Monday, December 27, 2010

Stuffed Toys


Stuffed toys are filled with polyfill stuffing and are flexible, soft, and easily washed.  These toys are made of of soft materials, such as faux lamb's wool.  Many stuffed toys have a squeaky inside them as well.  These toys are good for light chewers, but are not good for average to aggressive chewers.  Again some dogs like to "kill" these types of toys.  Owners must take care to pick up pieces so dogs do not choke or swallow small pieces.



Sunday, December 19, 2010

Squeaky Toys


Squeaky Toys are probably the most popular dog toy.  There are tons of different types, sizes, and varieties of squeaky toys that can be purchased almost anywhere.  These toys have a high pitched squeaker that makes noise to attract the dog.  Dogs also like squeaky toys because it reminds them of noises small animals might make.  Squeaky toys can be very helpful for dogs in obedience training that are not food motivated.  Although these toys are great for being easy cleaning, take care not to let your dog use these toys as a chew toy.  Many dogs like to "kill" squeaky toys by ripping them apart, pulling out stuffing, and destroying the toy.  The small pieces that will be chewed apart can cause choking or a blockage if swallowed.  Always remember to pick up and throw away toys that have been destroyed or are falling apart.  Keep your dog safe.


Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Breed of the Month--Old English Sheepdog


Old English Sheepdog


Color:  Any shade of blue, blue merle, grizzle, gray, with white marking.
Height:  Males:  22-24 inches/  Females:  21-22 inches
Weight:  60-100 lbs
Life Span:  10-12 years


Breed Health Concerns:  Cataracts, congenital deafness, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and bloat.


Coat:  Waterproof undercoat with a harsh outercoat.
Country of Origin:  England

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

Many breeds contributed to the line of the Old English Sheepdog, developed in England.  The breeds original name (and still used today) is Bobtail.

The Old English Sheepdog is always protecting his flock, but he is a gentle soul.  This herding breed can have a tendency to herd his own family members and children.  The Old English Sheepdog is an excellent watchdog, yet a playful companion.

This breed is excellent petting when their coats are clean!

Exercise:
The Old English Sheepdog is athletic and enjoys being able to explore outside.  Although this breed does not require a lot of exercise, a good walk every day is still important.

Grooming:
This breed needs extra attention when it comes to grooming.  The Old English Sheepdog is a seasonal shedder, but needs to brushed regularly year round to help maintain his coat.  Non-show dogs of this breed need only be bathed and clipped every few months.  Scissors can be used to help keep the hair trimmed around his eyes and feet.


Training:
The Old English Sheepdog was bred to think independently and can sometimes seem stubborn.  Using positive reinforcement and patience, this breed will respond well to training.  Socialization is always important.







Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Rope Toys




Rope Toys come in variety of sizes, lengths, and shapes.  Some have additions for various entertainment like attached toys or bones, multiple knots, or handles.  Rope toys are made of cotton with highly knotted ropes, and owners must remember to take care to get the appropriate size for their dog.  A rope toy should not be able to fit completely into a dog's mouth.  Rope toys are interactive toys that should be for supervised playtime only.  NEVER leave a dog unsupervised with a rope toy.  After playtime is over, remove the rope toy and place somewhere the dog cannot get it on his own.  Rope toys can be used to play many games, including helping teach fetch, and can be soaked in cold water to help with teething puppies.  Rope toys are NOT recommended for aggressive chewers.  Because rope toys are soft, they are also not recommended for problem chewers because some dogs can mistake the rope you for fabric and clothing.

 


Monday, November 1, 2010

Breed of the Month--Basset Hound


Basset Hound


Color:  Tricolor, (black, tan, white), bicolor (lemon, white)
Height:  13-15 inches
Weight:  50-70 lbs
Life Span:  10-12 years


Breed Health Concerns:  Allergies, ear infections, eyelash and eyelid problems, thrombopathia, intervertebral disk disease, enostosis, back and joint problems.


Coat:  Dense, short, hard, smooth
Country of Origin:  Great Britain

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

The Basset Hound was developed from other French hounds used for hunting.  The ancestry of the Basset Hound is French, but the breed was perfected in England.

The Basset Hound is gentle, kind, sweet, devoted, and naturally well behaved...he is always a friend.  He is actually not clumsy, but can appear to stumble and waddle as he walks.

