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The Maltese can be an
excellent pet for those who live in an apartment or
small home and will not have a lot of time or space
for exercising their pet. In addition, this small
breed makes a fine companion for family members, as
well as a great pet for older folks who may not be
able to handle a larger dog. The Maltese is a
naturally friendly breed, very protective of those
it trusts. To help you understand this popular and
beautiful dog, we have gathered ten common questions
with answers to each.
1. What is the background/history of the Maltese?
The breed comes from the
Mediterranean Sea area, most likely Italy and
Greece, and gets its name from the island of Malta.
This dog was known as the Roman Ladies’ Dog and the
Melitaie Dog as well, although in the last 100
years, it has come to be known as the Maltese. The
breed’s history goes back hundreds of years, perhaps
as far back as two or three thousand years. There is
some evidence that the breed is tied to Asia and
even to a small breed in the Swiss lake region.
2. How big does the Maltese get?
The American Kennel Club considers the Maltese a toy
breed. An adult Maltese will normally weigh between
4 and 8 pounds. Some may weigh up to 10 pounds but
most dog groups and associations consider this too
large. The body is sturdy, though small, and the
well-groomed Maltese will appear a bit larger
because of the wonderful white coat.
3. Are Maltese dogs too active for most families?
The Maltese is a naturally energetic breed that
seems to be in motion a lot of the time. This breed
enjoys physical activity, often running whenever it
has the chance and the space to do so. However, the
young Maltese can be one of the easier dogs to train
and will enjoy learning tricks and pleasing you, if
you show some appreciation for good behavior.
Getting a puppy from a good breeder will help
channel your puppy’s energy in the right direction.
4. Is the Maltese a good dog for families with
allergies?
The answer to this question is yes. The Maltese
sheds very little because the coat is long hair
rather than fur. This can be an excellent pet for
those with allergies. In addition, those who are
allergic to dogs in general may not have problems
with the Maltese. This dog is one of the few breeds
considered hypoallergenic.
5. Is the Maltese only an inside dog?
It would probably be best to plan to have your
Maltese as an inside dog, because it can be
sensitive to extremes in weather. This breed also
does well with an occasional walk on a leash.
However, the Maltese is an active, energetic animal,
enjoying time to run around and even jump in
puddles. Keep in mind the Maltese should never be
left alone outside for long periods.
6. What is the best plan for housebreaking my
Maltese?
Most owners with experience recommend paper training
so that you will not have to make many trips outside
in extreme weather conditions. The Maltese can be
sensitive to extreme cold and extreme heat. Crate
training can also be a good idea, to give your pet a
place they will consider his own and will naturally
keep clean.
7. Do Maltese get along with other dogs?
Generally, this breed well with other dogs,
especially if well bred and socialized while young.
A good breeder will help with this by spending time
with young dogs to make sure each is well behaved,
getting along with the other dogs at the breeder’s
facility. However, some Maltese can be overly
protective and very suspicious of animals they do
not know. A new owner should always watch for this
and make some effort at obedience training.
8. Is the Maltese a healthy breed?
Generally yes, though many small dogs have a
tendency to such problems as luxating patella, in
which the kneecap moves and can cause some pain and
limited movement. Serious cases may require surgery.
The Maltese is also prone to retinal atrophy, an eye
condition that limits sight and can eventually lead
to loss of vision. Getting a puppy from a breeder
who uses only healthy breeding parents can make a
great deal of difference. Maltese may also have some
problems with weak digestive systems, so you should
consult with the breeder and your veterinarian for
the proper diet for your pet.
9. How do I care for the long, white coat of the
Maltese?
Daily combing and brushing will probably be
necessary, but we recommend always using a gentle
stroke. The coat is hair, not coarse fur and is
actually very soft. Regular baths are probably a
good idea, but the Maltese can be subject to chills,
so make sure your pet is dry after the bath and keep
him warm.
10. I have a young child. Will this be a problem?
The Maltese loves to be around children, but some
very young children tend to treat this small dog as
a toy, handling the pet too roughly. If you keep the
child and the dog in sight at all times and
supervise its activity, this should not be a
problem. However, starting with a puppy from a
reputable breeder will be a key element in a
well-behaved Maltese.
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