Have you ever tried letting your Maltese play with a racquet ball. I bought a three pack at wal-mart, and Meesta LOVES them. The ones I found are blue. However my neighbor gave me a green one! They are perfectly squishy for chewing, yet they can't get a big enough bite to swallow it or choke. And they bounce really well. So if your little one drops it, he/she can enjoy chasing after it! It provides hours of entertainment for Meesta and me. Especially since Meesta can fetch!! Try it! 
