Is the Maltese breed suitable for families?

Quck answer

Maltese dogs can make great family pets due to their small size, gentle temperament, and affectionate nature. They tend to be loyal and devoted to their owners, making them excellent companions for families with children or elderly individuals. While they may require some extra attention when it comes to grooming, their low exercise needs and adaptability to apartment living make them a popular choice for many households. However, it’s important to note that Maltese dogs can be prone to certain health issues, such as dental problems and respiratory concerns, so potential owners should be prepared to provide proper care and regular veterinary check-ups.

Pets

The Maltese breed is known for its snuggly nature.
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Toy breeds of dogs are not necessarily suitable for young children. It is important to research the temperament of these breeds before making a decision, to ensure that they will be patient and gentle with children. The Maltese breed is considered to be fearless, energetic, and stronger than it appears. The Maltese is a social and playful dog and loves to be the center of attention. This breed is also a companion dog, preferring to be with its owner rather than left alone. The Maltese requires daily grooming to prevent matting of its long white hair. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient for their exercise needs.

When considering a Maltese as a family pet, it is important to take into account the age and behavior of children. Breeders may refuse to sell a Maltese to families with young children because of their fragility. However, the Maltese is known for its patient temperament and gentle nature, making it a suitable companion for older children who can handle it carefully. The breed is also safe for allergy sufferers, producing less dander than most other breeds.

For more information on dog breeds and pet-related inquiries, visit the links on the following page.

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Resources

• American Kennel Club. “AKC Meet the Breeds: Maltese.” 1964. (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.akc.org/breeds/maltese/
• American Kennel Club. “Maltese History.” (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.akc.org/breeds/maltese/history.cfm
• American Kennel Club. “Obama’s Search for Hypoallergenic Breed Opens Door to Dog-ownership for Millions of Allergy Sufferers.” (Aug. 24, 2011)
• Davis, Jeanie. “5 Ways Pets Can Improve Health.” WebMD. 2011. (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/5-ways-pets-improve-your-health
• MarthaStewart.com. “Dog Breeds Center.” 2011. (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/dog-breeds-good-with-children
• NextDayPets.com. “Maltese Breed Information.” 2011. (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.nextdaypets.com/directory/breeds/1100167/
• Palika, Liz. “The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties.” Wiley Publishing Inc. 2007.
• Ruben, Dawn. “Top Dog Breeds for People with Allergies.” PetPlace.com. 2011. (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.petplace.com/dogs/top-dog-breeds-for-people-with-allergies/page1.aspx
• Ruzicka, Todd. “Caring for a Maltese.” The Daily Puppy. 2011. (Aug. 21, 2011) http://www.dailypuppy.com/articles/caring-for-a-maltese/13031ba0-de10-364a-de7c-ea60c1854661
• Yamazaki, Tetsu and Toyoharu Kojima. “Legacy of the Dog: The Ultimate Illustrated Dog.” Chronicle Books LLC. 2005.

FAQ

1. Are Maltese good family dogs?

Yes, Maltese are great family dogs. They are affectionate, playful and love to be around their owners. They make great companions for children and seniors alike.

2. What is the temperament of a Maltese?

Maltese are known for their sweet and gentle temperament. They are friendly, affectionate and love to be around people. They are also very intelligent and easy to train.

3. Are Maltese good with children?

Yes, Maltese are good with children. They are gentle and patient with kids, and love to play and cuddle with them. However, it is important to supervise interactions between dogs and children to ensure safety.

4. Do Maltese shed a lot?

No, Maltese are a low-shedding breed. They have hair instead of fur, which means they don’t shed as much as other breeds. However, they still require regular grooming to keep their hair from matting.

5. Are Maltese easy to train?

Yes, Maltese are easy to train. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them quick learners. However, like all dogs, they require consistent training and positive reinforcement.

6. Do Maltese bark a lot?

Maltese are known to be vocal dogs, so they may bark more than other breeds. However, with proper training and socialization, excessive barking can be minimized.

7. Are Maltese good apartment dogs?

Yes, Maltese are great apartment dogs. They are small in size and don’t require a lot of space to be happy. However, they still need regular exercise and playtime.

8. Do Maltese have health problems?

Like all breeds, Maltese are prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye infections and joint issues. However, with proper care and regular check-ups, these issues can be prevented or managed.

9. How long do Maltese live?

Maltese have a relatively long lifespan compared to other breeds. They typically live for 12-15 years with proper care and nutrition.

10. Are Maltese good with other pets?

Yes, Maltese can get along well with other pets, including cats and dogs. However, like all introductions between animals, it is important to supervise interactions and introduce them slowly.

11. Do Maltese require a lot of grooming?

Yes, Maltese require regular grooming to keep their hair from matting. They need to be brushed daily and bathed regularly to keep their coat healthy and shiny. They also need their eyes and ears cleaned regularly to prevent infections.

12. Are Maltese hypoallergenic?

Yes, Maltese are considered to be hypoallergenic because they don’t shed as much as other breeds. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, and people with allergies should spend time around a Maltese before committing to owning one.