What s the difference between Maltese and Korean Maltese

Maltese Dogs: Differences Between the American, Korean, and European Lines

The Maltese is a breed of dog from the toy dog group. Due to its amiable temperament and small size, the Maltese is popular as a pet throughout the world because of its calm, alert, affectionate and intelligent nature. The International Canine Federation (FCI) recognizes the Maltese Bichon as a distinct breed without variants. So, despite their differences, the European, American, and Korean Maltese all belong to exactly the same breed.

In the following AnimalWised article, discusses the physical and behavioral differences between the European, American, and Korean Maltese dogs.

Characteristics of the European Maltese

The European Maltese is the oldest of the European toy breeds, and one of the oldest breeds in general. The island of Malta was an early trading port, visited by Phoenician sailors as early as 1500 BC. Maltese dogs are mentioned in writings as early as 300 BC. In Greek art, Maltese dogs are found from the fifth century.

Although the dogs were often exported and subsequently spread throughout Europe and Asia, the core population in Malta remained relatively isolated from other dogs, resulting in this distinctive dog that has been bred for centuries.

Over time, this small dog became more popular and began to be crossed with other breeds to produce smaller and smaller specimens. These crosses resulted in many different varieties of Maltese with different sizes, coats, and colors. It was only in 1954 that the International Canine Federation (FCI) recognized the Maltese Bichon as a single breed, and its last standard, published in 1989, stated that only the white coat was desirable and accepted, so the other varieties gradually disappeared.

Physical characteristics

Its average weight ranges from 6.6 pounds (3 kg) to 13.2 pounds (6 kg), but can vary depending on the individual. Its height at the withers is about 11 inches (ca. 28 cm). Their tail is broad at the base and thin at the end, forming a curve that is covered with long, soft hair. A black nose and large, dark, round eyes distinguish its friendly white face, giving it a sweet and alert expression. Their ears have a triangular shape and fall gently to either side of their skull.

The most distinctive feature of the European Maltese is undoubtedly its very long, pure white or pale ivory coat. Its silky and perfectly smooth hair falls on both sides of the trunk, covering their limbs and reaching the ground. Long whiskers form on the face, joining the hair that comes out of the skull and falls over the ears.

This coat requires a lot of grooming, including daily brushing to remove dirt and prevent knots from forming. Many owners choose to trim the Maltese's hair, so they do not have to spend as much time grooming.

Behavioral characteristics

The gentle Maltese has long been a popular lapdog and fulfills this role with flying colors. However, they also have a wild side and love to run and play. Despite their innocent appearance, they are bold and feisty and can challenge larger dogs. Towards strangers, they are reserved. Some bark a lot. As with all dog breeds, it is important to pay special attention to education and socialization during the puppy stage. If you accustom the Maltese puppy to the presence of other animals, children, vehicles, noises, etc. and make sure that they have positive experiences with all these things, we can avoid possible behavior issues in the future.

The European Maltese Bichon is a playful and very intelligent dog that likes to learn new commands and skills through play and positive reinforcement. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct small, frequent training sessions with them and provide them with quality environmental stimuli so that they do not get bored or stressed, especially when they are alone at home.

If you want to know more about the different games you can play with your dog to boost his intelligence and creativity, read this other article about intelligence games for dogs at home.

Characteristics of the American Maltese

The American Maltese is a special breeding line created out of a desire to create a "toy" or "mini" version of the traditional or European Maltese. Thus, the main difference between the European and American Maltese is size.

The American Kennel Club (AKC), the institution responsible for establishing breed standards and registering pedigrees in the United States, has been collecting the most important characteristics of the American Maltese puppy since its recognition at the end of the 19th century.

Physical characteristics

Although the American Maltese is difficult to distinguish from the European Maltese as a puppy, the differences in size and weight are obvious when they have completed their physical development. The American Maltese is a miniature version of the already small European Maltese, for while specimens of the traditional line can reach a weight of 13.2 pounds (ca. 6 kg), the American Maltese rarely reaches 6.6 pounds (3 kg) as an adult.

