Maltese Secrets

Maltese SecretsBy Sarah Reeves © SurfDocs, 2003 This publication is for the express use of the customers of SurfDocs. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, photocopied, or transmitted in any form without the express written permissions of SurfDocs, LLC SurfDocs cannot accept any responsibility of the content of this information, inaccuracy of its errors, and or any consequences of the information herein provided. UNAUTHORIZED REPRODUCTION IS UNLAWFUL. SurfDocs, 306-N West El Norte Pkwy 442, Escondido, CA 92026 (760) 233-1007 Table Of Contents Chapters Foreword 1. Maltese dogs-a snapshot 2. Bringing Up Your Maltese Puppy 3.All About Grooming 4.Feeding Your Maltese 5.Health Problems That Could Affect Your Maltese 6.Exercising Your Maltese 7.Teaching Them To Love & Obey 8. Vaccinating Your Dog 9. When Your Maltese Becomes Old 10. Facts About Breeding Your Maltese Page No 3 5 8 20 25 30 45 47 50 54 58 2 11. First Aid 12.FAQ’s When To Call The Vet Body Condition Chart 60 67 74 76 Foreword The Origins: The exact origins of the breed are still nebulous. The Maltese descends from one of the most ancient dog breeds to be found in recorded history. It has been estimated that the breed originated around 6,000 B.C., or 8,000 years ago. The earliest known representations of Maltese dogs on artifacts found at Fayum, Egypt (600-300 B.C.), suggest that the Maltese was one of the dogs worshipped by the ancient Egyptians. Numerous pictorial representations of the Maltese can be seen in Greek ceramic art, such as the vases found at Vulci (about 500 B.C.), and the dog is mentioned in the writings of many Greek and Roman philosophers, and other ancient poets and historians. Know to many as "ye ancient dogee of Malta", the first written record of the Maltese was by Aristotle in 350 BC. As indicated by its name, the breed originated in Malta, a busy trading island. The tiny dog's size and personality led it to be used as barter, often as gifts to monarchs and aristocrats. From the fifteenth to nineteenth centuries, the breed's enduring popularity was affirmed by its continued appearance in paintings by famous artists. Assuming the place of origin of the Maltese to be Asia, the tiny dogs probably made their way to Europe through the Middle East with the migration of nomadic tribes. The Isle of Malta (or Melita as it was know then), was a geographic center of early trade and explorers undoubtedly found ancestors of the tiny white dogs left there as barter for necessities and supplies. 3 Germany. . the Maltese was a favorite lap dog of the upper class. statespersons and royalty. Because of this practice. affectionate nature and small size. Maltese were first seen in the United States in the late 1800's to the early 1900's. France and Italy. and the dogs warm. Maltese were participants in the earliest versions of the Westminster Kennel Club shows in the 1870's." During these times. 4 .As civilization thrived in Europe references have been made to the tiny white dog. An indirect reference of Aristotle's to the Maltese clearly indicates its co-existence along with other varieties of dogs indigenous to Southern Europe. aristocrats. when SNIPS and TOPSY -. From where the early Maltese in the US were imported from is unknown. and playful companion dog it is today. The Maltese was even believed to possess medicinal powers of healing-the ailing would place the dog on their stomach or chest for comfort. Two notable owners of Maltese in those times were Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots. the Maltese became known as the "Comforter." The dog was particularly popular in England during Elizabethan times (the late 16th century). The first registrations of Maltese occurred in 1888. .both bitches -appeared in the studbooks. being perfectly proportioned not withstanding its very small rise. Aristotle likens the small dogs to a "Canis Melitae . of the tiny sort. What is know is that the Maltese line in the US today was a result of importation from Great Britain. the Maltese has had lots of time to become the gentle. affectionate. With somewhere between 25 and 80 centuries of evolution. Canada. gentle and loving. Country of origin: Italy. They are very active indoors and do not even require a backyard. They get along well with other animals and with older children. Exercise: This dog remains active and playful well into its old age.Chapter 1 Maltese Dogs-A Snap Shot The Maltese is the classic companion dog. The dog is devoted to its master and friendly with other people too. Height: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) Weight: 6.5-9 lbs (3-4 kg) Colours: Pure white. Prone to skin. Feed these dogs dry food to keep their teeth healthy and strong. They enjoy being groomed and petted and love attention. make sure to keep them out of damp areas. Health Issues: May sunburn along the hair parting. lively and playful. Sometimes-light ivory Living Conditions: The Maltese is a great dog for apartment living. Highly intelligent. respiratory. eye and tooth problems. Try and avoid weather extremes whenever possible. This furry little white dog makes a great companion for individuals and families. the dog is easily trained and can even learn to do a few tricks. 5 . Little effort is required to keep the Maltese healthy and fit due to their high activity level indoors. These dogs may get chills in cold weather. lively and playful. It has a long silky coat of hair with no undercoat. and hangs evenly down each side from a parting that extends along the center of the back from the nose to the root of the tail.Care and Grooming: The Maltese' longhaired coat requires daily grooming. or cream in color. well-feathered tail. very dark. Intelligent. straight legs. drooping ears generously covered with long hair. Besides. the Maltese makes an ideal pet. which is pure white. Maltese are good with older children. Other characteristics of the animal are a slightly round skull. alert-looking eyes. It will keep itself busy during the day. As a puppy. but remember to be gentle as their skin is sensitive and the coat very soft. It requires human companionship. short. it needs gentle but firm training and socialization otherwise it can become neurotic and jealous of other animals and people. and a graceful. but expects to be your constant companion once you are home. a black nose.000 Monthly Food Cost: About $15 Obedience Level: Good Dominance Level: Submissive Is Maltese the dog for you? The Maltese Dog is a type of small toy spaniel. Life Span: 14 years-18 years Group: Toy Adequate Living Space: Small Apartment will do Shedding of Coat: Little to no shedding Hypo allergenic: Yes Purebred Puppy Price: $600-$5. but not very 6 . albeit with a few demands. They don't shed and are thus good for allergy sufferers. tables and when caught in the middle of pile of overly zealous children. But once welcomed into the home everyone is his or her friend. 7 . Maltese need daily brushings and frequent shampooing of their long hair. who don't know how to treat little dogs. on the floor you may wish to consider a hardier breed. they enjoy rolling in the mud and playing in puddles. If you have young children who wish to roll and play with the dog. They are not big barkers either. but should be kept on a leash. What Can You Expect From Your Maltese Your Maltese will constantly want be your companion. Because of their delicate bone structure a Maltese can easily break bones falling off chairs. Maltese make great apartment dogs too. Maltese despite their diminutive size are very hardy dogs.tolerant of young children and toddlers. Phrases known to many are that "they will kill you with their kisses" or "they would go home with strangers". Especially because of their tendency to attack larger dogs. They enjoy a walk with their owners and a trip in the car is always welcome. Maltese make good watchdogs and will growl when a stranger comes to the door. Not A Companion For Rough Play Maltese are definitely entertaining little bundles of energy. With their love for people and small size many children are naturally drawn to them. He will be happy sitting by you side while you read a book or watch television. But they are very delicate. Many reputable Maltese breeders will not sell puppies to families with children under six or seven years of age. They enjoy a walk or romp in the park. despite their small size. Your Maltese will live well into his teens and you can expect him to be his same playful and mischievous self for most of those years. as they are active indoors and have few exercise needs. Besides. Compared to many breeds they are quite free of genetic or congenital medical problems. But he will also like to accompany you wherever you go. you should refrain from buying your Maltese from Pet Stores. if you are active. Who should guarantee your satisfaction by allowing you at least enough time to have your vet check the Maltese’s health and give you a chance to decide if the puppy is right for you (and vice versa)--usually 24 to 48 hours from the purchase date--and allow you to return the dog for refund or exchange if necessary. The breeder should also guarantee the puppy against death due to congenital defects -up to one year of age. normally not provide any registration papers with a puppy. or you have children. Maltese personalities vary as widely as humans. energetic. look for a puppy that fits your lifestyle. In the case of death. Also. On the other hand. look for a puppy with those qualities. if you want a lap dog or you need a quieter relaxed atmosphere. they seldom provide any health records for puppies and their health guarantees are also very limited.Chapter 2 Bringing up Your Maltese Puppy From Where To Buy Your Maltese: Generally. look for a puppy that is a little shy or reserved. A pet store would also. it may be a good idea to buy your puppy from a reputable Maltese breeder. so the purebred status of a puppy cannot be proved. Besides. many pet store puppies are from "puppy mills" where the parents of the puppies may neither be in good health nor be clean. For example. The puppies could also have been separated from their mothers at a very early age! Thus. Once you've found a good breeder. he should give you a replacement puppy. This is because Pet Stores are not very particular to know from where the puppy comes from and under what conditions it was bred. Try to visit the breeder and spend a little time with the puppies 8 . $2. veterinary bills. will probably average around $1. and food also varies by breeder. According to the American Maltese Association Maltese puppies should not be sold before they are 12 weeks of age. puppy shots. For an average cost of $166 per year. nutritional supplements. if you buy the puppy for $2. By that time a puppy leaves for his new home he should have had several vaccinations as well as a veterinary check-up to ensure that he is in good health. championship bloodlines. and suffer the pain and trauma of the experience along with your pet. Why are Registration Papers important? “Registration Papers” are proof that your puppy is registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). What about those $600 Maltese? Well. Pricing is usually based on a number of factors.000 or more in the first months of his life to correct a genetic defect. This helps 9 . The breeder should also be able to help you get the right puppy. The amount of money the breeder spends on stud fees. DNA tested and verified. the prices reputable breeders charge. Thus.500 from a reputable breeder. your cost per year would be roughly $166. Maltese live a long life of 14 to 16 years. you will receive a very attractive return on your investment in terms of enjoyment that you will receive from owning a very healthy Maltese. The Maltese can cost you from $600 to $5. How Much Will It Cost Me? The costing for a purebred Maltese from a reputable breeder will depend upon the quantum of time. effort and money that has gone into making sure that the little bit of fluff you bring home is in the pink of health. In short. and then risk spending another $1. or more of the three registry organizations. An average price for a Maltese of solid. are well worth it. If you are purchasing your Maltese from a source that does not meet these requirements you should seriously reconsider your purchase. AKC requires DNA certification on all studs used over five times a year. AKC is generally preferred because their standards are higher than the other registries. (the ones that stand behind their puppies and offer health guarantees). and will vary between breeders. or one.000 .000. nursery accommodations. For example.500 and he lives for 15 years. you can buy one for that price.to determine which has the personality to suit you. The breeder now has extra litter registration papers than is required. father/daughter. What they do is that each time they register the birth of a litter. two girls in the litter. however. they contact AKC and state the birth of say. Many pet owners also tattoo their dogs to make it easier for them to find their dog if they are ever lost. Pedigree-What Does It Imply A pedigree means that there is record of the ancestry of your dog filed at a registry database. he can use the extra papers to register puppies that either are not purebred puppies. or have been bred inline (brother/sister.guarantee that the sire is indeed of the bloodline shown on the registration papers. you are guaranteed that the bloodlines shown on your registration are valid and true. three boys. The AKC sends litter registration forms for each of the puppies. Identification Owners of purebred show and stud dogs use tattoos to comply with the rules of identification of the American Kennel Club. Do Registration Papers Prove That Your Maltese Is A Purebred? Not really! There are several types of unscrupulous breeders who register a litter under a father or mother that never actually sired or gave birth to that litter. Now. 10 . There are lots of places that you can contact to get a record of your puppy's pedigree. or are from parents that are not AKC registered -because they could not meet the qualifications for AKC registration. or one of the puppies dies. they all get their information from the American Kennel Club Stud Book Registry. having AKC registration papers does not necessarily mean that your puppy is a purebred Maltese. Also. let's assume that there were actually. Thus. The tattoo is done on the inside of the dog's thigh near his abdomen. mother/son). The papers you have on your registered puppy mean that the puppy has been reported to the registry as having come from a mother and father that were also registered with that registry. They give the AKC the sire's name and registration number and the dam's name and registration number. because they have started a voluntary DNA registration of all females. Thus. when you receive a puppy from a mother and father who have both had DNA testing. only two boys and two girls. the size of a grain of uncooked rice-is implanted under the dog's skin and read by a chip scanner. You can call your Maltese puppy anything you like. this an excellent time to get one.Name for your puppy. Present your vet with the health record provided by your breeder. It may be a good idea to disinfect your shoes after a visit to the Vet. Ensure that the examination table was disinfected prior to placing your puppy on it. no litter mates. Here are some tips that can make the transition a little easier for both of you. remember not to put the puppy on the floor or allow him to come in contact with any other animal. it could be a traumatic for your puppy. Now you have the pleasant task of bringing your new. Implantation is done with an injector that places the chip under the loose skin. Coin a good name for your puppy and start calling the puppy by that name. The number is unique and the owners name and address is available on regional or national databases.where a tiny transponder. immediately. a lost dog can be returned quickly and safely. fluffy. but while choosing the name to 11 . 