The Basset Hound, like many hound breeds, is not always the best choice for a city life.  This breed was reared for hunting and has a very loud, deep voice that he enjoys using.

Exercise:
The Basset Hound has no interested in moving anywhere too quickly, and will be happy with a short walk every day where he can use his nose to smell all the wonderful things outside.

Grooming:
The Basset Hound's coat is fairly easy to care for, but his skin requires extra attention.  It must be kept clean and free from infection.  The Basset Hounds ears and eyes must also be cleaned regularly and kept free from infection.

Training:
Bassets may sometimes need some extra time to learn basic obedience.  The Basset is highly motivated to please, and using positive reinforcement training will help the breed learn with more ease.




All that extra skin can make this breed quite comical at times!

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Frisbees



A Frisbee is a flat, disc-like toy a dog can retrieve.  Frisbees come in many types, sizes, and textures.  Many games can be played with your dog using a frisbee, including the classic fetch.  Frisbees can go for long distances and help your dog expel a lot of his energy.  Many dogs learn to watch for the frisbee and jump in crazy ways to catch it.  I find playing fetch with a frisbee to be quite entertaining and enjoyable.




Saturday, October 2, 2010

Breed of the Month--Papillon


Papillon


Color:  White with any patches of color except liver, tricolor
Height:  8-11 inches
Weight:  Two categories: 1) both sexes less than 5.5 lbs, 2) Males:  5.5-10 lbs/ Females:  5.5-11 lbs
Life Span:  13-16 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Patellar luxation.

Coat:  Single coat, straight, silk, fine, long, flowing.
Country of Origin:  France

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

Papillons are descended from toy-sized spaniels.  Erect ears replaced the drop ear look for this breed in the late 1800s.  The Papillon is small enough that many people enjoy taking them everywhere, and have done so for centuries.  This breed is adept at tracking, agility, and obedience.

Papillon need lots of socialization from puppy to adulthood.  Although you may be surprised to hear this, but Papillons are not generally a yappy or barky dog by nature.  Although this breed has very high energy, he is easily trained in all sorts of different ways.

Papillons are very easy to fall in love with because of their small size and cute, fluffy coat.  Many people will find your pet of interest in you add this breed to your family, and therefore socialization of this breed tends to come quite naturally.

Exercise:
Although the Papillon enjoys the occasional cuddle, he is very energetic and needs regular daily exercise.  The Papillon is athletic and enjoys being part of outdoor family activities.

Grooming:
Because the Papillon has no undercoat, the breed sheds very little to no hair.  The coat is easy to care for and does not require any extra special grooming or trimming.  Occasional bathing is sufficient.

Training:
The Papillon is a very versatile dog that enjoys many different activities.  Motivational training and positive reinforcement make training this breed an ease.  The Papillon must be well socialized.





Monday, September 20, 2010

Tennis Balls



A tennis ball is a soft rubber ball covered in cloth.  Tennis balls make great toys for fetch and other interactive games you can play with your dog.  Take care to choose a tennis ball that is the proper size for your dog.  The ball should not be able to fit completely into the dog's mouth.  For medium to large dogs, the regular tennis ball you can buy at the local mart is perfect.

The tennis ball is a great, versatile toy that is inexpensive.  Once tennis balls are broken are your dog starts to chew them, discard them immediately.  Never let a dog chew a tennis ball.  Tennis balls should be used for game time, then put away where the dog cannot get to it.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Breed of the Month--Australian Cattle Dog


Australian Cattle Dog


Color:  Blue or red, solid or with markings or speckle.
Height:  Males:  18-20 inches/  Females:  17-19 inches
Weight:  33-50 lbs
Life Span:  10-13 years

Breed Health Concerns:  hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, congenital deafness, and patellar luxation.

Coat:  Dense, short undercoat, with weather-resistent hard, straight outer coat, both smooth.
Country of Origin:  Australia

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

The history of the breed is in its name.  The Australian Cattle Dog was bred to work along-side farmers and cattlemen.  The Australian Cattle Dog has many breeds in its history including:  Australian Kelpie, the Dingo, and Blue Smooth Highland Collie.  This breed was favored for its ability to drive cattle over long distances and in all kinds of weather.

