[cwc826628]

Hello everyone. I'm new to this forum and basically would like some help in looking for a maltese in near South Carolina area. I'm not really in a rush to get a new pup right now (maybe in 1 year or 2) so I'm just looking up on the information on maltese. So far I like what I see =) Seems like its pretty tough to find a pup around this area though (only looking through the internet now) and I've even expanded my search to include Atlanta and Charlotte NC but there's still little results, so I'm wondering I can get any help. I was hoping to keep my budget to $500-$1000, but it seems like most of the available pups cost more than that =/. Btw, this is a great forum and I got a lot of info while researching on the breed. Thanks.

 

[CloudClan]

Hello everyone. I'm new to this forum and basically would like some help in looking for a maltese in near South Carolina area. I'm not really in a rush to get a new pup right now (maybe in 1 year or 2) so I'm just looking up on the information on maltese. So far I like what I see =) Seems like its pretty tough to find a pup around this area though (only looking through the internet now) and I've even expanded my search to include Atlanta and Charlotte NC but there's still little results, so I'm wondering I can get any help. I was hoping to keep my budget to $500-$1000, but it seems like most of the available pups cost more than that =/. Btw, this is a great forum and I got a lot of info while researching on the breed. Thanks.

To find a dog that is not from a BYB or a Mill that price range will absolutely limit you. (Not saying it can't happen, but truly very few breeders who take care of their dogs with proper medical care, purchase and breed quality dogs can afford to price their puppies on the low end of your range). A pup for $500 is usually a red flag to me for places that breed in high volume and/or cut corners. Now for your $1000 price you may be able to find something, but you might also consider either upping your price a bit or expanding your options to include retirees. Or if you are willing to consider an older dog you might also consider rescue.

I got two of my dogs from Alabama (Debbie Cleckley Jacob Maltese). I lived in Atlanta when I met the breeder. I met her at a dog show in TN. Dog shows are an excellent place to meet breeders locally. I have personally met Judith Geiger at some shows. She is in SC. She may be a resource for you (Premier Maltese). Also, Loretta Gitto (Tiffanee) an active AMA member is in SC as well. Both of these women have lovely dogs.

 

[Starsmom]

:Welcome 2lease go to the Rescue forum and look at the sub-forum for adoptable babies. They are well within your price range, and are needing a forever home. There is also a pinned thread on in the Breeders forum on how to find a breeder. Please read these. Beware of breeders on the web - not all are show/breeders - many, many are brokers for the mills, and just BYB'ers with a computer. Check the AMA list for breeders as well. And as always look at www.petfinder.com there are over 1,000 Maltese listed for adoption around the country.

 

[Cosy]

Sometimes exhibitor/breeders will place a maltese that's 3-5 yrs of age for around the amount of $500 for spaying and a dental cleaning. You might try getting to know some show breeders in your area and let them know you are open to an older dog (if you are), so they have your name when one becomes available. Good luck!

 

[allheart]

Excellent advice by all the ladies above. Please be careful who you go to. Petfinder has so many wonderful wonderful Maltese in need of loving home. And there are actually Maltese Resuce organizations, that the dogs are actually in someone's home now being fostered and they can give you a pretty good idea about the dogs, tempermant and health and so many other things.

The prices upfront from a reputable breeder, may seem a bit high up front, but it is my belief, that so much goes into proper breeding, these breeders know their lines, their health lines, tempermant, and put so much time and cost into what they do. They don't breed to make money, they do it out of love for the breed. Also, they know their health lines so well, and you can save a great deal of money down the line, in vet cost because you greatly lower your risk of health issues by going to a true reputable breeder.

You don't want to go to people, who have no idea about the pups background or their parents background, and/or they are simply just breeding their pets. Sadly, I have done that everytime, because I didn't fully understand, and I had two pass at a very early age. One at age 7 and one at age 8.

You can google Maltese Rescues and you will come up with the different agencys that foster these precious ones, and they know all about any health issues, and have taken so much time with the dogs, they've been to the vet and all.

Please stick around the folks on here are so helpful.

