In our continuing series, “What Dog Breed Is Best For Me?” we’ll talk about another small dog breed that is bright, responds well to training, and makes a wonderful companion.

Maltese - The Companionable Small Dog

The beautiful, non-shedding white coat of the Maltese - which needs daily grooming - is its distinguishing characteristic and is good news for dog allergy sufferers who want a wonderful dog as a close companion.

But it’s not only its gorgeous coat that sets the Maltese apart from other dog breeds. It is the Maltese’s good natured temperament, intelligence, and playfulness that make it a good choice as a family pet (even though it displays a reserved attitude towards strangers.)

The Maltese is a small dog breed that can adapt to small or large living situations. It fits in well with apartment or condo-style living as well as large houses in the city or country. It has minimal exercise requirements although, like any dog, responds well to regular exercise.

This dog breed can be housetrained and paper trained.

What distinguishes the Maltese from many other dog breeds is its need to be with its owner. This breed is definitely not suitable for those with a busy lifestyle who are rarely home or who don’t have time to give their Maltese time and attention.

Maltese House Training and Dog Obedience Training

Like all dogs, the Maltese responds very positively to housetraining and positive dog behavior training. (Don’t forget to sign up for The Puppy and Dog Owner’s Guide To Potty Training and Housetraining. And check out my list of Cool and Popular Puppy and Dog Names.)

It can have a tendency to bark a lot which could become a dog behavior problem if not properly trained.

The Maltese has a life expectancy of approximately 13 years and potential health problems include teeth and gum problems, kneecap dislocation, eye and hearing problems.

Good temperament, easy to train, and non-shedding coat are a plus. Daily grooming, potential health problems, and need for companionship could be a minus.

Training or Housetraining Your Maltese?
Find out about Maltese Housetraining and Behavior Training.

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