How to Choose a Maltese Puppy

By Robin Noelle

Instructions

Step 1:
Look for the temperament you want. Puppies that rush forward and smother you with love and affection are the pushier, more alpha of the group. The quieter and more mellow Maltese puppies will hang back. Evaluate each puppy individually. Do you want a quieter, more mellow pet or a more energetic one?
Step 2:
Avoid overly shy or distrustful Maltese litters. If none of the puppies are coming to greet you and play, turn around and walk away. At least some of the puppies should be outgoing and playful. It's OK if it takes the others a little while to get used to you, but not if they bark nervously or run away.
Step 3:
Choose a middle of the road puppy. You probably don't want the boss of the group, who pushes everyone around and steals all the toys, but neither do you want the picked on, submissive puppy. Pick an outgoing puppy who plays with the group but isn't at either end of the spectrum.
Step 4:
Look for curious, alert puppies. Making some noise should get a few of the puppies attention. Watch which ones come over to investigate. You want a curious, alert puppy who doesn't startle at every noise.
Step 5:
Spend time alone with each puppy. When taken away from his litter mates, how does the Maltese puppy act? Does he look at you when you speak to him? Is his tail wagging? Without the support of the litter, shy puppies might become more outgoing and outgoing puppies more relaxed.

Tips & Warnings

Only purchase puppies from a reputable breeder. Never from a pet store.
Consider adopting from a breed rescue instead of buying a puppy.
Have your Maltese puppy fixed by six months.

More Puppy Pages

About Teacup Maltese

One of the smallest dogs breeds, a healthy Maltese is a tough little thing with a silky white coat that doesn't shed, good news for allergy sufferers. This breed generally has long ears covered in thick hair and large round eyes filled with curiosity and...

Schutzhund is a fabulous dog sport. Schutzhund, German for "protection dog," is a three part trial consisting of obedience work, tracking skills and protection demonstrations. Dogs who participate in Schutzhund have to complete a rigorous obedience phase...

Training a puppy to use a litter box is an easy way to provide consistent training during inclement weather. It also allows those unable to provide frequent trips outside the peace of mind needed for dog ownership.

How to Start a Maltese Rescue in Pennsylvania

With a Maltese making the final three of "Greatest American Dog," the breed will become more popular. If you have experience with Maltese, you know their needs can be demanding. Many people buy Maltese puppies on impulse and do not realize what they are...

According to "Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds, 2nd Edition" (D. Caroline Colie, PhD, 2005), the Maltese breed was developed as early as 300 BCE. Back then, Maltese came in many colors, but now they are always white. Although they were bred specifically to be...