The Maltese, originally coined the “Melitaie Dog” and known throughout the centuries by a slew of other names, is a small, toy thought to have originated from Asia. It’s theorized, though debated, that the term “Maltese” refers a time in history when women from Malta took a liking to this dog’s looks thus resulting in domestic popularity in this region. The first written reference of the Maltese dates back to Greece around 350 BC. Through cross-breeding it’s size has been reduced in some cases to the size of an adolescent rabbit or squirrel, and it’s ‘cute’ look makes the Maltese a sought-after breed to this day.
The Maltese is a small (3 to 7 pounds), long-haired dog with very dark eyes and short, floppy ears. Their hair is groomed at full length though for ease of care is often cut short into what is referred to as a ‘puppy-cut’. Without enough sunlight exposure their normally black nose can fade to lighter shades, even to pink, a ‘condition’ that has been coined “winter nose”. Any digression from pure white in the Maltese coat is regarded as an undesirable trait.
In addition to their adorable, stuffed-animalesque cutesy looks the Maltese has an equally desirable temperament. Bred to be all cuddles they are attention lovers who maintain an interested, active personality even into old age. Unfortunately the Maltese are reputed barkers, maybe due to their need for incessant attention. For this reason it is important to make sure that when purchasing a Maltese they will be in a home with ample attention and the companionship they desire as well as are considered for training to stave off yapping spells. Noted so much for their barking they are unfortunately often given away from their owners. They do not hardly shed, so regular grooming is essential to ensure their coats do not mat or become dred-like.
As is common with similar breeds to the Maltese, their tears often stain the pure-white fur surrounding their eyes and if not tended to can leave the dog with brown-red fur covering down to their snout. Distilled water may reduce the red staining, as does the avoidance of dog foods that contain dyes. There are numerous reasons why the red-tear staining occurs in the Maltese, including problems with eye ducts such as blockages or excess tearing. Ear infections and genetic predispositions also play a role. In some cases pet diet, dog treats, mineral-level of water. In most cases the red tearing is resultant from irritation or allergies. The red that you see in the tears is actually a sign of bacteria being present in the tears.
To control the bacteria that causes the red tearing there are many dog diet supplements to be considered. Colloidal Silver is popular among show-dog owners as it works as an antibiotic and is used on the surface to remove the stains caused by bacteria on the facial fur. Omega 3 essential fatty acid added to the Maltese diet has also been touted as a solution for preventing the bacteria at the root. If your Maltese tears excessively there are drops available to slow the tear generation and therefore controls the environment in which the red-staining bacteria normally thrives. If the tearing is caused by ear infections, there are ear drops to assuage the infection thereby clearing up the tearing that’s normally caused by ear infections. There are many other options available, including dietary pet supplements and topical agents for both cleaning and clearing your red-tear-stained Maltese, though unless they are suffering from an allergy which is causing the cosmetic affliction it’s not required for their well-being that the staining is treated.
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