Maltese Training Profile
Maltese are intelligent and eager to please, making them generally easy to train with positive reinforcement. However, they possess a notable stubborn streak and small bladders, which can make potty training particularly challenging. Success requires a rigid schedule, consistent rewards, and immense patience to ensure this sensitive breed remains focused and well-behaved.
TRAINABILITY
Hard
2 out of 10
MENTAL STIMULATION NEEDS
Very Low
1 out of 10
LOVE FOR GRUB
Picky Eater
3 out of 10
TRAINING FAQ
Are Maltese easy to train?
Very Easy
10 out of 10
Maltese are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and natural desire to please their owners. They respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle handling. While they can have a stubborn streak, keeping sessions short, fun, and reward-based ensures this sensitive breed remains focused and engaged.
Are Maltese stubborn?
Stubborn
3 out of 10
Maltese are intelligent and eager to please, yet they possess a notable stubborn streak. They can become independent thinkers or lose interest if sessions feel repetitive. To succeed, owners should use consistent, positive reinforcement and high-value treats, keeping training fun and engaging to manage their occasional headstrong nature.
How to train a Maltese puppy?
Needs Patience
1 out of 10
Train your Maltese puppy using short, positive sessions focused on gentle reinforcement. These intelligent dogs are eager to please but can be sensitive, so avoid harsh corrections. Prioritize early socialization and a strict potty schedule, as their small size can make housebreaking a challenge.
How difficult is to potty train a Maltese puppy?
Very Difficult
1 out of 10
Potty training a Maltese typically takes one to four months, though their tiny bladders and independent streaks often make them challenging to housebreak. Success requires a rigid schedule, positive reinforcement, and immense patience. Establishing a consistent routine early is essential to prevent accidents from becoming long-term habits.
How many walks does a Maltese need?
Extreme Needs
10 out of 10
Maltese require moderate exercise, ideally two or three short, 15-minute brisk walks daily. These outings provide essential physical activity and mental stimulation through sniffing. Because they are sensitive to temperature extremes and prone to overheating, schedule walks during cooler periods and prioritize indoor play during harsh weather.
What is the best daily routine for a Maltese?
Moderate
6 out of 10
A Maltese’s daily routine should prioritize a rigid housebreaking schedule and consistent companionship. Provide 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise, split into two or three short 15-minute walks during the cooler morning and evening hours to prevent overheating. Feed adult Maltese twice daily and puppies three to four times, using portions of their meals for short, positive training sessions to manage their sensitive yet stubborn nature. Essential daily care includes brushing their elegant white coat to prevent tangles and performing dental cleaning to avoid periodontal disease. Maintain a strict potty routine with frequent outdoor breaks to accommodate their small bladders and prevent accidents.
VET INSIGHTS
Maltese are intelligent and eager to please, yet their stubborn streak requires patient, positive training. Housebreaking is particularly challenging due to small bladders. They need moderate, low-impact exercise and heat protection. Daily routines should prioritize a rigid potty schedule, constant companionship, dental hygiene, and regular brushing to maintain their elegant white coats and prevent dental disease.

Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian
Researcher
Dog breed specialist
Verified
