Adopting a Maltese

I am considering adopting an adult Maltese from a rescue agency. I used to have a Lhasa, so I am familiar with the grooming needs, but I wondered whether folks (non-competitors) typically clip their dogs? And are there temperament or physical problems I should be aware of? I can't find any listed in anything I've read on the 'net, but would like to hear from owners before I adopt. It sounds too good to be true....Thanks.
Beth Norrel

• They are to good to be true! Best dog I have ever had. I love the breed and would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone who wanted a devoted, loving, smart companion. The grooming is a lot, but I love making her look beautiful, if too much, they are adorable clipped. I know you will enjoy your new friend.
  Joeline

• We agree with Jolene's reply. As previous large dog owners (collies) we find the maltese to have a magnetic personality, he loves everyone and everyone loves him. Prince is nine years old and we have had no major health problems. We have always kept his hair short in a puppy cut due to the ease of maintaining it, since he is very active, and looks adorable. However when we do keep it long he doesn't shed and maintenance is fairly easy. Good Luck
  Pat

• I agree with Joeline and Pat. I have had a silky terrier and a miniature schnauzer, both of whom I loved. But Lucy, my Maltese, is without a doubt the best dog I've ever had. She is smart (as in a quick learner for potty training/NO, etc.) loving, joyful and and cuddly. Everyone who meets her loves her. I, too, keep her in a puppy coat. All that long hair for the show dogs is OK, but for a dog who has to buzz through the snow in the winter or leaves in the fall and grass cuttings in the summer, pretty much out of the question to keep the hair long. Lucy gets groomed about once a month and brushed by me semi-regularly (she isn't big on the brushing routine and tries to play with the brush. What seems to work her, by the way, is to put her leash and collar on her when I am going to brush her. She will lie down and stay reasonbly still when I do this; may it's because it's closer to how the groomer handles her). At any rate, she gives back a lot more love than the small amount of work she needs to stay beautiful. I know you will enjoy this adopted child. Let us know how it works out.
  Cathy Brown