TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Introduction 1
- Glossary of Dog Terms 3
- Chapter One: Understanding Maltese Dogs 2
- Facts About Maltese Dogs 3
- Summary of Maltese Facts 5
- Maltese Breed History 7
- Chapter Two: Things to Know Before Getting a Maltese 12
- Do You Need a License? 13
- How Many Maltese Dogs Should You Keep? 14
- Do Maltese Dogs Get Along with Other Pets? 15
- How Much Does it Cost to Keep a Maltese? 15
- Initial Costs 16
- Monthly Costs 19
- What are the Pros and Cons of Maltese Dogs? 22
- Chapter Three: Purchasing Your Maltese 24
- Where Can You Buy Maltese Dogs? 25
- How to Choose a Reputable Maltese Breeder 29
- Tips for Selecting a Healthy Maltese Puppy 31
- Puppy-Proofing Your Home 34
- Chapter Four: Caring for Your New Maltese 38
- Habitat and Exercise Requirements for Maltese Dogs 39
- Setting Up Your Puppy’s Area 41
- Chapter Five: Meeting Your Maltese Dog’s Nutritional Needs 44
- The Nutritional Needs of Dogs 45
- How to Select a High-Quality Dog Food Brand 46
- Tips for Feeding Your Maltese 49
- Dangerous Foods to Avoid 50
- Chapter Six: Training Your Maltese 52
- Socializing Your New Maltese Puppy 53
- Positive Reinforcement for Obedience Training 55
- Crate Training – Housebreaking Your Puppy 56
- Chapter Seven: Grooming Your Maltese 58
- Recommended Tools to Have on Hand 59
- Tips for Bathing and Grooming Maltese Dogs 59
- Other Grooming Tasks 61
- Chapter Eight: Breeding Your Maltese 64
- Basic Dog Breeding Information 65
- Breeding Tips and Raising Puppies 66
- Chapter Nine: Showing Your Maltese 70
- Maltese Breed Standard 71
- Preparing Your Maltese for Show 73
- Chapter Ten: Keeping Your Dog Healthy 78
- Common Health Problems Affecting Maltese Dogs 79
- Preventing Illness with Vaccinations 88
- Maltese Care Sheet 90
- 1.) Basic Maltese Information 91
- 2.) Habitat Requirements 92
- 3.) Nutritional Needs 93
- 4.) Breeding Information 94
- Index 96
- Photo Credits 105
- References 109