The Maltese Bichon, a small white dog with a long, silky coat, is known for its elegance, intelligence, and affectionate temperament. But beyond its charming looks lies a thousand-year-old history—a story shaped by maritime trade, cultural exchanges, and a fascinating etymology. Despite its name, the Maltese dog doesn’t necessarily come from the island of Malta.

Let’s explore the true origin of the Maltese Bichon, its ancient journey through the Mediterranean, and the surprising meaning behind its name.

The Maltese Bichon is one of the oldest dog breeds in the Mediterranean basin. Historical traces of this breed date back to Ancient Egypt, where these small dogs were beloved by pharaohs. In Ancient Greece, Aristotle refers to them in his History of Animals under the name Melitaion Kynidion.

Small white dogs resembling the Maltese have also been found in Roman and Egyptian tombs, often depicted in statues and paintings. These dogs were prized not only for their beauty, but also for their practical role as rat hunters in ships and warehouses across trading ports.

Despite popular belief, the Maltese Bichon does not necessarily originate from Malta. The word Maltese comes from the Phoenician root “màlat”, meaning refuge or safe haven. This root gave its name to several Mediterranean locations, including the island of Malta, the ancient Sicilian town of Melita (now Milazzo), and the Adriatic island of Melita (modern-day Mljet in Croatia).

In antiquity, “Maltese dog” was a generic term used for small harbor dogs that lived in port cities and accompanied merchants and sailors. These dogs were not exclusive to Malta but were spread throughout the central Mediterranean.

Throughout history, confusion arose between the various “Melita” place names. Greek and Roman authors, such as Aristotle and Pliny the Elder, used terms like canes melitenses or Melitaion kunidion without clearly distinguishing whether they referred to the island of Malta or other locations with similar names.

Over time, this ambiguity contributed to the myth that the Maltese Bichon was a native breed of Malta. In reality, the dog’s Mediterranean identity was shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and artistic depictions rather than a single geographical origin.

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the Maltese Bichon became a favorite among European nobility, frequently appearing in paintings, tapestries, and portraits by artists like Goya and Rubens. It wasn’t until the 19th century that specific references to Maltese breeding appear in historical texts, such as in Louis de Boisgelin’s Ancient and Modern Malta.

The Maltese Bichon’s true origin lies in its role as a companion in Mediterranean port cities, rather than a breed confined to Malta. The name “Maltese” reflects the breed’s function and etymology, not necessarily its exact birthplace.

Today, the Maltese Bichon continues to captivate with its appearance, intelligence, and loving personality. But knowing the story behind its name reveals a rich and diverse heritage, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and human connection.

The Maltese Bichon is not just a cute lapdog with a fancy name—it is a living reminder of the ancient Mediterranean world, where animals, people, and ideas crossed seas and borders. Its name, far from being a simple geographic label, tells the story of a dog of harbors, a traveler of history, and a symbol of enduring charm across civilizations.