What Is a Breed Standard?

All dogs come with four legs, a tail and a head with ears, eyes   so how do we differentiate a Maltese Puppy from other dogs? This blueprint is a de­scription in simple words that depicts the breed char­acteristics of a Maltese Puppy. (There is a standard for every purebred dog.) However, the standard can sometimes be difficult to fully understand and can, in fact, take many years of study to distinguish its finer points. Breeders, judges and fanciers use the standard as a yardstick by which they measure the quality of the Maltese Puppy. It should, however. Be remembered that the standard describes the "'perfect" Maltese puppies. But no dog is ever perfect and no Maltese puppies will possess every quality in the standard.

Useful Tools To Judge Conformation to the Standard for Maltese puppies:

Type - Type refers to the combination of distin­guishing characteristics that make a Maltese puppies unique from another breed of dog.

Balance-Balance refers to the Maltese puppies’s overall proportions. A well-balanced Maltese puppies will have no glaring.

Style-Style refers to a combination of showman­ship, personality and elegance. An outstanding Maltese puppies should possess all of traits.

Soundness-Soundness refers to the absence of any disability that interferes with the gait or move­ment of the Maltese puppies.

The Maltese Ancestry

Known to many as "ye ancient doggie or Malta," the ~Maltese puppies can be traced back many centuries. This beauti­ful silky-coaled little white dog has a rich and exciting history, the admirers or Maltese Puppy come from all walks of life from the pet fanciers and show fanciers to the rich and famous. Few breeds have achieved such affection and administration over the years as the elegant little Maltese Puppy.

Early History

Many believe that the Maltese Puppy originated on the Isle of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea.  However, it is argued in Miki Iveria’s and other sources that the Maltese puppies actually originated in Asia.   Evidence of the dogs resembling the Maltese Puppy have been found in ancient drawings, art and writings from as early as 5000-6000 B.C.

Assuming the place of origin of the Maltese puppies to be Asia, the tiny dogs probably made their way to Europe through the Middle East with the migration of the nomadic tribes.  The Isle of Malta (or Melita as it was known then), was a geographic center of the early trade, and explorers undoubtedly found ancestors of the tiny white dogs left there as barter for supplies.  

References to the little white dog are made in early European writing.  In describing a breed of small dogs, Aristotle likens them to the Maltese puppies of the tiny sort, being perfectly proportioned not withstanding its very small rise, “ The Maltese puppies were favorites of the Greeks and Romans of Old.  There are many drawings in existence portraying small, longhaired dogs on pieces of Greek and Roman pottery.  During these times the Maltese puppies was a favorite lap dog of fashionable men and women about town,  being carried where its master went.

The ancient Europeans long held the belief that the small dogs came from one of the islands off the coast of Sicily, hence the name Canines Melitae (eventually geographers and writers agreed to the name Malta).  The Maltese puppies is one of the few dogs breeds to have retained its name from its knows origins.

Malta’s (Maltese puppies) location made it an important place in the Mediterranean.  In developed a culture and a race of people with distinctive characteristics, and it developed the little Maltese puppies, a race of dogs that differs from almost every other breed.   Malta’s geographic situation provided an ecology that remained undiluted by outside influences for many centuries.  Maltese puppies, as dwellers of the island of Malta (Maltese puppies), were bred as purebred dogs as far back as the early 1500s.

The Maltese Puppy English Background

Maltese were first imported into Britain during the reign of Henry VIII, and they became great favorites in the time of the Queen Elizabeth I.  By the middle of the 19^th century the breed (Maltese) was well established as a pet dog in Britain, and when dog shows began, the Maltese were featured among the early exhibits.   Many of the Maltese in the U.S.  Today trace their heritage back to English Importers.

The Maltese in the United States.

Maltese were first seen in the United States around the late 1800s, but the geographic origin of the Maltese is unknown.   We do know, however, that the Maltese lines in the U.S. today resulted from the importation of the breed from Great Britain, Canada, Germany, France and Italy.   Members of the Maltese breed were participants in the earliest versions of the Westminster Kennel Club shows in the 1870s.  Maltese registrations with the America Kennel Club studbook in that time frame were made on the basis of show winnings.   The first registrations of Maltese occurred in 1888, when “Snips” and “Topsy” – both bitches- appeared in the studbooks.

The Maltese today- the number of Maltese registered with the AKC grew slowly until the 1950s.  Since then, however, the breed’s popularity has increased dramatically among breeders, fanciers and pet owners.  There are other registries today as well.   In the 1990’s the Maltese breed ranks in the top fifteen of all breeds in more than 12,000 Maltese registered annually.   Maltese are one of the most popular breeds among spectators at dog shows, and they do not let down their many fans.   They are frequent winners of the Toy Group in which they are shown and have an excellent record in Best in Show competition.  The Best in show record was broken in the 1990s by the lovely male Ch.  Sand Island Small Kraft Lite, bred and owned by the late Carol Frances Andersen, who amassed eighty-twp Best in Shows.   Henry, as he was knows, was the Maltese winner of the Toy Group at the Westminster Kennel Club show,  as well as ranking as one of the top ten dogs of all breeds in the U.S. while he was actively shown.

The Maltese –

The Maltese is a very special sort of dog, with the spirit, heart and loyalty of a much larger animal contained in a very small body.   Any one who has become acquainted with a well-bred Maltese of this breed has a respect and affection for its attributes and its history.  This spirited little breed (Maltese) is very intelligent.  Maltese are very sensitive and very responsive.  Most of all the Maltese are extremely loving.

What can you expect from a Maltese.     Your Maltese will want to be your constant companion.  The Maltese will be happy sitting by your side while you read a book or watch television, but he will also like to accompany you wherever you go.   Maltese enjoy a walk with their owners, and a trip in the car is always welcome.   Maltese make good watchdogs and will sound alarms when a stranger comes to the door- but once the “stranger” is welcomed into the home, the Maltese will make friends with you guest.   In the fact, many fans of the Maltese breed have said that they will kill you with their kisses,   and the Maltese will go home with strangers.

Maltese, despite their diminutive size.  Are a very hardy dog.  Compared to many breeds the Maltese are quite free of genetic medical problems.   Your Maltese will live well into his teen and you can expect him to be his same playful and mischievous self fro most of those years.    Maltese are one of several long coated breeds, but the Maltese are the smallest and the only one with pure white coat.   The Maltese coat strongly resembles  human hair with people who may be allergic to other breeds of dogs or cats may find that they can get along fine with a Maltese.   Maltese do not shoed their coats seasonally like dogs with short coats but because of their long hair they do require more maintenance than a shorthaired dog.   Maltese owners should expect to provide frequent grooming sessions or regular visits to a professional groomed. 

Sunshine and Fresh Air for your Maltese.

