How long do pure Maltese live
Maltese
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The Maltese is a toy dog breed thats best known for their luxurious, floor-length white coats and playful personalities. These dogs originated on the Mediterranean island of Malta and have been loyal companions for centuries, with references to the breed found in Ancient Greek and Roman literature. Weighing an average of 7 hearty pounds, these tiny yet fearless dogs are highly adaptable and make charming and devoted companions.
Caring for a Maltese
Maltese have minimal health issues but require regular maintenance because of their long, silky, white coat. Their big, dark eyes and nose make these playful and moderate energy dogs irresistible. Despite their small size they have big, willful personalities and generally respond positively to reward-based training.
Maltese Health Issues
Most Maltese will live well into the double digits, with a typical lifespan of 12-15 years. They are a generally healthy breed with few health concerns. But there are a few inherited conditions that pet parents need to be aware of for health management.
Luxating Patella
Maltese can develop luxating patellas, an inherited condition where one or both of the kneecaps pop in and out of place. Although patellar luxation is not generally considered a painful condition, it may cause the dog to favor one leg and can predispose them to other knee injuries (such as a cranial cruciate ligament tear) and arthritis. Depending on the severity of the luxating patella, surgery may be recommended to prevent further injury and improve your Malteses quality of life.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Responsible Maltese breeders will screen their puppies for heart abnormalities such as patent ductus arteriosus. PDA is an inherited condition where the ductus arteriosus, the normal opening between the two major blood vessels in the heart that closes shortly after birth, does not close. This condition causes blood to flow improperly and forces the left side of the heart to work harder. This leads to eventual failure of that chamber.
Depending on the size of the opening, dogs may show minimal symptoms to severe signs of heart failure such as:
Difficulty breathing
Exercise intolerance
Stunted growth
Surgery is typically the best option to close the defect and when done prior to heart failure, dogs generally have an excellent prognosis. Some dogs that have already developed heart failure at the time of surgery may require medications afterward.
Liver Shunts
Maltese puppies should also be screened for congenital liver issues such as shunts. Liver shunts are abnormal veins that bypass the liver, preventing the normal filtration of toxins, wastes, and medications from the blood before returning it back to the body. Dogs with liver shunts may have stunted growth and neurologic signs such as disorientation or seizures. Liver shunts can be screened with a blood test and are often managed with a diet change and medication, though sometimes surgery is required.
Dental Disease
Like all other toy breeds, Maltese require regular at-home dental care as well as routine dental cleanings to prevent periodontal disease.
What To Feed a Maltese
Selecting the best diet for a Maltese is often based on the needs of the individual dog. While its always important to choose a diet with high-quality ingredients, its best to discuss diet with your veterinarian, as they can make a recommendation based on your dogs specific medical history. Maltese dogs can be prone to obesity, so avoid overfeeding your pup so they can maintain a healthy weight.
How To Feed a Maltese
Due to their tiny size, young Maltese puppies can be susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if they dont eat enough food throughout the day. This can be avoided by feeding small meals three to four times a day until they are around 4 months of age. At this age, their more developed bodies are better suited to regulate glucose levels and they can transition to two (or three, if desired) meals a day. Adult Maltese typically do well with two meals a day, in the morning and evening.
How Much Should You Feed a Maltese
Always follow the feeding guide provided by the specific food to ensure that your dog is receiving the appropriate essential daily nutrients. For a Maltese, based on an average weight of approximately 6-8 pounds, this will range from about 1/4 to 1/2 cups of dry food daily, divided into two meals.
Nutritional Tips for a Maltese
For Maltese dogs that have luxating patella, it can be beneficial to supplement them with glucosamine and chondroitin to help keep their joints healthy. Additionally, omega-3 supplements can aid in protecting joint health and keep their skin and coat lush and soft.
Behavior and Training Tips for the Maltese
Maltese Personality and Temperament
Maltese do well with some daily activity but dont require vigorous exercise to maintain their physical or mental health. They can be somewhat stubborn, but with positive training methods Maltese dogs can do very well with activities such as agility.
Maltese are very affectionate with their family, but their tiny size makes interactions with young or boisterous children something they might try to avoid. A family with older children who understand how to interact with a dog may be better suited for them, and interactions between children and dogs should always be supervised.
Like many other toy breeds, Maltese tend to compensate their tiny stature with a big bark. They can be vocal, especially when they feel they are protecting their people or home.
Maltese Behavior
Maltese are very attached to their families, and they show this with their tiny but mighty protective nature. This can also cause them to experience some anxiety when separated from their people, which can manifest in unwanted behaviors such as vocalization.