Their legs are shorter, and their bodies are more compact, being virtually as tall as they are long, unlike the European Maltese. One of its main distinguishing features is its face, as the American Maltese has a much shorter muzzle and larger eyes, giving it a childlike appearance.

The coat of the American Maltese is also pure white, long and smooth, but much denser, as it can even have twice as many hairs as that of the European Maltese.

Behavioral characteristics

American and European Maltese have very similar temperaments, because the goal of breeding this breed was to produce animals with different appearances, not different behaviors.

Despite its small size, the American Maltese is a very courageous dog that protects its family and usually barks to report the presence of stimuli that it considers intruders. Unfortunately, many caregivers tend to overprotect these dogs, considering them fragile and vulnerable due to their small size.

As a result of this lack of autonomy and socialization, the Maltese can develop behavioral problems related to fear and insecurity. For this reason, it is important to train them from puppyhood and give them the opportunity to interact and freely explore their environment. This way they can satisfy their physical and emotional needs to develop and show their natural friendly, trusting and playful temperament.

Socialization is a crucial part of puppy training. It is where the dog learns how to interact with other dogs, animals and people. If you want to learn more about this process, do not hesitate to read our other article about puppy and adult dog socialization.

Characteristics of the Korean Maltese

The Korean Maltese was the last line of this breed to appear. It is the most popular dog breed in South Korea. In fact, almost 1 in 4 pet owners own a Korean Maltese. A Korean Maltese is a purebred toy dog that shares the same pedigree as Maltese dogs classified by the International Canine Federation (FCI) and the American Kennel Club (AKC). Thus, a Korean Maltese is a Maltese toy dog bred and kept in South Korea.

Physical characteristics

Almost identical to the American Maltese, the Korean Maltese also differs from the traditional or European Maltese Bichon. Trying to emphasize even more of the characteristics of the American Maltese, the Asian line creates an even smaller, cuddlier dog.

The adult Korean Maltese dog weighs about 5.5 pounds (2.5 kilograms), its head is slightly rounder than that of specimens of other lines, and its eyes are larger in proportion to the rest of its body. Also, like their nose, they are intensely black in color, making them very conspicuous on their small face. Their limbs, ears, and tail are short, and their fur, which is as white and soft as that of their European and American varieties, is even more profuse and dense, if possible.

Another difference between the European, American, and Korean Maltese Bichon is in the size of their litters. Due to their small size, Korean Maltese can only give birth to one or two puppies at a time. European Maltese females, on the other hand, can give birth to up to eight puppies.

Lastly, Maltese dogs in South Korea are usually styled differently from other Maltese varieties, giving them a distinctive look.

Behavioral characteristics

In terms of behavior, the Korean Maltese dog is quite similar to the other Maltese variants. The Korean Maltese also runs the risk of being overprotected by its caretakers. However, if the puppies remain with their mother for at least eight weeks and are properly socialized and trained, Korean Maltese are extremely sociable, lively, playful, and affectionate. They tend to become very attached to their caregivers. Therefore, it is advisable to teach them from an early age to tolerate loneliness and encourage their autonomy through interactive and intelligent toys.

Young Maltese are very active and tend to get bored easily. Therefore, they need daily mental stimulation and plenty of time with their caregivers, either through positive training or relaxing and cuddling together. Since they are so small, they do not need a lot of physical exercise, but they do need to go for walks at least three times a day to explore the environment, socialize and relieve themselves.

If you want to learn more about how to properly raise and socialize a puppy to avoid behavior problems, do not miss this other article on common puppy raising mistakes.

If you want to read similar articles to Maltese Dogs: Differences Between the American, Korean, and European Lines, we recommend you visit our Comparisons category.

