A Maltese is a small, white breed dog with extremely long coat. This breed is very clever, affectionate and friendly. Maltese make one of the most charming escort dogs, as they love human company. They are diminutive size, but in spite of that, they are good watchdogs. They have a keen nose, which warns them of approaching strangers. Here are some simple steps on how to take care of Maltese.
- You will have to take Maltese for regular medical checkups to a good veterinarian. Also, you will have to do a monthly home exam of the skin, nose, ears, gums, teeth and eyes. Make sure that you stay current with the vaccinations, heartworm and flea prevention.
- Remember that you will have to clean the teeth of your Maltese regularly with a professional scaling. Get a recommended schedule from your veterinarian. Always keep in the mind that this breed is prone to gum diseases and tooth decay, so make sure that you stay updated with the dental care. An infection can start spreading from the gums to all the vital organs of your pet, like kidneys and heart if you do not treat this disease on time. A preventive dental measure can include using dog treats as biscuits and some safe tartar chew toys.
- Neuter/spay your Maltese. If you spay the female after the first heat then this will prevent them from breast cancer and it will decrease the chances of uterine infections. Neutering males before their right age i.e. four will prevent them from testicular cancer, it will help in maintaining a healthy prostate, and it will reduce their aggression.
- For food, you will have to give your Maltese high quality dry dog food with some meat. If you want then mix this food with moist or canned food, but you will have to make sure that the food is dry enough to prevent the build-up for preventing tartar. Whenever you are choosing food, remember that some of the Maltese will suffer from the problem of digestion. Also, their coat will become thick if they have a diet rich in proteins and fat. Natural and holistic brands or a balanced homemade meal is best for your Maltese. You must tailor the diet for the kind of activity level they have and never overfeed them with high fat treats.
- Take your Maltese for walks regularly. They will make great apartment dogs and they are very active when indoors, but they will need some extra exercise and some sunlight, so that their nose does not become pale. Besides, they love to go for walks.
- Brush and comb your Maltese everyday, if you don’t comb then their long coat will start matting. If you are not able to manage their long hair, then you must take your dog to a groomer for keeping the hair short. Always keep their nails trimmed to a comfortable length.
- Since the Maltese have white coats, you will have to bathe them once in two weeks. Once they are done having food, remember to clean their beard or it will start staining. You will get a special lotion in the market for the cleaning the tear stains of your Maltese. If you want, you can use some baby oil or an ear cleaning solution for cleaning the ears of your dog and take a damp cotton ball for wiping the eyes.
Tips and Warnings:
- The Maltese will not shed, therefore people who suffer from hair allergies this is the ideal pet. There are some shampoos made especially for white coats, which are free from chemicals. Chemicals can color the hair of your Maltese.
- Special bows and rubber bands are available at every pet supply store for keeping the hair on the top and away from the eyes of the Maltese.
- Maltese will be very obedient towards their guardians. If you give them basic obedience training then it will work the trick. Maltese love car rides and they will love to be with you.
- In cold weather, Maltese can get chills and experience some discomfort in hot weather. Always keep them away from the damp area for preventing respiratory problems. Remember that Maltese are prone to sunburn wherever their hair is parting.
- Maltese are not the ideal pets for children. They have a tiny size and a friendly disposition, kids would want to play with them and they will treat the pet like a stuffed toy. They have a delicate bone structure; if they play rough then it can break their bones.
- Teacup Maltese is not a real term. They are like ‘runts’ of the litter, which are purposely bred at the puppy mills or done by the backyard breeders and they are unhealthy.
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