Sunshine is good for the overall health of your Maltese.  All dogs need to go outside daily fro-fresh air.   If you don’t have a fenced yard for your Maltese or an exercise area, a walk around the block on his leash will give your god his needed daily outside exercise.   But caution should be used when walking a Maltese.   Maltese are such friendly, fearless little dogs that they will probably want to greet other dogs that he meets, and he could certainly be hurt by a less friendly canine.

Many people are concerned about the pigment on the nose of their Maltese.  When the Maltese noses turn grayish, fade or have patches of white at the corner, they are sometimes referred to as” winter noses”.  Breeders and exhibitors have long known that the more time a Maltese spends outdoors “soaking up” the sunshine, the deeper and darker the nose pigment.   While you should ensure that your Maltese has plenty of fresh water while the Maltese is out and that the temperature is not exceedingly hot, the Maltese will enjoy some time lolling in the sun.

Maltese love to walk, day or night, winter, spring, summer or fall, even in the rain or snow.  If you plan to walk your Maltese when the weather is inclement you should consider investing in a sweater and / or raincoat for the your Maltese.   Tiny doggy boots are also available for your Maltese.   As if you a Maltese was not adorable enough on his own he is probably even more adorable with his sweater on.   And his sweater or raincoat will help him enjoy his frequent excursions.

Maltese are not a playmate for small children.  Maltese are definitely entertaining little characters, and with their love of people and small size many children are naturally drawn to them.   Bear in mind that although a Maltese may look like a stuffed toy, he is not.  Maltese can break- if you have children that want a dog to roll and play with on the floor, you may wish to consider a different breed.  Because of the Maltese delicate bone structure they can easily break bones falling off chair.  The Maltese can also fall of tables and when caught in the middle of a pile of overly zealous children.  In fact, many reputable Maltese Puppy breeders will not sell puppies to families with children under 1-3 years of age. 

Maltese and other pets.  

Because of the Maltese lively personalities, Maltese usually get along well with most other animals in the household.   But do remember that your Maltese will probably be the smallest dog in the home and you may need to supervise a rambunctious larger dog closely when playing with a Maltese.   On the lead in a strange environment, a Maltese will more often than not hove no fear approaching the larger dog.  Do be careful, as this larger dog may not return the affection.

Maltese will get along well with cats in the household, but care must be taken with cats as well.   A cat may choose to use her claws in play, which can cause severed damage to the eyes of the tiny Maltese.   Older cats sometimes need to be watched closely with a new Maltese as they can consider them prey, much like small rodent.  As the Maltese matures and knows how to approach the cat this problem should be alleviated.

Take your Maltese Puppy with you when you go out.

Maltese, as adoring little companions, love to travel with their owners.   The easiest and safest way for your Maltese to travel with you is in his crate.  If you will be going on a trip for an extended period of time remember to take a few of his favorite toys, the Maltese food and water dishes.   Take a collar for your Maltese and leash and his food.  Taking some of your home water along with a bottle can eliminate diarrhea that may be caused by changes in water.   Alternatively, you can use a squeeze of lemon in the water to help alleviate problems associated with water away from home.  Don’t forget your doggy first (Maltese) a doggie first aid kit and any medications your Maltese may take.  

If you will be flaying with your Maltese, he will need to visit his veterinarian to acquire a health certificate, insuring his vaccinations are up-to-date and that he is healthy.  A Maltese Puppy can travel in the cargo hold for a small charge, but traveling in this area of the plane can be uncomfortable and frightening.   Your Maltese will be safer.  

Pet Maltese should not be bred.

Many people, when they first become aware of this lovely Maltese breed, soon come to the conclusion that it would be a wonderful idea to buy a female Maltese and to breed her with objective of ultimately making a nice profit.   It is, however, nearly impossible to make money breeding dogs.   There are so many things that can and do go wrong and the heartbreak associated with this is beast avoided.  Many times Maltese Puppy females cannot deliver their puppies on their own and required a dangerous Caesarean section.  If the female Maltese survives this surgery, her milk may be scarce, and thus the Maltese will need to be raised by hand, requiring round the clock feedings every three hours.  If you female Maltese 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 to center of your Maltese attention.   Your faithful Maltese companion now has other interests.   Are you willing to give up the companionship of your Maltese for that period of time?

An even better reason not to breed your Maltese is to avoid exacerbating the problem of the abundance of the abandoned dogs.   One need only go visit some of the abandoned dogs.  One need only go to visit some of the animal shelters to see the overly- bred pet population.   Maltese are very rarely seen in shelter populations and have retained their breed elegance by dedicated breeders that know and understand the breed standard.  Understanding the standard of the Maltese Puppy and the genetics in the breed may take many years.   Not understanding the standard of the Maltese to deteriorate to a “me too” breed that is over bred and ends up in shelter populations.   This is not what you want for the Maltese, or for any breed of dog.

 THERE IS LITTLE DOUBT that the Maltese  is one of the oldest of dog breeds. Darwin himself placed the origin of the breed at 6000 B.C. An aristocrat of the canine world, the Maltese has been known by a variety of names through the centuries. Originally called the Melitaie Dog, been known as Ye Ancient Doggie of Malta, the Roman Ladies' Dog, the Comforter, the Spaniel Gentle, the Bichon, the Shock Dog, the Maltese Puppy Lion Dog and the Maltese Puppy Terrier. Finally, approximately within the past century, he has come to be known as, simply, he Maltese Puppy.

Malta of Old – Maltese

Maltese Puppy Dog, the name by which he was known to the Greeks and Romans, was derived from the Island of Maltese Puppy , the ancient name for the Island of Malta. Malta is one of the most ancient sites of civilization. Settled by the Phoenicians at about 1500 B.C., Malta incorporated several other Mediterranean peoples who had inhabited the island as far back as 3500 B.C. Civilization on the island grew and prospered. There are numerous historical accounts of the magnificently opulent Maltese Puppy civilization. It was within this celebrated society of the ancient world that the tiny Maltese Puppy dog was prized and nurtured by its citizens. A leader in the crafts and arts, both domestic and military, in that era, Malta became one of the most important ancient centers of trade. It was from here that these highly prized dogs found their way throughout the world.

Original Roots of Maltese

Historically there is no evidence to suggest that the Maltese  is indigenous to the Island of Malta. He is descended from a Spitz-type dog, bred for turf and marsh, by the peoples inhabiting south central Europe and the area which is now Switzerland. It is likely that the dog was carried south by these people as they migrated down the Italian and Greek peninsulas. Eventually, the dog was found throughout the Mediterranean region. It is believed that the dog came to the eastern Mediterranean via the ancient island trading center of Malta, as Malta was a major supplier of goods to the area. The Maltese Puppy dog was included among the exotic Maltese Puppy articles of trade and was a highly prized diplomatic tribute. Arriving in the Middle East, the Maltese Puppy dog soon populated the area.

