Crown Royal Home Contact Us FAQ's Available Pups Prices & Policies Application Delivery Service Training Your Pup Puppy names Tear Stain Holistic Nutrition Microchipping Emergency Preparedness Crown Royal Maltese ~ Sheer Elegance ~ Pure Joy! ~ About Maltese The Maltese is one of the most ancient dogs breeds in recorded history. Ancient writings, drawings and art, give evidence of dogs resembling the Maltese as early as 5000 - 2000 B.C. Once called “Melita” (archaic name for Malta) they were believed to have been brought to the Isle of Malta by Phoenician traders. Small lap dogs were familiar in Greece and the small white dog Aristotle referred to as "Canis Melitae" became what is known today as the Maltese. There was even poetry written about Canis Melitae. Having been first imported into Britain during the reign of Henry VIII, the Maltese became quite popular during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The breed became well established by the middle of the 19th century and Maltese were featured among the early exhibits when dog shows began. Thus, many Maltese in the America today trace their lines back to British imports. Maltese came to the United States during the late 1800's and early 1900's. They were participants in the earliest versions of the Westminster Kennel Club shows in the 1870's. The first registrations of Maltese occurred in 1888, when SNIPS and TOPSY -- both bitches -- appeared in the studbooks. Where the early Maltese in the US were imported from is not known. What is know is that the Maltese lines in the US today have resulted from the importation of Maltese from Great Britain, Canada, Germany, France and Italy. Once known as the Maltese Terrier, the Maltese of today is really a small spaniel type dog with adults ranging in size from 5 to 15 pounds (2.5 to 7 kg). They are loving and content lap dogs who enjoy playing (and are quite comical when doing so!) and are very easy to train. Their hair should be straight and silky coat with no under coat. The ears are heavily feathered with long hair. Daily brushing of is required but should be done with gentle care as their coat is very soft. Sometimes a Maltese may have curly or woolly type hair, but this is not considered desirable by breed standard. Maltese make wonderful house dogs. Extremely self-content, they prefer the company of their owners and are well suited for city and/or apartment life. Intelligent and good-natured, this little brave little breed is without fear and often make good watch dogs. Many Maltese win ribbons for agility training while others are certified companion dogs who visit homes for the elderly and hospitals sharing their warm and loving presence with people who need it. Ideal Owners: Anyone looking for companionship Life Expectancy: 12 - 17 years Country: Malta Size: 4-6 pounds (2-3kg), 8-10 inches (20-25cm) Temperament: Intelligent, Fearless, Good Natured, Loyal Grooming: Daily gentle brushing Reputable Registries: FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC Celebrities who own or have owned a Maltese: Elizabeth Taylor, Halle Berry, Frank Sinatra, Mia Farrow, Liberace, Lee Remmick, Heather Locklear, Tony Bennett, Wayne Newton, BB King - "Lucille" ** Please note - on January 27, 2006, B.B. King's 2 year old Maltese female has disappeared. This photo released by B.B. King International shows Lucille, King's 2-year-old white female Maltese, who has been missing since Jan. 27, 2006. King is offering an autographed copy of his signature guitar to anyone who can help him get his pet back. (Photo B.B King International, Matt Lieberman)