Maltese Training
Maltese are an intelligent breed, and their stubborn side can make training difficult. Potty training Maltese puppies can be challenging, but consistency paired with positive reinforcement will yield the best results.
Despite their lavish appearance, Maltese dogs are an athletic breed and can thrive in sports such as obedience or agility. While Maltese have an abundance of energy, daily walks or playtime with their family are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.
Fun Activities for a Maltese
Walking
Indoor/outdoor playing
Obedience
Agility
Maltese Grooming Guide
Maltese are known for their long, silky white coat, which requires daily care to prevent mats and tangles. Their fur should be brushed or combed daily, and regular bathing will keep their skin and coat healthy and clean. Maltese tend to be low-shedding dogs and are often suitable for people with dog allergies.
Skin Care
Skin care for the Maltese can vary depending on the individuals needs. However, this breed does not typically have sensitive skin. Regular brushing and bathing to maintain their coat is the best way to keep their skin healthy as well.
Coat Care
The Malteses long coat is prone to matting, which can cause skin infections if not cared for properly. Daily brushing is required to prevent their fur from matting or tangling. When bathing a Maltese, its important to thoroughly rinse and then dry the hair to prevent skin irritation or infection from the shampoo and moisture.
Eye Care
Their white coat can predispose the Maltese to more prevalent tear staining, but routine cleaning with a soft, damp cloth will help keep this to a minimum. Excessive staining could be a sign of other underlying conditions (such as allergies or plugged tear ducts) and should be discussed with a veterinarian.
Ear Care
Routine cleaning with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner is vital in maintaining healthy ear canals. This should also be done any time a Maltese is in water, such as after swimming or bathing.
Considerations for Pet Parents
The silky, white coat of Maltese dogs is often a major draw for new pet owners, but this breed will do best in a home that is able to provide daily maintenance of their coat. They need to be brushed every dayincluding after routine baths.
While they are high-energy dogs, Maltese dont require a lot of exercise to expend that energy, which can make them well-suited for busier families. Their tiny stature makes the rambunctious nature of young children somewhat intimidating for the Maltese, but theyll fit right in with families that have older kids.
Maltese FAQs
Is a Maltese a good family dog?
Maltese are very affectionate and loving toward their families. They do well with children who know how to interact properly with small animals, but may be best suited for a family with older kids who are always gentle.
Are Maltese smart dogs?
Maltese have been human companions for centuriesand are therefore adept in training their humans to get what they want. This intelligence can be perceived as stubbornness, but Maltese dogs respond very well to consistency and positive training methods.
Is a Maltese hypoallergenic?
Hypoallergenic dogs are actually a myth, as all dogs produce allergens from their coat, dander, urine, and saliva. But because of their low-shedding coat, a Maltese can be a good fit for some people who experience dog allergies. Before bringing home a Maltese puppy, spend time with the breed first to see how your allergies react.
How long does a Maltese live?
The typical Maltese lifespan is 12-15 years.
How much does a Maltese cost?
Depending on the breeders experience and the puppys pedigree, the cost of a Maltese puppy can range from $600-$2,000.
Are Maltese quiet dogs?
Maltese are known to be moderate barkers, and they can be quite vocal in showing their displeasure about something.
Featured Image: iStock/enviromantic
WRITTEN BY
Teresa Kho-Pelfrey, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Teresa Kho-Pelfrey graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2015 and completed her clinical year at Purdue...
How Long Do Maltese Live
[ad_1]When it comes to choosing a furry companion, one of the most important factors to consider is their lifespan. After all, nobody wants to fall in love with a pet only to have to say goodbye too soon. If youre considering adding a Maltese to your family, you may be wondering: How long do Maltese live?
The average lifespan of a Maltese is between 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care and attention, some Maltese dogs have been known to live well into their late teens. Factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health can all play a role in determining how long your Maltese will live.
To help you better understand the lifespan of a Maltese, weve compiled a list of 7 interesting trends related to the topic:
1. Genetics play a significant role in determining how long a Maltese will live. Some Maltese dogs may be predisposed to certain health conditions that can shorten their lifespan, while others may be relatively healthy throughout their lives.
2. Diet and nutrition are also key factors in determining the lifespan of a Maltese. A well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs can help ensure that your Maltese lives a long and healthy life.
3. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of a Maltese. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are all important for keeping your Maltese fit and active.
4. Veterinary care is crucial for monitoring your Malteses health and catching any potential issues early on. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care can all help extend your Malteses lifespan.
5. Environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins or pollutants, can also impact the lifespan of a Maltese. Keeping your home clean and free of harmful substances can help ensure that your Maltese stays healthy.
6. Socialization and mental stimulation are important for the overall well-being of a Maltese. Engaging your Maltese in activities that keep their mind sharp and their spirits high can help them live a longer and happier life.
7. Love and companionship are perhaps the most important factors in determining how long a Maltese will live. Providing your Maltese with a loving and nurturing environment can help ensure that they thrive and live a fulfilling life.
To provide further insight into the lifespan of a Maltese, we reached out to professionals in the field for their thoughts on the topic:
Genetics play a significant role in determining the lifespan of a Maltese. Its important to research the background of your Malteses parents to get an idea of how long they may live. Canine Geneticist
Diet and nutrition are crucial for ensuring that your Maltese lives a long and healthy life. A diet rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals can help support their overall health and longevity. Canine Nutritionist
Regular exercise is key for keeping your Maltese in top shape. Daily walks and playtime can help keep their muscles strong and their minds sharp. Canine Fitness Trainer
Veterinary care is essential for monitoring your Malteses health and catching any potential issues early on. Regular check-ups can help ensure that your Maltese stays healthy for years to come. Canine Veterinarian
Now that weve covered some interesting trends related to the lifespan of a Maltese, lets address some common concerns and questions that prospective Maltese owners may have:
1. Are Maltese prone to any specific health conditions that may affect their lifespan?
Some Maltese dogs may be predisposed to certain health conditions, such as dental issues, luxating patella, and heart problems. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch these issues early on and ensure that your Maltese lives a long and healthy life.
2. How can I help my Maltese live a long and healthy life?
Providing your Maltese with a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, veterinary care, and lots of love and attention can help ensure that they live a long and fulfilling life.
3. What is the average lifespan of a Maltese?
The average lifespan of a Maltese is between 12 to 15 years, but with proper care and attention, some Maltese dogs have been known to live well into their late teens.
4. How can I ensure that my Maltese stays mentally sharp as they age?
Engaging your Maltese in activities that stimulate their mind, such as puzzle toys, training exercises, and interactive playtime, can help keep their brain sharp as they age.
5. Are there any specific dietary requirements for Maltese dogs?
Maltese dogs have a small stature and may require a diet that is tailored to their size and energy levels. Consult with a canine nutritionist to determine the best diet for your Maltese.
6. How often should I take my Maltese to the vet for check-ups?
It is recommended to take your Maltese to the vet for annual check-ups, as well as any time you notice any changes in their behavior, appetite, or overall health.
7. Are Maltese good with children and other pets?
Maltese are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them great companions for children and other pets. Proper socialization and training can help ensure that your Maltese gets along well with others.
8. Do Maltese require a lot of grooming?
Maltese have a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Daily brushing and occasional trips to the groomer can help keep your Maltese looking their best.
9. Can Maltese be left alone for long periods of time?
Maltese are social creatures and thrive on companionship. Leaving them alone for extended periods of time can lead to separation anxiety and behavioral issues. It is recommended to provide them with plenty of attention and interaction.
10. Are Maltese easy to train?
Maltese are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement techniques and consistency are key to successfully training a Maltese.
11. How much exercise do Maltese need?
Maltese are a small breed that requires moderate exercise to stay healthy and fit. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are important for keeping your Maltese active.
12. Do Maltese shed a lot?
Maltese have a non-shedding coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. They are considered a hypoallergenic breed, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
13. Are Maltese prone to separation anxiety?
Maltese are known for forming strong bonds with their owners and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Providing them with plenty of attention and mental stimulation can help alleviate this issue.
14. How can I help my Maltese live a longer life?
Providing your Maltese with a loving and nurturing environment, regular veterinary care, a well-balanced diet, and plenty of exercise can all help ensure that they live a long and healthy life.
15. What should I look out for in terms of signs of aging in my Maltese?
As Maltese dogs age, they may experience changes in their energy levels, appetite, and mobility. Keeping an eye out for any unusual behavior or symptoms can help catch any potential health issues early on.
In summary, the lifespan of a Maltese can vary depending on a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. By providing your Maltese with proper care and attention, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life. Remember to consult with professionals in the field, such as canine geneticists, nutritionists, fitness trainers, and veterinarians, for expert advice on how to best care for your Maltese. With love, attention, and the right care, your Maltese can be a cherished companion for many years to come.[ad_2]