Eventually, the dog found himself even farther to the East. Carried by trade caravans loaded with occidental merchandise and tribute, the Maltese Puppy dog migrated as far as Tibet and China. Indeed, he was taken to Japan and the island areas, such as the Philippines off the Asian coast. In the Middle East and the Far East he was sometimes known as the Fu Un dog, possibly, as noted by Mrs. Leitch in her book, The Maltese Puppy Dog, a name which was transliterated from the Greek E Po Lin.

The Maltese Puppy had a strong influence on the type of dog developed in Tibet. Historical evidence leads one to believe that the Maltese Puppy is part of the gene pool of the Lhasa Apso and the Tibetan Terrier. Specimens of both these breeds now bred in the United States are a great deal larger than earlier dogs. The Lhasa, for example, should measure nine or 10 inches at the shoulder for males, females slightly smaller. This is quite a small dog. Further, white does occur in the Lhasa Apso, albeit less frequently than colors. The pure white Lhasa Apso has black points. The Tibetan Terrier and Tibetan Spaniel are also ancient breeds, and the Maltese Puppy dog may have been introduced at some early point in their histories.

The Maltese Puppy may have also served as a foundation for the toy-type dogs in China. Early Western ceramic and porcelain representatives of the Pekingese bear little resemblance to the dog we know as a Pekingese today. They are higher and straighter of leg, and longer in muzzle: a definite Spaniel-type. These early representations of the Pekingese bear strong resemblance to ancient illustrations of the Maltese Puppy. Indeed, the first Pekingese brought to England from the Chinse Imperial Palace do not bear any resemblance to the modern Pekingese at all. They more closely resembled a dog of Maltese Puppy type.

Artifacts and Documentation

The first known representation of a Maltese Puppy-type dog is dated 600-300 B.C. It was unearthed in a dig at Fayum, near Cairo, Egypt. From evidence such as this, it is concluded that the Maltese Puppy was among dogs worshiped by the ancient Egyptians.

Maltese Puppy are featured on Greek vases found at Yulei, dated about 500 B.C., which are now part of the Bassegio collection. The ancient Greeks are known to have held their Maltese Puppy in great esteem. They were fed the choicest of foods from golden bowls. They were known to command great; urns in the marketplace. Indeed, they were highly prized, especially among ladies of the upper classes and people of influence, such as governors.

Tales of the undying devotion of the Maltese Puppy for his master are luminous in ancient Greek texts. Specific instances afe recorded where the Maltese Puppy's devotion was so great they were known to have willingly followed their masters to the grave. The Greeks, in return, were equally devoted to their Maltese Puppy dogs. They erected elaborate shrines and tombs in honor of their dogs. The written tribute to the breed was elaborate, as well. It came in the form of both prose and verse, penned by some of the most noted men of the epoch. Among them was Aristotle (384-322 B.C.), who wrote a short story and account of the breed. He noted that the place of origin was the land of Malta. He made note of their small size, about that OFA weasel or t, and their perfect proportions.

Timon in 280 B.C. wrote describing the Sybarites and their luxuriant "style. Included among their prized possessions were the little white dogs ported from the Island of Malta. These little dogs attended the Sybarites all they did, including luxurious baths.

In 264 B.C.. Callimachus wrote in some detail of the very small dogs ported from Malta. He noted that the dogs were kept mostly by women, a source of amusement and pleasure. Because of their function, he observed that the smaller they were the better. Women were known to have tried Maltese Puppy dogs in their bosoms and easily in their arms. The Maltese Puppy: indeed a very pampered pet, as it is recorded that they were even taken with their masters. Callimachus     is the   first writer to make note of the of  the Maltese Puppy dog for medicinal purposes. The dog was laid upon the nach or chest of the afflicted, in order to draw and ease pain.

Others among the ancient writers to mention the Maltese Puppy were Aelian, midorus and Epaminodus. Aelian wrote: "Epaminodus, on his return 1 Lacedaemon, was summoned to a court of law to answer a charge Iiving the penalty of death, because he had continued the command of : army four months longer than he was legally authorized to do

. The judges were ashamed of themselves, and acquitted him, and let go. As he was leaving court, a little Maltese Puppy came and fawned upon wagging his tail. 'This animal,' said Epaminodus, 'is grateful for the I have wrought, but the Thebans, to whom I have rendered the est service, would put me to death.'"

By the time the Romans had taken control of the Mediterranean.

Definite Maltese Puppy-type was well documented. The Romans were great record-keepers and statisticians. They classified the Maltese Puppy with the group of dogs they named Catelli-small dogs kept as pets. It was recorded in Roman history that the Maltese Puppy had been imported into Rome and the Italian peninsula. Historically, the Romans claimed that the Maltese Puppy was the same kind of dog that had been popular in Egypt and Greece for centuries. The descriptions of the Maltese Puppy of the period have him as a very small dog, most suitable as a lap dog. Physically, the Maltese Puppy was described as possessing a long, silky coat and a feathered, curly tail.

Roman Emperor Claudius is recorded as being the owner of a white Maltese Puppy. It had continued to be the fashion for people of power and wealth to possess Maltese Puppy. Another such person was Publius, the Roman governor of Malta. Publius ruled the Island of Malta at the time of the Apostle Paul. Publius owned a tiny Maltese Puppy named "Issa" of which, it was recorded, he was extremely fond. He was so taken by the exquisite beauty of the little Maltese Puppy that he commissioned a portrait of the dog to be painted. The painting was of such quality and so lifelike that it was difficult to distinguish the real dog from the painting.

Lest the last days that she sees the light should snatch her from him forever had her picture painted.

There were numerous other Romans who discoursed upon the endearing and enduring qualities of the Maltese Puppy. Noteworthy among those is Strabo (63 B.c.-21 A.D.), who described the Maltese Puppy as being the smallest kind of its species. He noted that the owners of the dog included the wealthy and socially powerful. He gave the name Canis digno throno to them, because princes held them in their hand while sitting upon their thrones. They were kept to provide amusement and pleasure. They were the favorites of the ladies of the period, who tenderly nurtured them, and kept them as they would precious jewels. Of the physical nature of the dog, Strabo noted that they were bright and devoted, despite their small size. He compared their size to that of a ferret or weasel.

Another Roman to include the Maltese Puppy as subject matter was Pliny the Elder (A.D. 23-79), who noted their small size. He ascribed their origin to Malta. In one of the first descriptions of the dog being a color other than white, Pliny allowed that the Maltese Puppy could also be black and black and white.

Saint Clement of Alexandria, in the second century A.D., included reference to the Maltese Puppy in his prose.

As with other things central to Roman society, there is no doubt that the Maltese Puppy was spread to the far reaches of the Roman Empire.

