The Maltese is a breed lesser known to have Terrier roots, but it is believed that the breed is mixed with Tibetan Terrier. It is often also referred to as the Maltese Terrier.

Axl Rose even had 2 maltese back in the 80’s…Yes, from Guns n’ Roses…

This is a great little article about the Maltese Terrier breed that gives you it’s roots and informs you about some great personality tips, and this dog’s celebrity status!

Terrieriffic!

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Living With & Loving A Maltese – Ancient Breed Favorite Among Celebrities
By Darin Hosking

Jessica Simpson star of MTV reality television has a Maltese Poodle Cross named “Daisy” in honor of her new character of Daisy Duke in the new Dukes Of Hazard movie. The small lap dogs are the favorite accessories for style-conscious celebrities.

Other celebrities who own full blood Maltese include Sean Puffy Combs who owns a Maltese name”Sophie”. Elizabeth Taylor’s Maltese is named “Sugar”.

The Maltese is documented as the oldest breed of all the lap dogs. This breed was the favorite of the royal families. The ladies of the royal court adored and revered the small beautiful breed.

The women of the royal court would carry the Maltese on their sleeves like little ornaments to attest to their station in life. The Greek Philosopher Theophrastus and even Aristotle described the beauty of the Maltese in their writings.

The glorious Maltese is still an adored pet and sought-after as a show dog and as the companion to the modern royal court of celebrities.

Other Facts About The Maltese:
The Maltese was first registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1888. This dog is classified in the Toy Dog Group.

History:
Some historical evidence links the Maltese to the genetic make up of the Lhasa Apso, the Tibetan Terrier, the Tibetan Spaniel, and even the Pekingese. By all accounts, the Maltese is a truly ancient breed of dog. – Aristotle wrote about the Maltese in 350 BC. Aristotle attributed the origin of the dog to the Island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. The name Maltese is derived from the area of Malta. It is believed that the dogs arrived in Europe through the migration of nomad tribes.

Physical Characteristics:
* Small in size
* Beautifully appointed
* Luxurious silky white coat hanging straight to the ground
* Common color is pure white – light ivory cream

Size & Height
* Height from 1-10 inches
* Weight from 3 to 10 lbs.

Personality:
* Adaptable
* Playful
* Intelligent
* Will exercise themselves

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Cautions:
* Needs puppy obedience school
* Energetic in nature
* Can be snappish with inconsiderate children
* May be difficult to housebreak

Physical Accommodations:
* Active in doors
* Enjoys walks in the park
* Playful up to their old age
* Most comfortable in mild weather

Health Problems:
* Sunburn
* Various skin problems
* Respiratory problems
* Problems with the eyes
* Problem with the teeth
* Some digestive problems
* May be difficult to feed

The long, silky, dazzling white hair of the Maltese requires daily combing and brushing. Be gentle with this little creature
because the coat is very soft. The eyes should be cleaned daily to prevent staining.

The Maltese’s beard needs to be cleaned after eating to maintain the dog’s pristine appearance. Bathing is needed on a regular basis. The Maltese must be thoroughly dried after a water bath. The ears are of some concern and should be free from any hair in the canal. The Maltese sheds little to no hair.

These dogs offer their owners years of faithful companionship and gives loving obedience to the right family.

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Animaroo provides in depth information on dog breeds, puppies for sale, and includes
photos, traits of specific dog breed, and common health issues. For Information on finding and living with
the Maltese – visit:
http://www.animaroo.com/puppies/Maltese_Puppies_For_Sale.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darin_Hosking
http://EzineArticles.com/?Living-With-and-Loving-A-Maltese—Ancient-Breed-Favorite-Among-Celebrities&id=446018

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I enjoyed today’s installment of Terrier Lover learning about the Maltese Terrier today, as I didn’t know much about their Terrier breed origins. Until next time…

Love Your Terrier,

Kimberly Edwards

P.S. Get your Maltese Calendar before all the cute ones are gone for 2008:

Maltese 2008 Wall Calendar Though its precise origin is up for debate, the Maltese has strong, ancient ties to the Mediterranean, and it is certainly one of the oldest European breeds. The first Maltese exhibited in the United States was listed as a Maltese Lion Dog in 1877.

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Maltese Terrier: Celebrity’s Favorite Dog? is a post from: Terrier Lover