I am excited for you and hoping for the very best.

WELCOME!!!!! It is an amazing forum and I have learned so much from being on here.

 

[aprilb]

I agree with all said. I got my first Maltese in 1997, but I have learned so much being on this forum. SM is the best!:chili: If you are wanting a puppy from a reputable show breeder, right now the average price range is between 2,000-3,000. As was already mentioned, there are other options if your budget is limited. I am in NC and drove to PA to get my girls and it was well worth the time and money. I hope you will come back and ask for advice when you are ready to get your Maltese as the folks here on SM can guide you in your purchase. Good luck to you in your search and :Welcome 3:

 

[Tanner's Mom]

Dog shows are an excellent place to meet breeders locally. I have personally met Judith Geiger at some shows. She is in SC. She may be a resource for you (Premier Maltese). Also, Loretta Gitto (Tiffanee) an active AMA member is in SC as well. Both of these women have lovely dogs.

Carina is right, dog shows are a great way to meet local breeders. On January 29 & 30, Charleston will hold its annual show at the Ladson Fair Grounds & both the breeders she referred to are usually there. Also, Greenville has a huge show, I'm thinking it's in February. There are some smaller shows in Hilton Head, Columbia & Augusta. Savannah has a show they sometimes combine with Beaufort & Hilton Head. Anyway, you can go to InfoDog and see what's scheduled. I'm real familiar with SC breeders, PM me if you'd like more info.

 

[maggieh]

Welcome! I agree with the advice you've been given and would like to add one more "plug" for rescue. My Tessa is a rescue who was only about a year old when she was found as a stray with a badly broken leg. The leg had to be amputated, and she is the most loving, wonderful pup I've ever known. Here's a thread for her latest accomplishment: http://spoiledmaltese.com/forum/64-picture-posts/108160-presenting-miss-tessa-ditka-cgc.html

Good luck with your search, and I would ask that you please select carefully so as to not perpetuate breeding by backyard breeders and puppymills.

 

[LJSquishy]

Welcome to SM! It's actually great that you are researching first, more than a year before getting your 1st Maltese. You will have plenty of time to decide on a reputable breeder, decide on male or female, age, supplies, etc.

If you can find a breeder within driving distance to you, that will save you approximately $300 from having to have a puppy shipped to you via human escort on an airplane. For puppies, males are generally less expensive, and you should be able to find a male at the top of your budget at around $1000-$1500. Female puppies generally start at $1500 or so. Of course, there are reputable breeders who may have prices slightly lower (and MUCH higher) than that.

Like the others mentioned, if you are open to getting an adult Maltese, you can get a gorgeous retiree (retired from a breeders breeding program) who usually has obtained a Champion title through showing in conformation for around $500.

Just make sure to STAY AWAY from any breeder who does not ACTIVELY show their Maltese in AKC conformation. And, if you have questions about breeders, feel free to ask!

 

[michellerobison]

Welcome to SM,there are so many kind people to help you. You'll find lots of cool stuff for your fluff to be.
I want to suggest rescues too,so many that need homes right now. You can save a Maltese (fluff) and get a wonderful feeling and still have a Malt.
I have 4 total two I got from a breeder and two I saved from being euthanized.
You can find puppies in rescue too.

 

[3Maltmom]

There are MANY pups in Rescue. Don't think they are all "older".

And yep, the adoption fee is from $200-$500.

Also, don't write-off the seniors. They are the best, in my book.

As they say, "Don't Shop, Adopt".