After the FaIl of Rome

Gradually, as with all civilizations that had preceded it, the power of Rome began to fade. The empire began to weaken. It was plagued by foreign invasions, especially by nomadic tribes from the East, which plundered across the eastern European plain. The empire that was Rome was eventually divided into two seats of power, forming the Eastern (Byzantine) and Western (Rome) Roman Empires. The popularity of the Maltese Puppy endured through this transitional period, as there is documented evidence of his existence in both capitals.

Following the fall of Rome, the Maltese Puppy continued to be popular in Byzantium. In the West, the invading tribes dispersed Roman culture, and no further evidence of the breed may be documented. It is doubtful, however, that the breed perished. It is more likely that the Maltese Puppy was carried off by the new invaders. They continued to breed and crossbreed the dog, and carried it East with them, as they eventually abandoned their Roman conquests.

As Europe entered the Dark Ages, the written record of man ceased, as did that of the Maltese Puppy. As had been true of the dog's history to that point, the Maltese Puppy enjoyed times of great popularity; at other times it became quite a rarity. Despite all, the breed managed to endure and survive. Toward the end of the Dark Ages in Europe and the dawn of the Renaissance, the Maltese Puppy reappears and is once again included in the recorded history of man in both Eastern and Western Europe. In addition, there are definite records of the Maltese Puppy in China and the Far East at about A.D. 1400.

The Maltese Puppy and the Renaissance

The emergence of Europe from the Dark Ages brought with it, among other things, a renewed interest in things genteel. Life became brighter. There was once again time for pleasurable pastimes and pleasant repasts. With the reemergence of the finer things in life, the Maltese Puppy once again appears upon the scene in Europe .

In the East, the dog breed had never really been lost. There are records of Maltese Puppy kept by the Sultans of the Turkish empire. Recorded delegates and embassies arrived in Rome from China and the Far East. With them they brought along with their silks, gold and jewels, small pet dogs favored by Eastern royalty and ladies of the royal courts of the East. It is likely these traders and ambassadors returned to their far-off countries with rare goods from Europe, including rare pet dogs.

At this time Lyon, France, had become much as Malta had been so many centuries earlier: a major center for world trade. During this time, the origin for the Maltese Puppy was ascribed to Lyon. Because of Lyon's prominence in commerce, most authors took it to be the original place from which the breed sprung.

With the renaissance, the Maltese Puppy again appears in the art and literature of France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands during the thirteenth through fifteenth centuries. It is recorded that the Maltese Puppy dog, as described by the ancients, was nonexistent at this time on the Island of Malta.

The Maltese Puppy Comes to England

Recorded history places the arrival of the Maltese Puppy in England during the reign of King Henry VIII (1509-1547). According to Leighton's New Book of the Dog, the most ancient of all lapdogs of the Western world were probably imported into England at the time of his rule from Lyon, France.

It is not until the reign of Henry's daughter, Elizabeth I (1533-1603), that extensive interest in the breed throughout the British aristocracy is documented. It is known that Elizabeth, herself, was the owner of a Maltese Puppy. The Sultan of Turkey presented her with a specimen in 1583.

Personal physician to Elizabeth I, Dr. Johannes Caius, wrote a volume in Latin, which classified all dog breeds known in England at the time (1570). Among the many breeds, he included the Maltese Puppy. He assigned it the Latin name Canes dedicated and classified it as a "Spaniel Gentle." Reporting that the ancients had recorded the dog’s history and origins, he wrote, in part:

That kind is very small indeed, and chiefly sought after for the pleasure and enjoyment of women. The smaller the kind the more pleasing it is, so that they may be carried in their bosoms, in their beds and in their arms while in carnages.

Dr. Caius also recorded the dog's believed medicinal powers. It was thought that through its body heat, the Maltese Puppy was able to draw out pain and illness from the chest and stomach, when applied to those areas. Because of this practice, in addition to the warm and affectionate nature of the dog, the Maltese Puppy came to be called the "Comforter," a name that lasted for several centuries.

In 1576, British author Fleming translated the Latin of Dr. Caius, which follows, in part:

Of the delicate, neat and pretty kind of dogs called "Spaniel Gentle" or "Comforter," in Latin Melitaie .. there is besides another sort of gentle

the breed to be of terrier origin. They based their judgment upon the terrier-like temperament the Maltese Puppy dog possesses. As with the ~ terrier breeds, the Maltese Puppy of the period was an excellent and t exhibited great fearlessness, despite his small size. This group called the dog a "Maltese Puppy Terrier," a misnomer that has persisted to this day.

Other noted authorities of the era disagreed. They insisted that the body and coat type of the Maltese Puppy are spaniel in nature. These are noted, too, that the terrier traits of the Maltese Puppy could as easily be  the spaniel. A great deal of crossbreeding had occurred over the year. is likely, therefore, that there were several different types of Maltese Puppy Accordingly it is not surprising that debate raged among; century dog authorities.

Ultimately, in the early 1900s, it was concluded that the "Maltese Puppy was neither terrier nor spaniel. Rather, he should correctly be referred~ginnings of Dog Shows

As the nineteenth century closed, the great interest in crossbreeding create new breeds diminished. The great interest and fashion of the l~ swung to established breeds. From that era to this, the interest continued and grown.

Meanwhile, interest in the purebred Maltese Puppy was once again ' although the dog itself was quite rare. In 1862,20 Maltese Puppy were exhibited a show in London.

The Kennel Club (England) was established in 1873. One of the r, functions of that body was to establish a stud book. The first English  book has twenty-four Maltese Puppy registered between 1859 and 1873. The  dog show licensed by the Kennel Club was held in 1873, and Maltese Puppy in competition.

The descendants of Psyche and Cupid, brought from Manila r.1 Queen Victoria, were owned by a prominent breeder of the time, Lad! Giffard. Most famous of her dogs were four-pound "Hugh" and his  three-pound "Queenie." Her dogs were noted for their long coats. Lady Gifford’s famous kennel was active from 1875 to 1885. By engravings and photos of the period, we know that the English Maltese Puppy  the era were rather small-considerably smaller than has come to be tm fashion there. They had wavy coats, and that were oth high and low.

Interest in the Maltese Puppy grew scantly. At about 1880 the breed reached modest zenith: it held its own until about the time of World War I, when interest began to fade. The Maltese Puppy once again had come close to extinction, especially in England. James Watson wrote in his book, famous at the time (1909):

Such a thing as a good Maltese Puppy Dog is all but unknown in this country [England], and few seem to care about taking up the fancy.

At about this same time, the Kennel Club began offering classes for Maltese Puppy dogs, other than white. Such classes were offered from 1902 to 1913. The first entries made under this classification were made in 1908. The last were made in 1913. The colored Maltese Puppy differed from the white variety. The English standard for the Maltese Puppy called for the white variety not to exceed 12 pounds. The colored variety could not exceed 8\1, pounds. All colors were admissible into the colored classes. The white variety was required to be "pure white." Besides the size difference, there were other variations between the two varieties. The colored coats were coarser textured than white coats. The head of the colored Maltese Puppy tended to be shorter muzzled and broader skulked than those of the white Maltese Puppy.

