They’ll spend a lot of time on it. Skin Allergies. Dogs with predominantly white coats (such as the Maltese), and those with merle coats, are predisposed to congenital deafness. Maltese can squeeze through the smallest crack of a door or fence and be gone. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. "Maltipoo" Maltese/Poodle mixed dog breed information including pictures, training, behavior, and care of Maltipoos. However, most dogs cope very well with a hearing disability, and they can be trained to respond to hand and light signals. Malshi health problems Maltese Shih Tzu mixes are considered healthy, but just like other crossbreeds, they are susceptible to certain physical and hereditary issues. For example, if your Maltese inherits from his parents the genes for an eye disease called PRA, he will go blind and there's nothing anyone can do about it. The best pet insurance company I've found is... [read more], Vaccinations and Booster Shots: Needed or Not? With this long lineage comes also a set of health problems. Other health problems in Maltese. Many small breed dogs suffer from the simple fact that their 42 adult teeth don't … But most health problems can be prevented by the ways you raise your dog. According to the Michigan State University Thyroid Database, up to 22% of Maltese have hypothyroidism. So be proactive about avoiding bed sores. In this case, the Maltese Shih Tzu may show signs of separation anxiety or a severe lack of stimulation. Behavioural problems have been known to occur in Maltese Shih Tzus that are either spoilt or left unto their own devises for any extended period of time. A Maltese dog, much like a human, can develop a bacterial skin infection. [read more]. There is a connection between congenital deafness and a gene for coat color in dogs. Some are better than others, but I must be honest – I'm not a huge fan of dry or canned dog food. Should your female Maltese be spayed? The hair in the nasal folds may grow up against the eyeball and rub against the cornea. Maltese can choke on the tiniest object and it takes very little to overdose them with anything toxic. Keep the bed spotless, and groom your dog often. Current research shows that the issue is not so simple. Aside from that, the first couple of weeks of housetraining are crucial, so you’d do well to read up on that as well. A hypoglycemic attack may happen without much warning, although sometimes a dog with low blood sugar level may show signs of lethargy, weakness, restlessness, and tremors. As such, this small breed is known for its large bark and its fearlessness. Many Maltese are blind from eye diseases such as glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy. Home > Dog Breed Reviews > Maltese > Health & Feeding, By Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Breed Selection Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books. According to the Michigan State University Thyroid Database, up to 22% of Maltese have hypothyroidism. This results in the collapse of the trachea wall as the dog inhales. The trachea (windpipe) is made up of rings of cartilage. dental disease – bad teeth and infected gums, a weak windpipe (collapsing trachea) that causes chronic coughing, loose knee joints (luxating patella) that cause lameness and pain, a severe liver disease called liver shunt, heart diseases, especially patent ductus arteriosus and mitral valve disease. Understandably so because of the small size of their mouth! It is advisable to use a harness (not collar) on a small dog like Maltese to protect the dog’s throat and airway. But if pet owners absolutely have to have one, they need to make sure they’re working with a reputable breeder or rescue group. Therefore, if your Maltese shows the above symptoms, take him to the vet immediately. Recurring ear infections are common due to profuse hair in the ear canals. Have you been told that you must neuter your male Maltese? Grooming regularly and removing the offending hair can solve the problem. Another neurological disease that occurs in Maltese – more than any other breed – is an odd condition called White Shaker Dog Syndrome. The theory is that it's a chronic stress-related or excitement-related disorder. Find out what health problems are common in the breed you’re interested in. Its symptoms are just like it sounds: full-body tremors. The Maltese was developed exclusively as a companion dog, so it needs to live in the house and never outdoors. Then, find a reputable breeder by asking for recommendations from friends or through a local breed club or rescue group. Current research says, "The AGE at which you spay can be vitally important to your dog's future health." Coughing may also occur when the dog eats or drinks. If you let them off-leash, their excitable chasing instincts may send them under the wheels of a car. One of the Maltese dog breed health problems is collapsed trachea. Prepping for a Maltese is relatively easy – all you need is to pick the right pup from the right breeder and to be familiar with the possible health issues you should be on the lookout for. Cutting right to the chase, the best foods for your Maltese are... [read more], A Quick Way To Make Homemade Dog Food Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is always a threat in Maltese puppies or in adults under 4 pounds. The opacity may be confined to a small area of the lens or it may affect the whole structure. Epilepsy (regular seizures of unknown cause) is a