what to look for

[beilabell]

I am in the process of buying a maltese puppy.
I look at websites and read articles.
but since you are all owners please give me some tips when i go to see the puppy since all puppies are adorable.
what should i look for
thanks

[mia's mom]

First off I wouldn't get one from a newspaper or Craig's List or anything like that. If you are looking locally you should be able to visit the pup in it's enviorment as well as be able to see the parents. If you are looking at websites look for those that give you a health guarantee on the pup, does testing on the pup and doesn't reference them as teacups. I would request references. Remember you are purchasing a pup they aren't doing you a favor ask as many questions as you need to. Make sure the breeder holds them until they are at least 12 weeks of age.

If you tell us where you are located we can give you some breeders that are legitimate and that we know the reputation. Also don't be afraid to purchase one out of state alot of breeders allow shipping of their pups.

[beilabell]

thanks for those suggestions.
I live in NY, Westchester county.
i would appreciate some breeders in my area if you know some because i would like to see and touch the pup before i buy it (adopt).
Just wondering if what characteristics to look for in a maltese . I read some where about black markings and then i spoke to a breeder and she said black markings are not good.
She said black eyes, with eyeliner,
What is a good weight for a pup to be when you adopt it?
someone also said teddy bear face/baby doll, which i dont know what that means exactlty

i am a maltese novice.
thanks

[Miss Melanie]

thanks for those suggestions.
I live in NY, Westchester county.
i would appreciate some breeders in my area if you know some because i would like to see and touch the pup before i buy it (adopt).
Just wondering if what characteristics to look for in a maltese . I read some where about black markings and then i spoke to a breeder and she said black markings are not good.
She said black eyes, with eyeliner,
What is a good weight for a pup to be when you adopt it?
someone also said teddy bear face/baby doll, which i dont know what that means exactlty

i am a maltese novice.
thanks

You are on the right track... in asking these questions you will arm yourself with the knowledge you need to find the right puppy for you.

The baby doll face is a face that has a shorter muzzle. There are some breeders that "specialize" in this look and some that can't stand it. It's a personal choice.

A good weight for a pup is only part of the "ready to be adopted" step. Maltese pups should not leave their first family until at least 12 weeks, that is the first rule, I feel. The pup should be eating freely and their weight should meet their size.

"Black markings" could you be mistaken and this could be Black Points?
A well bred Maltese should have a black nose, (sometimes lightens due to lack of sun or other issues) black paws, and black "eyeliner" around both eyes. Those with GREAT pigment will develop halos around the eyes, the skin around the eyes will darken and many LOVE this feature.

You have a wealth of knowledge open to you online, all you have to do is read.

http://www.akc.org/breeds/maltese/index.cfm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maltese_(dog)

GOOD LUCK!

[MalteseJane]

Oh boy. Keep away from the ones that don't know what black points are. And a good breeder will want black points on his malteses. Keep away too from the ones that talk about baby doll face and teddy bear face. Those names are used for marketing purpose because they know people will fall for it.

[mia's mom]

In the North East area you have

Chrisman

http://chrismanpuppies.com/

Josymir Maltese

http://www.josymirmaltese.com/

Mystique Maltese in VA

http://www.unforgettablemaltese.com/mystique%20maltese%20website/index.html

Candlewyck Maltese

http://www.linleemaltese.com/janet.htm

Villa Malta Maltese I can't find her website but the link below has her breeding stock and this is Debbie's email villamaltakennel@aol.com

http://mellamaltamaltese.com/dogsinshow.html

Happy hunting!

[beilabell]

Everyone is so nice here... You give complete and fast information.
This is a great forum
All your answers are very helpful and i will browse the breeders websites you gave me to look at puppies.
If i am looking to spend 1200-1500$what should i expect? At this 3000$ is out of my price range. With the economy and job insecurity i peak at $1500.00. Am I looking for the wrong dog for that price.
thanks:blush:

[Ashley V]

You can get a great dog for $1500 especially if it's going to be a pet only.

[Morkie4]

Everyone is so nice here... You give complete and fast information.
This is a great forum
All your answers are very helpful and i will browse the breeders websites you gave me to look at puppies.
If i am looking to spend 1200-1500 should i expect? At this 3000$ is out of my price range. With the economy and job insecurity i peak at $1500.00. Am I looking for the wrong dog for that price.
thanks:blush:

You should be able to get a very nice, healthy pup from a breeder that has to place a fluff because it is not "show" quality meaning it may not be big enough or too big or just not the right hair or some other minor thing that will not permit them to show for that price. But I agree with the other girls, a good breeder that doesn't mind answering questions and a hands on experience is the best way to make an informed decision. All the ladies have given you some great suggestions and sites and with a little "patience" I am sure the right fluff will arrive in your home soon!