The name “Maltese” might make you think this little white dog hails directly from the island of Malta—but is that actually true? There’s a lot of confusion and assumption surrounding the origins of the Maltese breed, so it’s time to sort fact from fiction.

In this article, we’ll break down what we know (and don’t know) about where Maltese dogs came from, clear up some common myths, and explain how this ancient breed earned its name.

Let’s talk about:

🐶 are maltese dogs really from malta?🐶 the true origins of the breed🐶 common myths and misunderstandings🐶 readers personal story🐶 Brain Training for Dogs🐶 final thoughts

Are Maltese Dogs Really from Malta?

Sort of—but not entirely. While the breed’s name and historical references suggest a link to Malta, the actual origins are more complex. The Maltese breed, as we know it today, likely developed in the Mediterranean region, and yes, Malta was part of that.

Ancient writings from the Greeks and Romans mention small companion dogs that resemble the modern Maltese, and Malta is referenced in some of these early texts. So, while Malta was likely one of the places where these early toy breeds were bred and refined, the breed is better understood as having roots throughout the Mediterranean basin.

So while the Maltese may be from Malta, it’s more accurate to say they come from a broader ancient lineage.

The True Origins of the Breed

The Maltese is considered one of the oldest toy breeds in the world. They’ve been depicted in art and literature dating back thousands of years. Archaeological and historical records suggest that small lapdogs like the Maltese existed in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

The Greeks referred to them as “Melitaie Dogs,” possibly linked to the ancient name for Malta.

Roman nobles prized them as status symbols and lap warmers.

They were likely traded among seafaring cultures, contributing to their spread and popularity.

Modern Maltese dogs were further developed in Europe, particularly in England, where the breed was refined into the glamorous companion we recognize today.

Common Myths and Misunderstandings

There are a few persistent myths about Maltese dogs and their origins. Let’s clear up the biggest ones:

Myth: All Maltese dogs are native to Malta.Truth: They were influenced by Malta, but their development spans several Mediterranean regions.

Myth: The breed is a recent designer creation.Truth: The Maltese is one of the oldest recognized dog breeds in history.

Myth: Maltese dogs were bred for work or hunting.Truth: They’ve always been companion dogs, bred specifically to be affectionate and elegant lap pets.

While the name “Maltese” is accurate in one sense, it’s not the full story—these dogs are living pieces of a much larger and older canine history.

A Reader’s Story: Surprised by the Truth

A reader named Marco from Malta shared how he grew up thinking Maltese dogs were “our island’s breed.” When he moved to the UK and got a Maltese puppy, he was surprised to learn how widespread and ancient the breed truly is.

“I used to think they were only from Malta. Learning about their Greek and Roman history made me appreciate them even more. It’s like owning a piece of living art that’s traveled through history.”

🧠 Smart and Social—Train Your Maltese’s Mind

No matter where they came from, Maltese dogs are intelligent and thrive on attention. Brain Training for Dogs helps channel their mental energy into fun games and obedience skills that keep them sharp and well-behaved.

👉 Click here to explore Brain Training for Dogs

It’s a great way to bond with your pup while honoring their centuries-old role as loyal companions.

Final Thoughts

Are Maltese dogs from Malta? The answer is partly yes—but their heritage is bigger than just one island. These charming white dogs have a rich history tied to the ancient world, spanning centuries and cultures across the Mediterranean.

So while the name sticks, the truth reveals just how special—and global—this little breed really is.