The Australian Cattle Dog is extremely alert, courageous, and intelligent.  This breed has a high prey drive, but is very owner orientated.  This breed excels at obedience, agility, and other field sport games.

I have personally fallen in love with each and every Australian Cattle Dog I have ever met.  They are very loyal dogs that aim to please their owners as much as possible.  Their smaller stature combined with their interesting color blends make them very eye-catching to anyone you might meet.  If properly exercised, the Australian Cattle Dog makes an amazing pet for most living situations.

Exercise:
This is a breed of dog that actually needs some sort of "job."  The Australian Cattle Dog needs extensive daily mental and physical exercise.

Grooming:
The dense undercoat requires regular brushing.  Occasional baths are sufficient for this breed.

Training:
The Australian Cattle Dog is intelligent and quick to learn.  This breed does have a very high prey drive and training in impulse control is very important.  Keeping an Australian Cattle Dog challenged is key to training this breed.





Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Chew Toys

Chew toys are a very important thing to have for your dog.  Proper chew toys provide mental stimulation, satisfy a dog's chewing need, exercise their teeth and gums, and expend energy.  What type of chew toy is right for your dog should be based on the dog's activity level, size, and sometimes breed.  Remember to supervise your pet when giving new chew toy items.  Some bones may cause choking if not properly chosen for size and type.


One of the best chew toys I have found is the Kong bones made to stuff yummy treats into.  These are great to help keep your dog occupied while he gets something delicious.  I highly recommend one of these for someone having trouble with chewing behaviors.  They also make many kinds of pastes you can put into the chew toy, flavored just for dogs.  Kongs are made of 100% natural rubber, are non-toxic, puncture resistant, and come in many varieties.


Other chew toys that might work for you include:  natural bones, rawhide, edible velvet bones, Nylabone, cow hooves (these can get stinky), and cow & pig ears.


Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Bowser the Biter

Breed:  Lhasa Apso
Age: 2 years
Prognosis:  Dominant Aggression

Bowser nips and barks at guests, is possessive over his owner, and attacks other members of their dog pack.

Upon first entering the house I made a big mistake, I looked directly at Bowser as he was barking and growling at me and made eye contact.  This is something you should avoid when confronting an unstable dog.  It is in our natural instincts to look directly at things when first meeting them, but in the case of an unstable dog, it is not a good idea.

The owner had put Bowser on a leash to answer the door, which is something I told her to do over the next several weeks or so whenever someone comes over.  The best way to make sure no one gets bitten is to avoid the possibility.  Putting Bowser on a leash helps keeps guests safe from injury and gives the owner better access to address the problem.

The owner and I chatted for a bit and then decided to start the session with an exercise on the couch.  One of Bowser's issues was that he was very possessive over his owner, demonstrated by the fact that no on was allowed to sit by her on the couch.  As soon as I first attempted to sit by her, Bowser attacked, biting me in the leg.  He then quickly jumped off the couch and continued to growl and lunge towards me.  At this point it is most important to stay calm.  You must never use anger or frustration when dealing with an unstable dog.  Although he had bitten me, and yes it hurt, he did not cause any serious damage, and its definitely expected when dealing with a biter.  I stayed calm and applied the method made famous by Cesar Millan, simply making a "shhhhht!" sound while standing calm and assertive.  This method has worked time and time again for me on numerous occasions as it did now.

We worked on Bowser's possession by having me claim several places in the living room as my own. This is something I especially recommend to people with new puppies.  Randomly when your puppy has claimed a space and is laying down, go over and gently push the puppy out of that place then sit there yourself.  Always remember, YOU ARE THE BOSS!

I then had the owner put Bowser on the couch next to her and sat on the opposite side.  I showed her the bite technique (using your fingers as though they are teeth and your hand the mouth).  This technique mimics the bite of a more dominant dog and tells Bowser that this behavior is not acceptable.  The owner saw this technique work immediately.

I talked with the owner and the other members of the household about the importance of claiming everything in their house as theirs.  Even if the object is a dog toy, it is THEIR dog toy.  They are only letting Bowser and the other dogs use the dog toy.  It is important to claim everything as your own so that when a dog has something he is not supposed to, he will give the object up without question.

