Male Malshi - Maximus

by Misty Meyer
(Flw, Missouri)

Maximus or Max, was an AMAZING choice for our family. I found a family trying to get rid of a male Malshi and we ended up adopting him. He has done wonders with my girls, ages 4 & 7. They are not always gentle with poor Max, but he is very gentle with them. It is a very important thing too. My oldest daughter has autism. He is patient and gentle with her and he gets excited to be around the kids. My Maltese Shih tzu lets them hug and kiss him and he has really helped my oldest come out of her shell. He is a therapy for her. My oldest daughter has allergies and since he doesn't shed much, her allergies have not been triggered. I am always amazed at how loveable and playful he is. At only a year old, he has plenty of spunk left. My Malshi likes to ride in the car, but he does try to "escape" :) He thinks it's a game. He likes to hide his treats, so they will be safe. And the most amazing part, is that he doesn't bark much. He usually just barks when he's dreaming. He sleeps with his legs in the air, and it's hilarious. The only downfall was that his first family didn't keep him groomed very well and they kept him in a cage. So although they said he was crate trained, he wasn't potty trained. It took a lot of coaxing for him to do all his business outside, but we showed him nothing but positive reinforcement with it. He excels with liver treats. He also had a new "do". We had to have our Maltese Shihtzu shaved because he was matted so badly so he only had hair on his curly tail and on his head. I thought he was still adorable. Bottom line: for a great apartment dog, who if treated right, genuinely loves to be around people, especially kids, choose this Maltese mixed breed. The love we have found with Maximus, is truly a blessing.