The Maltese Puppy Comes to the United States

During the modest zenith of the breed between 1900 and 1914, many English dogs came to the United States, and especially to Canada, where the breed was thriving and extremely popular.

The origins of the Maltese Puppy in the United States is obscure. It is certain that original breeding stock arrived wherefrom England, Canada, Germany, France and Italy. The earliest known Maltese Puppy on record in the United States was born in 1873. He was entered at Westminster in 1879, and was also the first colored Maltese Puppy shown here. Entered as a "Maltese Puppy Skye Terrier," he was described as being white with black ears.

There was great interest in colored Maltese Puppy in the United States. Some crossbreeding was done here, as in England. One such recorded crossbreed­ing used a Maltese Puppy and a black Pomeranian. The resultant litter produced black Maltese Puppy, identical in type to the white variety.

The first Maltese Puppy to be exhibited in the United States were entered in the miscellaneous class. The Maltese Puppy was later moved to the No sporting Group, and finally to the Toy Group, where they remain.

The first white Maltese Puppy exhibited was entered at the first Westminster show (1877) as a "Maltese Puppy Lion Dog." Born in 1875, his owner was from New York City. Maltese Puppy dogs were shown regularly in the United States throughout the 1880s and 1890s. The annual Westminster show consis­tently drew large Maltese Puppy entries. There were many Maltese Puppy fanciers located in New York City at the time.

The first Maltese Puppy to be registered in the American Kennel Club's Stud Book were two bitches. They were: "Snips"-origin unknown, and "Topsy"-an import. The year was 1888.

From 1900 through 1910, there were numerous Poodle kennels throughout the American mid west involved in Maltese Puppy. Crossbreeding between these two breeds was frequent and it is likely that the Maltese Puppy was used to lock in small size, color, and pigmentation. White Toy Maltese Puppy  were among the first to be acclaimed in the show ring. Some undesirable results of these crossbreeding have lingered to this day.1\' Toy Poodle has difficulty with a "round" eye, as has the Maltese Puppy, than the "almond" eye called for in their standard. On the Maltese Puppy, the issue, an incorrect "Poodle-like" coat texture can be found in Maltese Puppy.

In 190 I, two more bitches were entered into the American K,,,, Club Stud Book. In 1902, six Maltese Puppy were entered, four dogs and I. bitches. It was not until the 1950s that 50 Maltese Puppy had been registered with  American Kennel Club Stud Book.

In 1950, the breed ranked 76th among all breed registrations f011l year. There were seventy-three Maltese Puppy registered in 1950.

By 1960, the breed was 50th in total registrations for all breeds. Th. was a total of 2,995 Maltese Puppy registered with the American Kennel (lr: between 1950 and 1960. The increasing numbers of Maltese Puppy being bred, apparent, comparing the rise from only 73 Maltese Puppy registered with I~ American Kennel Club in 1950 to the 490 individual registrations in 1%1

By 1970, the number of individual registrations for the year had  ( to 4,197. The breed had moved up in popularity, taking the number4lsp.l in number of registrations that year. The total number of Malt" registered between 1960 and 1970 was 21,777.

By 1980, the breed had raised another ten notches in the ranking  ­Maltese Puppy were then in the number 31 spot. A total of60,718 Maltese Puppy. registered with the American Kennel Club between the years 1970 at< 1980. By 1980, an astounding 7,324 Maltese Puppy were registered.

 The number of Maltese Puppy bred and registered with the American Kennel

Club continues to increase, as the breed has increased in popularity~ between 1980 and 1982, there have been an additional 15,825 Malt", registered. In 1982, with 8,050 Maltese Puppy registered, the breed had inched~ way up another notch to number 30 among all breeds.

The total number of Maltese Puppy registered with the American Kennel Club from 1950 through 1985, by which time the breed was 26th among breeds, is an astounding 128,504 dogs. With this sort of growth in popularity, it seems certain that the "New Golden Age of the Maltese Puppy Dog' is truly upon us.

We, as dedicated members of the fancy, must seek to maintain very high standards, for ourselves and the breed. This is necessary if we are to insure that these great days of popularity are indeed kept "golden."

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PUPPIES / DOGS

Dogs as pets - Training your puppy

Puppies learn by watching, but their instincts guide how readily they will learn certain basic requirements. A dog bred to guard the home will be less likely to run off following a scent than a bird dog bred to hunt game. On the other hand, a guarding breed will need direction concerning who is “acceptable” and who is not, whereas a retriever will befriend everyone. Knowledge of what a dog was bred to do is useful when trying to train it to be an acceptable companion.

There are many theories about how to train a dog (puppy)  to be a happy and willing companion, but certain principles apply to all methods. The dog / puppy  must understand what is expected. It has to be praised for doing well. Punishment for an infraction should be immediate and appropriate to the act. The dog / puppy  must be able to associate the punishment with the crime. Consistency and kindness with your new puppy  bring the best results in training. Most dogs and puppies  will accept domination readily, but there are some, usually males, who will challenge that authority. This is dangerous behavior and must be stopped at an early age. Good training must be sensible, and commands should be enforceable.

Puppy Breed-specific behavior Information

There are distinctive breed-typical personalities that have been developed through generations of selection for certain traits. By roughly grouping dogs according to the work they were bred to do, it is possible to determine the type of temperament a dog / puppy might have at maturity. Differences in breed personalities can be seen at an early age. Sporting dogs will generally be adventurous, following their noses wherever scents lead them, but will respond enthusiastically to calls from familiar humans. Hound puppies  generally tend to be more aloof and independent, inclined to scout the territory on their own and follow a scent or a movement; they are not as interested in human interaction as the bird dogs are.

Working and herding dogs/ puppies  have more business-like dispositions. They tend to evaluate situations and set about their tasks. Collie puppies have been known to herd children, ducklings, or each other in an instinctive manifestation of their birthright. Guarding dogs/ puppies  tend to be protective of their territories, even at an early age. Such dogs as the Maremma or the kuvasz, which are bred to guard flocks, are placed with the sheep from the time they are puppies in order to reinforce their basic protective instincts. Collies and Akitas are known for their strong sense of loyalty. Terriers, bred to chase and catch rodents, have a tendency to be extremely active, lively, and feisty as puppies, traits that continue into adulthood. Newfoundlands are renowned for lifesaving instincts.

Your Puppy Behavioral Development

Canine behavior is a combination of instinct and environment. Dogs / Pupppies are born with certain innate characteristics that are evident from birth. Puppies are born blind and deaf, totally dependent on the dam for warmth and nourishment. The dam will instinctively suckle and protect her young, often keeping other dogs / puppies  and all but the most trusted people away from the whelping box. Between 10 and 14 days after birth, the eyes and ear canals open, and the puppies begin to move actively around their nest. As they grow, they become more curious and start to investigate their surroundings independently. The dam will begin to leave them alone briefly. During this phase they relate most intensely to their littermates and dam and may become unhappy at being removed from their familiar surroundings. This stage of development lasts about 20 days and is the first of four critical periods.