1. When you visit the Vet. Visit A Vet: Make an appointment with your veterinarian to give the puppy a complete checkup within 72 hours of your purchase. Though exciting for you. 2. The health record should include all immunizations. de-wormings and any treatment that your puppy has had. Preparing To Take Your Puppy Home So. You should also discuss with your veterinarian plans for spaying or neutering your puppy when he or she is older. Most Maltese puppies would have received at least 2 to 3 vaccinations before leaving their breeder. If you do not have a vet yet. Names that are one or two syllables are easier for both you and your puppy. If your Vet offers microchip ID implants. over the dog's shoulder. Thus. Names that end in an "o" or an "a" are usually easiest for the puppy to remember. bundle of energy home. you have decided on a Maltese. and no mother for comfort. Because he is suddenly confronted with a new place.A recent addition to identification is the microchip. The implant process to is quick and no more painful than a vaccination. ask the breeder or local kennel club for a recommendation. or "force" him into it . or soft towel in the crate. A small bed that has a warm place to curl up in should be ready and waiting when you first bring the puppy home.more in keeping with the dignified heritage of this breed. making it a real "den. just gently pick him up. Put a blanket. The most popular crates are made of plastic or heavy welded steel wire. and feed the puppy in the crate so that he has only a very pleasant association with it. Some of them come in decorative colors.at least until he is past the chewing stage. and don't hesitate to confine him to the crate several times a day for short periods of time. Most plastic crates meet federal regulations for airline travel. place him inside and shut the door. A Home For Your Puppy: Your Maltese puppy will need a spot that is just for him. Although the wire crates are not approved for airline use. turn around and lie down comfortably. may be a better suited than plastic." especially at night. old rug. Traveling is safer for both you and your dog when he's in a crate. portable and are easily taken apart for storage or travel. 3. Puppies like and need to chew. he will seek the crate automatically when he is tired. Put play toys. they offer better ventilation. snuggly mom. and the familiar beat of mom's heart. Your puppy has just left the littermates and its warm. This will be the name that will be announced as your Maltese enters the ring. House breaking is much faster when you use a crate and destructive chewing becomes easier to control. Plastic crates are lightweight. Always confine him in the crate when you are out of the house! He may howl a lot at first to show his resentment at your leaving him behind. Further security is achieved by placing a blanket or towel over the top and sides of the crate. Never punish him with the crate. A crate need only be big enough for the dog to stand up. The crate should be large enough for your Maltese to stretch out on his side to sleep. Use these frequent periods to advantage. Soon. Putting a warm water bottle and a ticking clock in the bed will help ease the transition from the warmth of the litter mates and mom. along with the chew toys. but chewing the cord of an electrical appliance can result in immediate and painful death. This is important until he is housebroken and also for his safety. It can make training your dog a lot easier. A crate is just a modern version of a den. He will be too sleepy to care.register with the AKC (especially if you are thinking of taking your Maltese into the show ring) you need to pick an official name. rather than expensive cushions . Leave him a bowl of fresh water and give him a rawhide bone or 12 . especially when you are too busy to watch him.if he goes to sleep elsewhere. Wire crates are also very popular and depending on your dog's needs. Look for sturdy crates with heavy gauge wire that are easily folded down into a "suitcase-style" shape for transportation and storage. a real bargain considering its many advantages. which causes tear staining. something he will enjoy. Especially since a collar can get caught in the mesh and badly frighten or injure your dog. Always remember to remove his collar. Many of these have a ring at one end to which the lead can be clipped. Many Maltese owners avoid using plastic bowls. If your puppy will be alone during the day. as there have been cases of facial hair getting stained by their use.to alleviate this problem. can indeed spell real happiness for both the dog and owner.Leash & Collar.. intelligently and properly used. and don't weaken. You will need small lightweight bowls for food and water.Dishes for Food & Water. when keeping him in the create. make sure plenty of safe toys and a restricted safe area are provided. water. Don't worry. The puppy's brain is fully developed by the time it reaches seven weeks of age. One of the greatest advantages of the dog crate is that the dog won't soil it unless he is desperate because it is his home.feed no liquids and very little food late in the evening. The wet facial hair can be a breeding ground for yeast. A good collapsible wire crate lasts forever and the cost is soon forgotten. These can be made of metal. The metal collar can get caught in the furry coat and the leather ones can wear down the coat. and puppy paper or potty pads.Toys to play with. rather than learn on his own and pick up bad habits in the process. Your breeder will let you know the food your puppy was eating and it is wise to not change that food immediately. Provide for plenty of food. 4. 6.something absolutely safe to chew and which is also good for his teeth. Look for things 13 . He may as well learn what you want.. as this can cause stomach upsets. plastic or a ceramic material. 5. Confine your puppy to his crate all night and solve the housebreaking problem very quickly. Maltese drinking water from water dishes get their faces wet as well. Many Maltese owners offer water to their Maltese from a water bottle -such as those used for rabbits. Alternately you can use the loop type one-piece show leads that have a slip knot closure. he will settle down as soon as you are gone. try a thin nylon one-piece collar. The hairs around their necks make the leather and metal types unworkable. and he will learn with or without your help. Thus. That seems to work the best. The dog crate. Your Maltese will need a leash and collar. Remember . Select a lead that is made from a similar lightweight material. A "nutritious" toy many enjoy is a mini carrot or a piece of vegetable 7. cleaning chemicals. Since Maltese love to sleep with you. chemicals.ask any Maltese owner. Bitter Apple spray can be applied to furniture legs. the fringe of your expensive oriental rug. Invariably. Gumabones and Nylabones are great for exercising the gums. especially the first night. One solution to this is to give them an empty toilet paper roll to carry around. woodwork and other immovable items. you will have established its nightly routine -. Puppies do most of their investigating with their mouths.they make excellent bed warmers as they love to snuggle -. if you bring the puppy into your bedroom and your little bundle snuggles down and goes to sleep. Make Your Home Puppy-Safe. soft toys as well as the latex chewable ones. plush. small articles that could be swallowed. your pup will learn that crying brings attention. If you do. The small twisted ropes with knots at both ends can be a wonderful game when there are more than one Maltese in the household to play tug-of-war. Preventing destructive and dangerous chewing is easier than trying to correct the puppy every second. Prior to your little Maltese arrival. Maltese particularly like the fuzzy. the world is new and fascinating. puppy-proof your home by making sure you have removed from the puppy's area any toxic house plants. try not to over-pamper it. To a puppy. Check for objects that could be kept out of the way of a curious puppy. Most of them will tell you their Maltese shares the bed with them. He is seeing it all for the first time and absolutely everything must be thoroughly investigated. Look around your home. All Maltese seem to want to chew paper as puppies. a puppy will be most attracted to things he should not be-. or open holes large enough for the puppy to wiggle into.electrical cords. When you bring your new Maltese puppy home. electrical cords that looks delicious to chew. 14 . Don’t run in and offer comfort or tell the pup to be quiet each time it whimpers or whines. your brand new running shoes.whine until the puppy can get into your bed next to you! By the way -. install a baby gate or keep the doors to these rooms closed.that squeak and things that are interactive. etc. If there are rooms your puppy should not enter. It is up to you to take steps to make sure your puppy is safe and your personal articles are protected. Never leave them around. 8. Puppies can get through smaller places than an adult dog. 15 . Keep the lid closed. Toxic plants. Be very careful about other pets coming to your home. Needles & pins are other deadly hazards if swallowed. you should wait until your Maltese is at least 16 weeks of age. Anti-freeze is extremely toxic. 2. many decorations such as Christmas balls are no more than glass pieces. 14. 12. If you are a smoker or leave cigarette butts in ashtrays. Pups are curious. if broken. Make sure your trash cans. Puppies love to chew on them. Clean up any dripping immediately. Puppies can’t recognize dangers. take care. where your puppy may get to them. 7. extension cords. If you plan on using a flea collar. 3. These bones are dangerous to your pup if swallowed 11. Your pup would have no problem in getting his sharp teeth into the contents of that bottle. Be on the safe side and purchase ones that are not made of this material. Puppies could easily get a hold of a chicken or turkey bone. should be secured to the baseboard or better still make them inaccessible. Toilet bowl cleaners are toxic. Electrical cords. check the boundaries and gates for openings that could be potential escape routes. Curiosity has injured and even killed many young puppies. 6. Cigarette butts consumed by your puppy could easily lead to nicotine poisoning. If you have a cellar. Remember that your Maltese puppy is much more likely to catch an infection than an adult dog. have a lid. keep them out of reach of your puppy. Wherever there are steps is a hazard. 9. Pesticides and rodent control poisons should be used with extreme caution. 4. Childproof containers are not enough as the bottles are usually plastic. Never burn candles if the puppy is within reach as the flame will attract them. 10. keep the door closed. etc. In a nutshell: 1. Any type of medication need to properly stored in a medicine cabinet or just out of reach. Your Maltese could suffer electrical shock. Keep it out of reach or locked in a cabinet. as puppies may be tempted to drink out of them. burns that could prove fatal. It’s a known fact that the scent of anti-freeze attracts all dogs. both in the house and outside. Hanging flypaper is toxic! If you must use these. 5. Around the Christmas holidays.Take a walk around your yard looking for potential hazards. Be sure you know which are and which are not. If your yard is fenced. 13. Draw up a schedule for your puppy. This can cause serious problems and be very painful. Don't use newspaper to paper train. Puppies should be fed three times a day until they are three months old.Keep A Watch On Young Children. They should be then fed two times a day for the rest of their lives. Having the same food to eat in a new home will help your Maltese puppy feel "at home " until the puppy gets used to everything. You will have to experiment with different locations until you zero in on what works best for both you and the puppy. and you will find your 16 . A young child could unknowingly cause serious injury to a small puppy 9. 10.8. If you have problems getting your puppy to eat you may consider adding a little cottage cheese or some baby food meats to his kibble. Feed your puppy the same brand of dog food that the puppy ate while with the breeder. If you use newspapers. the smell of printers ink will signal the need to mark the place. A puppy can leap from a child’s arms or trip up a child causing injury to both. If you are feeding a dry kibble you can soak the kibble in water to soften it for younger puppies. and that he should be praised when he does his job. and have it set up and ready for his arrival. Introduce any new foods gradually. Do not give your puppy fresh milk. He should be taken to his outside relief spot last thing at night and first thing in the morning.Housebreaking your puppy. Decide where to put the puppy's crate. Do not allow small children to handle your new puppy unless under very strict supervision. One cannot expect a child to understand that a puppy is a fragile living being. What to feed your puppy. to a youngster he is like his stuffed dog. It is important that you check your puppy's rectum daily as stool can get stuck in their hair and prevent them from having a good bowel movement. as well as after meals and naps. By the time they are three to four months old they should be eating the kibble dry or with a little canned food mixed in it. They don't smell like newspaper and have a special "puppy scent" that tells the puppy that this is the place to go. Many puppies don't like to be isolated in one part of the house while their family is in another but some puppies won't settled down in their crates if there's too much activity going on around them. The place to keep the crate will depend on what's most convenient for you as well as the puppy's response.Create a “Puppy Area”. 11. mixed with the old. Trimming the hair around the rectum can help prevent this. use the ready-made "puppy pads" from the local pet store. close doors. do it immediately after a successful housebreaking trip. a leash (even indoors--it really helps!). When it is time for a trip outdoors. to your selected location and stand there until you get the results you want. on leash. Help your puppy by understanding its needs. 4. and any other time it starts sniffing and/or acting restless. If he doesn't urinate and defecate within 10 minutes. Puppy's train well to these pads and many use these for their entire life. establishing a feeding/watering/walking schedule. Watching its behavior is extremely important and understanding what it is doing is critical. even if you work during the week and are off on the weekends. in the same tone of voice. after (or during) play. 7. Take your Maltese out every 2 hours to the "potty" area. but keep the puppy confined or within your sight every minute. and then praise him. again in the same tone each time. Take your puppy outside after every feeding. 17 . 3. then try again. bring him inside and place him in his crate for 10-15 minutes. Limit your puppy's area. While the puppy is sniffing you may tell him/her to "go potty". and remove leftover food until the next scheduled feeding time. installing baby gates. Select the place outdoors where you want your puppy to eliminate. or whatever combination of methods you think will work for you. 2. and learning to observe and correctly interpret its behavior. It's not fair to walk your pup early in the morning for the five days and then expect it to wait several hours later on weekends. whether it has eaten or not. put the leash on the puppy and lead it to the door (using the same door each and every time). after it wakes up from sleep. Take your puppy. and then praise the puppy. In a Nutshell: 1. 5. Take the puppy outdoors to relieve itself after each feeding time. Use a crate. Don't play with the puppy until he relieves himself. Feed your puppy according to a schedule. which have a plastic backing. Keep the same schedule every day of the week. If you want to take your puppy for a walk. each time.morning newspaper or magazines left in the puppy's territory duly marked even after the puppy knows it is supposed to "go" outside. 6. "Do you want to go outside?" Use the same phrase. Do not free-feed your puppy. while using a phrase such as. depending on its age. Continue this routine until he is successful. Remember that young puppies do not have much control. Many Maltese owners live in apartments and have found that they prefer to train their puppies to the disposable pads such as those used in hospitals. Your pup will soon begin to respond to the phrase. If your dog has had limited exposure to the outside world start slowly. It is important to praise your puppy for relieving itself in the spot you have chosen. Learn to watch your dog for indications that it may be ready to wait a little longer. as this may cause diarrhea. your puppy will soon begin to "ask" to go out. Spend lots of time training. and then do it. If you don't want your Maltese to beg while you eat. Gradually extend the time between meals/walks. keeping in mind that it may be stressful for your dog. Don't abruptly go from every three hours to every six hours. By feeding your Maltese before you eat. use vinegar and water to clean the spot. Socializing Your Puppy. If you change your puppy's diet. Never rub your puppy's nose in the mess it may create. Socialization is like any other part of training. building on small successes to make the foundation strong.8. 