Training your Maltese is a joyful experience! This smart, friendly, and eager-to-please small dog makes learning obedience and tricks a breeze. With the right approach, your Maltese will quickly pick up commands, behave politely, and stay mentally active. Below is a complete, clean, human-style guide covering all essential training areas.
A. Basic Obedience Training
Teaching basic commands builds the foundation for all future behavior. Since Maltese dogs respond well to positive reinforcement, short and fun training sessions work best – and if you want a quick refresher on their temperament and natural behavior traits, you can check an overview as well.
1. Sit
Start by holding a treat slightly above the dog’s head. As the dog naturally sits, say “Sit” and reward immediately. This is usually the first command they learn.
2. Stay
Ask your Maltese to sit, place your hand in a “stop” gesture, and say “Stay.” Take one small step back, then return and reward. Increase distance gradually.
3. Come
Use an excited tone, open your arms, and say “Come.” Reward generously when your dog runs toward you. This command is vital for safety.
4. Down
Guide your dog into a lying position by lowering a treat to the ground. Once the body follows, say “Down” and give the reward.
5. No
A simple command to stop unwanted actions. Say it firmly but gently. Never yell – it only confuses small breeds. Consistency matters more than volume.
B. Potty Training
Maltese puppies are small, so they need more frequent potty breaks. The cleaner and more structured your routine, the faster they learn.
1. Crate Training Method
A properly sized crate encourages the dog to hold its bladder, teaching control. The crate should be cozy, not spacious.
2. Fixed Potty Schedule
Take your Maltese out:
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After waking up
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After meals
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After play
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Before bedtime
Regular timing helps them understand where to go.
3. Reward-Based Training
Praise or treat your dog immediately after successful potty behavior. This positive association helps them learn faster.
4. Never Scold Accidents
Scolding makes small dogs fearful and confused. Instead, clean the spot thoroughly and stick to the routine.
C. Behavior Control
Small breeds like the Maltese can develop habits such as barking, nipping, or clinginess. Training helps shape calm, confident behavior.
1. Reducing Excessive Barking
Teach a “Quiet” or “No bark” command. Reward your dog when it stops barking on command. Provide toys to keep them occupied.
2. Stopping Biting or Nipping
If your Maltese nip during play, stop the game immediately. Give a chew toy as an alternative. Consistency teaches them what is acceptable.
3. Handling Separation Anxiety
Maltese dogs love company and may panic when left alone.
Use:
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Short practice breaks
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Puzzle toys
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Comfort items
Gradually increase alone time so your dog learns to stay calm.
D. Socialization
Proper socialization makes your Maltese confident instead of fearful. Start early and expose them to new experiences gently.
1. Meeting New People
Allow your dog to greet people in a relaxed setting. Reward calm behavior.
2. Interaction With Other Pets
Introduce slowly. Monitor early meetings to prevent fear or aggression.
3. Outdoor Environments
Let them walk on different surfaces – grass, tiles, pavement. Exposing them helps reduce anxiety.
4. Sounds & Noises
Play soft sounds like traffic, doorbells, or vacuum noise to build tolerance. This prevents sound sensitivity.
E. Advanced Commands (Optional)
Once your Maltese has mastered the basic commands, you can teach more advanced ones to keep their mind active.
1. Heel
Teach your dog to walk calmly by your side without pulling. Use treats to keep them aligned with your pace.
2. Leave It
This command stops your dog from picking up harmful objects. Start by placing a treat on the floor and covering it with your hand. When they pull back, say “Leave it” and reward with a different treat.
3. Fetch
Maltese dogs enjoy light fetch games. Use a small toy and encourage them to bring it back with lots of praise.
4. Recall Training
Practice calling your dog from different distances and environments. The goal is for “Come” to work anytime, anywhere.
