The Complete Guide to the Maltese: Training, Apartment Living, and Fashion

The Maltese is a small dog with a silky white coat, known for its affectionate and lively personality. This ancient and noble breed is beloved both for its sweet companionship and its distinctive natural elegance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll discover how to best train your Maltese, how to manage its apartment life, and the latest fashion trends for this breed, all while maintaining a healthy balance between aesthetics and animal well-being. Get ready to learn tips and tricks for a happy, well-behaved, and... fashionable Maltese!

Maltese Training: Gentle Methods and Practical Advice

Training a Maltese is a rewarding experience: thanks to its intelligence and sensitivity, this dog learns quickly if guided gently and consistently. Let's look at the key points for effective training, from puppy to adult.

Knowing Character: Intelligence and Sensitivity

First of all, it's important to understand who your Maltese is . They are highly intelligent, affectionate dogs that are very attached to their owners. They love being with their family and can suffer from loneliness if left alone for too long. At the same time, they are highly sensitive to their owner's tone of voice and emotions: they respond best to positive and gentle methods, while a harsh reprimand can frighten or confuse them. Their liveliness and playful nature can become an ally in education: play is a perfect tool for teaching new skills while having fun together. Keeping these traits in mind helps create a peaceful and productive learning environment.

Early Childhood Education: Routines and Needs

When you bring home a Maltese puppy, start with the basics of good breeding. Here are some practical tips for the first steps:

• Establish a routine : Choose a dedicated area for his bed and bowls, and maintain regular times for meals and walks. Maltese dogs adapt best when they have predictable habits. Teach your puppy right away which areas of the house are for him and which are not, so that you can gently and firmly mark off the permitted spaces.

• Potty training : Remember that Maltese puppies have small bladders and initially urinate very frequently. You can adopt the potty training method , placing one in a quiet corner and taking the puppy there after every meal or nap. Alternatively, use the frequent outings method : take him out every 2-3 hours and reward him generously when he does his business in the right place. Avoid punishments if he makes a mess in the house – just clean up without scolding him, because yelling could only confuse and scare him. Consistency and patience are key in this initial phase.

• Gradually accustom him to being alone : ​​Although the Maltese loves being with you, it's helpful to gradually teach him to be alone for short periods. Start by leaving him alone in a room for a few minutes, letting him know you'll be back. This will prevent separation anxiety and help him feel more at peace when you have to go out alone.

Teaching Basic Commands and Tricks

Thanks to its docile and receptive nature, the Maltese responds well to learning basic commands and little tricks . Always start with a simple and important command: its name . Say the dog's name in a cheerful and positive tone and reward it (with a treat or a cuddle) every time it responds by looking at you. . Associate his name with pleasant experiences, so the puppy will soon understand that when you call him, something good happens for him.

Next, teach the recall command, such as the "come" command: move away a few steps, call him enthusiastically, and show him a treat. As soon as the Maltese comes toward you, praise and reward him. Repeat this exercise often, gradually increasing the distance. A good recall is essential for its safety (you'll prevent it from escaping into dangerous situations) and for daily coexistence.

Other useful basic commands are:

• “Sit” : Hold a small treat near his nose and move your hand up above his head. As soon as the Maltese, following the movement, sits on the ground, say the word “Sit” and offer the treat. Repeat several times at different times of the day; over time, the dog will associate the gesture and word with the action of sitting.

• “Stay” : After he has learned “Sit,” have him sit, then step back with your hand open (like a stop sign) and say in a calm voice , “Stay.” If the dog remains still even for a second, immediately return to him and reward him. Gradually increase the distance and length of time he must remain still, always praising him when he obeys. This command is useful for keeping a Maltese calm and disciplined in various situations (for example, while you open the front door or if he has to wait before crossing the street).

• "No" : Teaching your dog to understand a firm "No" will help you correct unwanted behavior. Use a firm but never aggressive tone. For example, if you catch him chewing something forbidden or doing something he shouldn't, say "No" in a serious voice and immediately stop paying attention to him (Maltese are clever: they'll understand that this way they won't get anything). When he behaves well or stops bad behavior, reward him: this way he'll associate good behavior with something positive. Consistency is key: all family members must use the same commands and rules, otherwise the dog could become confused.

