Are you of the belief that a Maltese, perhaps one of the smaller and cuter dogs among other breeds, really needs extensive training to ensure that it behaves well?  The answer is most certainly a resounding yes!  Not counting the physical appearance of the breed in general, many pet owners decide to get lap or toy dogs because of the strange idea that it is easier to handle small dogs than it is to handle large ones- less food, less training, and less exercise is needed.
  While this may be true in the food and exercise department, it is known that all dogs need the same amount of training, regardless of breed, age, or size.
This single misbelief can cause a behavioral issue known as "small dog syndrome", and it mainly occurs in small dogs like the Maltese or Shih Tzu.
  It is brought about by the failure of the owner to establish proper authority, thus allowing the four-legged companion to get out of control.
  This is seldom a purposeful state of the owner- it usually happens unintentionally from pampering and spoiling the dog.
  These types of dogs are usually allowed to get away with other things that larger dogs wouldn't be able to do, simply because it is part of being small and cute.
No matter the reason, this problem should be dealt with promptly, or else you will end up with a dog that will "attack" you or growl at you every single time you approach his or her property.
  Failure to deal with "small dog syndrome" is a common reason why many small dogs are given over to pet rescue shelters.
  Proper Maltese training, though, can alleviate this problem and eliminate the need to hand the dog over to a shelter.
Perhaps the first way to deal with the problem is to treat the small dog the exact same way you would treat any larger dog.
  They need the same limitations and rules, and these rules need to be kindly (but strictly) enforced with no regards to size.
  Consistency is the key issue in making sure your dog will understand what they are and are not allowed to do.
  Confidence is important n establishing your role as "pack leader" so the dog will respect you more.
  This includes not letting them get away with anything simply on the basis of looking cute and pitiful.
This portion of Maltese training (and also learning to alleviate or avoid small dog syndrome altogether) will help your dog learn to control barking with no reason, chewing on anything other than his toys, jumping on people, and snapping or growling to whoever may come near him.
  This is not necessarily the work of experts that have many years of experience with dogs.
  Even a new owner can raise a well-behaved dog with enough care and dedication.
  Making all the rules be followed from the moment your dog first steps into your home is the best way to ensure small dog syndrome never happens.