Maltese are some of the most loved and most popular dogs in America—and if you’ve ever met one yourself, that should come as no surprise! With their small frame and lively personality, Maltese make excellent companions for retired seniors and busy families alike. Their snow-white coat and round teddy—bear like eyes make them a highly-desired choice in the world of small or toy dog breeds. Read on to learn more about this adorable breed and to see if the Maltese is right for you.
Personality
Maltese have lively, friendly personalities and make fast friends with just about everyone they meet. True people-lovers, Maltese are highly devoted to their human family. They tend to be sweet-tempered, gentle, responsive, and fearless. Despite their small stature, they make great guard dogs, often serving as the protector of the home. They seek companionship and have a strong desire to please their people.
Lifestyle
Because of their miniature size, Maltese dogs make ideal companions for apartment dwellers. They don’t require as much room to run and play as other, larger breeds, and often tire quicker, too. That’s not to say they’re not active, however; these toy dogs can have lots of energy, and usually prefer to spend that energy seeking attention from their human family. They benefit from having a small, fenced-in yard where they can run around and play to their heart’s content. In contrast to some other breeds, Maltese are content with staying very close to their owner. They are not suited for extreme temperatures and would prefer to stay indoors with their human companions.
Care & Health
Maltese are relatively low-maintenance dogs that love regular walks and playtime. Owners should take care to administer a regular grooming routine, which may include brushing, combing, and shearing.
Maltese dogs are generally healthy, but are prone to certain health complications that are characteristic of their build and lifestyle. Because they are a toy breed, they are fragile and delicate.They are more likely than other breeds to suffer a collapsed trachea, get chills from being too cold or damp, and experience what’s known as reverse sneezing.
Training & Socialization
Maltese learn best through positive reinforcement. To ensure they are properly socialized around kids and other pets, they should be enrolled in puppy kindergarten classes. They are prone to being spoiled, so training from a young age is important to prevent them from becoming bratty or entitled.
Drawbacks
Maltese aren’t suited for households with small children or toddlers. They may view the child as a threat and become protective of their adult human friends. It is also notoriously difficult to house train these dogs, so we reommend crate-training if you’ll be away from home for long periods of time. That being said, they do not enjoy being left alone and often suffer from separation anxiety, causing them to bark or become destructive.
All in all, Maltese make wonderful, devoted companions. Ready to adopt, or want to start browsing? Get started now.