Dogs that are under-stimulated and not often engaged in play tend to nap more frequently and/or longer than those that have interesting interactions. Senior Maltese dogs gradually start requiring more sleep and this need usually increases each year that they age.
Certain types of changes can cause a Maltese to become sullen and feel down, therefore manifesting as lethargy and loss of enthusiasm. One of the most common instances is a change in the household or environment. This includes moving to a new home or the addition or loss of family members (both human and animal).
Maltese are full of energy but require only occasional exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks with their owner or bouncing around in their fenced yard, or even indoors, will usually suffice to keep them fit.
So, it is normal for your dog to sleep or rest for a majority of the day. However, excessive sleep can be concerning for any pet owner. If your dog is sleeping too much, this could indicate health issues, such as canine depression, diabetes and hypothyroidism, says the AKC.
There are a few reasons a dog may become quieter than usual: pain, stress, or boredom. While a quieter dog may not feel like such a "problem" to us, it's important to make sure their behavior change isn't a sign of a bigger medical or behavioral issue.
Healthy, happy adult dogs usually sleep for up to 16 hours a day. If your dog isn't sleeping that much, it could be a sign of stress or illness.
While they might take naps here and there, they shouldn't be sleeping 24/7. If they are sleeping more than usual and you've ruled out any potential health issues, then they are probably bored. As humans, we tend to sleep or eat when there is nothing left to do, which is also true for our pets.
Once you bring a dog into your home, you become part of their pack. They enjoy sleeping with you because it makes them feel safe and comfortable. Sleeping together gives dogs an emotional connection to their owners.
Maltese enjoy a regular walk or playing outside. They often remain playful well into old age. Because they are active indoors and don't require a great deal of exercise, it doesn't take a lot of effort to keep them in good shape.
Living conditions for the Maltese
They are a very playful breed that can get bored if they do not get physically and mentally stimulated so it's important you take them on their daily walks and give them plenty of opportunities for playtime.
Because of their love for humans, Maltese dogs will also need plenty of human attention. Without enough love and care from their owners, these pups are prone to separation anxiety. Before picking a Maltese up, make sure you have enough time to give them every day to keep them happy.
For the Maltese dog breed, 12 to 15 years is the normal range for life expectancy, with 13.5 years old being the average age for a Maltese to live if his or her passing is due to natural causes. This term refers to any fatal illness or bodily malfunction that develops due to the aging process.
You are not a bad pet owner if you miss walking your dog a day or two, says Smiling Leash. So long as your pup is getting some kind of activity, they are doing just fine, says Vet Street. While walking may be the preferred method of exercise for some pet owners, others do not have the time.
Your furry friend might not be able to hug you, but they can show affection by doing things like leaning on you, bringing you a toy, or carrying around some of your favorite possessions (or, at least, your most-worn socks). Dogs exhibit other signs of love, too—like wagging tails or a paw held aloft.
A dog's number one priority at bedtime is comfort and security. So, if they're choosing to sleep in the same space as you, it's a big sign that they trust you. "Sleeping with the owner in the same room helps minimize fear, anxiety and stress," said Christman.
If your dog sleeps on your bed, you've probably woken up to find their bum facing you. There are several reasons why this happens, and most of them are pretty benign. These include comfort, ventral contact, trust, protection, eye contact, wanting to be left alone, territory marking, petting, and parasites.
Why do dogs like to sleep with you? If your pup likes to sleep with you, it means they feel secure and comfortable with you. When your dog was a puppy, they cuddled up with their littermates for warmth and comfort, so now they want to do the same with their people.
Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
The Maltese is an enchanting companion dog and they will happily live in a family; however, they bond closely to one person and are too small and gentle for noisy families with young and boisterous children.