Size: At three or four kilos the dog can be injured by a bouncy greeting from a larger dog. Keep it close and lift it out of trouble if needed.
- Other dogs: Sociable and often bold with bigger dogs, which is where the risk lies. Introduce calmly and avoid rowdy groups.
- Lead: A harness rather than a collar, as the neck is delicate. The dog walks easily and rarely pulls.
- Coat: A long white coat picks up every speck of mud and every seed. Short routes on clean paths in wet months, and a check of eyes and feet afterwards.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a towel and a small coat for the dog in anything but mild weather.
- Pick quiet, well-kept routes rather than muddy woodland in a full coat.
- Watch for shivering and shorten the walk if it starts.
- Keep the dog away from kerbs and drains where small legs can slip.
What to ask the owner
- Does the dog have any knee, heart or dental issues that affect how it should be walked?
- Is the coat in full length or a pet trim, and what care do you want after wet walks?
- How does the dog react to large dogs, and do you want it kept away from them?