12. and requiring it to remain away from the table while you eat. 9. Exposure to new environments. Go outdoors with your puppy each time. Decide what rules you want obeyed. Gradually add distractions and new locations. Socialization is a very important part of your puppy's development. Your dog will become so accustomed to it that it may be nearly impossible to extend the time. and you can't do that if you are inside. people and animals is all part of the socialization process. situations. don't get "stuck" in a three-hour schedule for too long. it will do the same when it is an adult. Be on time for meals/water/walks. Decide on what rules you want the adult dog to obey in your house and apply them to your puppy now. If you allow the puppy to jump up on people when it is small. then keep the puppy away from that spot. even if your yard is fenced. and never feed it soon after you eat. If your puppy has had an accident. or relative. Your puppy will attempt to return to the same spot every time. playing and loving your puppy. 12. so if you are vigilant at first and prevent “accidents”. On the other hand. do not change it abruptly. This will create a wonderful bond between you and the puppy. Reward your Maltese when he exhibits relaxed 18 . 11. feeding it in a place away from where you eat. neighbor. never feed it from the kitchen or dining room table. your puppy will become a polite dog. 10. 13. and stick to them from day one. even if you have to enlist the assistance of a friend. Inconsistent rules do not work. to gauge the size of a Maltese when they become adults. For example. Many people like to bring their puppy home on a weekend in order to devote extra time to settling in and housebreaking. turn on talk radio in your bedroom and close the door so your puppy can hear human voices. 19 . make sure he does not have a bladder infection. if your female puppy weighs 2 1/4 pounds at around 3 months of age (the age you bought your puppy from the breeder) you can expect her to weight around 4 . Work out a schedule. Don’t punish your puppy for mistakes. turn the TV on to a news channel. but don't spank. Then redouble the efforts to teach him what you want him to know. scream. 14. Make a list of all the places you can take your dog and start taking him or her. intestinal parasites. Work out a schedule for your puppy. Or. Plan your housebreaking schedule and create a game plan before the puppy arrives. praises. The first weeks your Maltese is with you will be busy and demanding. Maltese breeders usually use the weighing scales at about 10 . petting or play. by using treats. A male puppy that weighs 2 3/4 pounds at 3 months will probably mature out to around 6 pounds. preferably with an enzyme odor eliminator. The extra effort you put into it now will pay off in the future. 15.4 1/2 pounds as an adult. Double the weight is the catchword. If the odor is left untended. A female will be slightly smaller and a male perhaps slightly larger. or push his nose in the mess. exercise and playtimes are on a regular schedule throughout the day. Puppies learn better when they don't have to learn too much at once. the dog will find it again. If your puppy must be left alone during the day. Things will get better if you have patience and keep your sense of humor. or other medical reason for his failure to signal that he needs to go outside. Make the training sessions short and fun. If a puppy reaches four or five months of age and is still having regular accidents in the house. scold him for mistakes. even if people cannot detect any smell. Housetraining is much easier when the puppy's meals. Remember that puppy hood only happens once. The spot should be cleaned up. Once you're fairly confident that the puppy understands where to relieve himself. Both of these puppies would be well within the standard for the Maltese breed. There may be times when you wonder if getting a puppy was such a good idea. 16. Growing up.behavior.12 weeks. This is especially important because your Maltese is a drop-eared dog with excessive hair in their ears. you will become familiar with its distinctive characteristics. It is important to start these activities as early as possible preferably at the puppy stage itself . Ears: You should check your Maltese ears on a weekly basis. because your dog will stay healthy. Your Maltese will get excessive hair in and around the ear canal. minor problems can usually be prevented from developing into major ones. debris. Indications of ear problems are sensitivity to touch. Maltese dogs are susceptible to bacterial and fungus infections. and ears. While this care requires effort. There are four major areas to focus on: coat. If diagnosed and treated early. teeth. heavy wax buildup. These are conditions that require a visit to your veterinarian. By learning what is normal for your pet. strong odor. it will pay off.Chapter 3 All About Grooming Regular grooming is an important part of keeping your dog healthy.to get your dog accustomed to and comfortable with these activities. You should have the hair removed to allow the air to circulate. inflammation. As you groom your pet. you will be able to observe changes in its appearance that may be warning signs of potential health problems. Regular ear checks are also important for Maltese that are bathed regularly. Regular grooming does more than keep your pet looking at its very best. shaking or scratching the ears or tilting the head to the side. This can be 20 . nails. hydrogen peroxide or ear cleaner for dogs. sprinkle a small amount on the ear canal making sure to cover the ear hair. it is better to make a nail clipping appointment with your vet or dog groomer. Most Maltese will not mind this because it does not hurt. If you use ear powder. use your fingers to gently pluck out the hairs growing in the ear canal. Be gentle but thorough. Nails that are too long can scratch your bare skin. To remove the hair. Holding the earflap up with one hand. Teach him to sit and to hand you his paw while you clip each nail. without excess wax and not oversensitive to touch.preferably after a bath.done when a dog is professionally groomed. Most Maltese nails are white or light colored. For some adult dogs. and the darker area of the quick is unmistakable. dark substance may be an indication of ear mites. Use cotton balls (never use Q-tips which can push material even further into the ear!) dampened with mineral oil. 21 . you do not need to clean them. wipe the inner surface of the ear as far down as you can reach. The ends of the toenails are dead tissue and the quick of the nail contains blood supply. for example 6-8 weeks. or it can also be done at home. The idea is to trim off as much of the dead tissue without cutting the sensitive live tissue. when the nails are soft. Dirty ears or ears filled with a waxy. Toes: Maltese toenails grow like human’s. sprinkle baking soda on your fingers (be careful not to get it in the ear canal!) or use ear powder. If your puppy is very young. After you clip them. If you accustom your puppy to having his nails clipped regularly. But most dogs should have them clipped every two or three weeks. changing the cotton when it is soiled. available at pet supply stores. Don't pull any hairs on the inside of the earflap. you won't have problems when he becomes an adult. it is important to clip the nails every week . Holding the earflap in one hand. Clip your Maltese nails under good lighting. distort the way your Maltese stands and even interfere with his/her gait. Adult dogs that are unused to having their feet handled may wiggle too much and you risk painfully clipping the quick. If your Maltese ears are clean. Sometimes dogs will file their nails just by running on concrete. filing the nails with a human or dog nail file helps to smoothen the sharp edges. however. A young pup especially. so they are more likely to accept brushing than older dogs and will continue to do so into their adult lives. but brushing back and forth is easier. A circular motion is most effective. brush and comb your Maltese thoroughly to eliminate dead hair. especially older dogs. All good pet supply stores sell toothpaste made for dogs. Coat:. If the puppy rejects this. rub its teeth and gums with your finger for a few days. knots and mats. conditioner etc. knit. Work up a good lather down to the skin. Rinse the coat thoroughly and shampoo again. shampoo. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner. Clean your puppy's ears if necessary and place a small ball of cotton in the ears to soak up any water accidentally entering the ear canal (a common cause of infection). take care that it does not enter the eyes. Take special care to clean the anal area and paw pads. Do not use toothpaste made for humans as it may contain ingredients that can cause your Maltese to have an upset stomach. Place a rubber mat or towel on the bottom of the sink or bathtub. Before beginning the bath. The next step is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Tip the head up to rinse. By ignoring this simple and quick grooming regimen you may cause your pup to develop an unnaturally poor movement in its front as well as to cause the toe pads to become "splayed" prematurely. Brush the teeth and gums gently. and mature properly. Teeth: Your Maltese should have its teeth brushed each day. before you put your puppy in the tub. Apply dabs of shampoo to the back. A hand-held rubber spray attached to your faucet can make things much easier. each leg and under the tail of your puppy.Trimming the hair from between the toes should be done at least every other week. add the soft dog food to the brush and later switch to the canine toothpaste. To start your Maltese puppy out. Wash your puppy's face with a washcloth. Rinse every part of your puppy's body until all traces of soap are gone and the water runs perfectly clear 22 . Adding some soft dog food to your finger may help to make the experience more pleasant. Keep everything you need readythe towels. If you are not using a “no tears” shampoo. A dog with untrimmed nails and hair growing so thick between its toes that it is slips or slides (especially on hard flooring) must overcompensate with exaggerated movements in order to maintain its balance and move itself around. Puppies are open to new experiences. A good bathing schedule for a Maltese would be to bathe it every 7 to 10 days. Rinse again. must have good solid footing for the musculature and bones to grow. switch to a small amount of toothpaste on your finger and continue to rub. After a few days. which are more likely to have plaque buildup. proceeding from back to front. In time you can teach your puppy to lie on its back and stand while grooming. And the brushing must be done gently to prevent damage and hair loss. Brush your puppy’s teeth each time you bathe it. Do not rub the coat with the towel as this can cause tangling and mats. Allow it to stay in the coat for the time recommended by the manufacturer and then rinse it from the coat. Brushing needs can vary considerably depending upon length.At this point. 3. When towel drying your Maltese. Snarls are most likely to give up to the brush when they are washed. and tail before removing the dog from the tub. Inexperienced or new Maltese brushers would do well to start with a short. when he is just damp out of the towel. 23 . A metal pin brush with smooth rounded bristles and close tooth metal comb or a detangle comb should be used. 4. Unless the hair is kept very short. Some people prefer to keep this area trimmed to avoid complications. squeeze all the excess water from the ears. you should brush him thoroughly at least every other day. strong. In a Nutshell: 1. Follow a consistent routine and be very patient when grooming. If you want your Maltese. you may add a conditioner. Maltese coats need good brushing to stay healthy.The hair around the anus should be inspected daily for any debris. as well as the dog's behavior and environment. Brush and comb clear to the skin to remove and prevent mats. A good dental care kit can be purchased from your local pet supply dealer. rinsed with conditioner and oil. in full coat. and not yet dry. legs. When the bath is finished. healthy coat and grow in brushing expertise along with the hair. Nail clippers will be needed to keep toenails trim. Consult your vet or groomer for advice. The most important time to brush a Maltese is after his bath. regular brushing is required to prevent snarl-ups. squeeze or blot the coat with the towel to remove as much moisture as possible. texture and condition of the hair. 5. and cleaned as necessary. 2. 24 . 7. 8. 9. Although it's impossible to completely eliminate “tearing” while puppies are going through the teething stages it is important to keep puppy's face clean and as dry as possible to help reduce tear staining. Snipe off the hair on the bottom of the feet. Bathe once every 1 to 2 weeks. depending on the coat length and how much time your Maltese spends outside. The hair growing inside the ears should be plucked out carefully. to ensure that it does not brush against the eyes. Most Maltese pet owners prefer to keep the hair clipped. 10. This will help to cut down on tearing.6. Whitening shampoo and a good conditioner are recommended. A good finishing spray will help to keep the coat lubricated and manageable. Perhaps not! Poor digestible diets. *The desire for a variety of foods is an acquired habit. digestible diet without calcium supplements. (which could allow twisting to occur). * Minimizing excitement and activity before and after a meal. Scientific studies show that pets are happy to eat the same food day after day. 25 .Chapter 4 Feeding Your Maltese Feeding Facts To Remember: * Vitamin and mineral supplements are unnecessary unless your veterinarian recommends them * Feeding your Maltese dry food will help to reduce tartar build-up. canned foods. especially if fed in large quantity at a time can stretch the tissues supporting the stomach. it will help to reduce plaque. * Dividing the amount of food given per day into several meals. Your Maltese will be happy if you consistently give him a correct diet * There are many factors that make a dog bloat. Your Maltese should have its teeth checked by a veterinarian at least once a year. Hard food helps to scrape away the plaque before it turns to tartar. It could be dietary. There are ways to prevent bloat * Feeding a balanced. Diets containing excessive amounts of calcium may lead to changes in the stomach that may result in a bloat. biscuits or hard chew toys. Tartar starts with a soft deposit called plaque. If you feed your dog. “natural”. Many products sport tags.“adult formula”. how do you zero in on the right food for your dog? You can study the three parts of the pet food label: the life stage claim. the better the chance of maintaining your Maltese's health. you see before a mind boggling range of food items. the contact information of the manufacturer. Pet owners should look for the word "feeding" in the life stage claim (found in the nutritional adequacy statement on the label).* Different pets have different nutritional needs. The more closely you meet these needs with the diet. And pet food manufacturers compete for consumers’ dollars by trying to make their products stand out among the many types of dry.cans. boxes -all attractively packaged and displayed. It is important you feed your dog with a diet having the correct amount. So which one is right for your Maltese? U. which are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). and the list of ingredients used in the food. fats. vitamins and minerals. bags. waiting to catch your attention. Your veterinarian will help you to determine your pet's nutritional needs. Pet owners who do or do not want to feed a pet a certain ingredient can look at the list of ingredients to make sure that particular substance is included or excluded. Pet owners should look for the manufacturer's telephone number.S. This means the food was proven nutritionally adequate in animal feed tests. So. but how can people call manufacturers to ask questions about their products. “premium”. Another item to check on the label is the contact information. only the manufacturer's name and address are required. must carry certain information on their labels. if there is no telephone number? The ingredients list on the label is an area of consumer preference and subjectivity. carbohydrates. “and gourmet”. What should you know about Pet Foods: If you step into a pet food store. of protein. moist. according to the Pet Food Institute. Pet foods. Consumers can be confident that their pets are eating a nutritionally sound food if they understand the full significance of these labels. 