Beginning at three weeks of age, the most adventurous puppies will seek ways to get out of the whelping box and will start to investigate the larger world. At this age puppies are receptive to human contact, which is essential if they are to bond with people when they become adults. Dogs / puppies left alone from four weeks on will never reach their full potential as pets and will often become independent and more difficult to train than those accustomed to close human contact from an early age. At the same time, during the period between three and seven weeks, it is important that puppies socialize with their littermates and dam. This is when the dam weans her puppies, first by regurgitating some of her own food and then by not allowing her puppies to nurse as often as they would like. At about four weeks of age, puppies can be offered solid food in the form of a soft gruel.

Individual socialization of each puppy in a litter can begin at six weeks of age. This is when puppies begin to be more receptive to handling and attention.

The third critical period in a puppy's development is from 7 to 12 weeks. It has been shown in studies undertaken at various breeding kennels that this is the best age to form human-dog / puppy relationships. Attachments formed during this period will affect the attitude of the puppy  toward humans and toward its acceptance of direction and learning. During this period the pack instinct,which has played such an important role in the puppy's early development, can be transferred to humans. At this time environment becomes a vital part of the dog's education and training. This is when a human can most easily establish dominance over the puppy, becoming the “leader of the pack.” At this age a puppy  will accept a submissive role more readily than at any other time in its life. Learning comes most readily at this age. Puppies taught basic commands, even if they are not reinforced for several months, will remember them and respond if they are taught during this critical age.

The fourth critical stage in a puppy's development is between 12 and 16 weeks. At this age the puppy will declare its independence from its mother and will become increasingly daring in its forays from the familiar. Puppy training can begin during this period, and it is a time of rapid physical and mental growth. The permanent teeth begin to emerge at this time, which is often a painful and distractive process. Puppies need to chew during this period, and, if they are not provided with appropriate teething toys, they will use any available hard object, such as furniture. Puppies at this age may be less willing to cooperate or respond to new commands.

A puppy's personality continues to develop during its entire maturing process and will undergo radical changes while the puppy matures sexually and physically. Puppies mature sexually earlier than they do emotionally. Their personalities develop more slowly than their bodies, much like humans but unlike wolves, whose personalities and sexuality develop more harmoniously. At about seven or eight months many puppies tend to go through a period of anxiety. They are insecure, frightened of strangers, and will appear timid. If this is not an inherited trait, it will disappear within a few months. If it is inherited, that condition will remain and may become accentuated with time.Breed specificity also affects how well dogs adapt to new surroundings or to new owners. Such things cannot be taught to dogs. They are innate—part of a dog's instinctive behaviour—and are often breed-specific, although mixed breeds have been known for unique instincts as well.

The companionship between humans and puppies is not a new phenomenon. However, in modern society most  puppies are owned as pets, not because of the work they were bred to do. Many breeds, such as the toy dogs, were developed precisely to be pets. All of the diverse breeds and mixed breeds have unique traits and appeal to different kinds of people.

Acquiring a dog is a major decision, because the dog becomes totally dependent on its owner for its care and welfare. This responsibility continues throughout the life of the dog. Thus, the initial decision should be based on a serious consideration of whether one's lifestyle truly lends itself to owning a puppy—that is, whether a dog would be an asset rather than a liability.
 

The next consideration is the selection of a particular type of dog/puppy . Many people want a purebred dog because they like the appearance or the personality, and they are assured that the puppy they buy will grow up to look like the breed it represents. Others find that a mixed breed will do just as well, and there are many shelters, humane societies, and rescue groups that harbor dogs in need of homes.

No matter what kind of dog a person chooses, it is essential that it be a healthy animal. When evaluating a puppy or an adult dog, several features will help determine the physical condition of the animal. The dog should appear friendly and outgoing. Puppies in particular should exhibit curiosity and a tail-wagging enthusiasm. They should not hang back or appear timid or frightened. Eyes should be bright and shiny with no discharge, and the inner eyelids ought to be smooth and pink. Ears should be clean-smelling and free of debris. Gums must be pink and firm, except in the case of chow chows and shar-peis, whose gums and tongue are black. The skin should feel warm and dry to the touch. Clammy skin or the presence of reddened patches, crusts, scales, or parasites are indicative of problems that could be both external and internal. The hair coat ought to be clean and sweet-smelling. The dog should be in good form and build, but not obese or so thin that the ribs and hipbones show.

People buying purebred dogs / puppies should know the distinctive characteristics of the breed they have chosen, so that they can ask the breeder proper questions and have some means of evaluating the quality of the dog/ puppy  they are purchasing. Many purebred dogs have hidden genetic problems of which good breeders are aware. Many of these problems can be controlled by careful breeding, but the purchaser must know—through reading about the breed and talking to fanciers.

Dogs as pets - Nutrition and growth  - puppies for sale

Puppies need three basic things in order to thrive: good nutrition, warmth, and companionship. Puppies need to eat three or four times a day from the time they are weaned until they are about six months old. Thereafter they can be fed twice a day until maturity and once daily after that. However, many dog owners, especially those with large breeds, feed the puppies  twice a day throughout the dog's life (this does not mean feeding more than the required daily amount, but it is a more balanced method of feeding).

Puppies need twice an adult dog's maintenance requirements of energy and nutrients for proper growth from the time they are weaned until they reach about half of their expected mature weight. There should be steady growth on a weekly basis, but there should be no excess fat around the abdomen. Puppies grow best if they remain at a suitable weight without becoming obese. Overweight puppies are candidates for crippling bone diseases if they are too heavy during the critical growing months. On the other hand, feeding too little will result in poor growth and lack of energy.

Adult dogs burn fewer calories than do puppies or young and active adults. Therefore, they need to eat less in order to maintain optimum weight and activity.Dogs/ puppies  that work require extra nutrients. For instance, sled puppies need to be fed a diet that is much higher in calories, one with a ratio of fat, protein, and carbohydrates very different from the diet of more sedentary puppies. Owners may have to experiment with different types of food to determine which are best suited to their dogs / puppies.

There are three basic types of commercially produced dog/ puppy  foods: canned, dry, and semimoist. Predominant ingredients of most of these include corn, wheat, barley, rice, or soy meal, in combination or alone. Commercial puppy / dog  foods also include a meat such as beef, lamb, chicken, or liver, or meat by-products. It is important to read the labels to determine the proportions of each and the amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins and minerals contained.