The owner, Bowser and I then went out for a walk.  I reminded her of all the proper procedures when going out for a walk.  First and foremost, the owner ALWAYS goes through all doors first.  The dog must wait calmly at the door and follow the owner out.  Bowser actually did fairly well on the walk.  I am proud to say that the owner does walk her dogs, and the dogs walk next to her as they should.

When we returned to the house we tackled the issue of Bowser attacking other members of the pack, specifically Bo, a 9-year-old Peekapoo.  For this exercise I had the owner put Bo in her lap, which automatically triggered Bowsers aggression and he came in right away for a nip at Bo.  I further demonstrated the bite technique for when Bowser came in closer than he should.  The owner again saw instant results.  We used treats to maintain interest in the exercise.  Keep in mind that Bowser only got a treat when he was calm and maintained his boundaries.  I emphasized the importance of always making Bo feel safe from now on.  As the owner it is our responsibility to make sure we maintain the balance of our dog pack.  During this exercise Bowser bit me, Bo, and one other pack member, but this is not what we take from this experience, we instead remember that by the end of this exercise, Bowser was calmly sitting while we were able to pet and treat other pack members.  That's whats important!!!

I finished my session in their fenced yard with all the dogs.  I demonstrated what I call "putting a dog down."  This is not to be confused with euthanasia.  When I refer to "putting a dog down," I am referring to physically showing your dominance over a dog by putting him down on the ground and making his submit.  Keep in mind that this technique is not for everyone.  When using this sort of technique it is monumentally important that you follow through.  If you let a dog up before he fully submits, the dog wins and the exercise has only provided the dog with further evidence that the behavior you were actually trying to stop is a behavior that is rewarding.  This technique should only be used if you have the confidence to follow through.  I say confidence because when using this technique the first few times, it is possible you will be nipped at or even bit.  This technique should ONLY be used if you have been properly shown how to do it.

Treatment Plan
*Use a leash at the door whenever possible.
*Leave Bowser's leash on during exercises and when people are over.  He is a small dog and moves very quickly.  The leash will make him easier to catch and then correct.
*Work on exercises with Bo in the owner's lap and correct Bowser when he approaches the wrong way.
*Put Bowser in his kennel for bed time.  He chases Bo under the bed normally.  Putting Bowser in his kennel before this behavior usually occurs will help curb the behavior and help Bo feel safe.
*Reclaim the entire house and take over Bowsers spot whenever possible.
*Put Bowser down into submission when he is out of control.  Follow through.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Breed of the Month--Kerry Blue Terrier


Kerry Blue Terrier


Color:  Any shade of gray-blue, may have black  points or small white markings.
Height:  Males:  18-19.5 inches/  Females:  17.5-19 inches
Weight:  Males:  33-40 lbs/  Females:  less
Life Span:  12-15 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Eye problems, ear infections, patellar lunation, skin problems, hypothyroidism, and cerebellar abiotrophy.

Coat:  Dense, soft, wavy, silky single coat.
Country of Origin:  Ireland

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standard and more information.

The origins of this breed are somewhat unknown, but the Kerry Blue Terrier has been in Ireland for at least the last 100 years.  The Kerry has been used to watch over their families, hunt, guard property, kill vermin, and tend stock.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is confident, feisty, and intelligent, which can lead to a territorial breed.  It is important to properly socialize the Kerry.  The Kerry can be a rough playmate, and should be closely monitored with other dogs.

For me and my personal dog taste, I am not a huge fan of the Kerry Blue Terrier.  That does not mean that can not make a wonderful pet for you and your family.  My experience with this breed has noted an excess of energy and stubbornness.

Exercise:
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a very high energy breed and needs a lot of daily mental and physical stimulation.  The Kerry is very intelligent and will find fun in any game you could want to play with him.  The Kerry enjoys being outside.

Grooming:
Show Kerrys need professional grooming.  The average pet Kerry will also need to be taken to a professional groomer about every 6-8 weeks. Their coats shed very little and make great pets for people with allergies.  Occasional bathing of the breed is sufficient.  Extra care must be taken to make sure the eyes stay clean and free from infection.

Training:
The Kerry Blue Terrier require firm training that also keeps the dog interested.  Focused, short training sessions are best for the Kerry.  It is very important to socialize this breed as a puppy and throughout life to keep him from becoming too territorial.





