Maltese dogs, with their flowing white coats and bright, button-like eyes, have a charm that is hard to resist. These tiny bundles of joy have a lively, playful spirit that belies their elegant appearance. Beneath their fluffy exterior lies a personality full of quirks and endearing habits that keep their owners constantly entertained. If you’ve ever shared your life with Maltese, you know that they are a delightful mix of spunk and sweetness. From their love of prancing to their surprising vocal prowess, here are seven crazy things that are perfectly normal for Maltese.
1. The Royal Prance
One of the most charming traits of the Maltese is their distinctive way of walking, often described as a “prance.” With their heads held high and their paws delicately lifting off the ground, they move with an air of regality that makes them look like little canine royalty. This prancing gait is not just for show; it’s a part of their playful and confident nature. Watching a Maltese prance around the house or yard is sure to bring a smile to your face. Their royal strut is a constant reminder of their elegant and spirited personality.
2. The Maltese Pillow King
Maltese dogs have a peculiar obsession with pillows. They love to arrange them, nest in them, and sometimes even bury their little faces in them. This behavior can lead to finding your Maltese in the middle of a pillow fort, looking very pleased with themselves. Their love for pillows is a testament to their need for comfort and their inherent sense of luxury. While it might mean constantly fluffing up your pillows, it’s hard not to laugh at their enthusiasm for creating the perfect cushioned retreat.
3. The Toy Hoarder
Maltese dogs are notorious for their love of toys and have a habit of hoarding them. They will gather all their favorite toys and stash them in a specific spot, such as their bed or a hidden corner of the house. This hoarding behavior is both amusing and endearing, showcasing their playful and resourceful nature. Watching a Maltese meticulously select and arrange their toys is a delightful sight. Their toy collections become prized possessions, and they take great pride in their little hoard.
4. The Blanket Burrower
Maltese dogs have a unique affinity for burrowing into blankets. They love to create cozy little nests and often disappear under the covers for a nap. This burrowing behavior is both cute and a bit perplexing, especially when you’re trying to make the bed or find your missing pup. Despite the occasional inconvenience, their love for burrowing is a testament to their need for warmth and comfort. It’s also an adorable quirk that adds to their overall charm and makes them even more endearing.
5. The Vocal Virtuoso
Despite their small size, Maltese dogs have a big voice and are not shy about using it. They have a wide range of vocalizations, from barks and yips to grumbles and whines, and they use these sounds to communicate their needs and express their emotions. This vocal nature can be both amusing and a bit noisy, but it’s all part of their expressive personality. Understanding their various sounds and what they mean is part of the fun of living with a Maltese. Their vocalizations are a constant source of entertainment and a reminder of their lively and engaging nature.
6. The Lap Dog Extraordinaire
Maltese dogs are the quintessential lap dogs. They have an insatiable need to be close to their humans and will happily spend hours curled up in your lap. Whether you’re reading a book, watching TV, or working at your desk, your Maltese will find a way to snuggle up to you. This lap dog behavior can make it difficult to get anything done, but it’s also incredibly heartwarming. Their need for physical closeness is a testament to their affectionate nature and their deep bond with their owners. Embracing their lap dog tendencies means embracing a life filled with warmth and constant companionship.
7. The Dramatic Sighs
Maltese dogs are masters of the dramatic sigh. They will let out long, theatrical sighs to express their boredom, and frustration, or simply to get your attention. These signs are often accompanied by big, soulful eyes that make them look like they’re carrying the weight of the world on their tiny shoulders. It’s a melodramatic performance that’s hard to take seriously but impossible to ignore. Their sighs are a humorous way of showing their feelings and are just one of the many ways they communicate with their humans.
Maltese dogs are full of personality and quirks that make them truly special. Their royal prance, dramatic sighs, and toy-hoarding antics bring endless joy to those lucky enough to share their lives with these delightful dogs. While their behaviors might seem crazy to some, Maltese owners know that these traits are just part of what makes them such wonderful companions. Each quirk is a reminder of their loving, playful nature, making every moment with a Maltese a delightful adventure.