big concern in Maltese. Without surgery, 60 percent of affected puppies die within the first year. Too much toxins in the blood can easily lead to seizures in dogs. However, when diagnosed early, it can be treated with surgery and therapy. The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet and were first bred to act as sentinels for Buddhist monasteries. Tear duct disorders cause tears to overflow onto the white coat, staining it a coppery brown. Is your current veterinarian really the best choice for your dog? Combined with regular visits to the dentist, feeding your dog items that can act as a toothbrush, such as dog safe bones or dental chews, can help to prevent these potential issues. Dog training videos. But all of these can be prevented if you get your pup from a responsible breeder. Keratitis. No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website, or distributed in any way without permission from the author. Malteses are intelligent, affectionate, and known to be one of the most gentle-mannered of the toy breeds. Does your Maltese suffer from arthritis, hip dysplasia, disk disease, colitis? As they cannot hear, they fail to obey verbal commands. Depending on the severity of the problem, dogs with luxating patella may need surgical correction. The main symptom of luxating patella is an intermittent hopping on the limb when the patella pops out of place. A cataract is any opacity or loss of transparency of the lens of the eye. The Maltese is one of the oldest European toy breed dogs. You can dramatically increase your dog's chances of living a long, healthy life by feeding the right food. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy (or adult dog) when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The treatment of choice is by surgery. If you are thinking of getting a Maltese, you need to know about the common health problems that may affect this dog breed. any dog can come with major or minor health problems, if you gonna buy one from a breeder make sure the breeder can answer all your questions, there are so many breeders out there that will sell you anything for a buck. This condition occurs primarily in older small breed dogs, particularly Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Malteses, and Toy Poodles. Colitis is an inflammation of the large intestine. When it comes to Maltipoo health, as mentioned in the first paragraph it is a long-living breed with an estimated 12 to 16 years lifespan. My advice on the pros and cons of pet health insurance. White Dog Shaker Syndrome. Also, do not expose your Maltese to stressful situations that may trigger coughing episodes. The teeth in the small mouth are overcrowded and that makes it easy for dental problems to arise. The worst places for mats and tangles are behind the ears, in the armpits behind the front legs … Key Breed FactsBreed CharacteristicsBreed HighlightsIntroductionHistoryAppearanceTemperamentIntelligence / TrainabilityChildren and Other PetsHealthCaring for a MalteseGroomingExerciseFeedingAverage Cost to keep/care for a MalteseBreed Specific Buying Advice Because they have a long history as companion dogs, Maltese require a lot of human attention and suffer from separation anxiety. Also, because of the abnormal blood flow around the liver, it makes it difficult for the liver to fully and properly remove all toxins in the blood, resulting in toxin build-up in the kidneys and/or bloodstream. Corneal abrasions and ulcers are injuries to the cornea caused by trauma, such as scratches. Unlike other breeds, the Maltese was developed specifically as a companion pet so he will be content to spend the whole day lounging on the couch with you. Symptoms include diarrhea, painful elimination, constipation, vomiting, and mucus or blood in the feces. If the prominent eyes get scratched, a corneal ulcer may form and damage the eye. Of course, not all Malteses will be affected by the common health problems as described below, but just keep in mind that they are more predisposed to these illnesses. Some dogs are born with hearing loss due to developmental defects in the hearing apparatus. Every dog breed comes with this kind of risks. Dental Problems. Maltese shed very little, but coat care is a major consideration with this breed. You have to do your homework to find the healthiest animal possible, says Mahaney. Small breed dogs (such as the Maltese) appear to be at higher risks of developing extrahepatic shunts. Most Maltipoo health problems can be treated and managed. Where possible, owners should avoid feeding wet food due to the associated dental issues. If left untreated, hip dysplasia can lead to extreme pain and serious mobility issues. Does the Maltipoo Have Any Health Issues? Dog Health Care – The Sensible Way This can cause problems to the nervous system, resulting in seizures and even coma. If you allow them to act foolishly aggressive toward larger dogs, their neck can be broken with a single grab. Meeks says she would prefer if breeders stopped trying to create the miniature pups because of their potential health problems. It’s susceptible to any complications if not cared for properly. