In choosing a specific
type of Maltese terrier to adopt or rescue, you really don’t have too much to
be concerned about as far as variance in this breed of dog. Unlike other kinds
of terriers, Maltese terriers are all white-haired, relatively small dogs. This
makes identifying them very easy, and conversely it makes identifying a dog that
is not a purebred Maltese terrier easy as well. The most distinguishing mark of
a toy Maltese is its long, white coat of hair. Maltese terriers do not have
a coat of fur, like poodles, but unlike poodles the hair of a Maltese terrier
is straight.
Size and Weight
All Maltese terrier types are uniform
in size and weight. The average Maltese terrier is about ten inches long, and
will weigh between four and six pounds. You will not find a huge variance in the
size or weight of male versus female Maltese terriers, so identifying the gender
of a Maltese terrier is not easily accomplished at first glance. If you are
looking for a smaller one, try the
Mini Maltese.
Coat
Since
there is only one type of Maltese terrier, they will all have a long, white, silky
coat of hair. The only variance in the color of their coat will occur around the
eyes and mouth, due to tear of food staining. Otherwise, Maltese terriers should
be solid white. Owners of Maltese terriers opt to keep the length of their pet’s
hair at varying lengths. Some people prefer shorter hair that gives their dog
a more puppy-like appearace, while others prefer the showmanship appearance of
longer hair, creating the look of a uniform length of hair all around the dog.
So a difference of hair length is not indicative of a different type of Maltese
terrier, it is just indicative of the owner’s preference in upkeep.
Temperament
Unlike other dog types, Maltese terriers are not good family pets as though
do not always mix well with small children or other pets. Maltese terriers are
very loyal companions, and tend to snap at others who invade their space with
their owner. Maltese terriers are a great type of dog to have in small living
spaces, like apartments or condos, because of their small stature.
Maltese
terriers are a unique breed of dog in that there isn’t a lot of guesswork involved
to identify varying types of Maltese terriers. They don’t vary in size or color,
and their long, silky coat makes them very easy to identify visually.
Attention: To discover how
YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Maltese Terrier,
get a copy of this Maltese Terrier Guide
NOW!