Tip: Always keep training sessions short and fun. Maltese dogs have a short attention span, so 5-10 minutes of well-exercised exercises several times a day are better than a full hour, which could lead to boredom. Always end on a positive note and a treat, so your dog will eagerly await the next "lesson."

Socialization with People and Other Animals

A fundamental aspect of raising a Maltese (and any dog) is socialization . A well-socialized Maltese will be a more balanced, self-confident dog, less prone to fear or aggressive reactions. In practice, socialization means accustoming your four-legged friend, from an early age, to the world: other people, children, dogs of various sizes, cats, noises, and different environments.

How to do it? Take your Maltese with you to different public places—for example, to the park, to a bar, or for a walk in the city center—gradually and positively. Let him meet other dogs (perhaps starting with calm, patient dogs) and reward him when he behaves in a friendly manner. Arrange playdates with friends who have well-balanced dogs, so he can play and learn how to interact appropriately. Introduce your puppy to people of all ages, including children: this way, he won't see strangers as a threat but as a normal part of life.

It's important to never force interactions: if the dog appears frightened or overwhelmed, remove him from the stressful situation and try again more calmly. Maltese, despite their small size, can develop a courageous "guardian" attitude: they tend to raise their voices and bark if they sense something unusual, often to defend their owner. Good socialization helps them understand that most new situations are not dangerous, and therefore they react more calmly.

Correcting Barking and Other Problem Behaviors

Even the sweetest dog can engage in mischief or unwanted behavior. In the case of the Maltese, the most common behavioral problems include excessive barking, chewing (especially during teething), and separation anxiety. Let's see how to manage them:

• Does he bark excessively? It's true, many Maltese dogs sound alarm bells when they hear noises outside the door or sense something strange. The key is not to reinforce the barking habit. Avoid rushing to him every time he barks for no reason, and instead, reward him only when he remains silent. You can teach a command like "Stop" or "Quiet" : when he starts barking, say "Stop" in a calm but firm voice. Don't yell (he might think you're joining in!). As soon as he stops, even for a moment, praise him and give him a treat. With consistency, he'll learn that being quiet brings more benefits than insistent barking.

• Does he chew on objects? Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so it's normal for a young Maltese to try to chew on everything from furniture to your shoes. Provide plenty of suitable chew toys (e.g., rubber or rope toys) so he has a safe and interesting alternative. If you catch him chewing something forbidden, say "No" and immediately distract him by offering him his toy; when he grabs it, praise him. This way, he'll understand what he can and cannot chew.

• Separation anxiety? As mentioned, the Maltese is so attached to its owner that it can suffer when left alone. Signs of separation anxiety may include crying, prolonged barking when you leave, or small pranks (like going potty in the house) due to nervousness. To prevent it, gradually accustom it to your absence: initially, go out for a few minutes, leaving the dog a piece of clothing with your scent near the bed (this will reassure him). Don't make too much of a fuss when you leave or return: maintain a calm and "normal" attitude so as not to overcharge those moments with excessive emotion. It can help to leave some relaxing music on the radio or give your dog a challenging toy (like a Kong stuffed with treats) before you leave, so he'll be distracted and associate your departure with something pleasant. Over time, he'll learn that you always come back to him and will relax.

Importance of Play and Positive Reinforcement

Throughout every stage of training your Maltese, remember to use play and positive reinforcement as your best allies. These little dogs love to play and be the center of family attention. Dedicate time together every day—it could be a game of fetch with a ball, hide-and-seek with treats, or simply having them chase a toy—to strengthen your bond and burn off energy. During play, teach them little tricks (shake hands, spin around, etc.), always rewarding success with a treat or lots of praise. Positive reinforcement (rewarding good behavior) is the key to raising a happy Maltese: it encourages them to repeat what you like without fear of making mistakes. Always maintain a patient and positive attitude: if the dog senses that you are happy with them, they will work even harder to please you.

In short , training a Maltese requires dedication but pays off with an obedient and calm companion. With patience, consistency, and lots of love, your Maltese will become a well-mannered, confident, and socialized dog, ready to share moments of daily joy with you.

Apartment Life: A Little Domestic Prince

Given its small size, the Maltese is often chosen as a companion dog for those who live in cities and in small spaces. But how well suited is this fluffy white dog to apartment living? The good news is that the Maltese adapts easily even to homes without a garden, as long as it receives sufficient attention, care, and stimulation. We explore their physical and behavioral needs in a home environment, as well as their coexistence with children and other animals.

