Appearance of the Malti-Pin
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| The Malti-Pin is a hybrid of the Maltese and the Miniature Pinscher. As such, the hybrid can take on the appearance characteristics of one or both parent breeds. Your Malti-Pin will probably measure between 23 and 33 centimeters, weigh between 3.5 and 4.5 kilos, have longer, silky hair or a short, smooth coat, with a robust, fine-boned or elegant, muscular body. The eyes will be round or oval, dark, and feature a lively, spirited look with a black nose, strong muzzle and scissor bite, the ears can be pendant-like or they can be cropped, the tail can be draped over the back or carried straight, and the paws will be small and feline. Available colors are white, red, black and tan or chocolate. The coat will be smooth and stiff and possibly hypoallergenic on the Maltese side, with minimal shedding, drooling and odor. |
Temperament of the Malti-Pin
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| The Malti-Pin hybrid, a cross between the Maltese and the Miniature Pinscher, is an active, affectionate, loyal, intelligent and social dog. They are perfect with children and the family cat, although early socialization will help ensure this. They can be good with strangers, although early socialization is necessary. Expect them to be wary of strangers until they understand that it's safe for the stranger to be around. If you live in an apartment or noise-restricted area, be aware that, for both parent breeds, barking can be a problem. Your Malti-Pin has a strong desire to please to be sure, however, it is considered moderately difficult to train. When training your Malti-Pin, be sure to be firm but not hard on him and provide plenty of positive reinforcement and encouragement throughout. Above all, be patient as it may take some time for the finished product to appear, but it will be worth it. You'll have an incredible furry family member who loves everyone and will warm the hearts of everyone he comes into contact with. |
Needs and activities of the Malti-Pin
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| With both parent breeds having the art of sitting on a science lap, don't be surprised if your hybrid pet isn't physically in your lap before you sit down. They're loving and eager to bond with their human families, not wanting to be separated from them. But, don't get me wrong, just because they're accomplished janitors, don't assume they're couch potatoes. They're active and will run and play at every opportunity. They'll jump at the chance to go for a walk or jog with you, play fetch or Frisbee in the backyard, or let off steam and play at the dog park. Since they also have a high level of intelligence, be sure to keep their minds exercised as well with agility training, obedience training and maybe even some earth dog activities. This will help avoid the annoying destructive behaviors that can accompany boredom. Your Malti-Pin family member will probably need about an hour a day of physical exercise in addition to the mental challenges. The Malti-Pin's small size makes it perfect for apartments or condos as well as homes with or without fenced yards, with the exception of noise-restricted areas where barking can be a problem. Malti-Pins can live in both urban and rural environments, and do much better in warmer climates than colder ones. Extra protection will be needed for these colder climates. |
Maintenance of the Malti-Pin
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| The Malti-Pin hybrid is a low-maintenance dog, probably requiring weekly brushing, unless it has inherited a longer, thicker coat from the Maltese side. The Maltese is hypoallergenic and the shedding potential of the parent breeds ranges from minimal to moderate, making this dog perfect for people with respiratory difficulties or asthma. Ears should be checked and cleaned weekly to reduce infection, teeth brushed several times a week, preferably daily, to avoid periodontal disease with accompanying tooth loss, and nails trimmed as necessary to keep them under control. Following eye, ear and dental check-ups with your professional veterinarian will keep your hybrid healthy and fit. Bathing your hybrid should only be done when necessary, as the level of drool and odor is also minimal. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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