 

[cwc826628]

Thanks for all the tips and help. I know there are options in rescues but I've heard sometimes it gets to be a real pain in their evaluation of your home conditions, plus I would really like to raise a dog right at the start when it's still a pup. The shows sounds like a good idea, just a matter of whether I can take time to go or not. Sigh.... it's all sort of conflicting. I know I shouldn't support BYBs and puppy mills, but when you have a limited budget, it comes down to other choices of whether to give up the breed you want or other preferences you would prefer in a dog. Guess I'll take time to save some $$$ and see how it goes. Now I'm sort of thinking whether to get one pup and then another one after a little in case one dog doesn't get too lonely when left alone. Hmmm......seems like there's more and more things I need to consider...whew......Well....hope everything turns out ok in the end =)

 

[Starsmom]

Thanks for all the tips and help. I know there are options in rescues but I've heard sometimes it gets to be a real pain in their evaluation of your home conditions, plus I would really like to raise a dog right at the start when it's still a pup. The shows sounds like a good idea, just a matter of whether I can take time to go or not. Sigh.... it's all sort of conflicting. I know I shouldn't support BYBs and puppy mills, but when you have a limited budget, it comes down to other choices of whether to give up the breed you want or other preferences you would prefer in a dog. Guess I'll take time to save some $$$ and see how it goes. Now I'm sort of thinking whether to get one pup and then another one after a little in case one dog doesn't get too lonely when left alone. Hmmm......seems like there's more and more things I need to consider...whew......Well....hope everything turns out ok in the end =)

Gee, with all the great advice you have received I sense because of budget you would still consider a pup from a BYB, or "pet store" mill dog.

As for rescues, I'm not 100% here in knowledge (others here are), but it's just common sense a rescue would not place a fluff in an unhealthy environment and chance illness, having to be placed again, or worse. Have you looked at Rescue Maltese For Adoption? There is a really cute little guy about 1 y.o that is looking for a forever home. Could it be yours?

Bottom line here...this is a picture of Maltese at a puppy mill - would you buy one of these pups and promote these conditions?

 

[mss]

With a puppy mill or back yard breeder dog, you may end up paying later ... My Spunky was from a commercial breeder and although he lived an average lifespan, he had a lot of expensive problems: A hernia as a puppy, and as an adult he had 3 knee (cruciate ligament) surgeries , bladder stone surgery, Cushings disease which then turned to the opposite, Addison's disease, repeated skin problems due to the endocrine problems, dry eye for which the ointment was about $60 per tube, and some expensive dental work, and then when we thought all of those things were under control, he developed heart problems and only lived a few more months.

I loved him to bits, but I felt so bad about all his problems, not to mention the money which I could have used for happier purposes.

So I join in urging you to either save your money for a pup from a reputable breeder, or a retiree from a reputable breeder, or adopt a rescue from a good organization.

 

[jmm]

A young adult rescue has been thoroughly vetted by the rescue and will bond to you just like a puppy. It is a myth that you have to get a puppy to have that special bond. Personally, I don't mind missing the puppy time...life is easier with an adult. More so than with a puppy you know what you have with an adult.
A retired breeding dog is an awesome way to get a gorgeous dog. Again, adults bond very quickly. You don't need a puppy to have that closeness.
If you purchase a dog now for a bargain, start saving money for the what if's. How does the saying go...cheap is too expensive and free I can't afford. If you aren't in a hurry, take some time to say the money, get the pup you want, and have money set aside for vet stuff you will face in the first year. Personally, it usually takes me months to even decide I want to deal with a specific breeder...and then waiting for the pup I want. It took almost a year with my 5 year old from talking to the breeder to getting him.
You can get a nice male pup from a show breeder for around $1200

 

[Hunter's Mom]

I adopted Hunter from out shelter when he was 6 years old. He will be nine this December and its amazing how bonded to our family he truly is. It is as though we have had him since he was born. He clearly knows the hand that feeds him, loves him, and in turn he loves on us!

Did you check out the little girl Mable with Northcentral Maltese. She is a rescue and she is very young. She also has a brother on the same site. There is also Millie who is only now just 12 weeks - the same age you would obtain a puppy from a breeder.
Maltese Rescue Available Dogshttp://malteserescue.homestead.com/AdoptMalteseRescueMable.html

Also the American Maltese Association Rescue has several young males avaliable on petfinder.com. Three young ones are avaliable in CA alone!
http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelterid=CA1628

Welcome to SM and I do hope that we are able to guide you in your search for a maltese to join your famly!

 

[3Maltmom]

A young adult rescue has been thoroughly vetted by the rescue and will bond to you just like a puppy. It is a myth that you have to get a puppy to have that special bond.

