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Maltese dogs are a popular breed known for their small size, playful demeanor, and affectionate personality. While they may be small in size, potty training them can still present some challenges. Fortunately, there are some proven methods and techniques that can make the process easier and faster. In this article, we will share 7 secrets to quickly potty training your Maltese, so you can enjoy a stress-free and clean home. From identifying signs that your Maltese needs to go potty to setting up a consistent routine, these tips will help you establish good habits and effectively communicate with your furry friend.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Maltese, you may consider seeking the help of a professional online dog training course such as SpiritDog or K9 Training Institute, two of our favorite training resources for potty training.
1. Start Potty Training Your Maltese Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Maltese, the better. Puppies can start learning as early as eight weeks old, and it’s easier for them to pick up good habits at this young age. Consistency is also crucial. Choose a designated potty spot outdoors and always bring your Maltese to that same area. Stick to a routine, and take them out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Your dog will associate the spot with going potty, and the consistent schedule will help reinforce the behavior.
2. Give Your Maltese Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Maltese successfully goes potty outside, offer praise, treats, or playtime as a reward. This will help your dog associate going to the bathroom outside with positive experiences, making them more likely to repeat the behavior. Make sure to reward them immediately after they finish, as dogs have a short memory and may not connect the reward with the action if there’s a delay.
3. Monitor Your Maltese’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Maltese’s body language and habits, as they can give you clues when they need to go. Common signs include sniffing, circling, whining, or scratching at the door. If you notice any of these behaviors, take your dog outside immediately. In time, you’ll be able to anticipate your dog’s needs, preventing accidents before they happen.
RELATED: Need to potty train your Maltese quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Maltese to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Maltese, confine them to a small, designated area or crate. Dogs are naturally clean animals and don’t like to soil their living space. By limiting their space, you encourage them to hold it until they can go outside. Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
5. Gradually Increase Your Maltese’s Freedom
As your Maltese becomes more reliable in their potty training, you can gradually increase their freedom in the house. Start by allowing them access to one additional room, and monitor their behavior closely. If they continue to have accidents, return to the smaller confinement area and try again later. Gradually expanding their space will help them learn to hold it until they’re outside, even when they’re not in a confined area.
6. Try Using Potty Bells
Potty bells can be a useful tool to let your Maltese know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Maltese to ring the bell with their paw or nose before exiting the door that leads to their potty area. There are many types of potty bells available on Amazon, such as this:
7. Be Patient with Your Maltese and Stay Positive
Potty training can be a frustrating process, but it’s essential to stay patient and maintain a positive attitude. Dogs can sense your emotions, and if you’re stressed or angry, it can hinder their progress. Remember that accidents will happen, but don’t punish your Maltese for them. Instead, clean up the mess thoroughly to remove any lingering odors that may encourage your dog to eliminate in the same spot again. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a step back and remind yourself that consistency, patience, and positivity are key.
8. Try an Online Dog Potty Training Course
If you’ve tried everything and your Maltese is still having accidents or showing no progress, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer.
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course
This affordable course uses science based and “fear free” tactics to potty train your Maltese quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions and it comes with a 60 day money back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Housebreaking a Maltese
How do I know when my Maltese needs to go potty?
Signs that your Maltese needs to go potty include sniffing around, pacing or whining, scratching at the door, circling or squatting, or suddenly stopping what they are doing. It’s essential to pay attention to your Maltese’s behavior and take them outside regularly to prevent accidents indoors.
At what age should I begin potty training a Maltese puppy?
The ideal time to start potty training a Maltese puppy is around 8-12 weeks old. It’s crucial to establish a consistent routine and reward good behavior to encourage positive reinforcement.
How can I potty train an adult Maltese?
Potty training an adult Maltese is similar to training a puppy. It requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Start by establishing a routine and taking your Maltese outside regularly. It may take more time and effort, but with consistency and positive reinforcement, your adult Maltese can learn good potty habits.
How long does it take to potty train a Maltese puppy?
Potty training a Maltese puppy can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual dog’s temperament and consistency in training. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are crucial elements in potty training success.
How often should I take my Maltese outside for potty breaks?
Take your Maltese outside for potty breaks every two to three hours during the day, especially after meals or naps. As your Maltese gets older, they may be able to hold it longer, but it’s essential to continue taking them out regularly to prevent accidents indoors.
How should I potty train my Maltese in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
Potty training a Maltese in an apartment without a yard requires establishing a consistent routine and using positive reinforcement. You can create a designated potty area, such as a puppy pad or litter box, and take your Maltese to the area regularly. Consistency is key, and rewarding good behavior will help reinforce positive potty habits.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Maltese?
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course
This affordable course uses science based and “fear free” tactics to potty train your Maltese quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions and it comes with a 60 day money back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
In conclusion, potty training a Maltese can be a challenging process, but with the right techniques and consistency, it is achievable. It is important to pay attention to your Maltese’s behavior and signals to understand when they need to go potty. Starting the potty training process early is recommended, and even adult Maltese can be trained with patience and dedication. The length of time it takes to potty train a Maltese puppy can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months. Regular potty breaks are essential to prevent accidents and reinforce positive behavior. Finally, training Maltese in an apartment without a yard can be done by using indoor potty options and crate training.
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