Is a maltese for me?
by Paula
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
Hi. My name is Paula. I have done lots of research on the maltese dog. I am so in love with this breed. I have always wanted a dog that was so lovey. The fact that they require attention is one reason i want one so much. The problem is that I am legally boind. So is my husband. I have a child who is also blind. We all fell in love with these darling babies. We all can see some. My child would more than likely not be a problem for the dog. She is very smart for her age and has a problem with a lack of activity. She's nearly nine. We have another small dog. She is fine with her. What do you think?
DISCUSSION:
Paula, the only concern that I would have is the grooming. The Maltese needs daily brushing and combing, weekly or every other week, baths, and because they do not shed, the hair has to be cut unless one wants to maintain the long length. If there is a down side to the Maltese, the frequent grooming attention would be it. If you think you all could manage it, then go for it! You are in for a lot of love and cuddles.
April B
Maltese require a lot of love. It sounds to me you and your family would be perfect!
Sandee
I agree with April, as long as the grooming doesn't stand in your way, go for it! These dogs are wonderful! If budget allows, you could always have your maltese professionally groomed a little more often than most, or get shorter haircuts so you can go longer in between and not worry about matting. when there's a will, there's a way.
Judy
The little fluff balls also require lots of attention to their ears. At least weekly, they need to be cleaned and attended to. Monthly, they need hairs removed from their ears. Toenails need to be attended to. If there was someone who could help with these items, it would be great. Then the hair in-between the pads needs to be clipped from time to time. If you litter-pan train them, it is quite a chore to keep the area clean and tidy. The little ones will remove the papers for you if you are delinquent in removing them. BUT! If you had help in these areas, you cannot get a more loving, caring, affectionate, precious animal for a pet. They are high maintenance...but then, so is my husband, and I'm keeping him!
Annette, Mikee and Angel
Hi Paula,My mother was legally blind and had 4 Yorkshire Terriers and a Yellow Lab guide dog. She did just fine. Grooming a Maltese does offer more of a challenge than most other breeds, but I think it is workable for you. The one thing that comes to my mind as something to be aware of is that Maltese (at least my one) seems to have a knack for getting very close to my feet. I am always looking down before moving to be sure she is not right there to be stepped on. Unfortunately, I have stepped on her about twice and it scares me to death. I'm afraid I'm going to break her leg. So that is something you have to consider and perhaps train your Maltese to remain a distance from moving or standing feet. I have heard of some Maltese dogs getting stepped on and have their little legs broken, so I think it is a Maltese thing to get close. Also, that increases your chances of falling over the dog and getting hurt. Good Luck in your decision. Let us know what you decide to do.
Linda P
Paula, I agree with April, the grooming is the only drawback to owning the Maltese, not only the hair, but the eyes as well must be kept clean. As long as you feel you could handle it, then I see no problem. A nine year old is fine with the breed, my daughter is 9 also and is very gentle with our Puff, I just wouldnt recommend a Maltese to anyone who has a toddler. Maltese are, indeed, very lovable and you would have many years of love and companionship if you decide to get one. But dont forget that you need to give as much attention to the dog you already have so that he or she doesnt get jealous. And consider getting a Maltese of the opposite sex than your dog so you dont have alpha problems. Let us know what you decide :)
Sandy and Puff
Thank you so very much for your helpful comments. As for grooming, our other small dog is a lhasa apso. We love her dearly and even enjoy brushing her. We have to bathe her often due to the fact that she has allergies. We are in no hurry to get a new pet. We are going to take our time. We are going to be fully informed about how to care for our new baby before we take on the responsibility. Thanks so much. We are definately going to get a maltese for our next family addition. Also, I stay at home which means my daughter and the new puppy will have fulltime supervision. Thanks again,
Paula
Paula
Paula, I think you are hooked! Honestly the best way I have discovered for finding mats on Phoebe is by feeling and not looking! As Linda stated about them sticking under your feet - this can be a bit of a pain, Phoebe just does not scoot away like my Yorkie did, but if I tell her to move, she will. I also think that an eight year old child who is already accustomed to a small dog would be just fine with a Maltese. Good luck and keep us posted!
LeslieR
| Please bear in mind when reading topics pertaining to health issues, that most of these questions were answered by helpful Maltese owners with no formal education in veterinary medicine. When in doubt seek a professionals advise. |
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