How to Care for Maltese Dogs
Maltese dogs are considered the most ancient of all European toy breeds. They make great companion dogs. This article will walk you through how to take care of them.
Maltese Dog’s Characteristics
Before we head on to the tips on how to take care of your Maltese dog, let’s first get to know them more.
Maltese dogs are one of the most ancient toy breeds in Europe. They have a lineage back over 28 centuries. Moreover, Maltese dogs are gentle, loving, intelligent, and attentive. They make great companion dogs.
Maltese dogs are known for their silky white coats. They do not have an undercoat, so they do not shed hair. This also makes them ideal for people who are allergic to pet dander.
Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. You should brush your Maltese dog’s coat daily with a soft bristle brush. You may also need to trim their coat every few weeks to keep it looking neat.
Maltese dogs are small dogs. They typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
Maltese Dog’s Personality
Regarding personality, Maltese dogs are gentle, loving, and intelligent. They make great companion dogs. They are also known for being very attentive.
Maltese dogs are generally good with children and other pets. However, they may become jealous if they feel they are not getting enough attention from their owners.
Taking Care of Your Maltese Dog
Now that we know more about Maltese dogs, let’s move on to the tips for taking care of them.
1. Feeding
The best food for your Maltese dog is high-quality dry dog food. You should avoid giving them table scraps as this can lead to obesity. Maltese dogs typically need between 1/2 and 1 cup of food per day.
2. Exercise
Maltese dogs need moderate exercise. A daily walk or play session is sufficient. Avoid strenuous exercise as this can cause health problems for your Maltese dog.
3. Grooming
As we mentioned earlier, Maltese dogs have a silky white coat that does not shed hair. However, their skin does require regular grooming to prevent matting. You may also need to trim their coat every few weeks to keep it looking neat.
4. Training
Maltese dogs are intelligent animals, and they are quick learners. Start training your Maltese dog as early as possible. Basic obedience training is an excellent place to start. You can also enrol your Maltese dog in a dog agility class.
5. Health
Maltese dogs are generally healthy animals. However, they are prone to certain health conditions such as patellar luxation, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Be sure to take your Maltese dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and vaccinations.
Tips on How to Take Care of Your Maltese Dog
Now that we know more about Maltese dogs let’s move on to the tips on how to take care of them.
1. Provide plenty of exercises
Maltese dogs are active little dogs. They need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A brisk walk or a game of fetch is a great way to get your Maltese dog moving.
2. Keep their coat clean and well-groomed
As mentioned earlier, Maltese dogs have a silky white coat that does not shed. This means that their skin requires regular grooming to prevent matting. You may also need to trim their skin every few weeks to keep it looking tidy.
3. Feed them a high-quality diet
Maltese dogs are small dogs, so they need a diet high in protein and low in fat. You should consult your veterinarian to find the best food for your Maltese dog.
4. Keep their teeth clean
Maltese dogs are prone to dental problems, so keeping their teeth clean is essential. You should brush your Maltese dog’s teeth daily with dog-specific toothpaste. You should also have your teeth checked by a veterinarian every 6 months.
5. Visit the vet regularly
Maltese dogs are generally healthy animals. However, they are prone to certain health conditions such as patellar luxation, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Be sure to take your Maltese dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and vaccinations.
Common FAQs About Maltese Dogs
1. Do Maltese dogs bark a lot?
Maltese dogs are generally quiet dogs. However, they may bark when they are excited or feel threatened.
2. Can Maltese dogs take supplements?
Yes, Maltese dogs can take supplements. However, you should always consult your veterinarian before giving your Maltese dog any supplements.
3. What is a Maltese dog most known for?
Maltese dogs are most known for their silky white coat. They are also known for being intelligent and easy to train.
4. Do Maltese dogs have health problems?
Maltese dogs are prone to certain health conditions such as patellar luxation, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Be sure to take your Maltese dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and vaccinations.
5. What is the lifespan of a Maltese dog?
The average lifespan of a Maltese dog is 12-15 years. However, some Maltese dogs have lived up to 20 years.
6. Are Maltese dogs easy to potty train?
Maltese dogs are quick learners and generally easy to potty train. However, like with all dogs, there may be some accidents. Just be patient and consistent with your training, and you will eventually have a Maltese dog that is fully potty trained.
Conclusion
Maltese dogs are beautiful animals that make great companions. They are intelligent and easy to train. However, they require regular grooming and are prone to specific health conditions. Be sure to take your Maltese dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and vaccinations. With proper care, your Maltese dog will be a loyal and loving companion for many years.