Sleep is almost as important as nutrition for puppies. A warm, quiet place for them to rest is essential for normal growth. Puppies will usually play vigorously and then suddenly fall asleep. Their need for sleep decreases as they grow into adulthood, but dogs spend a great deal of their time sleeping when they are not stimulated to activity.

All dogs and puppies need exercise, some more than others. Achieving good health and sound temperament demands that dogs / puppies be given the opportunity for regular stimulating exercise. Puppies should be allowed to run at will without restraint and without being pushed beyond their limits. As dogs mature, jogging or walking on a lead can be introduced, but any forced exercise should be withheld until the dog is fully grown. The most common cause of a dog's destructive behavior in the house is lack of exercise. Behavioral problems such as tail chasing, chewing, and excessive barking and whining can in most cases be traced to confinement for long periods of time without respite. The ability to provide adequate exercise is one of the most important considerations that prospective dog owners must face before acquiring a puppy. Exercise, however, does not mean allowing the dog/ puppy to run at large. Dogs/ puppies ought to be supervised at all times when outside: they either should be accompanied by owners using a lead or have a securely fenced area in which to play.

Dogs as pets - Other maintenance concerns with your puppy

Dogs/ puppies  need regular care from the time they are born. In addition to a balanced diet, grooming is an important part of maintaining good health. Care of the ears, coat, and nails on a weekly basis gives owners an opportunity to examine their pets and to spot any potential illness. Ears should be cleaned regularly and nails kept trimmed. Brushing should be part of a dog's weekly or even daily routine. Dogs with long or thick coats will need more frequent brushing than shorthaired varieties in order to loosen dead hair and prevent skin irritations or infection.

Regular veterinary care is important to a dog's health. Puppies usually are vaccinated against the most virulent diseases, starting at six weeks of age. A series of three or four vaccinations against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, and parvovirus are given three weeks apart. At three months of age puppies can be inoculated against rabies. Booster vaccinations are given annually thereafter, except for rabies shots, which may be administered every two or three years, depending on the region. Routine vaccination procedures have succeeded in reducing, and in some areas eliminating, diseases that formerly killed half of all puppies born. In many areas veterinarians recommend that dogs be tested annually for heartworm disease and be given a preventative. This should be administered throughout the dog's life as long as it resides in a region where and when this parasite is prevalent.

Dogs as pets - Ailments for your puppy

Fleas and ticks are sources of irritation and disease in every climate of the world (with the possible exception of the Arctic). Regular bathing and grooming helps to keep these and other external parasites under control. Treatment of the puppy and its environment are essential to eliminate these pests. In some areas this is a yearlong process, whereas in other climates it is a seasonal problem.

Internal parasites are a common cause of sickness, especially in puppies. There are many kinds of worms that invade the intestinal tract, resulting in listlessness, loss of blood and subsequent anemia, poor hair coat, and occasionally death. Many of these parasites are found in dirt and are ingested or get into the bloodstream through the skin of the dog. Effective veterinary remedies are available for the animal, but it is important to determine through fecal examination or blood tests exactly what type of parasite is present. Puppies should be examined about every three months, and adults need to be examined annually.

Dogs/ puppies  are susceptible to many of the same illnesses that afflict humans. Cancer, respiratory ailments, allergies, arthritis, and certain forms of heart disease are all found in dogs. Some illnesses have a breed predilection, whereas others occur in all pure and mixed breeds. Large- and giant-breed dogs, such as Irish setters, St. Bernards, bloodhounds, and Great Danes, are prone to a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This disease causes the stomach to twist in the abdominal cavity, cutting off the blood supply and filling the stomach with gas. GDV is always a medical emergency and must be treated as soon as the first symptoms appear. Early warnings may be restlessness, unsuccessful attempts to vomit or defecate, swelling of the abdomen, or distention of the rib cage.
 

Large breeds also are at risk for an orthopedic problem in which the hip joint does not develop properly. This is called hip dysplasia and is considered to be a polygenetic condition. It is a progressive disease in which the malformation of the hipbones causes arthritic changes, lameness, and pain. Some breeds are also at risk of developing elbow dysplasia and other problems of the bones and joints. Dogs / puppies built with long, low bodies, such as dachshunds, often develop spinal injuries or malformations of the spinal column.

Dogs/ puppies  do not suffer from high cholesterol or from the life-threatening circulatory illnesses that afflict humans, but certain breeds are predisposed to malformations of the heart muscle and valves. Some of these are surgically correctable, while others are not. In addition, heartworm and other parasites may affect the heart and circulatory system.

Dogs/ puppies  are as much at risk of contracting cancers as people are. The treatment is often the same. Cancers most often seen in dogs involve osteosarcomas, mammary tumours, and lymphomas. Veterinary research is at the forefront of the development of new treatments for cancers in the hope that new methods for combating them in humans will be found in the process.

 Eye diseases many of which are hereditary, also are found in dogs/ puppies . Dogs are subject to cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal diseases, all of which can cause blindness. Treatments in dogs are not as successful as in humans, but dogs appear to adjust to vision loss very well as long as they are kept in familiar surroundings. Their keen sense of smell helps them to get around, although they must be protected from sudden falls and unforeseen dangers. Many canine ocular problems of a hereditary origin are difficult to eradicate because they do not appear in some breeds until the dogs/ puppies  are five or six years old. Nonetheless, genetic research to identify dogs that are carriers or that will develop eye problems has made significant strides since it began in the 1970s.

Breeds with large, protruding eyes, such as the Pekingese or the pug, are susceptible to eye irritations and corneal lacerations. These must be attended to promptly to avoid serious damage to the eye.
 

Dogs/ puppies with dropped ears—the basset hound is an extreme example —are prone to diseases of the ear canal. Moisture becomes trapped in the ear, producing yeast infections. Such parasites as ear mites thrive in the ear canal, causing a dark, malodorous exudate. Frequently, the dog is uncomfortable and scratches the ears or rubs the ears along the ground or on the furniture. Most ear problems can be cured with proper medication. If problems are left unattended, the ear canal will develop ulcerations that are painful and difficult to treat.

In the 1800s those interested in the sport of dogs/ puppies  developed a system for classifying breeds according to their functions. The British classification, established in 1873 and revised periodically by the Kennel Club of England, set the standard that other countries have followed, with some modifications. British, Canadian, and American classifications are basically the same, although some of the terminology is different. For example, Sporting dogs in the United States are Gundogs in England. Utility dogs/ puppies  in England are Non-Sporting dogs in the United States and Canada. Not all countries recognize every breed.

The United States recognizes seven classifications, called groups (encompassing more than 130 breeds), whereas the English and Canadians have six groups (the American system divides the Working group into two groups: Working dogs and Herding dogs).
 