Yep. My most precious of dogs, are older. We bond within days.

The pups (aka: Bette) drive me crazy ~ lol

 

[gopotsgo]

PLEASE do not support puppy mills/backyard breeders. Take a look at the picture that Starsmom posted, this is not an exception in this situation, it is the norm. Don't delude yourself into thinking you would be "saving" a puppy from this situation, you will only be perpetuating the problem. I volunteer for rescue and both my Maltese are rescues. My Nadia we adopted when she was 6 and she is completely bonded to us, I should have called her "Velcro". She housebroke in 2 weeks and never chews on anything she shouldn't. She is a complete joy and beautiful, see her pic? Rescues do evaluate the home carefully, not only because they want to make sure the rescue dog is going to be happy but because they want YOU to be happy. Rescues have experience with what situations are a set up for disaster and they don't want prospective adoptive parents to be frustrated because of accidents in the home or destructive behavior because the dog is left alone too long. A very important point to remember is that many dogs in rescue come from families who did not prepare appropriately for the new addition to the family and ended up with a dog who is not housetrained, chews everything and barks too much. Rescues take these dogs in, rehab them and try their best not to place them in an environment that will lead to bad behaviors again. Good luck with your choices.

 

[3Maltmom]

PLEASE do not support puppy mills/backyard breeders. Take a look at the picture that Starsmom posted, this is not an exception in this situation, it is the norm. Don't delude yourself into thinking you would be "saving" a puppy from this situation, you will only be perpetuating the problem. I volunteer for rescue and both my Maltese are rescues. My Nadia we adopted when she was 6 and she is completely bonded to us, I should have called her "Velcro". She housebroke in 2 weeks and never chews on anything she shouldn't. She is a complete joy and beautiful, see her pic? Rescues do evaluate the home carefully, not only because they want to make sure the rescue dog is going to be happy but because they want YOU to be happy. Rescues have experience with what situations are a set up for disaster and they don't want prospective adoptive parents to be frustrated because of accidents in the home or destructive behavior because the dog is left alone too long. A very important point to remember is that many dogs in rescue come from families who did not prepare appropriately for the new addition to the family and ended up with a dog who is not housetrained, chews everything and barks too much. Rescues take these dogs in, rehab them and try their best not to place them in an environment that will lead to bad behaviors again. Good luck with your choices.

Good post, my friend. You, and I, involved with rescue, certainly don't want our babes back in the "system". Proper placement is Key.

Rescues Rock!! So do you, Gigi~:chili: Oh, and I love the pic ~ :wub:

Gosh, we've got to set up a date for me to come to your house with LBB.
He would love it!! He would love wandering around your beautiful yard.:aktion033:

So yep, I'll get back to rescues. They are the flippin' best!!
I've never known so much love. I am forever saying to my babies, "You're a Good Dog". And, of course, Jop's is forever saying, "LBB you're a dumbass". LBB doesn't care ~ :HistericalSmiley:

 

[k/c mom]

Thanks for all the tips and help. I know there are options in rescues but I've heard sometimes it gets to be a real pain in their evaluation of your home conditions, plus I would really like to raise a dog right at the start when it's still a pup. The shows sounds like a good idea, just a matter of whether I can take time to go or not. Sigh.... it's all sort of conflicting. I know I shouldn't support BYBs and puppy mills, but when you have a limited budget, it comes down to other choices of whether to give up the breed you want or other preferences you would prefer in a dog. Guess I'll take time to save some $$$ and see how it goes. Now I'm sort of thinking whether to get one pup and then another one after a little in case one dog doesn't get too lonely when left alone. Hmmm......seems like there's more and more things I need to consider...whew......Well....hope everything turns out ok in the end =)

I hope you will take time to read some of the posts here and learn more before you choose to support a BYB or mill. Your attitude about BYBs and mills seems a bit cavalier, frankly. If you can barely afford one Malt it probably isn't time to even be thinking about a second one. Your Malt will be just fine as an "only" and many, many members here have one Malt and it works out just fine for all.