Friday, July 30, 2010

Wisconsin Dogs

Went to visit some family in Wisconsin and ended up having a little dog get-together as well.  Of course these dogs all know each other.  I guess you could say they are my dog's cousin dogs, if that makes any sense.

Its always fun to get your dog(s) together with as many other dogs as often as possible (provided everything is done safely).  Teaching a dog proper socialization skills is one of the most important things you can do for the safety and happiness of your pet.

Can you get yours and all your family's dogs to pose together?


Caravaggio (my boy), Buddy, Cody, Nekita (my girl), and Laddie.




Sunday, July 25, 2010

Chewing Deterrents

Bitter Spray is spray used to deter puppies and dogs from chewing on inappropriate things.  The spray has a bitter taste that most dogs find unpleasant.  To use this type of chewing deterrent, spray on all items you wish the dog to avoid.  These sprays come in many different kinds, and even come in a paste form.  These products are non-toxic, but can sometimes evaporate quickly, and must be reapplied regularly.  Not all dogs will be repelled by bitter sprays.



Thursday, July 1, 2010

Breed of the Month--Vizsla


Vizsla

Color:  Shades of golden rust
Height:  Males:  22-25 inches/  Females:  21-23.5 inches
Weight:  44-66 lbs
Life Span:  11-15 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Allergies, entropion, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, ectropion, and von Willebrand disease.  

Coat:  Dense, smooth, short, close lying single coat.
Country of Origin:  Hungary

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.  


The ancestor of the Vizsla were hunters that travelled with a nomadic tribe who came to settle in (what is now known as) Hungary.  The intense terrain of the land encouraged the breeding of hunting traits like a keen nose for smells and the ability to withstand extreme weather.

The Vizsla can become prone to destructive behaviors if not properly exercised.  This breed was made for hunting and working long, hard hours.  The Vizsla excels in activities such as:  pointing, agility, retrieving, tracking, and obedience.

Although I have met very few dogs of this breed, the ones I have met are very beautiful animals.  I believe a concern to keep in mind for this breed is anxiety.  This breed needs extensive daily physical and mental exercise, and things to keep him occupied.  It's important to take on a strong, calm leadership role when bringing this breed into your family.

Exercise: 
Vizslas are very athletic dogs who require vigorous daily exercise.  They enjoy being in wide open places where they can run and sniff (hunt).  Vizslas are a great breed for someone looking for a running or biking partner.

Grooming:
The Vizslas coat is extremely easy to care for.  Use a hound glove to keep the skin clean, and take note to frequently check the coat for ticks and other parasites.  The long ears of the Vizsla must be kept clean and free from infection.

Training: 
The Vizsla is an extremely motivated dog for training.  This breed can be highly distractible with such high energy and training must remain positively reward-based, persistent, and patient.








  

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

What kind of dog should I get?

Well this is a hard question.

A lot of this is in personal preference.  What kind of dogs do you like, and why?  Browse some breeds online and see what you think.  When you have a few breeds in mind, do your research.  Research the breed as much as possible.  What's the breed's history, what were they originally bread for?  Breed characteristics are important when training a dog.  Herding breeds can be more prone to nipping, terriers may be more likely to dig and hunt for small animals in your back yard, and sometimes non-sporting breeds can be difficult to motivate for training.  Once you learn more about a breed you're interested, ask yourself again, is this the type of dog I want, and why?

Don't fall into the, I want this breed because I think they're cute.  That's the worst possible thing you could do!  Figure out what you really want out of dog.

Look at your own life as it currently is.  What's YOUR energy level??
Are you a high-energy person that goes running every morning, or does it take you 30 minutes to wake up while you slowly sip your coffee?  Most dog's energy levels falls into 4 LEVELS:  low, medium, high, and very high.  You should always adopt a dog that is AT or BELOW your energy level, NEVER above!  Does the breed you picked match your general level of energy?

