Meet the Maltese
AMONG THE GENTLEST MANNERED OF ALL LITTLE DOGS
With its long, flowing white coat and black button nose, the Maltese is the picture of little dog elegance. One of the oldest of all Toy breeds, this dog has charmed royals and nobles for centuries. Despite their delicate appearance, they are lively, fearless, and utterly charming companions. These little lapdogs crave affection and attention, making them ideal for owners who want a constant cuddle buddy.
It’s time to enter the show ring, but the judge is standing at the table intently reading the Maltese Breed Standard. To me, that’s as impressive as a Maltese breeder who keeps the Standard with them all the time and breeds to it faithfully. The Standard is not a recipe where substitutions can be added to get the same result. We’re not trying to create a new Maltese dog. We are trying to preserve an ancient breed that has been around for over 2,500 years. We expect show judges to know our Standard and follow it to the letter and we, as breeders, should expect the same from ourselves.
Have we, as breeders, taken license to deviate from the Standard to the point of ill health for our breed? Have we, as breeders, caved-in to the pet market and ignored the Standard? Or have we decided the Standard leaves enough room for interpretation that we can take liberties? The answer I give is the best advice I’ve been given from a breeding mentor: “Breed to the Standard. Don’t try to improve it. Respect it.”
There is so much to consider when we take on the responsibility of being breeders, but our first responsibility is to our Breed Standard. Always let the Standard lead you forward. This is where we will find health and type.
“A Timeless Picture in Words” by Pat Bullard SHOWSIGHT November 2020
Please visit showsightmagazine.com to learn more about the Maltese.