How to Take Care of a Maltese Puppy

Take Care of a Maltese Puppy

The Maltese is one of the most regal breeds in the dog world. Developed on the isle of Malta thousands of years ago, the breed has grown to become one of the most popular companion breeds due to its gentle nature and small stature. Raising and caring for Maltese puppies can be a very enjoyable venture and will give you a loving, loyal companion for years to come.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Schedule your puppy for a vet visit as soon as you pick her up. It is important that your puppy is fully vaccinated and free of any parasites.
   • 2
     Groom your puppy often. Maltese puppies have very a long, soft coat that requires frequent brushing, so start combing her as soon as you get her home. A small pin brush, a comb and a pair of nail clippers will allow you to groom your dog at home and keep her coat in good condition.

3. Familiarize your puppy with a collar and lead. Maltese puppies are small and can be difficult to handle, but getting your puppy used to a collar will make handling him much easier. Place the collar around his neck and offer him praise and a treat when he stands calmly. Allow him to wear the collar while you are watching him, removing it if he is ever unsupervised. Attach the lead to his collar and let him wear it around so that he gets used to the idea of something on his collar and someone following him.

4. Set up her crate in a calm, quiet area of your home. Your pup's crate will be her home and her sanctuary, so make sure she can rest undisturbed. Place her bed or a soft blanket in the crate along with a few of her favorite toys to keep her happy and quiet.

5. Feed your Maltese puppy on a set schedule. Maltese tend to have sensitive digestive systems, so a feeding routine will help you monitor your puppy's intake to alert you if she is not feeling well. Make sure your puppy always has an accessible supply of clean water.

6. Designate a section of your yard for a potty area. Maltese are highly intelligent dogs and retain information well, so a set potty place will make housebreaking much easier. Take your puppy to the potty area frequently throughout the day, as well as after meals and upon waking.

7. Teach your puppy simple commands to make him a more obedient pet. Sit, stay, come, down and heel are fairly simple to teach. To teach the sit, hold a treat in your hand. Ask your puppy to sit, and move the treat backwards over his head. Repeat the command to sit, and reward him as soon as his hind end hits the ground. Your puppy will soon learn to sit without you moving the treat, and you can move on to more complex commands.

8. Work with your puppy often. Maltese puppies are always curious and will get into trouble if they are not well stimulated. Play with her, take her on frequent walks and include her in your everyday activities to socialize her. This experience and socialization will help your puppy adapt to life in your home, making her a welcome guest wherever she goes.

Tips & Warnings

• Offer your puppy plenty of attention and praise. Puppies have short attention spans and will easily become distracted if you do not give them a small treat or toy for a job well done.
• Never physically punish your puppy. The Maltese is a fragile, delicate breed and any force can cause permanent injury to your new companion.

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