Adaptability and Physical Needs in Small Spaces

The Maltese is ideal for apartment living or a house without large outdoor spaces. They don't require large areas to run around, nor long hours of daily exercise like larger, more energetic breeds. However, small doesn't mean lazy: even Maltese dogs need exercise and play every day. At home, make sure they have some stimulating toys and set aside time to interact with them. A few balls or brain teasers are enough to keep them busy and satisfied.

Daily walks: Despite their toy size, the Maltese requires at least one or two walks a day. Going out isn't just for toileting, but also for letting him sniff the world, meet people and dogs in the neighborhood, and burn off some energy. A morning and evening walk, perhaps supplemented by a short midday stroll, are ideal. Remember that the Maltese has long, white fur: on rainy or muddy days, you could protect him with a raincoat (we'll talk about this in the fashion section) to keep him from getting too dirty, but in general, don't deprive him of the pleasure of the outdoors for fear of getting dirty. His happiness comes before a clean coat—and after that, you can always give him an extra brushing!

Home environment and safety: Make your home Maltese-friendly. Make sure he can't hurt himself by jumping off high sofas (perhaps provide a small step or a platform for him to get on and off the bed, if you allow him to). Remove small objects he might swallow from his reach, and make sure balconies or terraces are adequately guarded (a Maltese can slip through overly wide railings or climb out of curiosity). In your apartment, noises might be heard from the hallway or from neighbors: as mentioned above, the Maltese might bark like a doorbell. You can mitigate this problem by leaving some white noise (the radio or TV on low volume) in the background when you leave, so he doesn't jump at the slightest noise from outside.

Climate and comfort: Maltese dogs lack an undercoat and are more susceptible to the cold than other breeds. Indoors, they generally thrive at temperatures comfortable for humans. In winter, if your apartment is very cold, make sure they have a soft, warm bed away from drafts. When you go out in the coldest months, you can put a coat on them to keep them warm (they're small and tend to shiver if they're cold). In summer, however, be careful of heatstroke: never leave them on balconies in the blazing sun or in the car, even for a few minutes. Indoors, make sure they always have fresh water and a ventilated corner to rest.

Living with Children

The Maltese, with its sweet appearance and affectionate nature, is naturally attractive to children—it's like a living stuffed toy! This breed generally loves to play and is an excellent companion even for the littlest ones, as long as certain house rules are followed. Its lively and sweet nature makes it a perfect family companion, and it often manages to keep up with children's games with enthusiasm. Furthermore, its small size prevents it from accidentally knocking over a child while playing (something larger breeds might do).

However, it's important to teach children how to properly approach dogs. Never disturb them while they're sleeping or eating, don't pick them up incorrectly (you risk hurting their back or paws), and don't treat them like a toy. Always supervise interactions between your Maltese and very young children: not because the Maltese might hurt them—indeed, they're generally patient—but because they're delicate. A hug that's too tight or an accidental fall could hurt them. With children raised to respect animals, the Maltese will be a tireless playmate, always ready to chase a ball or cuddle on the sofa. Many Maltese dogs develop a very strong bond with "their" children, becoming protective and seeking them out to play or cuddle.

A significant advantage of the breed, especially for children who suffer from allergies, is that the Maltese does not shed hair or sheds very little. This means less hair around the house and fewer problems for those with sensitivities: the Maltese's coat is considered hypoallergenic, producing very little dander. Of course, there's no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog, but compared to other breeds, it's an excellent choice for keeping the home clean and healthier.

Coexistence with Other Animals

And with other pets in the house? How does our little aristocratic Maltese get along? Generally, very well. Maltese are sociable dogs if trained from a young age: they can coexist with other dogs and even cats without major problems, often forming very tender friendships. If you already have a large dog, you should be careful with wild games, because the Maltese, fearless as he is, doesn't realize he's small and could engage in playful challenges with a dog ten times his size. Supervise initial interactions and teach both the Maltese and the other dog to play gently, to avoid accidental injuries. Large dogs often learn to self-regulate with puppies and understand the need to be gentle. For his part, the Maltese, although tiny, has the heart of a lion and will not hesitate to raise his voice if he thinks his four-legged friend is overdoing it: this courageous attitude is fun to see, but make sure that it does not result in aggression or put him in danger. Supervision is key until you're sure they've established safe hierarchies and ways of playing.