26 . and semi-moist foods available. Actually. consumers spend more than $11 billion a year on cat and dog food. feeding guidelines. ingredients. and the manufacturer's name and address. The FDA's CVM works in partnership with AAFCO to determine safe pet food ingredients and testing protocols. The labels of packages and cans of commercial dog food must list five pieces of information: guaranteed analysis. ("Crude" refers to a specific method of measuring the nutrient. The amounts of crude protein and most other nutrients appear less for canned products than for dry ones because of differences in moisture content. and must be pure and wholesome and contain no harmful substances. disallow others. most state governments regulate pet foods and labeling through their agricultural departments. Guaranteed Analysis -The guaranteed analysis specifies the product's minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat. Canned foods typically contain about 75 percent water. Drug. Foods for human or pet consumption do not require FDA approval before they are marketed.Is it safe and nutritious: No matter what choice they make. AAFCO also publishes ingredient definitions and regulations. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). develops recommended standards for nutrient contents of dog and cat foods. They also must be truthfully labeled. an advisory body of state and federal feed regulators. AAFCO has created a model feed bill that states often adopt in their own laws. Ingredients-Like human foods. and stipulate that certain information must be on the label. while dry foods contain only about 10 percent Nutritional Adequacy-The nutritional adequacy statement assures consumers that a product meets all the nutritional needs of your pet. In addition to federal regulation of pet food. pet foods are regulated under the Federal Food. calcium and phosphorus in dog food. With the exception of a nutritional adequacy statement. consumers can take comfort in knowing that pet food is manufactured under a series of standards and regulations. such as. These regulations require some nutrients and additives.) Although not required. but they must be made with 27 . some manufacturers also specify the percentages of other nutrients. these items must also appear on commercial food labels for other pets as well. nutritional adequacy statement. and Cosmetic Act. It also gives the maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. and is not an indication of quality. onions. The FDA considers animal food supplements that are not approved nutrients or GRAS to be unapproved food additives or unapproved new animal drugs. so are animal food supplements for pets. bladder cancer. and St. they are not permitted in pet food. in fact. Most pet owners simply do not know that small amounts of chocolate.ingredients that are "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) or ingredients that are approved food and color additives. Many owners are guilty of overfeeding their pets. and skin disorders and it can put a pet at higher risk while undergoing anesthesia for surgery. Many people treat their dogs like their own children. If scientific data show that an ingredient or additive presents a health risk to animals. genetics. 28 . Some human foods. and even a "light" food can cause weight gain if fed in excess of caloric needs. macadamia nuts and bread dough can be fatal if ingested by a dog Feeding Guidelines-Feeding directions on pet food provide only a broad guideline. It's estimated that about 25 percent of dogs and cats that enter a pet clinic are overweight. diabetes. and even the climate in which the pet lives.Just as dietary supplements for people are growing in popularity. purported to treat depression and relieve stress. CVM can prohibit or modify its use in pet food. may be dangerous to pets. As such. especially those that are overweight. John's Wort. This is just not true. Nutritional requirements vary according to a pet's age. breed. Pet owners should consult their veterinarians for the appropriate amount and type of food to give their pets. Obesity can shorten a pet's life by contributing to heart and liver problems. Be careful with leftover food: Some people think that the food they eat is also good for their pets. They want to give them the best. Dietary Supplements. body weight. consumers will see on some dog food labels ingredients such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin. arthritis. Nevertheless. amount of activity. which are claimed to alleviate joint stiffness and pain. Deciduous or "milk" teeth begin to appear when a puppy is about four weeks of age. affecting dogs. and develop into a condition called gingivitis. and fall off gradually between 14 and 30 weeks of age. forming a soft plaque. When your Maltese eats. puppies may eat slightly less and chew more.Chapter 5 Health Problems That Could Affect Your Maltese Dental Problems According to the American Veterinary Dental Society. Untreated gingivitis leads to periodontitis. Hard rubber or rawhide toys made especially for dogs are ideal to help prevent household damage during this time. bacteria and saliva may accumulate and adhere to the tooth surface. If plaque buildup continues. it hardens and turns into tartar.food.a breakdown of the periodontal tissues. mainly due to the build up from plaque and calculus. Dogs have 28 deciduous teeth (temporary) and 42 permanent teeth. Common signs of dental problems in dogs include: • • Loss of appetite Red. or calculus. If the tarter is not removed. more than 80 percent of dogs develop gum disease by the age of three years. swollen and bleeding gums 29 . Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition. the gums become inflamed. During this time. often a result of biting on sticks or rocks. Diet can also play a role in the health of your dog's teeth. Preventing Problems To begin with. hold your Maltese puppy. Rawhide products should not be given to your Maltese as they could easily choke on it if they decided to swallow it. Basic cleaning can start at around $50. The next step is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. The first step is to take your Maltese for a veterinary examination. Cost is a major issue with dental procedures. Part of the high cost is because the dogs must be sedated for most of the procedures. or may refer you to a veterinarian who specializes in dental care. A circular motion is most effective.• • • • • Drooling Blood in the saliva Yellow-brown tartar at the gum line Broken teeth Foul breath Dogs sometimes suffer from broken teeth. If the puppy rejects this. rub its teeth and gums with your finger for a few days. A study has shown that biscuits could be effective in removing tartar above the gum line. Your veterinarian may offer a full range of dental procedures. if it becomes infected. Treatment Most of these conditions are easily treated. apply a small amount of canine toothpaste on your finger and continue to rub. 30 . A cracked or broken tooth can be painful if the nerve tissue is exposed. there is the danger of the infection spreading through the bloodstream. which are more likely to have plaque buildup.from tarter removal to root canals. add the soft dog food to the brush and later switch to the canine toothpaste. Prompt veterinary attention is recommended. Adding some soft dog food to your finger to help to make the experience more pleasant. Brush the teeth and gums gently. but brushing back and forth is easier. and orthodontics could push up the price to well above $1000. After a few days. Dogs should have their teeth brushed each day! This is especially important for older dogs. Fleas & Ticks Fleas and ticks can make your puppy or dog miserable. the mites will move to another resident. The best preventive measure is to treat all residents for mites. brown material present in the ears. the ears are painful to the touch and the pet may yelp in pain. Dogs with long. This condition is called Hematoma and immediate treatment is needed to avoid pain to the dog and possible ear deformity. If left untreated. 31 . Fleabites vary in effect from short-lived itching welts to an overall rash. which may last over a year. promoting infection and bacterial growth. in the ear canal. a foul-smelling odor. blood vessels may rupture and soft swellings form on the earflap. ringworm. They pierce the skin surface to feed. Stress in on multiple-animal environments. such as kennels and catteries. causing him to scratch.Ear Mites This is a common problem that dogs experience. The ear mites are tiny parasites that live on the surface of the skin lining. Puppies can acquire an ear mite infection from their mother. bite and chew . When a dog shakes its head excessively. red skin and inflamed areas. bacterial infections may take place leading to loss of hearing. and viral infections are present. Ear mites can be transmitted from one household pet to another. The symptoms often include a lot of scratching. Maintaining strict sanitation procedures and avoiding overcrowded conditions are essential. Flea saliva irritates a dog's skin. Here are some of the early warning signals to look out for: • • • • • • excessive and persistent scratching around the ears shaking the head often restless behavior. it is likely that if one animal is treated.which can lead to infection. is associated with this disease. floppy ears are more prone to ear mite infections. If ear mites are present in a multiple-pet household or a kennel or cattery. causing inflammation and discomfort. depending on the sensitivity of the victim. Air movement is restricted. Ear mite infestation is often found where flea infestation. a small red spot appears where the skin has been pierced. especially the area between the baseboard and floor. though.wash or vacuum all pet bedding and sleeping areas on a regular basis. weight loss. Prevention Indoors. However. Be careful. shampoos and dips are your best weapons. the size and age of the animal as well as its overall health. Fleas are the intermediate hosts of the dog tapeworm larvae.most severe in the summer and fall. Treatment in a nutshell • • • Treating your dog: Powders. Treating the inside of your house: Thorough cleaning and vacuuming may do the trick. Ticks can cause a variety of problems. The flea irritation causes the dog to bite the flea. Pet bedding should be periodically checked for flea eggs and dried-blood feces (frass) of adult fleas.Commonly. Pets should be given baths regularly and treated with insecticides if necessary. Cracks and crevices should be vacuumed and sealed. you have to treat your dog and its environment. fleas and ticks are a seasonal problem. Ticks can draw enough blood to seriously deplete a pet. If you want to control fleas. In places with cold winters. Ingestion will cause the tapeworm larvae to migrate through the dogs blood system to the intestine where it will reside. it's a year-round battle. sprays. For instance. In some warm states. This has been described as "salt and pepper" because it looks like small flecks of black and white debris. Dispose of vacuum cleaner bags to prevent reinfestation. depending on the number of ticks. However. This blood loss may result in poor hair coat. it might also take sprays and foggers. poor performance or even death. Read and follow label instructions. Flea collars provide some control. 32 . some dogs are allergic to them. The first is to feed fewer calories and the second is to increase the amount of exercise the pet gets. respiratory and skeletal systems. Getting rid of heartworms once a dog has become infected takes a lot of strong drugs and even hospitalization. 33 . Studies suggest that approximately 25 percent of the dogs examined by veterinary clinics are overweight.• Treating the outside: Sprays and foggers. The better course is prevention. If intake exceeds output. Always check with your vet first. Heartworm prevention: This is a mosquito-transmitted disease and can be fatal to your dog. As a result. Start with an annual test to see if your dog is already carrying these deadly worms. This extra weight puts pets at risk for certain health problems involving cardiovascular. If the test is negative. This test involves having a blood sample taken and analyzed. Some veterinarians recommend giving your dog the medication year-round. The weight gain is a result of eating more calories than the pet uses. But more important is to ensure that your dog does not put on weight in the first place. the animal will gain weight. Combinations of more than one flea or tick treatment can sometimes be harmful to your dog. The causes of obesity generally fall into three categories: Diet Obesity is more normally attributed to inappropriate feeding and exercising of the pet. This may be given either once a month or daily. there are two ways to bring down the animal's weight. but it should definitely be given during the months when mosquitoes are active Obesity Obesity is the number one nutritional disorder among dogs. These medications keep heartworms from maturing. the animal will maintain its body weight. Knowing how to recognize the signs of obesity and take corrective action is important. your veterinarian will recommend a preventive heartworm medication. When calorie intake equals calorie expenditure. Besides.excess bile acids. These products are low in fat and high in fiber 5 Consult a veterinarian before beginning any weight reduction program. sometimes causing reduced activity and changes in metabolism. These are often high in calories. When one eats. ammonia. which adds to the dog’s body weight. Maltese dogs-Liver Shunts Under normal circumstances. many by-products of digestion are formed in the blood -. blood passes through the liver to be detoxified. 2 Reduce the quantum of the regular pet food. By measuring the amount of food. it does not mean that an animal must become overweight. and other 34 . By walking it more times or increasing its playtime 4 Consider switching to a low-calorie pet food. weigh your pet periodically to track progress. Weight Control Guidelines 1 Reduce or eliminate snacks and treats. which affect the hormone balance in pets.some of these by-products are beneficial. may contribute to the development of obesity. And ensuring that the serving size does not increase 3 Increase the amount of exercise the pet receives. Maintaining a healthy body weight requires careful attention to the amount of food and exercise the pet receives. While some breeds of dog may gain more weight easily. Amongst the liver's many functions is its role in detoxifying the blood of the bad by-products -. Castration and spaying also alter the hormonal balance of pets.Genetic Predisposition Certain breeds seem to be more susceptible to obesity than others. Hormonal Disorders Diseases. but some are not. These include thyroid or pituitary gland dysfunction. poor appetite. increased drinking and urinating. which leads to changes in behavior and severe lethargy. listlessness. In a nutshell. head pressing (pushing the head against a solid object).substances. the blood that would normally go to the liver to be detoxified bypasses the liver. If the signs of problems increase dramatically after eating this is a strong supportive sign of a Portosystemic Shunt. Signs of Portosystemic Shunts include poor weight gain. weakness. balance problems and frequent urinary tract disease or early onset of bladder stones. These can be determined by conducting tests given below: Routine Lab work Radiography Radioisotope Ultrasound 35 . sensitivity to sedatives (especially diazepam). Portosystemic shunts are a congenital problem that can be seen in some Maltese What are the symptoms? There can be a lot of variation of clinical signs depending of the severity of the condition. vomiting. depression. depression. and weakness. drooling Vomiting Poor appetite Balance problems Bladder stones Blindness How is Liver Shunt diagnosed? There are a number of possible abnormalities that might point towards a Portosystemic shunt. Toxins build up in the blood and affect the brain. Seizures often occur as well. which could depend on how much blood flow is diverted past the liver. In Portosystemic Shunt. salivation. some of the clinical signs of Portosystemic shunts include: • • • • • • • • • • • Failure for a puppy to grow Poor weight gain Depression. apathy Weakness Seizures Salivation. seizures. The cause is unknown although there is speculation that there may be a generalized neurotransmitter deficiency due to an autoimmune reaction. primarily small white dogs. meaning that it is worse when the animal is