It is common to find Maltese dogs advertised all over social media and on the streets. Some are hawked in traffic jam. In a way, it is now fashionable to own these dogs.

They are small-bodied, mostly white in color with long, fluffy, silky coats. When well-maintained, they could be mistaken for a teddy bear doll.

Alex Masika, an accountant has three and she calls them her babies. However, despite the care she gives them, they don’t look their best. 

Ameria Momo Masiko with her Maltese dogs.

Dr Isa Lutebemberwa, a veterinary surgeon and member of Vetconekt, an initiative that advocates for animal welfare in Uganda says, Maltese are fun-filled, energetic, and playful, making them a perfect pet for owners who return home exhausted. They can also make an alarm when they detect strangers at home.

Meanwhile, before buying a Maltese, Lutebemberwa shares some of the considerations you should pay attention to;

Routine grooming is a must; their long ‘hair’ needs to be washed, brushed, and combed at least once a week to maintain their cuteness. Failure to do so can attract ticks, which hide in the thick fur, making it dirty and smelly. The fur can also cover the face and eyes or become intertwined, causing large clumps.

Did you know that Maltese are easy to step on and you could break their bones? Due to their size, sociability (they like to be around people), and frenzied excitement, it is easy to step on them. So, be careful as you move. If you stay on the upper floor, block the balcony to prevent them from falling over.

More to that, these dogs need playtime. If you can’t touch and play with dogs, stay away from the Maltese. You may find it resting on the couch and it jumps to sit on you, or attempts to lick your face because they are generally loving. Be ready to reciprocate the love. Also, allowing them to play and run helps exhaust them hence being less destructive due to boredom.

Additionally, routine health care (vaccination and deworming) is essential. Because the Maltese is mostly an indoor dog that interacts with you and your children, ensure it is healthy.

Also, be careful not to keep sexually active big male breeds of dogs like German shepherds with a female Maltese. Regardless of the size, when your Maltese is on heat, she can be mated by a big dog. Unfortunately, the puppies might be too big for her to deliver naturally hence requiring an operation.

Most importantly, the best time to adopt or buy a Maltese is after eight weeks. Then, it doesn’t require a lot of care and warmth from the mother.