The Maltese dog breed is known for excessive barking. Dogs bark for a number of reasons; however, it can be frustrating to listen to a dog that is constantly barking. A dog will never stop baking completely; however, there are steps you can take to eliminate barking habits.
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Determine and Fix the Problem
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The first thing you need to do visit your veterinarian. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals notes, "Dogs sometimes bark in response to pain or a painful condition. Before attempting to resolve your dog's barking problem, please have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out medical causes."
Figure out why your dog is barking. A dog usually doesn't bark without a reason. Your Maltese may bark because it is hungry or heard a loud noise. Once you determine why it is barking you can eliminate the noise by fixing the problem.
Don't use treats as way to fix the problem. Giving your dog a treat will only temporarily make it stop barking and it will learn that when it barks it will get a treat.
Dogs often bark if they are scared or if they are trying to protect their master. Calmly tell your dog "Shhh" or "It's okay" to assure it that nothing is wrong. If you yell this will tell your Maltese that you also feel a need to make noise.
Socialize with Your Dog
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Dogs will bark out of boredom. If you keep your dog on a regular schedule of physical activity this can eliminate barking. Take your dog for a walk and make sure it has plenty of toys around to play with.
Dogs will also bark if they are lonely and want attention from their master. Make sure you take time out of your day to spend time playing with and giving affection to your dog.
Remove Stimulus from the Environment
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Dogs may bark at their surroundings. Cover windows and close doors so your dog can't see surroundings outside that will cause it to bark such as other animals or people. Use a radio or television to drown outside noises.
When you can't change the surroundings teach your dog manners. Some dogs bark when people are visiting. Teach your dog to sit and stay when someone comes to your house. This will give it something to do so it doesn't bark. It will also reduce your dog's excitement level. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals notes, "First teach him to sit and stay when there aren't any people at the door so that he knows the behavior well before you ask him to do it with the distraction and excitement of real visitors arriving."
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