The breeds - Breed standards / puppy standards

Purebred dogs (puppies) are distinguished from mixed-breed animals because their genetic structure allows them to reproduce themselves generation after generation. Every breed that is registered with a national registry, such as the American Kennel Club or the Kennel Club of England, must have a “standard” for that breed. The standard is the blueprint by which a breed is evaluated. It describes the characteristics that make a particular breed unique. Standards were developed by fanciers who wanted to perpetuate a particular line or strain and who formed associations to foster certain breeds. It is the goal of most purebred-dog fanciers to breed dogs that best represent the ideal qualities for the breed as described by the standard. Standards outline requirements for physical traits and behavioral or “personality” traits.

The breeds  - Toy puppies
Preparing for your Maltese

Before you bring a new Maltese into the house, there are some key items that you should have on hand.     Here is some information on Crates to train the Maltese.  

Long ago, when puppies were still wild animals, they often slept in dens – shallow holes they dug in the ground hidde away in places where they felt safe from predators.  A “Crate” is just a modern version of a den, just as you enjoy having your own romm where you can go for  a peace and privacy, your Maltese Puppy dog likes having her own room, too.   As well as giving the Maltese  a safe, cozy place to stay, crates can make training your Maltese a lot easier.   Housebreaking goes much faster when you use a crate and destructive chewin g becomes easier to control.   Traveling is safer for both your Maltese Puppy pupy and you when he/she is in a crate.

The most popular crates are made of plastic or heavy welded steel wire.  Plastic crates are lightweight, protable and are easily disassembled for storage or travel. Some of them come in decorator colors.  Most plastic crates meet federal regulations for airline travel.   Wire crates are also very popular and depending on your dog’s needs, may be a better purchase than plastic.   Look for sturdy crates for your Maltese with heaby guage wire that are easily folded down into a “suitcase-styleP shape for transportation and storage.  Although wire crates are not approved for airline use, they offer better ventilation than the plastic types.

A crate for your Maltese need only be big enough for the dog and stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably.   The crate should be larger enough for your Maltese to stretch out on her side to sleep.

BEDDING FOR YOUR MALTESE

When your Maltese first comes home, she will need a lot of rest following her exuberant and playful excursions in her new environment.    It is important to find a place for the Maltese’s bed that is out of the mainstream of the household traffic that will allow her to get the rest she needs.  If you have purchased a crate for your Maltese, the crate makes an excellent beds.  The addition of a washable, soft pad should make the crate a cozy bed that your Maltese may prefer for years to come. 

Look for a crate pads that are made of silky fabrics.   Cottony and woolly fabrics can cause statis electricity and contribute to breakage of coat on the ends.  If you Maltese will sleep in a bed other than a crate, do not purchase one made from wood or wicker, as the Maltese  might chew on these materials and harm herself.   Look for beds made of the same silky type of fabrics as those for the crate pads.

LEASH AND COLLAR FOR YOUR MALTESE

Your Maltese will need a leash and collar.   Leather and metal collars do not work well on Maltese Puppy pupipies due to the long hair around their necks- a metal collar can catch in the coat and the leather ones can wear it down.  A thin, nylon one piece collar seems to work best for the Maltese.   Many of these have a ring at one end to which a leash can be clipped.  Select a leash that is made from a similar, lightweight material.  As an alternative, many Maltese owners prefer to use the lopp type one – piece show leashed that have a slip know closure.  These leashed can be purchased from many of the suppliers.

WATER AND FOOD DISHES

You will need a small, lightweight bowls for the food and water for your Maltese.   These can be made from metal, plastic or a ceramic material.  Many Maltese fanciers avoid using plastic bowls as they have been indications that they may be a cause of staining of the Maltese facial hair.

Your breeder will let you rknow the food your Maltese was earing and it is wise to continue feeding the Maltese  the same type of food, so as not to cause stomach upsets.   If, over time, you want (or need) to change your Maltese’s diet, do it by adding a little of the new food at a time.  With their long coats, Maltese that drink water from water dishes get wet and sloppy faces.  The wet facial hair can be a breeding ground for yeast, which in turn cause tear staining on the Maltese.   Many Maltese owners will offer their pets water from a  water bottle such as those used for rabbits to alleviate this problem.

TOYS AND CHEWIES FOR YOUR MALTESE

Relatively small toys are best for a Maltese.   Look for squeaky and interactive toys.  Maltese have seem to particularly like the fuzzy, plush, soft toys are well as the latex chewable ones.   The latter are great for exercising gums, and Maltese like to chew!  Notably, Maltese seem to want to chew on paper as puppies, and one solution to this is to give them an empty toilet paper roll to carry around.   A nutritious toy many enjoy is a mini- carrot or a piece of vegetable.  Maltese Puppy are very inquisitive little puppies.  It is wise to have a good supply of toys for your puppy or she is sure to find her own- and you never know what she will drag out of your closet.

INDENTIFICATION FOR YOUR MALTESE

Owners of purebred show and breeding Maltese have long used tattoos to comply with the rules of identification  of the American Kennel Club and to provide permanent, visible identification should their Maltese get lost.   Many pet owners also tattoo their Maltese for identification purposes.  A tattoo is etched on the inside of the Maltese’s thigh near her abdomen. 

A recent addition to the indentification of Maltese is the microchip, a tiny tranponder the size of a grain of uncooked rice.  This is a permanent identification system implanted under the Maltese’s skin and read by a chip scanner.  Implantation is done with an injector that places the chip under the loose skin at the Maltese’s shoulder.  The process to implant the microchip is quick and no more painful than a vaccination, the number is unique and the owner’s name and addresss are available on regional or national data bases so a Maltese can be returned quickly and safely.

If neither of these options appeal to you, be sure to get your Maltese a simple ID tag to attached to the Maltese’s collar.   Your name, adderss and telephone number should appear on the tag.  

MALTESE INFORMATION -   WAYS TO PUPPY-PROOF YOUR HOME

Raising a Maltese is a lot  like raising small children0 they get into everything.  Some of what they get into ca be hazardous to their health or to your possessions.  You can make life safer for the puppy and your furniture be getting rid of hazards and temptations ahead of time.

To a Maltese, the world is brank new and fascinating.  The Maltese is seeing it all for very first time and absolutely everything must be thoroughly investigated.  Maltese do most of their investigating with their mouths.   Murphy’s Law says that a puppy will be most attracted to the things that they are either the most dangerous to her, or the most valuable to you0 electrical cords, the fringe on your expensive oriental rug or your brand new running shoes.

Preventing destructive and dangerouis chewing is much easier than constantly trying to correct the Maltese.   Look around your home and think carefully about its contents.  Check for objects that could, and should, be put up onut of the way of the curious Maltese.  To make immovable items such as furniture unappealing, a spray of bitter apple can be applied to the legs.  You may also want to use a little bitter apple spray on the wood word and your floors.   If there are rooms your Mlatrese puppy should be restricted from entering until the Maltese is well trained and more reliable, install a baby gate of keep the doors to those rooms closed.

Take a walk around  your yard with