Have you adopted or are you considering adopting a M altese? It is a small breed that originated in the Mediterranean, in fact, its name refers to the island of M alta (however, there is still controversy regarding this statement) although it is believed that it was the Phoenicians who brought from Egypt to the ancestors of this race.
With the appearance of an eternal puppy and a size that makes it ideal to adapt to any space, the M altese is an excellent companion dog, both for the elderly and for families with children.
Obviously, this breed of dog requires proper training, like any other, which is why in this AnimalWised article we explain how to train a M altese dog.
The temperament of a M altese dog
Each dog has a genuine and unique character, however, each dog breed has some characteristics that are generic and obviously many of them are positive, as long as the dog has been properly socialized and educated.
He is an active, intelligent, affectionate and friendly dog, moreover, as is the case with other small dogs, such as the The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent watchdog. Although it cannot defend the home, it will alert us to any strange presence.
Walk your puppy daily
Once your puppies have been given their first mandatory vaccinations and dewormed, they can start walking outside, with a more mature immune system and prepared for such exposure.
The M altese is a small dog and in this sense it does not need to do much physical exercise but it is obviously essential to take it for walks twice a dayThis practice not only strengthens the bond between owner and pet, but also helps to channel the dog's energy, disciplines it in a he althy way and is essential for the puppy's socialization.
The socialization of the M altese is not only necessary so that it can interact harmoniously with other pets, but it is also very important if there are children in the home, since this dog will be an excellent companion as long as it has been properly socialized, and as long as the little ones in the house understand that it is a living being and must be cared for and respected.
Use positive reinforcement
Like any other dog, the M altese responds well to positive reinforcement, which in a simplified way could be translated as the practice whereby the dog is not punished for your mistakes, but you are rewarded for your successes.
Proper dog training should not only be based on positive reinforcement but also requires a lot of patience, this means that the teaching of new commands should be carried out daily, (2 to 3 times a day) but for periods not exceeding 10 minutes and in an environment free of distractions.
Among the first basic commands you should teach your dog, one of the most important is that come to your call, since this will be essential to have a minimum control over your pet.
As it happens with other dogs, as the M altese progresses in its training it is important that when it learns to sit, it also does so when its food is served, not jumping directly on the same. This is because by controlling a dog over food, it is much easier to control it in any other situation, obedience being an essential skill for good dog training.
In addition to coming to the call and sitting, the dog must learn other basic training commands such as stay still or lie down.
Game as an educational tool
The M altese Bichon is an active dog and therefore it is important that he has various toys at his disposal, in this way he will remain entertained and will be able to properly channel his energy, in addition, you have various games that you can practice with your dog at home.
The game is also an educational tool, since during it aggressive behaviors and a firm and serene "No" may arise before the same, it will allow to correct this and that the dog grows until acquiring a balanced behavior.
Don't forget that a dog that has not received any kind of education and that is not walked or mentally stimulated, is susceptible to behavioral problems. For this reason, pay close attention to dedicating time each day as well as company, affection and education. If you treat him with respect and affection, you will have an excellent life partner by your side.