Maltese Puppy Training Manual

Breed profile

Training group

Toy and companion dogs

Origin

The Maltese originated in the Mediterranean as a companion dog.

Weight

2–4 kg

Coat

White, long silky coat

Coat care

Daily brushing needs to be taught as a calm, voluntary handling routine; without early desensitisation, long-coat care can become a lifelong struggle.

Drive keywords

Close companionship · Sensitivity · Environmental alertness

Handling practice

Teach daily long-coat brushing and eye-area wiping as separate voluntary skills: present the brush or soft cloth, touch one easy area, make one gentle stroke, mark, reward and release. Build eye and tear-stain-area contact without restraint; any discharge, soreness or other abnormal change belongs with a veterinarian. · Keep human movements small and give the puppy stable footing; practise calm, supported lifting and returning to the ground without using constant carrying in place of training.

General reference range only; individual dogs vary considerably.