7 Vital Maltese Care Tips to Prevent Health Issues and Keep Your Dog Thriving!
Learn the top 7 Maltese health concerns and expert tips for prevention. Discover how proper Maltese care can lead to a long, joyful life.
Maltese dogs are beloved for their luxurious white coats, playful personalities, and affectionate nature. As a toy breed, they’re perfect companions for families and individuals alike. However, just like any breed, they come with their own set of health challenges. Knowing these potential issues and how to address them is a crucial part of responsible Maltese care.
In this blog, we’ll explore the seven most common health issues Maltese dogs face, plus provide actionable tips to help you keep your pup happy and healthy.
1. Dental Disease
Dental issues are one of the most prevalent health problems in Maltese dogs. Their small jaws make them more prone to tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss.
How to Help:
- Brush your dog’s teeth daily
- Provide dental chews approved by your vet
- Schedule annual professional cleanings
Learn more about dental care from the American Veterinary Dental College
Why it matters for Maltese care: Poor dental hygiene can lead to infection, pain, and even organ damage.
2. Collapsed Trachea
This condition affects the windpipe, causing coughing and difficulty breathing. It’s common in toy breeds, including the Maltese.
Signs to watch for:
- Honking cough
- Trouble breathing during exercise
- Wheezing
Prevention Tips:
- Use a harness instead of a collar
- Avoid exposure to smoke or allergens
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight
Maltese care tip: Always consult your vet if your dog develops chronic coughing.
3. Luxating Patella (Kneecap Dislocation)
This orthopedic issue involves the kneecap slipping out of place. It can cause limping, skipping steps, or discomfort during play.
Treatment Options:
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Surgery in severe cases
Prevention:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid high-impact jumping
- Provide joint supplements if recommended
Keeping your Maltese active but safe is essential for effective Maltese care.
4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
This inherited eye disease can lead to gradual vision loss and, eventually, blindness.
Early Signs:
- Night blindness
- Bumping into objects
- Cloudy eyes
How to Protect Your Pup:
- Schedule regular eye exams
- Ask breeders for PRA screening results
- Keep environments consistent to help with navigation
Get insights on PRA from the American Kennel Club
Regular vet visits and early detection play a major role in proactive Maltese care.
5. White Shaker Syndrome
This neurological disorder causes full-body tremors, typically in young, small-breed white dogs like the Maltese.
Symptoms Include:
- Shaking or tremors
- Uncoordinated movement
- Anxiety or confusion
Treatment:
- Anti-inflammatory steroids
- Ongoing neurological monitoring
Good news: With early treatment, many dogs live normal lives.
6. Skin Allergies and Irritations
Maltese dogs have sensitive skin that can react to food, fleas, or environmental allergens.
Common Symptoms:
- Red, itchy skin
- Excessive licking or scratching
- Hair loss
Maltese care solutions:
- Use hypoallergenic shampoos
- Provide a well-balanced, limited-ingredient diet
- Consult a vet for allergy testing
Explore dog skin care tips from PetMD
Regular grooming and careful diet choices are part of loving Maltese care.
7. Heart Conditions
Older Maltese dogs are susceptible to heart murmurs and congestive heart failure.
Warning Signs:
- Fatigue
- Coughing
- Rapid breathing
Healthy Heart Tips:
- Regular vet checkups with heart monitoring
- Weight control
- Exercise that’s gentle yet consistent
Always include heart evaluations as part of long-term Maltese care planning.
Final Thoughts: How to Keep Your Maltese Thriving
Providing the best Maltese care isn’t just about treating problems; it’s about preventing them before they start. Here are quick takeaways to ensure your Maltese enjoys a vibrant, healthy life:
- Schedule regular vet visits
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Keep up with grooming and dental care
- Create a loving, low-stress environment
Remember, your dog’s well-being depends on your awareness and action. By staying informed about common health issues and making smart lifestyle choices, you can help your furry friend live a long, joyful life.