Maltese dogs are small, fluffy, and adorable. They make great companions for individuals and families alike. However, before you bring a Maltese home, there are a few things that you should know. Here are 12 things to keep in mind before bringing home a new Maltese, whether it be a puppy or a rescue:
1. Maltese are prone to health issues
As with any breed of dog, Maltese are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health issues in Maltese include dental problems, ear infections, and respiratory issues. Before bringing a Maltese home, be sure to research the breed and any potential health issues they may face. Additionally, consider purchasing pet insurance to help cover any unexpected vet bills.
2. Maltese are high maintenance
Maltese require a lot of grooming. They have long, silky hair that can easily become tangled and matted if not properly cared for. Daily brushing and regular grooming appointments are a must. Additionally, their eyes and ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections.
3. Maltese are social creatures
Maltese thrive on social interaction and attention. They do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. If you work long hours or travel frequently, Maltese may not be the right breed for you. Consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to keep your Maltese company during the day.
4. Maltese are intelligent and trainable
Maltese are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. They can be trained to perform a variety of tricks and commands. Consider enrolling your Maltese in obedience classes to help them learn proper behavior and socialization skills.
5. Maltese have a lot of energy
Despite their small size, Maltese have a lot of energy. They require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A brisk walk or play session in the backyard is typically sufficient.
6. Maltese can be picky eaters
Maltese can be picky eaters and may turn their nose up at certain foods. It may take some trial and error to find a food that your Maltese enjoys. Additionally, be careful not to overfeed your Maltese, as they are prone to weight gain.
7. Maltese are prone to separation anxiety
As previously mentioned, Maltese do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. They can develop separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior. If you must leave your Maltese alone, consider providing them with toys or puzzle feeders to keep them occupied.
8. Maltese can be vocal
Maltese are known to be vocal dogs. They may bark excessively if not properly trained. Consider teaching your Maltese a “quiet” command to help curb their barking.
9. Maltese can be sensitive
Maltese are sensitive dogs that do not respond well to harsh discipline. Positive reinforcement is the best method for training Maltese. Additionally, be sure to provide them with plenty of love and affection.
10. Maltese are prone to teeth and gum problems
Maltese are prone to dental problems, which can lead to serious health issues. Be sure to provide your Maltese with regular dental care, including brushing their teeth and providing them with dental chews or toys.
11. Maltese are great for apartment living
Despite their high energy levels, Maltese can do well in apartment settings. They are small enough to comfortably live in small spaces, and their exercise needs can be met with short walks or play sessions indoors. However, be sure to provide them with plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
12. Maltese are affectionate and loyal
Perhaps the most important thing to know before bringing home a Maltese is that they are incredibly affectionate and loyal dogs. They form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy spending time with them. They make excellent companions for individuals and families alike.
13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!
Bringing home a new Maltese can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Maltese here.
Looking into Pet Insurance
As previously mentioned, Maltese are prone to certain health issues. Purchasing pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet bills, which can quickly add up. Be sure to research different pet insurance options and choose a plan that best fits your needs and budget. Pet insurance can provide peace of mind and help ensure that your Maltese receives the care they need.
Tip: This free tool lets you compare pet insurance prices across all the major carriers.
Looking into Dog Training
Training is an important part of owning any dog, including a Maltese. Maltese are intelligent and eager to please their owners, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, it is important to start training early and to use positive reinforcement methods. Consider enrolling your Maltese in obedience classes or working with a professional dog trainer to ensure that they receive proper training and socialization.
Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.
FAQ for First-Time Maltese Owners
What should I feed my Maltese?
Maltese can be picky eaters, but it is important to choose high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Be sure to read ingredient labels and avoid foods with fillers or artificial ingredients. It is also important to avoid overfeeding your Maltese, as they are prone to weight gain.
How often should I groom my Maltese?
Maltese require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles in their long hair. Daily brushing is recommended, and they should be taken to a professional groomer every 4-6 weeks for a full grooming session.
Are Maltese good with children?
Maltese can make great family pets, but they are best suited for families with older children who understand how to properly interact with dogs. Maltese are small and fragile, and can easily be injured by rough play.
Do Maltese shed?
Maltese are a non-shedding breed, which makes them a great option for individuals with allergies. However, their long hair requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Maltese are a small breed, but they have a lot of energy. They require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A brisk walk or play session in the backyard is typically sufficient.
Do Maltese get along with other dogs?
Maltese can get along well with other dogs, but socialization is key. Early socialization and training can help prevent any potential issues with other dogs and help your Maltese become a well-adjusted and friendly dog. It is important to always supervise interactions with other dogs and to intervene if necessary to prevent any conflicts.
How often should I take my Maltese to the vet?
Regular veterinary check-ups are important for all dogs, including Maltese. They should have a yearly check-up, and any concerning symptoms or issues should be addressed promptly. Maltese are prone to certain health issues, so it is important to keep up with their veterinary care to catch any potential issues early on.
Are Maltese difficult to train?
Maltese are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please their owners. However, like any dog, they require early and consistent training with positive reinforcement methods. Consistency and patience are key when training a Maltese.
Do Maltese bark a lot?
Maltese can be vocal dogs, and they are known to bark frequently. This behavior can be curbed with proper training and socialization. It is important to start training early to prevent excessive barking and to establish good behavior habits.
Can Maltese be left alone for long periods of time?
Maltese thrive on human companionship and should not be left alone for long periods of time. They can develop separation anxiety and other behavioral issues if left alone for too long. If you work full-time or are unable to be home during the day, consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to give your Maltese the attention and care they need.
Are Maltese hypoallergenic?
Maltese are considered to be hypoallergenic, as they do not shed much and produce less dander than other dog breeds. However, people with severe allergies may still have a reaction to Maltese, as allergies can vary from person to person.
What are some common health issues in Maltese?
Maltese are prone to certain health issues, including dental problems, luxating patellas (a knee joint issue), and white shaker dog syndrome (a neurological disorder). It is important to keep up with their veterinary care and to be aware of any potential health issues.
How long do Maltese live?
Maltese have a lifespan of 12-15 years on average. With proper care, nutrition, and veterinary attention, they can live long and healthy lives.
Conclusion
Bringing home a new Maltese, whether it is a puppy or a rescue, can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By knowing these 12 things about Maltese, you can be better prepared to provide your new furry friend with the love, care, and attention they need to thrive. Remember to look into pet insurance and dog training, and to always provide your Maltese with plenty of exercise, socialization, and affection.
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