Maltese Puppy Training Tips

If you are the first time dog owner, the Maltese dog breed is one of the best choices. The reason they are so popular is because they are intelligent, gentle-mannered and good with children. Maltese can mix very well with other dogs, even with cats! Another reason the Maltese are popular is because this dog breed is easy to train. Their willingness to learn is one of the best parts of the training. You may apply the following few tips when you are training your puppy.

Conditioning You Puppy's Behaviors

First of all, you have to decide what is acceptable and what is not from your Maltese in your house from the first day. For instance, if you do not want a dog that jumps on your couch or the one that begs food from table, you must start from the first day. When you are consistent with that conditioning, your dog will become your lovely companion for many years.

When your puppy shows any undesirable behaviors, you could use stern "shh..." sound or a clicker to mark that undesirable behavior. With your serious voice, your dog will recognize that this behavior is not allowed. Most dogs learn better with positive encouragement. So, when you dog shows any good behavior, remember to give praises and affections. .

Maltese Puppy Proofing

Puppy training can be stress free if you do the right things. Puppy proofing is necessary for any new dog in your house. Since all dogs have curiosity gene implemented in their brains, make sure that you have put anything that is dangerous out from your Maltese's reach. I can guarantee you that it will make training much easier. You may concentrate your time on training rather than correcting your puppy.

To give an additional help in the training, you should learn how to prevent your puppy chewing behavior. This is especially true when your puppy is in the teething stage. So, you can use any chewing deterrent (for dogs) and spray on table legs and any other items that you dog might chew.

Next, your Maltese can always play with himself if you give your puppy a basket of toys. But, you have to be careful not to have your Maltese to behave over protective of his toys. Your puppy should give in whenever you want the toy back and this will teach your Maltese that you are a pack leader and he should always listen to you.

Potty Training and Crate Training

If you have a schedule prepared beforehand, your house training should progress smoothly. You should take Maltese out for potty training when your puppy wake up in the morning and before sleeping at night. Dogs usually have the habit to eliminate about 30 minutes after meal. So, you should take your dog out during that time too.

Since Maltese are great for apartment's life, some dog owners like to use puppy pads for convenience. If you are not a busy person, I personally recommend to take them out for elimination which is a more natural way for dogs.

You may keep your Maltese in a crate when you are away from your house. Make sure that the crate is large enough for them to turn around. If the crate is too large, your dog may use a space as toilet and the other place to sleep. If it is too small, you dog will feel uncomfortable. So, please choose the dog crate wisely. The dog crate always resembles as a den and your dog will feel safe and secure in it. During the crate training, you should learn how to associate the crate as something positive. This will prevent your dog from barking or howling when they are inside the crate.

You Maltese could have accident once in a while because he doesn’t understand how to live in human’s environment yet. But, don't punish your dogs! Most of the time when there is any accident, it is due to misinterpretation of your dog on your instruction. You have to be persistent and improve your training skill and the little dog will catch on. Remember that it is always a human's mistaken when there is any accident in the house.

You should check out my website if you want to learn more the detailed tips and techniques on Maltese puppy training.

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For more information on small dog breeds, Maltese, potty training and crate training, please visit:

1. List of Small Dog Breeds

2. Maltese Dog Breed Information and Pictures.