Many Maltese live peacefully with cats. They are non-predatory dogs, so they rarely view cats as prey to be chased (unlike hunting breeds). In fact, they are often seen sleeping together or gently playing. Of course, each individual has its own personality: some Maltese may be jealous of their owner's attention and even a little possessive if another pet arrives. This is why, again, early socialization is important : introduce the Maltese to its animal companions gradually, rewarding each positive interaction with praise and perhaps a treat for everyone. If the first meeting with the house cat doesn't go well, don't despair: give it time. Divide the space initially, swap blankets and beds between the dog and the cat so they can get used to each other's scents, and try again until curiosity and tranquility prevail.

In short, the Maltese is a perfect apartment dog: it adapts easily to living in even small spaces He loves being with his family and can live with children and other animals if trained properly. The important thing is to give him time, attention, and adequate stimulation, so that life within the home is filled with affection and harmony for everyone.

Fashion for Maltese: Elegance and Style for Four-Legged Dogs

Besides being an affectionate companion, the Maltese is also a true style icon in the canine world. Its snow-white coat and aristocratic air have made it the star of countless catwalk shows, Instagram shots, and TikTok videos. But what are the hottest fashion trends for the Maltese? And how can you reconcile aesthetics with the dog's comfort and well-being? Let's explore the most popular grooming styles, must-have accessories and clothing, social media trends, and some recommended brands for dressing your little friend (well).

Most Popular Grooming Cuts

The Maltese's long white coat is its distinctive feature: keeping it well-groomed is important not only for its beauty, but also for its health. There are various grooming styles from which owners can choose, depending on their tastes and lifestyle.

• Long-haired (show) cut : This is the classic "show" look, making the Maltese look like a white cloud floating in the ring. The coat is left to grow long, well-brushed and free of knots, with the characteristic center parting on the back. On the head, the tuft is often gathered in a colorful bow to keep it out of the eyes. This style is striking and extremely elegant, but requires daily commitment: daily brushing, frequent bathing (every 1-2 weeks with shampoo specifically for white coats), and obsessive attention to avoiding tangles and yellowing. It's perfect if you enjoy spending time grooming and want a Maltese with a regal appearance.

• Puppy cut : This is perhaps the most popular cut among pet Maltese owners. The coat is evenly trimmed to a few centimeters in length across the entire body, giving the dog the appearance of a fluffy puppy—hence the name. The face remains round and sweet. The advantages? Less maintenance: no knots, quicker drying after bathing, and less risk of the coat getting dirty during walks. With a puppy cut, the Maltese still retains its beauty (it looks like a stuffed animal!), but daily coat maintenance is much easier. It's recommended to have it trimmed by an experienced groomer every 6-8 weeks to keep it in tip-top shape. .

• Teddy Bear Cut : A variation of the puppy cut, it features a short body clip but a rounded head, with slightly longer fur on the muzzle, giving the dog a small teddy bear look. This style is super Instagrammable because it accentuates the Maltese's sweet, friendly expression. This style is also easy to maintain, similar to the puppy cut.

• Creative Grooming and Trends : Some more eccentric owners experiment with original cuts or even pops of color on their Maltese's coat (for example, pastel pink or blue highlights on the ears or tail, using pet-safe, temporary products). While these are cute aesthetic choices for a photo, we always recommend caution: make sure any products used (dyes, chalk) are non-toxic and specifically designed for dogs, and that the dog doesn't experience any discomfort. Small, glittery hair extensions for special occasions, or designs on short coats (for example, a heart-shaped design on the flank) have also become popular lately. It's okay to experiment, but always respect the dog and avoid overdoing it.

Whatever cut you choose, the golden rule is to always keep your Maltese clean and brushed. A well-groomed coat not only looks good, but also prevents dermatitis, painful knots, and other problems. Brush your Maltese every day or every other day, using suitable combs and brushes (soft bristles or fine-toothed metal combs) to remove impurities and prevent knots. Pay particular attention to delicate areas: behind the ears, under the armpits, and in the groin, where the fur tends to get tangled. Clean the eye area daily to prevent unsightly tear stains under the eyes (there are specific wipes for this purpose). ). With these treatments, which also include moments of cuddles between the two of you, your Maltese will always be as white and soft as cotton candy!

