How To Potty Train a Maltese Puppy: A Complete Guide

Training a Maltese puppy to potty properly is a rewarding process that requires patience, consistency, and love.

Maltese puppies are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them great learners when guided correctly.

This comprehensive guide will show you how to potty train a Maltese puppy while strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend.

By following these steps, you’ll create a clean and stress-free environment for your puppy to thrive.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Choose a Dedicated Potty Spot

To start potty training your Maltese puppy, designate a specific potty spot. Whether you prefer a grassy patch in your yard, a small turf area, or an indoor potty pad, consistency is key.

Using the same spot repeatedly helps your puppy associate that location with potty time.

Avoid using multiple spots, as this may confuse your puppy. If you plan for your Maltese to potty outside, skip the indoor potty pads to prevent retraining later.

A clear and consistent plan sets the foundation for successful training.

Step 2: Establish a Verbal Cue

Teach your Maltese puppy a verbal cue like “go potty.” Use this phrase each time you lead your puppy to the designated spot.

Repeating the cue helps your puppy link the words with the action of eliminating. Over time, your Maltese will recognize the command and potty on cue, making your life easier.

Step 3: Use a Leash for Guidance

When it’s time for your Maltese to potty, attach a leash and lead them to the designated spot. Keeping them on a leash prevents distractions and ensures they stay focused on the task.

Watch for signs your puppy needs to go, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. Once at the spot, wait patiently for them to eliminate.

If your puppy doesn’t go within five minutes, bring them back inside but keep a close eye on them.

Puppies often try again shortly after an initial attempt. When they successfully potty in the right spot, reward them with praise or a treat immediately.

Step 4: Stick to a Regular Schedule

Consistency is essential when potty training a Maltese puppy. Take your puppy to their potty spot at regular intervals, including:

Every 2 hours
After meals
After naps
After playtime
Before bedtime

Puppies have small bladders and need frequent breaks. Following a schedule helps them develop a routine and reduces accidents inside the house.

Step 5: Reward Good Behavior

Maltese puppies thrive on positive reinforcement. Whenever your puppy potties in the right spot, celebrate their success with enthusiastic praise, petting, or a treat.

The immediate reward reinforces the desired behavior and encourages your puppy to repeat it.

Avoid punishing your puppy for accidents. Scolding or harsh reactions can create fear and confusion, slowing down the training process.

Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior and redirecting your puppy when necessary.

Step 6: Maintain a Feeding Routine

Feed your Maltese puppy at the same times each day to regulate their digestion. Predictable meal times make it easier to anticipate when your puppy needs to potty.

Most puppies need to eliminate shortly after eating, so take them to their potty spot after every meal.

By combining a feeding routine with potty training, you’ll establish a predictable schedule that benefits both you and your puppy.

Step 7: Create a Safe Confinement Area

When you can’t supervise your Maltese puppy, confine them to a safe, enclosed area. Include their bed, toys, water, and, if necessary, a potty pad. Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so confinement helps reinforce bladder control.

Limit unsupervised time to short periods to prevent accidents. If you’ll be away for longer, arrange for someone to check on your puppy and take them to their potty spot.

Step 8: Combine Playtime with Potty Training

Incorporate potty training into your puppy’s playtime routine. Take them outside to play after they’ve successfully gone potty.

Physical activity often stimulates the need to eliminate, so this sequence reinforces good habits.

Introduce new visitors to your Maltese puppy outside to prevent excitement-induced accidents. If outdoor play isn’t possible, ensure your puppy potties before engaging in indoor activities.

Step 9: Clean Accidents Thoroughly

Accidents are a natural part of potty training. When they happen, clean the area thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors.

Lingering smells may attract your puppy back to the same spot.

Avoid cleaners with ammonia, as they can mimic the scent of urine and confuse your puppy. Use pet-safe products designed for stain and odor removal.

Step 10: Gradually Increase Freedom

As your Maltese puppy gains better bladder control, allow them more freedom around the house. Start with supervised time outside their confinement area and gradually increase the duration. Continue guiding them to their potty spot as needed.

Monitor your puppy closely during this phase and reinforce their training with consistent rewards. Over time, your Maltese will develop the confidence and understanding to potty independently.

Recognize Potty Cues

Understanding your puppy’s potty signals is crucial for successful training. Watch for behaviors like:

Sniffing the floor
Circling or pacing
Whining or becoming restless
Heading to a quiet corner

When you notice these signs, act quickly and guide your puppy to their potty spot. Prompt action helps reinforce the desired behavior and prevents accidents.

Address Setbacks with Patience

Setbacks are a normal part of potty training. If you catch your Maltese in the middle of an accident, interrupt them gently with a clap or verbal cue. Take them to their potty spot immediately and praise them if they finish there.

Never punish your puppy for accidents. Negative reactions can make your puppy fearful and reluctant to potty in your presence.

Stay calm, clean up accidents thoroughly, and focus on rewarding successful potty trips.

Build a Lifelong Routine

Potty training isn’t just about teaching your Maltese puppy where to go; it’s about creating habits that last a lifetime.

By maintaining consistency, rewarding good behavior, and adapting to your puppy’s needs, you’ll help them become a well-trained companion.

As your puppy grows, they’ll develop better bladder control and require fewer potty breaks. Continue reinforcing their training and celebrate their progress along the way.

Conclusion

Learning how to potty train a Maltese puppy is a journey that takes time, effort, and love. By following these steps, you’ll guide your puppy toward success while building a strong bond.

Stay patient, remain consistent, and enjoy the process of helping your Maltese puppy thrive.

With dedication and a positive attitude, your Maltese will become a well-trained member of your family, bringing joy and companionship for years to come.