Bibliography

• International Cinological Federation. (2018). Maltese . Available at: http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/065g09-es.pdf
• American Kennel Club. Maltese . Available at: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/maltese/

Are Korean Malteses Different Than Regular Ones? Facts & FAQ

The Maltese dog breed is known for their elegant appearance and charming personality. However, you may have heard the term Korean Maltese and wondered if there is any difference between a Korean Maltese and a regular one. While they are not completely separate breeds, there are a few minor differences between the two. Keep reading as we discuss the characteristics and origins of Korean Malteses and regular Maltese dogs to help you be better informed.

The Maltese Dog Breed

The Maltese is a small, toy-sized dog with a long, silky white coat. They are friendly and affectionate, making them popular as a family pet. Their exact origin is shrouded in mystery, but many believe that it started in the Mediterranean region before the rise of Greece, while others believe that it started anywhere from Egypt to the Swiss Alps. Regardless, the Maltese is an ancient dog breed with a long history.

Korean Malteses

It is important to note that no kennel clubs recognize the Korean Maltese as a separate breed from the standard Maltese. Korean Maltese is simply used to describe Maltese dogs that are bred or originate from Korea. However, this does not imply that they have distinct characteristics or are fundamentally different from other Maltese dogs. Any differences that do exist have more to do with the breeder than the breed.

Origin & Popularity

Korean breeders have gained a reputation for producing high-quality Maltese dogs. Over the years, they have focused on breeding dogs with specific traits, such as smaller sizes, shorter muzzles, and rounder heads. These breeding preferences have made Korean Malteses popular within certain circles, particularly in Korea and among enthusiasts who prefer their pets to have a particular appearance.

Appearance & Physical Characteristics

Korean Malteses may exhibit subtle differences compared to their counterparts from other regions. For example, breeders in Korea often aim for a more compact body structure and a shorter, more baby doll face. As a result, a Korean Maltese may have a slightly different head shape, a shorter snout, and a flatter face than a regular Maltese. However, its important to note that these variations are not exclusive to Korean Malteses, and you might find them in Maltese dogs from other regions.

Temperament & Personality

Korean Malteses share the same traits as regular Malteses, which are affectionate, intelligent, and playful dogs that thrive on companionship and human interaction. Both make wonderful family pets and excel at being lapdogs and therapy dogs due to their gentle and loving natures. They are good with children and can get along well with other pets if you socialize them early.

Care & Maintenance

The Korean Maltese has a long, luxurious coat that needs regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Routine dental care, exercise, and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining their overall health. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help you detect issues early, when there is a better chance of recovery.

Are Korean Malteses a Separate Breed From Regular Malteses?

No, Korean Malteses are not a separate breed from regular Malteses. People use the term Korean Maltese to refer to Maltese dogs originating from Korea or bred by Korean breeders. However, they do not have distinct characteristics that set them apart as a separate breed, as per the American Kennel Club and other organizations.

Breeders may choose Maltese parents with desired traits like a round head or small body to selectively breed a dog with similar characteristics. If dogs with these traits become popular, and most people in an area have them, as in Korea, people might think that they are a separate breed. However, selective breeding is different than mixing the Maltese with another breed, like the Poodle, which would create a hybrid or mixed breed, which in this case, is the Maltipoo.

Where Can I Find Korean Malteses for Adoption?

If you want to adopt a Korean Maltese, we recommend contacting reputable breeders specializing in Maltese dogs to see if they can help. You can also check with your local rescue organizations that might have one that you can adopt.

Final Thoughts

The Korean Maltese is the same dog as a regular Maltese and will have the same temperament and share many traits. In some cases, the only difference is that the dog originated in Korea or that a Korean breeder created them. Other times, it can refer to a standard Maltese that underwent selective breeding to get traits popular in Korea, like a smaller body and rounder face. However, its important to noteespecially before you spend extra money on onethat you can likely find a standard Maltese that has the same traits simply by shopping around.

Featured Image Credit: GraceSilver, Shutterstock