Hi, I am the proud "mom" of the two Maltese pictured on this page. Jiggy is in my lap, left. Chiclet is on the right. I'm also the co-author (with Chiclet) of the award-winning canine health and safety book, Scared Poopless, pictured left.

Maltese (the word is both singular and plural) are small, scary smart and submissive (that is, relatively easy to train). The standard size of this Toy breed is 4 to 7 pounds. Most are cuddly, adoring and as sweet as dogs come. Some are lap sitters; some aren't. (Some breeders believe that male dogs are the most affectionate.) As dogs go, they're considered hypoallergenic and non-shedders. 

On the down side, Maltese are pure white and a challenge to keep clean. Even a brief walk brings four dirty paws in need of cleaning. And, unless kept in short "summer" or "puppy" cuts, as Chiclet and Jiggy are, they'll grow hair down to the floor. If you don't like the idea of daily brushing, clip them short or look for another breed. By the way, Maltese have silky hair, not fur.

These dogs are sometimes called Maltese terriers, but they are not terriers. The smallest Maltese (like Chiclet) are sometimes called "Teacup Maltese," but there is no such thing. "Teacup" is a marketing term and does not guarantee a small dog. In fact, I've seen more than a few "Teacup Maltese" who now top 20 pounds or more. The best way to judge a puppy's adult size is to see the parents and grown siblings, although even this is no guarantee. Do not trust on-line photos or guarantees. If you're not willing to love a big dog as much as a tiny one, please find another breed.

Maltese are fragile--not a good choice around young children, especially rambunctious toddlers. In areas with ANY predator--even hunting birds and owls, they must be kept indoors or held close on leashes. Where I live, hawks fly off with small dogs. Coyotes grab them off leashes and run. You must maintain constant vigilance. They are also a popular target of dog thieves, so beware. If your children aren't old enough to make sure your house's doors are always closed, and that your dog is inside, please select a larger breed of dog.

Problems that affect most Toy dogs also affect Maltese. Dental disease, red tear stains, knee problems (luxating patellas) and problems with anesthesia are paramount among them. You MUST have your dog checked thoroughly by a vet before purchasing. (My book, Scared Poopless, addresses these problems in depth. Read the Table of Contents.)

Please DO NOT BUY Maltese, or any other dog, from pet stores, on-line puppy shops, street corners or swap meets. These dogs are generally the product of inexperienced "backyard" breeders or of cruel mass breeding operations called puppy mills. They may even be stolen. What you might save in purchase price, you'll likely pay many times over in veterinary and training bills as these dogs are often damaged both physically and psychologically. If you buy one of these poor pups to "save it," you'll be perpetuating an unthinkable cruelty. Every puppy purchased means a female will be kept in captivity to breed yet more of these unfortunate pups. You save one, you hurt two or more.  

Maltese, and Maltese mixes, await your love in a shelter near you. View dogs in multiple nearby shelters at www.petfinder.com or www.1-800-save-a-pet.com. Check out rescue organizations by searching on-line for "Maltese rescue" or go to http://www.americanmaltese.org/ and click "Maltese Rescue."

Important: When you find the dog you want, please have an independent veterinarian (not the breeder's vet) "vet check" your dog thoroughly before finalizing your purchase. This is the best money you'll ever spend and no reputable breeder will refuse or be offended.

I wish you good luck and Maltese love.

Jan Rasmusen