Trendy Accessories and Clothing

When it comes to Maltese fashion , we're not just talking about their haircuts. This breed is often featured in photoshoots and social media accounts thanks to the adorable outfits and accessories their owners love to adorn them with. Let's take a look at some canine wardrobe must-haves and chic accessories, keeping in mind that clothing for your dog should, above all, be comfortable for him.

• Fashionable Collars and Harnesses : The Maltese's pure white neck lends itself to being adorned with jeweled collars or colorful bandanas. You can find collars studded with rhinestones, bows, and even beads, perfect for a celebrity look. However, from a wellness perspective, it's often preferable to use a harness instead of a collar for daily walks, to avoid putting pressure on the Maltese's delicate neck. Don't worry: there are super stylish harnesses available in soft leather, with elegant decorations, or in fabric with trendy patterns. An example? Harnesses in the "look at my elegance" style, with tartan prints, polka dots, or even decorated with angel wings for the more vain! The important thing is that they are the right size and well-padded, so as not to irritate the skin.

• Bows and hair accessories : The Maltese's topknot (the quiff tied on the head) is almost a trademark. You can indulge in a collection of bows and clips in every color, perhaps matching them to their outfit of the day. For girls, there are rhinestone bows, fabric roses, and little princess crowns; for boys, pirate-style bandanas or scrunchies with mini ties. These accessories not only make them look beautiful, but also keep that unruly tuft of fur out of sight. When applying them, be careful not to overtighten the elastic: it should hold the quiff up without pulling on the skin (try slipping a finger under the elastic; if it doesn't fit, it's too tight).

• Sweaters and Coats : Besides being adorable, dog clothes are also practical, especially for a Maltese who, as mentioned, suffers from the cold. A wool or fleece sweater will help keep him warm during winter walks, while also turning him into a little star on the street. Turtleneck sweaters in pastel colors are all the rage this year, perhaps personalized with the dog's name embroidered on them. Waterproof coats are also a must: there are sporty ones with hoods, or elegant trench coats for rainy days. At our Dog Moda store, for example, you'll find raincoats and coats in various styles—from technical ones to Burberry-style tartan ones. Dressing your Maltese in winter isn't just a fashion fad; on the contrary, it helps him maintain body heat. The key is to choose soft, breathable fabrics and make sure your dog can move comfortably (check that the coat doesn't restrict his leg movements or his ability to relieve himself).

• Elegant dresses and costumes : Here we enter the realm of pure fun. Many owners love dressing their Maltese up for special occasions: at Christmas, you'll see them in red sweaters and elf hats; at Halloween, Maltese dogs appear in pumpkin or little witch costumes; at weddings or ceremonies, some show up in custom-made groom or bride dresses —like the "Rapunzel Dog Wedding Dress" available on our website, perfect for dogs serving as bridesmaids at a special event! Of course, it goes without saying that these costumes should be used sparingly and only if the dog tolerates them well. If you notice that your Maltese is uncomfortable, try opting for simpler accessories (such as a festive bandana rather than a full costume). Her happiness comes before souvenir photos.

• Shoes and other accessories : Have you ever seen a Maltese wearing sunglasses ? It might seem strange, but photos of dogs wearing trendy sunglasses, perhaps paired with a miniature baseball cap, are all the rage on social media! Obviously, they're more for show than for any real purpose (except in specific cases, protecting their eyes from the strong sun in the mountains or for dogs with eye problems), but the cuteness is guaranteed. Then there are non-slip shoes or socks: some people use them in the winter, if there's snow or salt on the road, to protect their paws; others just put them on for a silly photo. If you decide to try them, gradually accustom your dog to them, as many find walking with something on their feet strange at first. Finally, let's mention fashionable carriers : the Maltese is light enough to be carried in your arms or in a bag, and many brands have created trendy carriers that look like luxury handbags, so you can carry him around Paris Hilton- style (just remember that the dog also likes to walk on his own paws!).

Maltese Social Stars: trends on Instagram and TikTok

It's impossible to talk about dog fashion without mentioning social media . Instagram and TikTok are bursting with Maltese-themed accounts, followed by thousands if not millions of people, where these pooches star in fun videos and home photoshoots worthy of glossy magazines. But what are the current trends involving our white-furred friends?