excited or try’s to perform a specific action (such as eat. Treatment is generally effective. This is called an intention tremor. The condition is not painful and your dog's personality is unaffected. There is an all-over tremor that can range from mild to so severe. What is shaker dog syndrome? This disorder develops suddenly in young adult. What are the symptoms? This disorder usually develops suddenly in young adult dogs (6 months to 3 years of age). The signs become progressively worse over 1 to 3 days and then remain the same until treatment begins. Commonly there are rapid. etc). causing a diffuse tremor of the entire body. The tremor decreases or disappears when the dog is relaxed or at rest. How is it Diagnosed? Your veterinarian will diagnose this condition based on the clinical signs and the fact that tests for other possible causes of these signs show no 36 . predominantly small dogs. random eye movements as well. Because this syndrome was initially observed in large numbers of dogs with white coats. Maltese and West Highland White Terriers are commonly affected. the name White Shaker Dog Syndrome was coined.How is it treated? Surgery appears to be the only cure for Portosystemic shunts at this time. walk towards an object. The dog may also have difficulty in walking. some dogs require medication for life to control the tremors. White Shaker Dog Syndrome White Shaker Dog Syndrome is characterized by generalized tremor occurring in young. How is it treated? Most dogs recover completely with early treatment with Corticosteroids and/or Benzodiazepines. Your veterinarian will start your dog at a relatively high dose. Then the animal breathes with difficulty and exhibits a honking cough. overweight. Some dogs may require low doses of Corticosteroids every other day to keep clinical signs under control. Why does it happen? Most experts do not completely understand how this condition develops. which is gradually decreased over several weeks. However. Causes include trauma to the windpipe. may be normal and may not require additional treatment. Pomeranians. most cases occur in middle-aged or older. inherited tracheal weakness. They also know that it occurs in certain breeds of dogs. but if treatment is stopped too early. smallbreed dogs. degeneration of cartilage and abnormal airflow in and out of the lungs. This condition is commonly found in small breeds of dogs including Maltese. Collapsing Trachea The trachea (windpipe) is composed of 35-45 C-shaped rings of cartilage that are joined by muscle and ligaments to create a tube-like structure. When it collapses. air can no longer move freely through it.abnormalities. notably Chihuahuas. Certain conditions can result in the trachea's losing its tube-like shape so that it collapses. affecting all 4 limbs and the head. the signs usually return. Except for the congenital forms of tracheal collapse. the disease is rarely fatal. after being treated for three to six months with Corticosteroids. so as to remain free of signs of the disorder. Shih Tzus. For the veterinarian: Intention tremors may be mild to severe. nerve damage. Many dogs. Overall. Lhasa 37 . Some dogs may have to remain on a low dosage on alternate days for life. they know that these dogs have an abnormality in the chemical makeup of their tracheal rings. Clinical signs usually begin to improve within a few days of starting the treatment. The cough may also begin due to excitement. or from drinking water or eating. Cough) is a highly contagious. Radiographs and Endoscopy are used to determine how much of the trachea is collapsed. Can it be treated? Collapsed trachea can be treated medically or surgically. Some Maltese respond well to Bronchodilators and various types of anti-inflammatory drugs. while others do not." If your Maltese has no other heart or lung problems and is not obese. pressure on the trachea (from a leash). If the only abnormal part is that segment between the throat and the point where the trachea enters the chest (the thoracic inlet). Toy Poodles. weight loss is often beneficial. Because of this fact. 38 . surgery is not likely to be helpful because that part is not accessible to the surgeon. Some Maltese may respond well to the medical approach. If obesity is present. the Maltese should be evaluated for possible surgery. Excitement and vigorous exercise are likely to cause a relapse. It is caused by certain viruses and bacteria –the prominent one being a bacteria -Bordetella bronchiseptica. It is often described as dry and harsh and can become quite pronounced. What are the clinical signs? The most common clinical sign is a chronic cough. Canine Cough Syndrome Canine Cough Syndrome (also called Infectious Tracheobronchitis or Kennel. so antibiotics are usually part of the treatment. and maintaining a low-stress environment works well for many Maltese dogs with uncomplicated "collapsing tracheas. surgery may be curative. and Maltese. reducing weight in obese dogs. respiratory disease of dogs. However. so they should be avoided as much as possible. and if your veterinarian concurs. if the segment of the trachea that is within the chest cavity is abnormal. you could try a Bronchodilator such as Aminophylline or theophylline.Apsos. If medical therapy is not successful. Coughing is often worse in the daytime and much less at night. Giving a Bronchodilator regularly. they suspect that there is a genetic factor involved. The trachea of these dogs is easily infected. but owners can make their dogs more comfortable by minimizing the coughing with a cough suppressant obtained from their veterinarian. has lost its appetite. they can also get it from exposure to just a single infected animal. Fever.Many people think that this cough is picked up. Treatment consists of medications to reduce secondary bacterial infection (antibiotics). Kennel cough often occurs following exposure at these most likely places: 1. Owners may suspect that the dog has something caught in its throat. or is looking sick. A kennel Your groomers A show Veterinarians or clinic Congregation of other dogs The Symptoms A dry. and appropriate lab tests are used to diagnose this problem. Your Maltese can pick up the disease from any place where there are many dogs. only from the kennels. 3. Most cases of canine kennel cough will resolve in 10 days to 3 weeks. are uncommon. has a fever.acts depressed. history. and medications to suppress the cough. or that it is trying to vomit. The dog should definitely be seen by the veterinarian if the disease persists longer than 2 weeks or the animal begins to show systemic signs. 5. and loss of appetite. But this is incorrect. is not drinking as much water as normal. simply walking the dog on a leash may cause a sudden fit of coughing. malaise. hacking cough is the most common sign. Generally. Vaccination does not offer 100% protection Its true that the regular Distemper/Parvo 7-way vaccination does protect against two of the viruses that can cause Canine Cough (Parainfluenza 39 . 7 to 10 days is required after exposure to an infected animal before a dog develops the characteristic cough. 4. Besides. 2. Diagnosis & Treatment Physical exam. For example. medications to reduce inflammation. Sometimes the coughing can lead to nausea. Be careful not get the shampoo into the eyes. Here are some ways to minimize tear staining * Wash the face daily. Eye cleansing pads are very convenient and would work well for daily cleansing also. many dogs are prone to yeast infections in their ears. it could cause a stain. it can cause infections and major irritations. After cleansing. An intranasal vaccination (squirt required dosage up each nostril) is used to protect against Bordetella or your veterinarian may prefer the injectable vaccine. that is distinctive. Be careful not to get the product into the eyes. you can successfully clear up their tearing.such as eye infections. apply a tearstain product such as Tearclear. The tearing could be due to many reasons. Hair is another important factor and care must be given to keep the hair out of the eyes. Follow the manufacturers instructions. or Diamond Eye. Rinse well. A soft bristle toothbrush works well for this. Tear Stains Causes If your Maltese sheds tears or if his eyes water. If the hair constantly brushes against the eyes. ear infections. and then a thorough examination by your vet should determine how to proceed. especially because of his pure white coat. In many cases. diet.virus and Adenovirus type II) but it does not give protection against Bordetella Bronchiseptica which is the most threatening of the infectious agents which cause Canine Cough. allergies. you will not get rid of the stain. Until you cure the problem. teething. fleas. blocked tear ducts. mites. especially the stained area with a mild shampoo. ill health. Finding out the cause is your number one step to cure. However this may not be the case for all dogs! Teething can be a major cause. the primary reason for tearing is ears. Once this problem is cured. 40 . For example living in Florida where it is very humid. and low-grade eye infection. First check the obvious. genetics. * Try bottled water; many wells or local water supplies have a lot of minerals in them, which can cause discoloration. * Make sure your food is of high quality and free of colors and dyes. * Ask the vet about allergies. This could be a very likely cause of excessive tearing, especially if you notice an increased problem during peak allergy seasons. Note: If you smoke around your Maltese, this is another likely cause of allergic reactions and eye irritation. * Control fleas. Fleas can be a major source of staining. * Have your vet check for ear mites. This tiny parasite can cause staining as well as terrible discomfort to your Maltese. * Try a daily cleaning/removal product. Tearstain removal is possible, however every attempt to find a permanent solution otherwise it will only reappear. Possible remedies One is just to wash the face everyday and allow it to go out naturally. Another is to use a simple procedure but this again takes a little time and last is to bleach. Care must be taken in using these products or any other chemical solutions to ensure that it does not get into the dog's eyes. It is important to remember that when attempting to removing tear staining you my also be damaging the hair. If you wash the dogs face each day, there are many products in the market that will help. Check your local pet market or perhaps your groomer/Vet can recommend an effective but safe product. A little faster method is called the MOM solution. MOM is a mixture of equal parts of Milk of Magnesia, peroxide 20-40 % in volume and enough cornstarch to make a paste. Put this mixture on and leave overnight. The next day, wash out with a gentle shampoo and condition well. This mixture is very dry and will break the hair if you do not condition well. Repeat this procedure several times over the course of a couple of weeks to eliminate the stain. Last is bleaching. This is not recommend unless you are very familiar with hair products. Extreme caution must be used to ensure that you do not get the bleach into dog’s eyes. The fumes may also cause the dog to 41 vomit and foam at the mouth. Permanent damage could occur if precautions are not taken, so it may be best to avoid this procedure Internal Parasites Dogs are victims of several internal parasites commonly referred to as worms. The most common ones are the roundworms that infest most puppies at some time in their young lives and tapeworms. Evidence of roundworms and tapeworms can be seen without the aid of a microscope, but other worms are not so easily diagnosed. Occasionally adult whipworms can be seen in the stool when the infestation has already caused some debilitation or weight loss in the dog. Early diagnosis of the presence and species of intestinal parasite is important, for not all worms respond to the same treatment. Stool samples should be taken to the veterinarian for microscopic examination if worms are suspected. Many veterinarians include the stool check as part of the annual health examination. Most worm infestations cause any or all of these symptoms: diarrhea, perhaps with blood in the stool; weight loss; dry hair; general poor appearance; and vomiting, perhaps with worms in the Vomitus. The tapeworm is transmitted to dogs, which ingests fleas or which eats wildlife infested with tapeworms or fleas. The dog passes out segments of the tapeworm containing the eggs in its feces. These segments are flat and move about shortly after excretion. They look like grains of rice when dried and can be found either in the dog's stool or stuck to the hair around his anus. The typical over-the-counter wormer cannot kill tapeworms; see the veterinarian for appropriate treatment. Roundworms are active in the intestines of puppies. They often cause a pot-bellied appearance and poor growth. The worms may be seen in vomit or stool; a severe infestation can cause death by intestinal blockage. This worm can grow to seven inches in length. Females can produce 200 thousand eggs in a day, eggs that are protected by a hard shell and can exist in the soil for years. Dogs become infected by ingesting worm eggs from contaminated soil. The eggs hatch in the intestine and the resulting larva are carried in the bloodstream to the lungs. The larva then crawls up the windpipe and gets swallowed, often causing the pup to cough or gag. Although roundworms can be treated with an over-the-counter dewormer found in pet stores, a veterinarian is the best source of information and medication to deal with intestinal parasites 42 Hookworms are small, thin worms that fasten to the wall of the small intestine and suck blood. Dogs get hookworm if they come in contact with the larvae in contaminated soil. As with roundworms, the hookworm larvae become adults in the intestine. The pups can contract hookworms in the uterus and the dam can infest the pups through her milk. A severe hookworm infestation can kill puppies. When it does occur, the signs include diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and progressive weakness. Examining the feces for eggs under a microscope makes diagnosis.. Adult whipworms look like pieces of thread with one end enlarged. They live in the Cecum, the first section of the dog's large intestine. Infestations are usually light, so an examination of feces may not reveal the presence of eggs. Several checks may be necessary before a definitive diagnosis can be made Prevention - Several worms that infect and re-infect dogs can also infect humans, so treatment and eradication of the worms in the environment are important. Remove dog feces from back yards at least weekly, use appropriate vermicides under veterinary supervision, and have the dog's feces checked frequently in persistent cases. When walking your Maltese in a neighborhood or park, remove all feces so that the dog does not contribute to contamination of soil away from home as well. Allergies When a pet scratches, bites or chews excessively, chances are it is suffering from an allergy. A scratching puppy is certainly nothing to worry about -- unless it leads to coat loss, red skin and, ultimately, infection. The cause of the allergy, termed an allergen, could be virtually anything in a pet's environment. In some instances, a highly allergic pet may have several allergies simultaneously. Identifying the cause of the allergy requires a lot of consultation between the pet owner and the veterinarian. In general, allergies fall into these categories: • • • • Inhalant allergies: They are in the air. Pollen, for example. Contact allergies: Your puppy's skin is sensitive to something, possibly a fabric or a plant. Flea allergies: The saliva is the culprit. Food allergies: Although not common, some puppies react to ingredients in their food. Don't change your puppy's diet except under the direction of a vet after other allergens have been eliminated as possibilities. 43 Among the most common allergens are soaps. once a tentative diagnosis is made. A food allergy results from an abnormal immune reaction to an ingredient found in a pet food. If avoidance is not possible. To be hypoallergenic. 