FluffyWA
Book

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.

Teach the equipment before the walk

Lead skills & going outside

The first month is not about reaching the park. It is about making the equipment comfortable and teaching that a loose lead makes the world move.

Begin indoors in three steps

  1. Desensitise the fit Put the harness on, immediately deliver food, and remove it after five seconds.
  2. Drag the lead under supervision Let the puppy move indoors with the lead attached while an adult watches continuously to prevent tangling.
  3. Play the follow game Walk a few steps and mark whenever the puppy chooses to follow beside you.
Watercolour comparison of a loose lead and a tight lead
LOOSE LEASH = a relaxed J-shaped lead and continued movement; TIGHT LEASH = pulling and forward movement stops.

Go out safely before vaccination is complete

Ask your veterinarian which locations and ground surfaces are appropriate for current local disease conditions.

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.

Book a staySee live prices