One of the most widespread phenomena is the outfit reveal : just like fashion bloggers, Maltese influencers also show off their look of the day. A typical TikTok video might show a Maltese with a disheveled coat just after waking up, and then, with a special effect, show him after the perfect grooming, with a bow on his head and a matching sweater—perhaps to the tune of some trendy music. These before and after videos garner tons of likes, because a Maltese transformed by the beauty spa is truly irresistible!

The hashtags say it all: #maltese, #malteseofinstagram, #malteseeverywhere are full of photos of Maltese posing. Some photograph them in mugs (to show how tiny they are), some dress them up for each holiday, and some focus on comedy, filming sketches in which the dog "participates" in daily life (you know those videos where the dogs seem to talk or pretend to cook, with their paws in their sleeves? Imagine a Maltese as a chef, complete with hat and apron!).

An adorable trend on Instagram is dog-owner "twinning" : many owners dress to match their Maltese. For example, both wear the same sweatshirt, or the owner wears a tartan jacket and the dog a matching coat . These matching photos are incredibly popular because they show camaraderie and are aesthetically pleasing. It's no coincidence that some companies produce matching sets for dogs and owners.

Dog challenges are also popular on TikTok: for example, there's the "Dress up your dog" challenge where, in just a few seconds, with a change of music, the Maltese appears in a completely different outfit (like a bathrobe first and a tuxedo afterwards). Or performance videos : remember that Maltese are intelligent and some learn dozens of tricks—on social media, you'll see them dancing on two legs, doing agility courses in the living room, or "playing" small toy pianos, often dressed in silly outfits to increase their viral effect.

In short, Maltese are true online stars. Our advice? If you too want to share photos of your fashionista Maltese, be creative, but always make sure the dog is comfortable. Poses should be brief and rewarded with a treat, flashes should be unobtrusive, and outfits should only be worn for the shot if they bother him. A happy Maltese is also visible in photos: tail held high, a lively look, and perhaps a tongue sticking out. That's the perfect photo that will melt hearts online!

Recommended Brands and Wellbeing First

In the world of pet fashion, there are countless brands that create products for small dogs, and the Maltese is often the ideal "model" for fit and style. How do you choose? First of all, favor specialized brands that offer quality clothing and accessories designed for your dog's comfort. For example, Italian brands like Ferribiella or Trilly Tutti Brilli are renowned for their garments, crafted with attention to detail and materials, ideal for chic pooches. Internationally, brands like Puppia (famous for its soft and safe harnesses) or Louisdog (a luxury Korean dog boutique) offer elegant collections tailored for little treasures like the Maltese. At Dog Moda, we select products from various brands with this very criterion: they must be beautiful, but also functional and comfortable.

When choosing clothing or accessories for your Maltese, always keep in mind a few key points for their well-being: the size must be right (neither too tight to restrict movement nor too loose to get tangled), the materials must be soft and non-irritating (cotton, good-quality wool, breathable fabrics), and practicality matters (clothes with Velcro or buttons that are easy to put on and take off, adjustable harnesses, etc.). Avoid items that could come loose and be ingested by your dog, such as buttons, loosely attached rhinestones, or very small bows. A simple but safe design is better than an excess of risky decorations.

Another important aspect of conscious pet fashion is: don't overdo it. A Maltese doesn't care if he's wearing the latest fashion coat ; he's more interested in feeling free to run and play. So, yes to cute outfits, but only for as long as necessary and always respecting his needs (if he freezes in his clothes or walks awkwardly, perhaps he's uncomfortable—remove it immediately). We can make an exception for photos, but in everyday life, many Maltese prefer to go "naked" and wear something only when necessary, like a sweater when it's cold or a raincoat when it's raining.

In conclusion , Maltese fashion is a fun way to celebrate the beauty of this breed and share our love for them with the world. From the latest trendy grooming cut to a matching coat , the styling possibilities are endless. But the most beautiful accessory your Maltese will ever wear remains the same: their happiness. A wagging tail and two cheerful eyes shine brighter than any sequin. And a well-groomed, loved, and respected Maltese will always be the most elegant dog of all, inside and outside the home. ❤️