How to Crate Train a Maltese

According to the American Kennel Club, Maltese dogs possess intelligence and respond well if their trainer rewards them as a result of a job well done. Pet owners initiate crate training for house breaking purposes, or to designate a "den." If you take the proper training steps, your Maltese should readily adapt to the use of the crate for either or both purposes.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog crate
  • Dog treats (optional)
  • Timer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a crate large enough for your Maltese when it becomes an adult dog, if it is a puppy. Your dog needs to be able to stand up, sit down and turn around comfortably in the crate.

    • 2

      Position the crate in a room where people will be walking in and out. Place a dog treat inside of the crate and close the door behind your puppy once it goes inside the enclosure. Walk away, but remain within earshot.

    • 3

      Reprimand your Maltese with a firm, "No." anytime he barks, howls or whines. Be prepared to do this numerous times until your dog associates your reprimand with its action.

    • 4

      Retain your dog in the crate for 30 to 45 minutes after he becomes quiet. Let it out of the crate for play time for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This also may be a good time for you to take it outside to potty.

    • 5

      Place your dog back in the crate and repeat Step 3 as needed. After one hour of quiet time, let your Maltese out of the crate for play time and/or feeding for 45 minutes to an hour. Leave the crate door open when your dog is not inside.

    • 6

      Return your dog to the crate and repeat Step 3 as needed. Keep letting it out and placing it back inside the crate, until it goes in the crate on its own. It will eventually come to view the crate as a "den" and it will retreat there on its own accord.

    • 7

      Move the crate to your bedroom at nighttime and place the dog in the crate. If it barks, howls or whines, reprimand it as needed.