Types of Maltese Terriers
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.
