new maltese

Question
i just picked up my first maltese,a 4 month old male i had shippedfrom nebraska(im in atlanta)and i have lots of questions.every one says crate train but it seems cruel since the kids go back to school next week and the dog will be left in the crate about 7 or 8 hrs a day.is this ok?also his hair is quit long in my opinion and its hot and humid here in atl.should i have him trimmed up?

Answer
well first, i dont agree with crate training but its entirley up to you do you have a room that he will be safe in while your out?
the potty training pads are a must they are great and the potty training spray you also need oudour neutreliser from your pet shop of he will always keep going where he has gone before as the small remains and attracts him. i have some good previous answers that will help you. ok this is wierd but in the summer you are auctually supposed to keep the coat long to prevent sunburn and they pant which eliminates them getting too warm also keep it short in winter as they get dirtier etc



take a look at
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19976491/site/newsweek/page/2/