The Maltese is a sweet little companion dog with silky white hair – cream or light ivory is acceptable. Their ears and tail are thickly covered in hair and the tail drapes over the back. Their eyes are dark and quite round with dark rims. A Maltese that is properly proportioned seems to “float” under their long coat of hair. A long haired Maltese must be groomed every day to avoid tangles. A Maltese as a pet can also have shorter hair. The shorter the hair, the less “matted” or tangled it becomes.
Maltese are highly intelligent dogs and are lively and playful. They are trusting, gentle and devoted to their master. They do well in homes with other animals present and also do well with polite and careful children. They make good apartment dogs and will do all right without a yard yet they LOVE to go outside to run and play lead-free outside in a fenced yard, but you must be aware of outside conditions as they may get either too warm or too cold, must be kept from damp climates, and could sunburn along their hair lines. These little wonders are friendly, outgoing, affectionate and easily learn to do tricks. Prevent unwelcome behaviors such as picky eating, jealousy, and barking by not overprotecting it and treating it as a dog, not a human. Keep life constant and predictable, with you as the "pack leader" and boss, and both of you shall lead happy, long lives together.
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 5-9 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 15-18 years
We usually know about what a puppy might grow to be as an adult by knowing their parent’s weight. We can guess and be close but cannot guarantee their adult weight.
Maltese shed little to no hair and are good for most allergy sufferers if their coats are kept very well groomed. Paying close attention to good grooming habits means shedding little skin dander. Please research to find other facts about human allergies to pets before choosing any companion.
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