Puppies of any breed are playful and curious creatures and Maltese puppies are one of the most playful of the toy breeds. Fetch is a game that should be fun for both the dog and the human guardian. This means that teaching a Maltese puppy to fetch is usually a fun and easy exercise. Maltese puppies learn quickly and are usually energetic dogs. Focusing your Maltese puppy's energy in learning a new game, such as fetch, will be beneficial for the puppy and is a time for you to bond.
Things You'll Need
- Two balls
- 10-foot training leash
- Treats
Instructions
Select two balls that are small enough for your Maltese puppy to easily carry in her mouth but large enough that there is no danger she will swallow it.
Attach a 10-foot training leash to your puppy's collar.
Place one of the balls in your pocket. Wave the other ball in front of the puppy to get his interest.
Toss the ball a few feet away and allow your puppy to chase after it, while holding the puppy's leash.
When your puppy grabs the ball, use the leash to gently reel her back to you.
Remove the other ball from your pocket and wave it in front of the puppy as soon as he returns to you.
Throw the second ball as soon as your puppy drops the first ball.
Allow the puppy to chase after the second ball.
Repeat the exercise several times during several days of training sessions.
Toss only one ball once the puppy has started to consistently return to you after retrieving the ball--without it being necessary for you to "reel" her back. Give the command "fetch" as you toss the ball.
Take the ball from the puppy's mouth, praise him and give him a treat.
Continue this exercise until the puppy consistently returns the ball to you each time.