The Maltese make a great pet for apartment dwellers.
The maltese is a toy dog recognized by the American Kennel Club. These feisty, playful and affectionate dogs form a close bond with their owner. However, due to their small size, they are fragile animals. "Teacup" Maltese are not an actual breed; this is a name applied by some breeders to sell the runt of the litter or one that they have specifically bred to be smaller than normal (less than four pounds as an adult).
Considerations
The Maltese needs socialization; they can become destructive if left alone for long periods of time. Though the Maltese has a social and friendly manner, small children often aren't aware of handle a small dog properly and need supervision. Toy breeds in particular are more fragile, and thus the Maltese can easily be harmed or even killed in the home. Also, they typically need only short walks plus playtime in the home or backyard to satisfy their exercise requirements; they can become exhausted easily if taken on an extended walk.
Breeder
When choosing a Maltese from a breeder, request to see the dam and sire, as well as the littermates. If the breeder offers this or is open to your request, the family looks healthy, and they can provide a pedigree of the line, then you have selected a good breeder. If a breeder offers a "Teacup" Maltese, be aware that this is a runt of the litter or a dog that is deliberately bred to be smaller than normal; they often come with a multitude of health issues due to underdeveloped organs and bones. Lastly, most puppies for sale through the Internet come from puppy mills.
Home Care
Maltese dogs need enough attention to provide them with enough socialization to be friendly with strangers and other dogs. Maltese experts agree that the Maltese is difficult to housebreak and many recommend crate training.
Feeding crunchy high-quality dog food can help keep their teeth clean, while feeding table scraps or "people food" may make Maltese dogs more picky eaters. They love to be lap dogs, but overindulging them may lead to excessive shyness and distrust around other people and dogs.
Grooming
Teacup or standard-size, the Maltese's soft white coat naturally grows long, often down to the floor. They do not have an undercoat and do not shed very much, so the breed is often the choice for people with allergies or who simply don't want to deal with pet hair. Brushing the coat daily will keep the coat mat-free. Many owners, typically those who decide not to show their Maltese, prefer to have a groomer clip the coat short which gives them a "puppy look" even as adults. They tend to get stains at the inside corners of their eyes on the hair that grows there, so consistent gentle wiping of the area will alleviate the stains. Lastly, as in any other breed, regularly clip the nails and brush the teeth.
Teacup Maltese Issues
If you have a Teacup Maltese, be very careful with your dog since the bones are more fragile; prevent broken bones by setting up ramps to keep your Maltese from jumping off of furniture. Avoid excessive exercise since playing too vigorously could lead to broken bones as well. Undernourishment is common in Teacup dogs when they are first brought home; signs include lethargy, dullness, weakness and shallow breathing. See your veterinarian regularly to evaluate any conditions associated with underdeveloped organs.
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