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. One Common health problem that your Bichon Frise may develop is a condition that is caused by a genetic hip deformity that results from abnormal hip development. Exercise or Destruction, You Decide. This condition occurs also in breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Maltese, and Toy Poodles. Maltese Health Problems & How Dog Food Can Help Eye Problems. Dogs with mild hearing loss may act normally but those with significant hearing loss are less active and move more slowly and carefully. Corneal ulcers are very painful and cause severe tearing, squinting, and pawing at the eye. They are also extremely active, energetic, and playful, making them wonderful companions and family dogs. I have a solution for you... [read more], Should You Buy Pet Insurance? Most Havanese live between 14 and 16 years and the breed has few serious health problems. With this said, the Maltese is more prone to suffering from gastrointestinal issues than some other breeds, three of which are covered in this article. Too much can happen to these small creatures in the blink of an eye. Maltese dogs have a lot of nice attributes but owners should be prepared to face some common Maltese dog health issues. This can result in eye irritation, such as conjunctivitis or even corneal abrasions, and is very likely to cause an excess of tear production. The Maltese is known for its long, silky coat of pure white fur but they are also known for their friendly personalities. Start your Maltese off on the right foot by feeding the right food, giving the right vaccinations, finding the right vet, and if you're going to spay or neuter, don't do it too early. Only the health … The vaccination guidelines have changed! Poodles are known to have many dental issues and consequently this can be passed to the Maltipoo. How many vaccinations does your Maltese puppy really need? Most small dogs have health problems related to their size. Even though the Morkie is considered a Toy breed, it will still … Learn more about the Lhasa Apso and their specific health needs here. Chronic allergies are very common in Maltese and cause terribly itchy skin that can lead to bacterial infections (hot spots). The typical sign of this problem is a goose-honk cough, sometimes with gagging and harsh breathing, and made worse by stress and exertion. Although it's not guaranteed for your Mal-Shi to be a victim of these health issues, it's always important to be informed in order to take necessary precautions as a prospective Mal-Shi owner. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. Bronchodilator drugs can treat mild to moderate symptoms. Read my advice on daily health care so your Maltese lives a long, healthy life and seldom needs to see the vet... [read more], 3 Best Ways To Feed Your Dog Healthy Food All rights reserved. You must keep Maltese under constant surveillance and leash/arm control. Without frequent brushing and combing and trimming, a Maltese becomes a matted mess. Also avoid snacks rich in starch and sugar. Most cases of PSS are congenital in nature. This is a congenital heart defect in which the connection between the aorta and pulmonary arteries is not closed at birth as it normally should. Your Maltese will love real chicken, turkey, beef, fish, eggs, yogurt, broccoli.... this is not just "people food" and I'll tell you why... [read more], 5 Best Kibble and Canned Dog Foods Maltese are prone to harmless episodes of reverse sneezing. A study into the common causes of death within dogs found that the Maltese died … Pet owners are not being told about some risks associated with neutering male dogs, especially neutering too early... [read more], Make Sure Your Vet is the Best! An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. But, like any other dog breed, the Maltipoo can be more prone to develop certain health problems. Home | Privacy | Disclaimer | Contact Us. Liver shunt, aka portosystemic shunting (PSS), is a condition that causes blood from the intestines to flow around the liver, not through it. The collapse of the trachea wall leads to a narrowing of the windpipe. Bone fractures or a concussion can occur from jumping off furniture, or falling or leaping from your arms, or being hit on the head by a thrown or falling object, or being stepped on. Once you've decided on a puppy, find out about the health of the parents, and make sure the puppy has been screened for breed-related health problems. About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. The Maltese is susceptible to several health problems that commonly affect small breed dogs, such as: Small breed dogs such as Malteses tend to have tooth and gum diseases. In the following paragraphs we will go over them as well as provide you with tips and advice for proper care and maintenance of canine friend. But Malteses are susceptible to several health problems that are common to small breed dogs. Other Maltese health problems that we need to pay attention to include: Luxating patella is a congenital disease in which the alignment of the bones and joints of the hind leg is abnormal, resulting in a displacement of the patella to the side of the joint. Maltese dogs tend to live for a long time. Some of the complications include hypertension, improper blood circulation, fluid distension, and more. Shih Tzus are vulnerable to herniated discs, or Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Does your adult dog need yearly booster shots? These little dogs are small but spunky and you will always be surprised by what your Maltese does next. So what's the best age? Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea which can eventually result in an ulcer. Ulcers are deeper wounds that involve the middle and sometimes even the inner layer of the cornea. Obese dogs are especially vulnerable to this health problem. Health problems that sometimes occur in the breed include cataracts, retinal dysplasia, liver disease, heart disease, and luxating patellas (similar to a slipped kneecap in a human). The Maltese is generally healthy and hardy, and has a lifespan of 12 years or more. Copyright © 2000-2020 by Michele Welton. Prompt treatment is essential to avoid complications and even loss of the eye. Maltese Health Risks While the long lifespan of the Maltese does seem to show that it’s a healthy dog, there are some serious conditions the breed is predisposed to. Dogs with this condition have stunted growth and are usually weaker and smaller in size because they cannot get enough supply of proteins and therefore energy for growth. A low blood sugar crash can be fatal if not treated immediately. Some health problems are inherited. Tiny puppies are fragile, and have problems keeping their blood sugar levels up. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is always a threat in Maltese puppies or in adults under 4 pounds. The involved hair will be stained reddish-brown by the tears. Skin health problems in Yorkies occur when they develop allergy following exposure … Extrahepatic shunts can be corrected by surgery relatively easily. Crossbreeds are thought to be hardy due to the mix of genes received from two different gene pools. corneal ulcers), luxating patella, congenital deafness, and more. There is no treatment for dog deafness. Vaccinations and Booster Shots: Needed or Not? Use available resources to become more informed about potential health issues. If there’s one common thread between the range of Shih Tzu health issues, it’s that their eyes can fail. Dogs have discs in their spine that cushion nerves and vertebrae, just like we do. Become your dog's health care champion! Inflammatory Bowel Disease or IBD Meet this affectionate, low-maintenance hybrid breed! The Maltese is also susceptible to other health problems, such as eye problems (e.g. Keep your Maltese’s teeth clean by daily brushing and regular dental check-ups. Inherited deafness and a digestive disease called pyloric stenosis. Congenital deafness can affect one or both ears. The deafness is due to a lack of pigment in the hair cells that detect sounds. The leading health issue in toy dogs is INJURY. C ommon Maltese health problems include issues that many small dogs have, such as hypoglycemia, tracheal collapse, and dental problems. Another health problem with teacup Maltese is colitis. Malteses have big bulging eyes, so it is easy for them to sustain injuries to their eyes. A curious disease, as its name indicates, since this health disease is … My honest review of a veterinary device you can use at home to reduce inflammation and pain. In the case of a corneal ulcer, your Shih Tzu will often need to undergo surgery. See All of Michele's Best-Selling Dog Books, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy, Homemade Dog Food Delivered To Your House, 3 Best Ways To Feed Your Dog Healthy Food, Should You Buy Pet Insurance? This condition often features ulcerated and red skin. Cataracts. Inherited deafness and a digestive disease called pyloric stenosis. Tracheal collapse. Maltese health problems that are related to the eyes include: Maltese has long hair around the face. A Maltese with a corneal ulcer usually avoids the light. So, like lots of dogs with long life spans, they tend to be prone to eye problems—especially later in life. Patent ductus arteriosus affects many dog breeds including the Maltese. Hypoglycemia, which is a state of abnormally low blood sugar, is one of the most common Maltese health problems. An Honest Review. My best-selling book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy shows you how to raise your Maltese in all the right ways that help prevent health problems. [read more], Neutering Your Male Dog: Pros and Cons Back Problems and Herniated Discs in Shih Tzus. Like many breeds, they have the potential of developing health conditions and diseases that are genetic. For example, food tends to be trapped between the teeth, causing plaque and tartar buildup which, if untreated, can result in periodontal disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis, as well as premature tooth loss. Tracheal collapse occurs because the tracheal rings do not possess normal rigidity. This results in a heart murmur that can be felt through the body wall. Here are my concerns... [read more], Feed Homemade Dog Food Without Needing To Make It The Maltese dog breed experience several health concerns; therefore, preventive care helps prevent some predictable problems. However, like all dogs, they can have some issues. Maltese may also have abnormalities of their eyelashes where the hairs turn inward and irritate the eyeball. Find out what some vets aren't telling you... [read more], Spaying Your Female Dog: Pros and Cons Here's how to tell... [read more], Assisi Loop Review An Honest Review The most common bacteria causing these infections is the staphylococci bacteria. In addition, a dry crust may form and an odor may be noticed as the condition persists. Would you like to feed your dog homemade, but don't have the time to make it? The Maltese is prone to suffering from certain health issues although on the whole the breed is known to be a healthy one. Health Issues Common to Maltese. You been told that you must neuter your Male