Maltese lap-dog - pros and cons of the breed

Recently, miniature dogs, in particular, the Maltese lapdog, are becoming increasingly popular. Representatives of the breed are also called Maltese, they are famous for their long and silky hair. But in order not to make a mistake with the choice of a pet, you need to know everything about the subtleties of its content, positive and negative characteristics. This is what will be discussed today.

International standard

We will not run ahead, considering the pros and cons of the presented breed, first we will familiarize ourselves with generally accepted standards.

1. As expected for small dogs, their weight does not exceed 4 kg. As for growth, it is 20-25 cm at the withers. At the same time, males are slightly higher than bitches, but this superiority is not necessary.
2. Dogs are more likely to be white in color, but other shades are allowed. For example, ivory. If the dog is red, it will be considered a defect.
3. If you give the pet proper care, as well as pre-verify that it does not have hereditary pathologies, the dog will live up to 20 years. Maltese belong to the centenarians.
4. Individuals of the breed under discussion are famous for their high intellectual abilities. The main advantages of a lap-dog over similar breeds are ingenuity, the ability to get along with humans and animals, and resistance in difficult situations. Dogs quickly socialize and train.
5. As for character, it depends on upbringing. By their nature, lapdogs are confident, friendly, agile. They grow up late, and therefore even an adult at the first acquaintance may seem like a puppy. The dog will choose one owner, plus or minus, you decide. But she will in all obey the master, wanting to please. If Maltese is deprived of love and care, she will become harmful and detached.
6. Many are interested in the dog’s potential as a guard or watchman. Of course, the lap-dog should not be tied to a chain so that it guards the house. And therefore, we can say that the watchman’s potential is absent. However, the dog is not very friendly with strangers who are in danger. She flies, and maybe bite.
7. The main distinguishing feature of maltese is snow-white, falling hair. She is shiny and thick, like a dress. There are no curls, the cover is dense and weighty, it falls almost to the paws. Due to the fact that the dog has no undercoat, maltese is classified as a hypoallergenic animal.

Breed advantages

1. If the dog is given due attention, educated, looked after, it will delight the owner for many years. The pet is famous for its appearance of toys, which for sure can be considered a plus.
2. Contrary to popular belief, maltese is easy to care for. Enough basic washing, combing, drying procedures. Dogs are taken to the veterinarian for an examination once a year, vaccinations and deworming are scheduled.
3. Maltese is suitable for keeping in small-sized apartments, where more pets will obviously feel uncomfortable. The lap-dog will have enough of his house or place on the sofa next to the owner.
4. Dogs are brought up by working people who are unable to walk their pets three times a day. Representatives of the breed quickly get used to the tray, are not eager to go outside, they will have enough walks once a day. Also, individuals feel great alone.
5. You can not get around the nature of the dog. Again, if you pay attention to her, surround her with care and love, Maltese will remain faithful. The pet is good-natured by nature, calm, but at the same time he can play with children.
6. The animal does not conflict with other pets, and therefore can get along with a cat or dog.There is no causeless barking, the dog loves dry food, there is no need for daily cooking. The animal gets along with the child and does not harm him during the games.

Cons of the breed

1. Due to the fact that the individuals of the breed under discussion are famous for their long hair, it is necessary to regularly care for the cover. So, you have to visit the groomer so that your pet always looks neat. The procedure is average in price, in each city the cost is different.
2. Dogs have a good memory, which does not always suit the owner. If you offend a pet, he will remember it, he will be offended. Maltese are emotional, they can even cry.
3. Pets eat everything, but it’s worth a lot of effort to wean the animal from sitting near the table when the owner has a meal. Even if the lapdog has already eaten, she will sit nearby and look into your mouth out of idle curiosity.

The content of lapdogs

1. It is worth noting that the Maltese lapdog should be kept exclusively in the apartment. The point is not only in the small size of the animal, which cannot even be protected from yard cats, but also in the specifics of the coat.
2. Such a breed has no undercoat, so the coat itself hardly warms up. Also, in free conditions, the dog will quickly become covered with tangles. If you live in a private house, you can let your pet out for a short walk in the yard.
3. Make sure in advance that there are no loopholes under the fence. Otherwise, the dog may run away. Keep in mind that when living an animal in the house, it should have all the amenities. Provide your pet with a bed and bowls. A house or a couch can be built from a dense blanket.
4. Most experienced owners recommend purchasing toys that squeak for Maltese lapdogs. Dogs adore them very much. Keep in mind, such toys can bother you on the very first day. Therefore, it is worth thinking about alternative accessories.
5. When purchasing a collar or harness for an animal, you should make sure that your contact details are present on the attribute. This is necessary if the pet suddenly runs away. To prevent this from happening, you need to engage in raising a dog from an early age.
6. The hair of lapdogs needs constant care, so you should get all the necessary tools for grooming. Buy scallops with different tine frequencies. You will also need a nail clipper and massage brush designed to comb your hair.
7. After acquiring a puppy, be sure to arm yourself with disposable diapers and a tray. This is necessary until the animal is accustomed to relieve the need for walks. Alternatively, you can train your dog in the home tray.
8. In the cold season, the breed in question must be walked exclusively in clothing for dogs. Such an accessory will not only warm the pet, but also protect the coat from dirt. If you get an animal in the warm season, do not rush to buy clothes. If you bought a puppy in the winter, then you should not go outside without overalls and shoes.
9. As for caring for a lapdog, it does not cause much trouble, except for wool. This moment needs to be given special attention. The animal should always look up to par. Remember to inspect your pet’s ears and eyes every day. If necessary, clean them with a cotton sponge.
10. If the pet often has watery eyes or they are red, visit the veterinarian without fail. As for clipping, the procedure should be carried out about 1 time in 3 weeks. If the dog wears shoes, then the claws will have to be cut more often.
11. The rest of the prophylaxis against fleas, worms and ticks should be carried out 2-3 times a year. The procedure must be performed before mating. If you are not going to breed puppies, then the drugs should be used strictly according to the instructions.
12. Do not forget about timely vaccinations. The first should be done when the pet is 2 months old. After a month, the procedure is repeated. Further vaccinations are given once a year.
13. You have to comb a lapdog every day. For convenience, use a special comb. Avoid tangling of wool and tangles. It is also allowed to resort to special tools. The advantage of the breed is that it practically does not shed due to the lack of undercoat.

Maltese lap-dogs are suitable for keeping in an apartment. They have a great friendly character. The pet is not picky about food. The only negative can be considered that you will need to constantly care for the dog’s coat. Also do not forget about timely care and vaccinations. As a prevention, visit your veterinarian regularly.

Video: dog breed Maltese lap dog