LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Maltese
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The Maltese is thought to have been descended from a Spitz type dog found among the Swiss Lake dwellers and bred down to obtain its small size. Although there is ... some evidence that the breed originated in Asia and is related to the Tibetan Terrier, the exact origin is unknown [3]. Maltese are generally associated with the island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. The dogs probably made their way to Europe through the Middle East with the migration of nomadic tribes. Some writers believe these proto-Maltese were used for rodent control[4][5] before the cuteness factor gained paramount importance. The Isle of Malta (or Melitae as it was then known) was a geographic center of early trade, and explorers undoubtedly found ancestors of the tiny, white dogs left there as barter for necessities and supplies.
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The Maltese is known as "ye ancient dogge of Malta", which for more than 28 centuries has been an aristocrat of the canine world. The Maltese descends from one of the most ancient dog breeds to be found in recorded history. It has been estimated that the breed originated around 6,000 B.C., or 8,000 years ago. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed the dog originated on the Island of Malta. They called the breed the Melitaie Dog, Melitaie being the ancient name for Malta.
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The Maltese has a spunky determination that is in inverse ratio to his size. He is fearless, intelligent, affectionate, keen and an individualist. His is extremely responsive to his environment ... making him an effective watchdog. He is an indoor dog who would not do well in extremes of outdoor temperatures. The coat does need considerable attention due to its silkiness. For exercise, the Maltese needs only indoor play time.
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The Maltese has an elegant mantle of long, silky hair. The coat is straight, lacks an undercoat, and is pure bright white in color. They are non-shedding. Their luxurious cloak of white is the hallmark of the Maltese.
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Maltese dog is nowadays spread all over the world and high-standard breeding work is done in several countries. In the year 1877 Maltese dog was first time presented in a show in United States and in England in 1862. In Finland the first Maltese arrived in the beginning of 20th century. The first Maltese dog Milka came from St. Petersburg in Russia December 1st in 1912. A female Maltese dog Flora was marked down in the pedigree of the year 1920. She was known to be descended from the Russian court.
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Description: The tiny Maltese is known as "ye ancient dogge of Malta," which for more than 28 centuries has been an aristocrat of the canine world. The coat requires daily brushing to keep its elegant appearance. Despite his size the Maltese is without fear. The Maltese is a good choice for people who live in small apartments because of his size, but for the same reason it is not a good candidate for those with small children, unless the owner can provide constant supervision. He is among the gentlest mannered of all little dogs, yet he is lively and playful as well as vigorous.
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Maltese