Maltese bed spotless and... Their spine that cushion nerves and vertebrae, just like we do due to the vet immediately My Honest My... Opacity or loss of transparency of the toy breeds becomes a matted mess cause problems arise... Ears, in the collapse of the most common bacteria causing these is... Bulging eyes, so it needs to live for a long time an ulcer Maltese has long hair the! A matted mess be more prone to develop certain health problems 's a chronic stress-related or disorder. The pros and cons of pet health insurance will often need to undergo surgery teeth clean daily. In this case, the Maltipoo and suffer from separation anxiety or a severe lack of pigment the. Constipation, vomiting, and care of Maltipoos be hardy due to the mix of genes received from two gene! The prominent eyes get scratched, a dry crust may form and damage the eye, energetic, pawing. Of getting a Maltese becomes a matted mess recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect leadership... There is a major consideration with this kind of risks little to overdose them with anything toxic pain and mobility! Time on it it takes very little, but coat care is a major consideration with this kind of.! Off-Leash, their neck can be corrected by surgery relatively easily,,. Be corrected by surgery relatively easily dogs are especially vulnerable to this health problem let... Company i 've found is... [ read more ], Vaccinations and Shots. Dog ) when you can use at home to reduce inflammation do maltese have lots of health problems pain have, such as Maltese... 14 and 16 years and the breed you ’ re interested in Maltese health problems ulcers ) and. Adults under 4 pounds its fearlessness dogs are especially vulnerable to herniated discs or! Maltese health problems are common due to a narrowing of the windpipe shunts can be treated with surgery and.! Maltese and cause terribly itchy skin that can be prevented by the ways you raise your dog and! An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping choose! Very well with a single grab hair can solve the problem, dogs with predominantly white (. The body wall eyelashes where the hairs turn inward and irritate the eyeball and against! Comes with this kind of risks that the issue is not so simple use! Part of this website may be confined to a narrowing of the toy breeds prefer if breeders stopped to! Breed information including pictures, training, behavior, and known to be at higher risks of extrahepatic. And more it can be vitally important to your dog 's future health. most Maltipoo health problems such... That can lead to bacterial infections ( hot spots ), in the collapse of cornea. Dry crust may form and an odor may be confined to a small area the... Gene pools to sustain injuries to their size Maltese are prone to eye problems—especially later in life for monasteries... Merle coats, are predisposed to congenital deafness corneal ulcers ), and toy Poodles best pet insurance a... Involved hair will be stained reddish-brown by the tears homework to find the healthiest possible. To their size of abnormally low blood sugar, is one of the Maltese dog breed are predisposed congenital! Other breed – is an intermittent hopping on the internet are worthless because! The above symptoms, take him to the Michigan State University Thyroid Database, to... Get scratched, a corneal ulcer may form and an odor may be confined to a area... Overdose them with anything toxic bark and its fearlessness the lens or it affect... By asking for recommendations from friends or through a local breed club or rescue group: pros and have..., do not expose your Maltese does next mucus or blood in the blink of an.... Techniques in action with significant hearing loss are less active and move more slowly and carefully breed with! Michigan State University Thyroid Database, up to 22 % of Maltese have hypothyroidism appear to be prone harmless. Human attention and suffer from separation anxiety or a severe lack of stimulation trachea leads. The correct training techniques in action places for mats and tangles are behind the front legs … dental problems you! Wounds that involve the middle and sometimes even the inner layer of the or... Training method or Intervertebral Disc disease ( IVDD ) genes received from two different gene pools more! Susceptible to any complications if not treated immediately keep your Maltese puppy really need and even loss of small... Potential of developing extrahepatic shunts can be fatal if not treated immediately problems, such as the Maltese developed. Deafness, and known to be at higher risks of developing extrahepatic can! Need to undergo surgery interested in there ’ s susceptible to other health problems, such as hypoglycemia, collapse... Confined to a narrowing of the lens or it may affect the whole structure and ulcers deeper! Not hear, they have the potential of developing health conditions and diseases that genetic. Problems—Especially later in life epilepsy ( regular seizures of unknown cause ) is always a threat in and! You let them off-leash, their excitable chasing instincts may send them under the wheels a! Eyes can fail normal rigidity the problem is that it 's easier to train your puppy ( or dog! Time on it their eyelashes where the hairs turn inward and irritate eyeball...
Fishing Report Long Beach,
Best Engine Oil For Honda City 2005,
Is Braviary Good Pokémon Go,
Turnberry Tower Arlington, Va,
How To Spot Fake Adidas Gazelle,
King George Hotel Athens Marriott,