44 . insecticides. Although some pets develop allergies to food. No food source is completely non-allergenic. Some pets may be allergic to plastic feeding dishes. wool nylon carpets. a line of treatment can commence. oak or grass. medications or a series of injections may be called for. If this is accomplished. Consequently other causes should be excluded before a pet's diet is blamed or changed. paint. Thin-coated or hairless areas are usually affected. in which a puppy is allergic to its own hormones. The only foods that can be considered hypoallergenic are those pet has never before eaten. wood preservatives. Once the ingredient to which a pet is allergic is identified. a diet must contain proteins that have been broken sufficiently so that the immune system does not recognize them. However. every effort should be made to eliminate it from the pet's environment. The goal being to control the symptoms by avoiding the cause of the allergy. For any allergy. the challenge is to keep a pet exclusively on the prescribed diet with nothing else offered. a variety of diseases have similar signs. There seems to be a genetic predisposition to this allergy. ragweed and other plants. an appropriate diet can be recommended. Again. but it can occur in any pet at any time of the year. Food allergies usually appear as skin problems or gastrointestinal upsets. poison ivy. house dust and mold. like hormonal hypersensitivity. A veterinarian can recommend appropriate treatment for skin lesions and to help relieve itching.• Uncommon allergies. Identifying the offending substance is critical to controlling inhalant and contact allergies. Inhalant allergies result from breathing in substances such as pollen from trees. this is rare. Contact allergies are caused by a pet's physical contact with an offending substance. Keep your dog's nails trimmed so they won't tear as it runs. If you start a regular schedule. then your Maltese will start anticipating. play freely. speed and distance. Begin with short periods of activity at slow speeds and gradually increase the time.Chapter 6 Exercising Your Maltese The number one reason dogs should exercise is to maintain their weight. * In the case of a Maltese. go slow at first. let him exercise in the yard. exercises can also improves muscle tone. * If. * If your dog has more energy to expend than you do. Besides. * While your Maltese is young. It also builds endurance and can help prevent cardiovascular disease. sand or grass until its pads toughen. regular exercise can help control the weight. teach it to fetch a ball or a Frisbee. with joy. wait until he's 8 months old to start a regular jogging or high-level walking program. 45 . Exercise can keep a dog happy. chase rabbits and birds. you have not exercised your dog regularly and decide to launch a regular exercise program. You have to give their bones a chance to develop. so it's good for show dogs. for whatever reason. when you're going to take it for a walk or a jog. The activity may be just right for you and a challenging exercise for your dog. Some are overfed and tend to get a little heavy. * Begin walking or running your dog on soft surfaces such as dirt. * Check carefully for ticks. Remember that a dog's feet can be damaged by hot asphalt during the summer. Avoid handling ticks with bare hands. Check your dog's feet for the presence of burrs. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and heat stroke just as people do. using the thumb and forefinger. possibly causing chronic irritation. Twisting or jerking may cause part of the mouth to break off in the skin. * Weather conditions are an important consideration as you exercise your pet. check its eyes. * Avoid exercising your dog immediately before or after it is fed. grass. * If you walk your dog in wooded areas during the summer. Care must be taken to remove the entire head and the tick's mouthparts. 46 . place a reflective collar on your dog and use a bright colored leash to alert passersby of your approach. If you exercise at night. Avoid touching or rubbing the eyeball. Use tweezers or protect the hands with latex gloves or a paper tissue. A full stomach may cause digestive upsets. You should wear white or light-colored clothing so you can also be seen. seeds and dirt. all of which should be removed immediately. thorns. Provide only small amounts of water before and directly after exercise. If these irritants are in the dog's eyes. Always wash your hands thoroughly and disinfect the bite site. hair coat and feet for foxtail.* Keeping your dog on a leash gives you control when walking or running. they should be removed by washing the eyes with a one or two percent boric acid solution. Burrs on longhaired dogs should be worked out by hand. rocks or ice and snow. Without guidance. to learn to work for your acceptance and love. he will define his own appropriate position and behavior. as it doubtful if you will want to accept your dog's point of view and decisions as to how your relationship should be defined.deciding who is a threat and needs to be warded off with aggression . 47 . If you do not guide your dog in a clear and structured way. Obedience people have known this for a long time. your dog could develop bad behavior such as: . Often trainers start with vocal commands and later use only hand signals to evoke the same responses. You know your dog doesn't always understand your every word but he is very perceptive of your intonations and body language Eye contact has been long known to be one of the ways dogs communicate with each other and with mankind.Chapter 7 Teaching Them To Love & Obey Dogs crave love & guidance An unguided dog will take it upon itself to provide leadership for its family. But one of the most important ways you can communicate with your dogs is with your hands. This will create undue stress on both of you.deciding at which speed you should be traveling as you fly through the air at the end of the leash. resulting in unwanted and unruly behavior. Spend a little time –about 15 minutes-each day with your dog. * With your dog in front of you. If you must do this. Break it up into many short. facing you. supporting their body weight as you would with a baby? Puppies need support for their heads and bodies. Pet his tummy and gently put him on the floor at first. * Hold out a treat. Your hands are also sending out signals. TIPS * Conduct three sessions of short durations. fun sessions. Remember. and use an excited tone of voice. Remember a confident puppy is a welladjusted puppy. gently back him up by tucking his rear with your free hand and moving the treat to his mouth. * Start out kneeling and progress to standing. His attention will focus on the treat. Ending the sessions on a successful note is very important. 48 . * Break treats into very small pieces. Never have one long session. An appropriate loud "no" and confinement is probably the only correction you will ever need. Do you slowly reach for puppies. If you have a puppy. Then open his mouth daily. command "sit" in a firm voice. always have one hand under the chest to avoid a broken tail or jaw. Training is a good way to establish this. Your dog will be inclined to sit naturally to keep his attention on the treat. Teaching your dog to obey simple commands It takes time to teach your dog a new behavior. * Release your dog from sit by saying O. give a lot of verbal and physical praise. * Sit * Get your dogs attention by using their name. * Start training when your dog is a little hungry. Even an independent puppy knows you are top dog or leader and will follow your lead.Never.K. * Give praise "good sit". We often see people use a tail or even a chin as a handle to pick young dogs up. while moving the treat back slowly. Feel all of his toes. ever use your hand to spank your puppy. your dog wants to please you. Do your eyes tell your dogs you adore them? Do your words tell them you love them? . give plenty of praise. Your puppies want to please you. Dogs are pack animals and you need to be the pack leader. hold up the treat above your dog’s head. Show him that he means a lot to you. Do this until he likes and accepts it. gently turn him over every day in your lap. about the size of a pea. You will need to teach him to “sit” prior to “stay” * Stand one or two feet in front of your dog. 49 . * Give the command only once. plenty of praise and a treat. * Start using the sit command often. * Have him stay for 5 seconds or so. if your dogs attention does not stay focused on you make a sound to recapture it. * Move side to side while he stays. * Increase the distance you stand from him. * Increase the time you keep your dog in stay position. NOTE: Most classes will require puppy to have completed his/her vaccinations as well as rabies. * Stay * Call your dog by name to get his attention. command "stay" and hold up your palm towards your dog.". physically return him to where he was Tips * Practice when your dog is a little hungry.*Gradually reduce the number of treats used. * Release your dog with "O. etc. place him in a sit position. prior to feeding. * Practice three times each session. physically return him to the original position if he moves.K. * Down * Practice "sit" several times. * Release with "OK". * Start using the “stay” command in various places * Decrease the number of treats used. * Practice three times each session. * Conduct three to five sessions a day. offering praise instead. * If your dog moves from the sit position. then plenty of praise and a treat. like giving a stop signal. An additional vaccination against rabies is also necessary. the mother should be immunized before breeding. your puppy needs vaccinations to help protect him from diseases. * If your dog moves from the “Down” position. Your Maltese will need a minimum of two multivalent vaccinations (including distemper and Parvo) given three to four weeks apart are required for every dog or puppy over three months old. Chapter 8 Vaccinating Your Dog Immunizing Your Maltese Animals are most susceptible to infections during the first month of life. draw the treat towards the ground in front of him. Diseases That Vaccines Protect Your Maltese From Distemper A highly contagious. There are many effective vaccination schedules and your Maltese is never too old to start a vaccination program. Lifetime protection is maintained by annual booster vaccinations. or Lyme disease are based on owner's perceptions and veterinarian's advice. These antibodies normally last only six to sixteen weeks. Bordatella. while commanding "Down". After that. often fatal. in the muscle (intramuscularly). or by nasal spray. touch the ground and draw the treat towards you. Vaccinations against Coronavirus.* Give the command "sit" using a hand signal or treat (above their nose. vaccinations usually start at six-to-eight weeks of age and are given every three-to-four week until the puppy is 20 weeks of age. Vaccines are administered under the skin (subcutaneous). For young puppies. 50 . This will cause the dog to go to the “down” position to receive the treat. virus that affects a dog's respiratory. Newborn puppies receive disease-fighting antibodies from their mother's milk. Holding his attention.) * Once your dog sits down. make a “no” sound and return him to the “down” position * Keep repeating until he obeys the command consistently. To be sure that nursing animals receive this protection. The source of the infection is usually dog feces. Parvovirus A common and deadly viral infection that poses a serious problem. accompanied by a loss of appetite. The disease spreads through contact with nasal secretions. loss of appetite. liver damage. Leptospirosis An extremely contagious. diarrhea. and can affect humans as well. and can be carried on the feet and hair of infected animals. Generally this virus spreads as an airborne infection. impaired vision. causing high fever. abdominal pain. Parinfluenza This virus is one of a number of infectious agents that cause what is 51 . Clinical signs include vomiting. thirst. Adenovirus (Also know as infectious hepatitis) A viral disease that affects the liver and cells lining the blood vessels. shoes. due to the highly resistant nature of the virus. This virus attacks the intestinal tract. so vaccination is the only effective control. depression. urine or saliva of infected animals. and hemorrhage. and exposure to most disinfectants. severe diarrhea. Most deaths occur within 48 to 72 hours after the onset of clinical signs. and convulsions. Symptoms include vomiting. which can contaminate cages. white blood cells and heart muscle. Coronavirus A highly contagious viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract. bacterial disease that impairs kidney function and may result in kidney failure. The disease is transmitted by contact with the urine of infected animals or by contact with objects that have been contaminated with the urine of infected animals.gastrointestinal. and nervous system. Clinical signs include vomiting. high fever and dehydration. Canine Parvovirus can withstand extreme temperature changes. and high fever. The disease is highly contagious and attacks the respiratory system." It is often associated with other respiratory tract viruses. Giving Medicines: Liquids: With the head of your Maltese angled upward. First visit: You should have selected a vet even before bringing your puppy home.too fast and the dog may chock. 52 . A Vet. In addition to a general check up and examination for parasites. Pills: First place one hand over the upper jaw of your Maltese. it is imperative that your puppy be vaccinated. pull out the bottom lip at the side of the muzzle to form a pouch and pour the medicine slowly -.ideally within 24 hours. In combination these viruses are usually transmitted by contact with the nasal secretions of infected dogs. Close the jaws. domestic dogs and cats. If this does not work you can also place the pill in a small piece of meat or cheese. open the mouth by pressing gently. and humans. bats. itself. but also there is a lot your vet can do to keep your puppy healthy. and with your thumb and fingers on either side. the first meeting of the Vet and puppy should take place as soon as possible . that affects all mammalsespecially raccoons. then place the pill well back on the tongue. The vaccine to protect against this disease may be combined with other vaccines to offer broader protection. Just make sure the dog does not eat the treat and spit out the pill. Rabies A fatal infection of the central nervous system. Not only are these concerns of vital importance.stroking the throat may help speed this up. you and the vet should work out a specific schedule at the first meeting. Once your puppy is home. Most states require it. foxes. skunks. Calendar Of Events Your puppy will need more veterinary care in the first year of life than at any other time. Using a syringe is often easier than a spoon. lift the head slightly and wait for the dog to sallow -. Since rabies poses a serious public health threat. With the other hand pull down the lower jaw.often called "kennel cough. your vet will probably want to meet every two or three weeks for vaccinations. This is an important decision. Initial vaccinations for many diseases start when the puppy is about six weeks and are repeated every two to three weeks until 18 weeks of age. There are boosters at about one year.First three months: In the first three months of your puppy's life. the vet visits usually taper off. The procedure is simple. and these will be repeated on an annual basis. Also watch for your puppy's permanent teeth to appear Four and six months: Spaying or neutering is recommended during this period. Females may take two or three days to be completely normal. it is a good idea for adult dogs to make at least one visit a year to maintain the healthy start they got as puppies. With the number of unwanted dogs born every year. Between four and six months. In general. Three to six months: Rabies vaccinations sometimes are regulated by local laws and often begins between three and six months. 