How to Find Responsible Maltese Puppy Breeders

There are several options for you when you are searching for a new Maltese puppy.

You can go to a pet shop, but I DO NOT recommend this as these puppies usually come from "puppy mills" and are often raised in inhumane conditions. 

Best Places to Find a Maltese Puppy

A much better option is going to your local humane society, Maltese dog rescue, or finding a reputable breeder who has several years of experience breeding Maltese pups. This will help ensure you get a well-bred, well-socialized, and healthy pup

Many reputable Maltese puppy breeders and rescue groups have their own websites, so have a look around online, but be cautious and always get several good references before you actually purchase your Maltese puppy. 

I have created a online Maltese dog breeder directory to give you good start on finding the best Maltese puppy for your family that gives you love and joy for years to come!

What to Look for in Maltese Puppy Breeders

When it comes to actually choosing a puppy, it's a good idea to ask to see the dam (mother dog) when you visit. "Back yard breeders" or "puppy mills" will often refuse such a request, because they don't want you to see a dam in a state of poor health. 

Good breeders will keep the dam and pups in healthy and clean conditions, and will have no problem letting you see her.

You should not pick your puppy up until after she's 8 weeks old. Any breeder who asks you to pick up the pup before then is not a reputable breeder. Good Maltese puppy breeders will wean pups off their mother's milk and begin the socialization process, and this takes at least 8 weeks to do well.

Note that it's not unusual for young Maltese pups to have a yellowish tinge to their ears, so don't worry if you see that – it's not a sign of mixed breeding or bad health.

Questions to Ask Your Breeder

Breeder

  • What are your goals and purpose for breeding dogs?
  • Do you have permits with animal services?
  • Can I see references from past puppy clients?

Parents

  • Were the parents bred within AKC standards?
  • How many litters will the mom produce until she’s retired?
  • Where are the puppies being raised?

Training

  • What early socialization & training does the puppy have?
  • What experience do you have with raising & training dogs?
  • What are some best training methods for this puppy?

Health

  • What are the health problems in the breed, and what can be done to prevent or control them?
  • What health tests have been completed on the parents?
  • What health tests will be done on the prospective puppy, and when?

Resources for Choosing the Right Maltese Puppy

Now that you are armed with the knowledge of what to look for in choosing the best Maltese puppy breeder, here are some resources for finding the right dog for you and your family:

Maltese Dog Rescues - find a Maltese rescue near you with this comprehensive list.

Maltese Dogs for Adoption -  help save a life by adopting a Maltese dog in need.

Maltese Dog Breeders Directory - a complete list of all the local Maltese dog breeders near you.


Are you a Maltese Maniac?

Join other Maltese Maniacs and get:

  • Our exclusive monthly newsletter
  • Discounts on great Maltese dog products
  • Notifications of contests and giveaways

Related Articles

  • Maltese Dog Breeders Directory. Listing of Maltese breeders in USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and many more countries.

    Maltese Dog Breeders Directory

    Maltese Dog Breeders Directory. Listing of Maltese breeders in USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and many more countries.

  • Find out what the top Maltese dog names are and get some ideas to use for your new Maltese puppy.

    Top Maltese Dog Names

    Find out what the top Maltese dog names are and get some ideas to use for your new Maltese puppy.

  • Comprehensive list of various Maltese dog rescue groups with available Maltese for adoption.

    Find a Maltese Dog Rescue

    Comprehensive list of various Maltese dog rescue groups with available Maltese for adoption.

Like This Page?

Enjoy this page? Please pay it forward. Here's how...

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.