Max the Maltese must be adopted with his companion, Gizmo the Chihuahua (adopted).

Description:
Max is a sweet but fearless little Maltese. He loves to be around kids, dogs and cats. This energetic pup is looking for a new home because of a foreclosure. We hope that he will be adopted with his life-long friend Gizmo, a long-haired Chihuahua. They've lost everything they've known. It would be heart breaking for them to lose each other as well. With that goal in mind, we will lower their combined adoption fee to $400. What do you say? Do you think you can make their Christmas wish come true by giviing them a forever home together?

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, this ancient dog was described by the Greek philosopher Theophrastus as belonging to the "Melita" breed, an archaic name for Malta. It was developed in Italy with the addition of miniature spaniel and poodle blood. It was thought that these lively little dogs were first brought to England by Crusaders returning home from the Mediterranean. The breed became particularly popular with women, who often carried them in their sleeves and even to their beds. The dog was not only popular with women though. Publius, the Roman governor of Malta, prized his Maltese enough to commission a portrait of "Issa" and even have poetry written about her. Today, the glamorous Maltese is an adored pet and sought-after show dog.
The Maltese is spirited, lively and playful. Gentle, loving, trusting and devoted to its master. Highly intelligent. Good at learning tricks if he feels sufficiently rewarded. Bold and quick to sound the alarm in case of suspicious noises. It is a classical companion dog; graceful and lovable. They do well with other animals. Maltese love to play outdoors but have a penchant for jumping in puddles. A bath must follow! These dogs can be snappish with inconsiderate children and may be difficult to housebreak. Sometimes they are picky eaters. Include small biscuits and dry dog food in this breed's regular diet to help the teeth stay strong and healthy. Do not over-pamper or overprotect these little dogs, for some become unstable, and some may become jealous of visitors. They have a life expectancy of 15-18 years.