FluffyWA

Positive training · From eight weeks

Maltese Puppy Training Manual

From 8 Weeks

Maltese: short cooperative brushing sessions keep handling predictable and voluntary.

29 chapters · English / 中文

Watercolour illustration of a Maltese sitting calmly on a grooming table beside a brush, folded towels and grooming bottles
Maltese: short cooperative brushing sessions keep handling predictable and voluntary.

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.

Start with the route you need

How to use this manual

This is an execution manual, not a book to read once and shelve.

Every practical chapter ends with “Do these three things,” so you always know what to do this week. Printable logs and scorecards are collected in Chapter 27.

Choose your reading path

Path 01

The puppy arrived today

Set up the environment and routine first, then move directly to toileting and crate work.

Path 02

The puppy has been home for two weeks

Build marker and focus skills, then address mouthing and safe socialisation.

Path 03

Is the Maltese right for your home?

Read the breed reality, the developmental clock and the long-term exercise limits before deciding.

How to read the cards

Warning card

Safety or behaviour risk

Stop, lower the difficulty and manage the situation before continuing.

Goal card

A clear passing standard

Use the stated behaviour and success rate to decide whether to progress.

Time card

Length of one session

End while the puppy is still successful; more minutes are not automatically better.

Training with FluffyWA

Day school, board & train and private sessions are quoted after a chat, and boarding or daycare can be booked online with live prices.