Once you have decided on a breed(s) you like and think would fit well into your home, it's time to decide where you could get your new pet from.
You basically have three options:
1.  Your local shelter or rescue.
2.  Breeders
3.  Pet store

1.  I would highly recommend you choose one of the first two options.  It is best to adopt from your local shelter whenever possible.  You will not only be getting a new addition to your family, but helping out an animal in need.  Also when considering adoption, shelters offer many different age groups for adoption.  Perhaps you would like to skip the puppy potty training stage and adopt an adolescent dog.  It's always nice when someone considers adopting older dogs as well, many are already trained and at a lower level of energy.  Another great thing shelters offer is variety.  I firmly believe that mutts are the way to go!  Mixed breed dogs tend to have better temperaments and less health problems in the long run.
A great local Minneapolis dog rescue is MARS (Midwest Animal Rescue & Services).

2.  Breeders are definitely a good option if you're looking to get a pure-bred dog.  Again, it is very important to do your homework.  You want to make sure you are getting your dog from a reputable breeder. This breeder will breed for good temperament and health.  There are many "back yard" breeders out there. These people are just looking to make a quick buck.  These breeders do not breed for health or temperament and do not always take very good care of their dogs.  A good trick to ask a potential breeder is, "May I see the puppies with their mom?"  If the breeder refuses, stay away!  Look for a breeder with a good history of healthy lines of dogs.

3.  Pet store are actually one of the worst places to get a new dog.  Pet stores many times carry animals from Puppy Mills.  These are places where again, they are just looking to make a quick buck, but on a much larger scale.  Puppy Mills are places you have seen horror stores in the news about.  These places definitely do not breed for health and temperament.  If you get a dog from a place like this, it is HIGHLY likely you will have numerous problems down the road.  You don't want to start off training a dog that's bred to already be crazy.  It makes everything you do much more difficult!

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Crates

Dog crates come in various forms.  For all crates, the dog should have enough room to stand up and turn around with comfort.  Crates should NEVER be used as a form of punishment.  A dog must see his crate as a comfortable place that he enjoys going in.  A dog should not be left in a crate for too long of a time period.  Crates are helpful training tools for puppies and new dogs.  They can assist in prevention of potty training accidents and avoiding destructive behavior.










Airline crates have a wire door on the front with a solid plastic crate outside.  These are designed to acceptable airline standards, but can be used as a regular in house crate also.










Wire crates have an all wire construction on three sides and the top, with a hard plastic or metal bottom that is removable for cleaning.  

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Breed of the Month--Maltese


Maltese


Color:  White, lemon or light tan markings
Height:  Males:  8.5-10 inches/  Females:  7.5-9 inches
Weight:  6-9 lbs
Life Span:  15 years or more

Breed Health Concerns:  white shaker dog syndrome, patent ductus arterioles, hypoglycemia, patellar lunation, portosystemic shunts.

Coat:  Dense, flat, long, silky single coat.
Country of Origin:  Italy

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

Although the exact origin of the Maltese is a mystery, most historians believe the breed to be from the island of Malta, located off Italy.  The Maltese has been a favorite companion of the wealthy for centuries, including the Greek and Romans, and the British empire.

The Maltese is a very playful breed that is affectionate, adorable, mischievous, and spirited.  They enjoy being with their family as much as possible.  It is important to properly train this breed and not overly spoil them so they will continue to be a well-behaved member of the family.

The Maltese, and many Maltese mixes have become increasing popular in the last several years.  I have seen more and more of these cute little white, fluffy dogs.  As with all small breed dogs, it is important to train this breed properly so you will not have, what I like to call, "small dog syndrome," problems in the future.  Many people do not believe small dogs need the same rules and boundaries as bigger dogs do.  But if you truly want a well-rounded dog that gets along with all other dogs and people, it is important to train them just as you would any dog.  All dogs need rules and exercise!

Exercise: 
Although many people enjoy carrying these dogs around, it is important to let them walk along-side you to help drain their energy.  They may be small dogs, but they are strong dogs that need their daily walks.

Grooming: 
Show dogs of this breed must maintain their long, flowing coat.  This coat is very high maintenance and must be brushed daily to keep it free and knots and tangles.  Most "pet" Maltese get clipped to help maintain a nice coat and make the grooming easier on the family.

Training:
The Maltese enjoys interacting with humans and is easily trained using positive reinforcement methods. Housebreaking this breed may require extra patience.  Socialization is very important for this breed so he is always accepting of strangers.

The pet popular, hair-clipped look.

Maltese puppies.