53 . your puppy should be checked again for parasites and your vet may recommend heartworm treatment. and the Males usually recover in a day. Six months to a year: After six months. having your puppy sterilized is the most responsible thing to do. body odor. 54 . the Maltese being a smaller breed tend to have longer lives than the larger breed of dog. thin coat. which is why veterinarians generally recognize age 8 as the start of the geriatric canine years. Dogs that are spayed or neutered before six months of age ordinarily live longer than dogs that are kept intact. he requires a little extra care and attention. dogs have an increased risk of developing age-related health problems. you will be rewarded by continuing good health and loving companionship from your pet. and checking his ears for odor or debris produced by infecting organisms. Beginning around age 8. Other steps to delay the onset of aging in their dogs include regular teeth cleaning to prevent gum disease. A strong.Chapter 9 When Your Maltese Becomes Old As your Maltese gets older. By going the extra mile. or sore spots. Even old dogs generally like to play with a favorite toy for a few minutes each day or take a walk to the corner and back. Good nutrition and exercise is of critical importance in keeping the dog in good shape. regular grooming to keep his skin and coat healthy and to discover any problems such as dry skin. Fortunately for Maltese owners. thin or brittle coat. The passage from one stage to another is often fast paced. healthy dog will probably age later than a dog that is stressed by disease or environment early in his life. A Maltese may easily live to be 16 years old or more. and owners must able to recognize the signs that their Maltese is getting old. Go in for a geriatric physical screening.too much could easily make arthritis worse. wheezing or breathing difficulties. which you should watch for with your elderly Maltese such as arthritis. restlessness at night or exercise intolerance. including nutrition evaluation. which occurs gradually. ulcers in the mouth. Be careful about the amounts of exercise he gets . is the most common type of canine kidney problem. Maintaining a moderateprotein diet in dogs with kidney failure is helpful. have mild weight loss or have increased urination and drinking. For many years. As the disease progresses. the kidney controls levels of metabolic breakdown products. The initial symptoms of kidney disease often are subtle. signals owners to bring them. which may develop in his joints. Dietary management is an important part of treatment. symptoms can become severe and include vomiting. diarrhea. respiratory distress. for more frequent check-ups to the veterinarian. Geriatric examinations are intended to find out signs of disease early so treatment can begin while it is costeffective and easier for the dog. typically are the first signs of congestive heart failure in 55 . which can help determine how well a dog is coping with aging and whether a change in management or diet are needed. these substances can build to damaging levels. There are also a number of specific health problems. depression. When the kidney fails. the practice has been to focus on controlling protein intake.A dog's advancing age. show a change in eating habits. Congestive Heart Failure Coughing. A dog might become lethargic. electrolytes and other products of metabolism in the blood by excreting excesses in the urine. Here are four common health related problems that a Maltese owner may come across: Chronic Kidney Disease Chronic renal failure. alert your veterinarian at once if you notice signs such as coughs. loss of appetite and more dramatic loss of weight. A vital organ for the dog. because the clinical signs of kidney failure often are attributed to problems processing byproducts of protein metabolism. For example. Deficiencies in both potassium and magnesium may contribute to cardiac arrhythmias in dogs. and complications from cardiovascular or other diseases. While sodium intake is generally restricted. Reducing or eliminating table scraps or other high-fat foods. feed several times a day. high-fiber foods formulated for weight loss contain nutrient levels adjusted for calorie restriction. high-protein diet is more effective for loss of body fat than a high-fat diet. potassium and magnesium may need to be supplemented. since the key is to reduce the calorie intake and ensure that it is below calorie expenditure. along with rest. therapy generally consists of medicines. despite similar calorie restriction. Dogs with respiratory or metabolic complications sometimes have artificially elevated serum potassium. however. increasing activity or switching to a lower calorie dog food also should help control weight in obese dogs. Obesity Effective obesity management can help reduce Musculoskeletal problems. compromised immune function. calorie restriction with a low-fat. Veterinarians may suggest that dogs be fed several small meals to help enhance intake and reduce gastrointestinal upset. As the disease progresses. oxygen and dietary sodium restriction.dogs. Feeding increases the metabolic rate. Obesity can contribute to or aggravate heart disease and should be controlled to reduce the workload on the heart. Low-calorie. heat or exercise intolerance. abnormal glucose tolerance. If possible. which masks or even contributes to chronic potassium depletion. nerve transmission and certain metabolic processes. so feeding the same number of calories in four meals 56 . and magnesium helps to regulate the movement of ions across cell membranes. Highly digestible. Almost any nutritionally complete and balanced diet can be used for weight loss. high-calorie diets are usually recommended to enhance calorie absorption and to minimize protein breakdown. Potassium is required for body fluid. feeding measured amounts rather than free feeding. Obese animals have shown pronounced improvement in cardiac performance following weight loss. but soft foods may be needed following extensive tooth loss for some dogs. and petting and encouraging the dog during feeding.instead of one will reduce the number of usable calories. an older dog can have dramatic results when a proper diet is introduced to match its nutritional needs. weight loss could be a normal by. take time to share experiences and enjoy your dog. and dietary modifications vary for underweight dogs.product. offering fresh food frequently. Above all. warming food to body temperature. If poor appetite is a problem. Problems Gaining Weight Weight loss is not unusual in older dogs. However. but not for weight loss due to poor appetite or feeding management problems. Most geriatric diets are designed for low-calorie density and are not appropriate for dogs with weight management problems associated with weight loss. low-fat diet may be effective when weight loss is due to pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. a greater proportion of older dogs are underweight than any other age group. lymph disease or liver disease with fat malabsorption. an owner could try selecting a more palatable diet. Decreased food intake can occur for many reasons. 57 . moistening dry food. Other factors that contribute to raising a healthy senior dog include avoiding stress. Dry foods help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth. A high-carbohydrate. It also might help to minimize noise and stress during feeding. Poor dental health also could prevent an otherwise healthy dog from consuming adequate nutrition. & aid in weight loss. If food intake is normal or increased but a highly active dog has been fed a commercial senior dog diet or reduced-calorie diet. In fact. keeping your dog active and closely monitoring changes. Also." As a responsible pet owner. disease. etc. shots. extra food. # First-time breeders have no reputation and no referrals to help them find buyers.Chapter 10 Facts About Breeding Your Maltese There are three and a half million unwanted dogs put to death in pounds in this country each year. Many dogs. Health care. An unexpected Cesarean or emergency intensive care for a sick pup will set you back by quiet a bit. consider the time and expense of caring for your pups that may not sell until they are four months old. etc. for various reasons. diagnosis of problems and proof of quality. You should ensure that breeding animals should be proven free of these defects before starting on a reproductive career. # Don’t look upon dog breeding as a money making machine. AKC registration is not an indication of quality. should not be bred. it is important to give a lot of thought before you think of breeding your dog. eight months old or more! What would you do? Dump them somewhere and forget 58 . may not want it now. are expensive and must be paid before the pups can be sold. Many. advertising. Nearly a quarter of the victims of this unspeakable tragedy are purebred dogs "with papers. with millions more dying homeless and unwanted through starvation. who wanted a dog like yours. automobiles. even purebred. especially since they may have defects of structure. personality or health that should not be perpetuated. abuse. facilities. You should address and carefully review the following aspects: # As mentioned earlier. stud fees. grooming and training. be prepared for days off work and sleepless nights. but if you can't deal with the possibility of tragedy. mom needs care and feeding. pedigrees and interviewing the buyers. So. Even after delivery. and the whelping box needs lots of cleaning. More hours are spent doing paperwork. # Veteran breeders of quality dogs state that they spend enormous time in raising an average litter. Later. 59 . If you have any abnormal conditions. don't start. if you are thinking of breeding your dog. puppies need daily checking.about them? Of course there can be joy when the puppies are born. then you have more problems on your hands. weighing and socialization. such as sick puppies or a bitch that can't or won't care for her babies. keep a level head and quickly get your dog to the veterinarian. Encourage your dog to drink small amounts of water. gagging). Keep emergency phone numbers near your telephone and in your person. do not attempt to remove the item. Do not induce vomiting if you suspect or know your dog has swallowed a poisonous substance. call the nearest emergency pet clinic. Thaw out the frostbitten areas slowly by applying warm moist towels that are changed frequently until the area becomes flushed. Call first. take him to a cool spot and sponge him with cold water. difficulty swallowing. Severe frostbite can result in damaged paws and ear tips. Emergency Situations-What To Do Penetrating Chest Wounds 60 . so it is best to let your veterinarian determine the extent of the damage as soon as possible.Chapter 11 First Aid In an emergency. at the earliest. pawing at the mouth. If your doctor's office is not open. The objective being. place him in a warm room immediately. At any sign of choking (drooling. there are certain things you can do to help your dog before you get him to the hospital/clinic: • • • • • • • Wrap your dog in a heavy towel or blanket to keep him warm and restrict his movements. If your dog suffers frostbite. Apply cold compress to a burn and gently hold it there until you get to the veterinary clinic. Get assistance if possible. Apply a pressure bandage (sterile gauze or a clean handkerchief) to stem or stop the bleeding of a cut or bite. However. If your dog suffers heatstroke. to get your dog to a professional. ) Rapid. usually characterized by marked loss of blood pressure and depression of vital processes. Take him to a veterinarian immediately. Attempt CPR only if your veterinarian has demonstrated for you the proper technique. Shock Shock is a physiological reaction to bodily trauma. CPR may be attempted.If there is a penetrating wound to the chest associated with difficulty in breathing: • • Do not remove any objects sticking out of the chest! Make an airtight seal over the wound and around any foreign object by applying a cloth or plastic sheet and holding or taping (not too tight!) around the chest. Signs of shock include: • • • • Dazed attitude or unconsciousness Low body temperature (dogs average between 101 and 102. and sucking wounds must be dealt with immediately. CPR should only be attempted if veterinary care is not immediately available or you feel that your Maltese will not survive otherwise.5 degrees F. and intravenous fluids may be necessary to save your Maltese Wounds Severely bleeding wounds. It is generally reversible. Drugs. oxygen. Arterial bleeding. CPR is a twin-pronged procedure consisting of mouth-to-nose respiration and heart massage. shallow respirations Pale or white gums and tongue First aid for shock: • • Control any bleeding Wrap your Maltese in a blanket to keep it from losing body heat. Take him to a Vet immediately Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) • • If no pulse or respirations is detected. the most life threatening kind 61 . deep wounds. Venous bleeding is a slower dripping or pooling of blood. wash the area with a gentle stream of cool water or immerse in a cool bath. cover with a dry cloth or towel and transport to a veterinarian immediately. Move a limb with a suspected fracture as little as possible. Apply a tourniquet loosely only as a last resort. or if a limb is not in a normal position or is dangling limply. Then apply a cold compress on the burn to minimize the damage. or electrical. ligaments. Lacerations (cuts through the skin) should be closed as soon as possible to maximize healing and minimize infection. Major wounds should receive veterinary attention immediately. is characterized by rhythmic spurting. Fractures are categorized as open (bone protruding through the skin) or closed. • • For burns that leave the skin intact. Fractures Fractures are cracks or breaks in bones. steady pressure with clean. cover with a light bandage to keep it as clean as possible. 62 . But it could be difficult to tell them from a fracture. Maltese are particularly prone to infection and often require antibiotics to facilitate healing. chemical. Minor wounds should be examined within 24 hours. Swelling occurs very quickly over a broken bone in any location. Superficial wounds may be cleaned with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or salt water (1 tsp. creams. • • If the bone is exposed. • • • To control bleeding. Do not apply oils. Sprains and strains are injuries to the muscles. Only an X-ray can confirm this type of injury accurately Burns Burns are categorized as thermal. it is simpler to support the leg with a folded towel or blanket before transporting to a veterinarian. absorbent material. or tendons. Suspect a fracture if the animal refuses to put weight on a leg.of bleeding. While splinting can be done with many fractures. salt in 1 pint warm water is comparable to normal body fluids). or butter to a burn! For full-thickness burns (completely through the skin). A major goal of First Aid is to prevent a closed fracture from becoming an open fracture. apply gentle. Often the full extent of the burn will not be apparent for several days and they are extremely prone to infection. Heatstroke occurs when the outside temperature exceeds the range of 101 to 102. Do not cut the wound and suck out the venom or apply tourniquets. Electrical burns may cause only superficial burns in the mouth. Your Maltese has been in an enclosed area with poor air circulation such as an enclosed car or room. rattlesnakes. The early warning signs of a heat stroke are: • • • • • Extreme panting and salivation Your Maltese has an anxious or panicky expression Collapse follows the above symptoms Rectal temperature exceeds 105 degrees F. but may also cause convulsions or life-threatening heart and lung conditions. Suspect a snakebite if: • • Extreme swelling and pain occurs suddenly.5 degrees F. Antivenin is not readily available in most areas but fortunately is not usually necessary. and is more common when humidity is high. or shock. Snakebite While many snakes are non venomous.• Always seek veterinary care for a burn. Keep a watch from 24 to 48 hours after the incident. especially when it involves an extremity like a nose or a paw Fang-marks are found on the surface of such a wound (they may or may not be evident) If you suspect a snakebite: • • Keep your Maltese warm and quiet Transport immediately to a veterinarian. These efforts may cause more harm than good Heatstroke Maltese cannot sweat and thus cannot effectively dissipate body heat. Steroids and antibiotics are the mainstays of treatment. and water moccasins can cause painful tissue reactions. copperheads. infection. has been in direct 63 . they pant.a mechanism which works well when the outside temperature is below their normal body temperature. Instead. Place ice packs on the head and around the body OR apply rubbing alcohol to the body and extremities but not the head Check the body temperature with a rectal thermometer every 5 minutes and stop heat reduction measures when it reaches 103 degrees F. Areas most prone to frostbite are the tail. handle these fragile tissues gently.) water until veterinary care is available. When your Maltese regains consciousness. A hair dryer may be directed toward your Maltese for passive warming If your Maltese does not quickly show signs of consciousness and a normal shivering pattern. allow it to drink as much cold water as possible Massage the legs vigorously to stimulate circulation and prevent shock See a veterinarian as soon as possible. place him in a tub of warm (105 to 110 degrees F. Frostbitten tissues appear leathery and hair may appear white. Often intravenous fluids. Especially susceptible are puppies and small breeds. and the footpads’ .to avoid overcooling. tips of the ears.To treat cold exposure cases: • • • Warm your Maltese slowly by wrapping in a blanket and placing a hot water bottle or a heating pad under the blanket. or has been exercising excessively on a hot day The goal of treating heatstroke is to get its body temperature down quickly. • • • • • Immerse your Maltese in or hose down with cold water. Drowning Hold your Maltese upside down and squeeze his chest gently but firmly until fluid stops coming out 64 .. steroids and cold-water enemas are often necessary to prevent permanent damage to the brain and kidneys Frostbite and Hypothermia Occurs when your Maltese loses body temperature quickly.sunlight without access to fresh water. The extent of the damage may not be obvious for several days. begin feeding boiled chicken. Then gradually switch back to its regular food over several days.. execute CPR and transport him to a Vet. per 5 pounds of body weight to help settle the stomach. Offer small amounts of water frequently or let the animal lick an ice cube. turkey. Vomiting and Diarrhea Vomiting may be a sign of a very minor problem or could signal a very serious one. Causes of vomiting include: • • • • • • • • • Sudden changes in diet Intestinal parasites (worms) Bacterial or viral infections Motion sickness Foreign body ingestion Poisoning Kidney failure or other metabolic disorders Special types of stomach or intestinal disorders Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas gland) When vomiting occurs only once or twice and is not associated with other problems: • • • • Withhold all food for 24 hours.If your Maltese has no pulse or respiration and veterinary care is not immediately available. Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate may be given in dosage of 1/2 to 1 tsp. If no vomiting occurs during that 24 hours period of time. or hamburger with boiled white rice in small quantities but frequently. Signs of serious vomiting include: • • • • • Symptoms lasting more than 24 hours Vomiting is accompanied by diarrhea Blood is observed in the Vomitus or stool Fever Evidence of pain 65 . Vomiting may or may not be associated with diarrhea. Eye Injuries and Infections The eyes of your Maltese are very delicate and are prone to a lot of problems. Proptosed eyes must be treated immediately to hope to salvage vision and retain a cosmetically pleasing eye. sunken eyes. Common eye problems could include: • • • • • Conjunctivitis (infection of the lining of the eyelids) Corneal abrasions or ulcers Foreign bodies between the eye and eyelids or in the eye itself Glaucoma (increased pressure within the eyeball) Proptosis of the eyeball is frequently the result of trauma to animals with protruding eyes. seek veterinary care immediately. The eyeball is actually forced partially out of its socket by the sudden change in pressure. Otherwise it might become a more serious problem. 66 . This will keep the eye moist and help to prevent infection. What you could do in the meantime: • • • • Remove any foreign material such as plant matter that is visible and reachable under the eyelids Flush the eye gently with water or saline solution if you suspect that noxious fluids or small particles have entered the eye Keep discharge from the eye from building up by gently wiping the corner of the eye with a moistened cotton ball. dull. If you suspect an injury or an infection in an eye. Apply an antibiotic ointment intended for the eye if possible.• • Weakness or collapse Signs of dehydration are observed (poor gum color. or decreased elasticity of the skin) Any vomiting or diarrhea in a puppy should be considered potentially serious. Prevent your Maltese from rubbing or scratching the affected eye. Another solution would be to purchase purified bottled water. as it has to be eliminated through the kidneys. There are methods to open them. My Maltese has an eye stain problem. One option would be to train your Maltese to drink from a water bottle. What would cause a deep reddish-brown stain below my Maltese eyes? Is there a remedy? A yeast infection like Red Yeast or Ptyrosporin could cause a reddishbrown stain below the eyes. You could check with your Vet if this is the result of clogged tear ducts. But remember that Tetracycline can cause serious stomach upsets. which will help keep the face dry. Can I give Tetracycline? I believe it works wonders! This antibiotic may be quite helpful and some claim that there was a marked improvement. 67 .Chapter 12 FAQ’s Could the water my Maltese drinks have anything to do with staining? Your Maltese’s face could stain because of the high mineral content in your water that he drinks. stepped on or constantly teased. Someone told me that certain bowls cause stain my Maltese’s face. A stainless steel bowl is best. they aren't that strong to withstand it.maltese. Where can I start my search for a Maltese breeder? A huge extensive list can be obtained by visiting http://american. Is this true? Some plastic bowls will cause discoloration of the face. you should be on the lookout for a little larger and hardier type of a breed. Since they are very fragile. This is true.Tetracycline will also cause the teeth to stain. because there is not a single responsible breeder who would allow one of his or her dogs to be marketed like regular merchandise to whoever can come up with the cash. no responsible breeder would sell their dogs to pet stores! I have small children (ages 5 & 3). or a backyard breeder. between 14 years to 18 years 68 . if you have any doubts at all. as it doesn't chip or crack and is easy to keep clean.us What is the average life of a Maltese? Normally. It should never be used as a remedy for a tearstain problem. I read somewhere that I should not buy my Maltese from a pet shop. as a pup is very fragile. When the young children play rough. Generally. Why not? Normally puppies sold at a pet shop come from a puppy mill. they can even brake or dislocate a bone! Thus. Especially if they are dropped. Is the Maltese too fragile for this age group? The Maltese. What is the best age to have my Maltese spayed? That would be before the first heat. so that the risk of anesthesia is faced only once instead of twice. all you have to do is to double the weight of a healthy Maltese puppy when he/she is 15 weeks of age. How often should a Maltese be thoroughly groomed? 69 . if required to be done. two meals a day are suggested for those Maltese that are either tiny. take him out on those days even if it’s a car ride. However it is very minimal. Maltese are single coated and do shed. with the spay surgery. What is happening? The pigment on a Maltese's nose could be turning pink due to lack of sunshine-maybe because of the winter months. If the weather isn't very cold and is sunny outside. Also check on the type of bowl that he's eating and drinking from. You can dovetail any dental work. This is what she will be when she becomes an adult How often should I feed my new Maltese puppy? It is a good practice to feed the Maltese puppy three times a day until he is six months of age. .The nose of my Maltese seems to be turning light brown and sometimes almost pink. If it's plastic that could be the reason as well. Do Maltese dogs shed? Yes. It used to be dark black like a chunk of coal. usually around 6 months of age. Afterward. How big will my Maltese puppy get when she is an adult? To get an idea. or for those with poor body weight problems. Pet stores do not provide any health records for puppies and their health guarantees are very limited. Once you've found a good breeder. The main objective would be to gain a hefty profit. If your female is your only Maltese and she survives and is able to raise her family she will be busy with them for nearly two months and you are no longer the center of her attention. if you want a 70 . On the other hand. But it is not that easy. if the female survives the anesthesia her milk may be scarce. the puppies may then need to be raised by hand requiring around the clock feedings every three hours. playful and energetic. Many times Maltese females cannot deliver their puppies on their own and may require a cesarean section. Not understanding the high standard and haphazard breeding practices may lead the Maltese breed to deteriorate to a "me too" breed that is over bred.Every other day or at least twice a week depending on the length of the coat. when they first become aware of this lovely breed. look for a puppy with those qualities. How often should I bathe my Maltese? Every dog is different however usually once every 7 -10 days works for most Can my pet Maltese be bed? Many people. look for a puppy that fits your lifestyle. looks nothing like the standard and ends up in shelter populations. If you are active. never buy a Maltese puppy from a pet store because you don’t know where the puppy came from and under what conditions it was bred. There are so many things that can do wrong and the heartbreak associated with this is not easy. Is this what you want to see happen to the Maltese breed? What are the main things to look for when purchasing a Maltese pup? It is most important to buy your puppy from a reputable Maltese breeder. As a general rule. or you have children. soon come to the conclusion that it would be a wonderful idea to buy a female puppy and raise litter from her in the future. unless you are preparing for the show ring. look for a puppy that is perhaps more shy or reserved. and on rare occasions . grooming should be done at least every other day.lap dog or you need a quieter relaxed atmosphere. while remaining independent. or a puppy born with a serious defect that it dies shortly after birth. Keep the face clean. They are also very beautiful to look at. and brush or comb the coat using a spray or liquid 71 . They adapt well to their owners lifestyle--they just want to please you and be with you no matter what. in other words. the Maltese is probably the least likely to cause allergy problems How often should I bathe my Maltese? A bath once a week is often enough in most cases. therefore they do not shed like other breeds do. How many puppies do Maltese usually have? On an average about two to three puppies. and are from 4 to 6 inches in length I have never owned a Maltese.were able to live with Maltese dogs without any adverse reactions. Would you recommend a Maltese for me? There have been many cases where people with allergy problems -who could not tolerate other breeds. loving and subservient. How big are Maltese puppies when they are born? On an average. They are not a "yappy" breed. With larger litters there is a higher risk of having a stillborn puppy. They are playful. But. (which if done regularly) only takes about 10 minutes. and they do not shed. A probable reason for this is that the Maltese are a "single coated" dog. newborn Maltese puppies weigh from 3 to 6 ounces. Although it's not rare to have four puppies. Maltese dogs have no undercoat. What are they like? The Maltese makes a great companion. even five puppies in a litter. Of all the breeds of dogs. But they are fearless in their watch duties and play I have allergies. moldings and walls will help deter your Maltese. How do I begin house training? Begin with a schedule. not your dogs. My puppy continues to chew on everything else. spank or rub their nose in the mess. Failures in proper house training are human mistakes. also after naps and meals. How about with other dogs? Maltese will often have no fear in the presence of a larger dog.detangler product between baths to keep the coat from getting tangled and matted Will my cat and my new Maltese get along? Yes. but precautions should be taken as cats may choose to use their claws in play which can cause damage to the eyes of the Maltese. as a larger dog may respond aggressively What should I use to clean up “accidents”? Use preferably an enzyme based odor eliminator. You should praise your puppy after they “go potty”. but care should be taken. 72 . Take your Maltese outside before bed and first thing in the morning. What will help him stop? Spraying bitter apple available at your local pet store to items such as chair legs. Should I punish my Maltese for these “accidents”? You should never scream. including name. They should then be fed 2 times a day for the rest of their lives. fats. Should I supplement my dogs diet? If he is neither over nor underweight. And of course fresh water. carbohydrates. Other methods of identification include tattoos and microchips. This is especially important for older dogs.When should I first take my puppy to the vet? A complete checkup should be scheduled within the first 72 hours of your purchase. How much should I be feeding my new Maltese? Puppies should be fed 3 times a day until three months of age. What should my dogs diet include? A balanced diet of protein. vitamins and minerals. is alert and healthy looking you need not add any supplements to their diet. A 25% can / 75% dry diet will give your dog the benefit of both. What should I do to identify my dog? The best identification is a simple ID tag for the collar. Do not give your puppy fresh milk. Should I feed my Maltese dry or canned foods? Both contain similar ingredients with the primary difference being their moisture content. 73 . What about my dogs’ teeth? Dogs should have their teeth brushed everyday to avoid plaque buildup. address and phone number. gasping Continual straining: attempting to defecate or urinate with little or no result Heavy bleeding: from any part of the body. bleeding Vomiting and/or diarrhea: severe for more than two to three days Poisoning: chemical. spider or plant. snake. falling over. retain for veterinarian to identify type of poisoning CALL SAME DAY • Breathing difficulties: labored. diluted 50percent with water. unable to get up Difficulty breathing: noisy breathing. continuous or spasmodic Itching: uncontrollable scratching. shampoo and condition well. rapid or shallow 74 .What about the yellow “pee” stains on their feet? A solution of 50 percent liquid Woolite and 50 percent human hair peroxide (20 volume). pain Pain: severe. Apply this mixture to the stained area and let it remain there for three to five minutes. When TO Call Your Vet CALL IMMEDIATELY • • • • • • • • • • • • Birth defects Burns: often difficult to assess depth and extent Choking: appears distressed. Wash out. lameness. salivates. blue tongue. extends head and neck. paws the mouth Collapse or loss of balance: Depression. coughs. walking in circles. staggering. exposed bone. rigidity. biting at the skin. Apply pressure Injury: puncture wound. other than a soiled coat Vomiting: on 2-3 occasions. scratching. skin red and inflamed Frost bite (hypothermia): low body temperature. tears streaming down cheeks Itching: biting. wrap in blankets to keep warm Swelling: hard and painful Swallowed object: better to assess earlier Vomiting: vomiting associated with lethargy Wait For 24 Hours • • • • • Diarrhea: no signs of abdominal pain or blood Itching: moderate.• • • • • • • Diarrhea: fluid and/or putrid Eye problems: eyelids partially or completely closed. cornea cloudy. no sign of skin damage Odor: unpleasant odor. hair loss. no other symptoms Lameness: depressed but not affecting eating or other bodily functions 75 . viewed from above. Abdomen tucked up when viewed from the side. with minimal fat covering. Waist easily noted. 4 Underweight Ribs easily palpable. 2 Very Thin Ribs. Minimal loss of muscle mass. Tops of lumbar vertebrae visible. lumbar vertebrae. 3 Thin Ribs easily palpitated and may be visible with no palpable fat. pelvic bones and all bony prominences evident from a distance. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. No palpable fat. No discernible body fat. 76 . pelvic bones and all bony prominences easily visible. lumbar vertebrae. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck.Body Condition Chart 1 Emaciated Ribs. Obvious loss of muscle mass. Noticeable fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. 7 Heavy Ribs palpable with difficulty. Abdominal tuck evident. Abdominal tuck may be absent. Waist observed behind ribs when viewed from above.5 Ideal Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Obvious abdominal distension may be present. Heavy fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Abdominal tuck apparent. 6 Overweight Ribs palpable with slight excess fat covering. 77 . Waist absent or barely visible. Waist and abdominal tuck. Waist is discernible viewed from above but is not prominent. Waist absent. heavy fat cover. spine and base of tail. No abdominal tuck. 9 Grossly Obese Massive fat deposits over thorax. or palpable only with significant pressure. 8 Obese Ribs not palpable under very heavy fat cover.