How to train a Maltese
Have you adopted or are you thinking of adopting a Maltese bichon? It is a small breed originating in the Mediterranean, in fact, its name refers to the island of Malta (however, there is still some controversy regarding this statement), although it is thought that it was the Phoenicians who brought it back from Egypt the ancestors of this race.
- With an eternal puppy appearance and a size that makes it ideal to fit any space.
- The Maltese bichon is an excellent pet dog.
- Both for the elderly and for families with children.
Of course, this breed of dog needs a proper training, like any other breed, so in this article of Animal Expert we will explain how to train a Maltese.
Each dog has an authentic and unique character, but each dog breed has generic characteristics and, of course, many of them are positive, provided that the dog has been socialized and educated properly.
It is an active dog, intelligent, affectionate and friendly. In addition, like other small dogs, such as the Yorkshire Terrier, it is an excellent watchdog that, although it cannot defend the house, will warn of any strange presence.
Once your dog has received the first mandatory vaccines and deworming has been performed, you can start walking outdoors, with a more mature immune system prepared for this exposure.
Maltese is a small dog and in this sense does not need much exercise, but of course it is essential to take it for a walk twice a day. This practice not only strengthens the relationship between the owner and the animal, but also helps to channel the energy of the dog, the discipline in a healthy way and is fundamental to the socialization of the puppy.
The socialization of the Maltese bichon is necessary to be able to interact harmoniously with other pets, because it is also very important if the children live at home, because this dog will be an excellent companion if it has been properly socialized, provided that the little ones are at home understand that it is a living being and that it must be taken care of and respected.
Like any other dog, Maltese responds well to positive reinforcement, which, in a simplified way, could result in the practice by which the dog does not punish itself for its mistakes, but is rewarded for what it does well.
Good dog training should not only be based on positive reinforcement, it also requires a lot of patience, it means that the new orders you teach must be performed daily (2 to 3 times a day), but for periods not exceeding 10 minutes and in an environment without distractions.
Among the first basic commands you should teach your dog, one of the most important is that it comes when you call it, because it is essential to have minimal control over your pet.
As with other dogs, as the Maltese bichon progresses in its training, it is important that you learn to sit, do so by serving your food, and do not immediately throw yourself on it. In fact, if you manage to control a dog with food, it will be much easier to control it in any other situation, obedience being a fundamental skill for good canine training.
In addition to coming when calling and sitting, the dog must learn other basic training commands such as being silent or lying down.
Maltese is an active dog and, therefore, it is important that you have several toys at your disposal, this way you will have fun and channel your energy correctly.
The game is also an educational tool, because during them aggressive behaviors can occur and a firm and serene “no” in front of them, you will correct it and grow the dog so that it acquires a balanced behavior.
Remember that a dog that is uneducated of any kind and does not walk or mentally stimulate is likely to have behavioral problems. Therefore, pay special attention and spend time each day, as well as companionship, affection and education. If you treat him with respect and affection, you’ll have an excellent life partner by your side.
If you want to read articles similar to, we recommend that you go to our Basic Training section.