Maltese facts for kids

The word Maltese is used to describe things that come from or are related to the island nation of Malta. Malta is a small country in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy. So, when you hear "Maltese," it often means "from Malta." For example, there's the Maltese language, which is spoken by Maltese people, and even special animals like the Maltese dog and the Maltese goat.

What Does "Maltese" Mean?

The term "Maltese" literally means "of or pertaining to Malta." This includes many things, from the country's unique culture and history to its people and even specific animal breeds that originated there. It's a way to connect something directly to this fascinating island.

The Maltese Dog Breed

The Maltese dog is a very old and popular breed known for its beautiful long, white hair. These small dogs are often kept as companions because of their friendly and playful nature.

History of the Maltese Dog

Maltese dogs have a long and interesting history, going back thousands of years. They are believed to have originated in Malta, where they were cherished by noble families. Ancient Greeks and Romans also admired these dogs, often mentioning them in their writings and art. They were seen as symbols of wealth and status.

Appearance and Size

Maltese dogs are small, typically weighing between 4 to 7 pounds (1.8 to 3.2 kg) and standing about 7 to 9 inches (18 to 23 cm) tall at the shoulder. Their most striking feature is their long, silky, pure white coat, which can reach the ground if left untrimmed. They have dark, expressive eyes and a black nose, which stand out against their white fur.

Temperament and Personality

Maltese dogs are known for being gentle, playful, and very affectionate. They love being close to their human families and are often described as "lap dogs." Despite their small size, they can be quite lively and enjoy playing games. They are also intelligent and can be trained to do tricks. They usually get along well with children and other pets, especially if they are introduced properly.

Caring for a Maltese Dog

Caring for a Maltese dog requires regular grooming to keep their long coat from tangling. Daily brushing is often needed to prevent mats. They also need regular exercise, like short walks and playtime, to stay healthy and happy. Because they are so attached to their families, Maltese dogs prefer not to be left alone for long periods.

The Maltese Goat Breed

The Maltese goat is a breed of domestic goat that also comes from the island of Malta. These goats are valued for their milk, which is used to make cheese and other dairy products.

Where Do Maltese Goats Live?

While they originated in Malta, Maltese goats are now found in many other Mediterranean countries, especially in Italy and Greece. They are well-adapted to warm climates and rocky terrains, which are common in these regions. They are often raised on small farms.

What Do Maltese Goats Look Like?

Maltese goats are medium-sized goats. They typically have long, floppy ears that hang down the sides of their heads, which is a very distinctive feature. Their coats can be a mix of colors, often white with black or brown patches, or sometimes entirely white or black. Both male and female Maltese goats can have horns, though not all do.

How Are Maltese Goats Used?

The primary reason people raise Maltese goats is for their milk. Their milk is known for being rich and creamy, making it excellent for producing various dairy products. In Malta and other Mediterranean countries, this milk is used to make traditional cheeses like ġbejna (a small, round cheese from Malta) and ricotta. They can also be raised for meat, but their milk production is their most important contribution.

Life Cycle and Reproduction

Maltese goats, like other domestic goats, have a life cycle that begins with birth. A baby goat is called a kid. Female goats, called does, usually give birth to one or two kids at a time, though sometimes they can have more. Kids are born after a gestation period of about five months. They are able to stand and nurse soon after birth. They grow quickly and reach maturity in about 6 to 12 months, at which point they can begin to reproduce themselves. A healthy Maltese goat can live for 10 to 15 years.