How to Potty Train an Old Maltese
The Maltese is an intelligent breed of dog, making it relatively easy to potty train one when it is a puppy. However, as dogs age, they become more difficult to housebreak and train in other ways. Knowing how to train an older Maltese, whether it be an adult or a senior, isn't very difficult but it requires a lot of patience. As long as you're patient and know how to deal with this breed, you should be able to potty train your Maltese.
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Instructions
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Initiate a potty-break schedule for your adult Maltese. Do this like you would do with a puppy, only practice more patience. For instance, any dog should be let outside immediately after meals. This trains them to relieve themselves when they are full. Otherwise, a schedule of going outdoors every three to four hours is adequate.
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Crate the adult Maltese overnight until he adheres to the potty schedule. This cuts back on unnecessary doggy messes throughout your home while trying to potty train. It also trains the Maltese to hold in its waste accordingly so it can relieve itself the following morning. That is because Maltese dogs are clean, and will not defecate or urinate in their crates.
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Experiment with a diet that improves or encourages digestive health for your adult Maltese. When dogs get older, their bodies change, much like all animals. Housebreaking may be difficult if the Maltese is eating foods that irritate its stomach or urinary tract. Check with your vet to find out what kind of diet is best suited for your adult Maltese.
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Use positive reinforcement. Commend your adult Maltese whenever it follows the potty schedule without having an accident. This can be in the form of a gift such as a toy or treat. It can also be in the form of a pat on the head and a "good boy." This encourages the dog to adhere to the schedule each time.
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Tips & Warnings
Remain patient and diligent. A Maltese is an easy dog to train. As an adult, it just needs a little extra time.
Never strike, yell at or throw items at your dog if it has an accident in your home. This will only make it more difficult to adequately train your pet. It also aids in the development of emotional problems with your Maltese.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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Comments
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I've read several articles about housebreaking adult malteses. They all recommend a crate to help teach them to hold it. Unfortunately, my maltese is 4 years ago and is quite happy to pee and poop in her crate, and in our bed under the sheets, and anywhere on the carpet she happens to be at the time.
