Basics of Maltese Training
It is very important to begin your Maltese training as soon as possible. If training is started at a young age, it becomes easier for them to learn and grow into well behaved pets. There are various professional trainers as well as books available to learn the techniques required for training; however, training your dog yourself helps build a bond and relation between the master and his pet. Though you can take the aid of a professional trainer as well.
The Maltese terrier is a small breed of dog originating in the Central Mediterranean area. They are extremely small and bred as lap dogs or toy dogs. They range from 2.3 to 5.4 kg and are very loving, affectionate and playful. Some say their level of energy remains unchanged with age. Under the patronage of Italy the Maltese was recognized as a FCI breed in 1954 and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888. They have a long silky coat usually white in color and no undercoat. The Maltese are highly playful and adore humans. They are quiet happy in enclosed spaces and are quiet happy living in apartments. However, due to their love for their human companions, they are very possessive and may suffer from separation anxiety. This causes them to bark and whine. This could all be avoided if proper Maltese training were conducted.
Maltese training has many benefits to both you and your pet. It helps create a bond between pet and master. Maltese are very intelligent and loyal. If trained properly, they will learn quickly and follow their master’s every command. Due to their protective and possessive nature, your pet might bark or even bite other people including your guests and small children. It is important to socialize your pet with children and with proper training you can correct your Maltese’s behavior.
The most basic Maltese training is three basic commands: Sit, Stay and Come. Any dog can be trained either through reward or punishment. Reward method gets the best response. The type of reward can range from praise, physical contact such as petting, stroking etc. and toys or treats. The Maltese are quiet energetic and will get distracted easily, all training should be done in a quiet area. Hold the treat above their head and tell them to ‘sit’. They will either sit on their own or you will have to gently push their bottom down to teach them. Repeating this exercise regularly will teach them to associate ‘sit’ with the action and thus the reward. The ‘stay’ command is a little more difficult. Maintain eye contact with your Maltese when you say ‘stay’. Keep backing away slowly while maintaining the command. If they move to follow, a firm ‘no’ should be said. After this step has been mastered you can begin training with the last command which is ‘come’. Say this command in a happy voice while patting your knee or leg. Remember to reward them with a treat and praise after each successful lesson.