by Kristen Davis

Created on: May 12, 2008

Maltese Make the Best Family Dog and Bring Joy into People's Lives

Maltese are well mannered dogs who are slow to temper and can handle tail pulling and hugs that are a little too tight. They are a sturdy breed yet come in a small package. Maltese are always there with a happy face to greet you at the door and are sweet natured. They are easy to train, don't shed so they won't leave fur on everything and are great for families with allergies. Additionally they are brave around larger breeds and get along with other breeds very well. They are protective of their owners and their high pitched barks can easily alert of an intruder.

Maltese are good listeners and if trained properly will do anything you ask of them. Be sure to get a girl Maltese as the males tend to lift their leg on anything to mark their territory. While males do this they are also great companions to have so don't rule out a male based solely on that. If they are trained well the problem will go away in no time.

Our Maltese is 9 years old and the sweetest dog we have ever had. He has such a great personality. He always does something to make us laugh whether he is being good and sun tanning on the porch on his back, snoring and running in his sleep or being bad and getting into a bag of pistachios or trying to get some steak for a snack. This particular dog has developed snoring in recent years and acts like an old man right along side with his owner. If his owner is watching TV, he watches tv. He also knows when it is bedtime and goes straight to his bedtime spot at the same time every night.

Even after getting a half Maltese breed our pure bred Maltese was compassionate and is protective of our puppy. The half breed Maltese also doesn't shed and has all of the great characteristics of a Maltese and all of the great features of a miniature poodle. Don't rule out a mixed breed because you are afraid they will only have the bad qualities of the breeds. They also can be one of the sweetest and caring dogs you have ever owned and can bring unsurpassed happiness into your home.

The best part about having a Maltese is the constant companionship of a truly beautiful pure white as snow breed. They are very affectionate dogs who will show their love every day they are with you. They love to wait at the door, or as my dog does, sit on the back of the couch looking out the window for you to come home.

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