When a Maltese enters adulthood, it means the dog is growing quickly and eating more, so feeding deserves special attention. As a small breed, the adult stage of a Maltese is relatively short, so a responsible owner should observe the dog carefully every day and arrange a reasonable diet according to its different stages of growth.
Food Standards for an Adult Maltese
The nutritional needs of an adult Maltese are different from those of a puppy. Owners should never feed human food, because the salt and fat levels in human meals are too high and may cause shedding, skin disease, and other problems. A low-salt natural dog food is a better choice. In addition to feeding adult dog food, owners should also pay attention to balanced nutrition. Adding small amounts of vegetables and fruit such as broccoli, carrots, and banana can help make the diet more complete.
Feeding Routine During the Adult Stage
Feeding an adult Maltese is much less troublesome than feeding a puppy. In most cases, two meals a day are enough. Even so, meals should still be given at regular times, in measured amounts, and in a fixed place, so the dog does not develop picky eating habits. At the same time, do not feed too much in one meal. About seventy percent full is a better guideline.
Pay Attention to Chewing and Dental Wear
Dogs naturally have a strong urge to chew, and regular chewing is important. Otherwise, tartar buildup and bad breath can become more likely, which is not good for oral health. Owners can let the dog chew objects of moderate hardness. Large bones in appropriate form or real meat jerky treats such as dried chicken can also help the dog chew, support calcium intake, and maintain oral hygiene.
In short, adulthood is one of the most important periods in a Maltese's life. It is directly related to whether the dog can live a healthy life and stay with its owner for a longer time. Owners should not be careless during this period. Still, an adult Maltese is not as fragile as a puppy, so feeding can be handled with a little more flexibility.