How to Train a Maltipoo: Behaviour Tips Backed by Experts

Maltipoos are bright, affectionate, and sensitive to the mood of the household. They tend to follow their people from room to room, and many owners describe them as little shadows who want to be involved in everything. While this loyalty is lovely, it can also make them prone to anxiety when routines change or they are left alone.

Without clear direction, Maltipoos are quick to invent their own rules. You might see demand barking, clinginess, or habits like jumping up for attention or resisting alone time. They do not respond well to harsh corrections or unpredictable routines. Instead, they benefit from structure, gentle teaching, and consistent feedback.

The good news is that Maltipoos are usually highly trainable when given clear boundaries and plenty of praise. Starting early with positive reinforcement and socialisation lays the groundwork for lasting good habits and a more relaxed, emotionally balanced dog.

Maltipoos often form strong bonds and find it difficult to be left by themselves.

To build comfort with solo time:

• Start by leaving the room for a few minutes at a time, gradually increasing the duration
• Use interactive feeders or stuffed toys to make alone time more positive
• Avoid making a fuss when leaving or returning home

These little dogs love people and often show their enthusiasm by springing up for greetings.

To promote calm hellos:

• Teach a reliable sit and only reward with attention when all four paws are down
• Practise arrivals with calm energy and repeat regularly with household members
• Withhold engagement until your dog settles

These dogs are clever and often test what they can get away with, especially around treats or attention.

To support better manners:

• Use a clear "leave it" and reward self-control
• Avoid reinforcing begging or pushy behaviour with eye contact or treats
• Provide daily enrichment activities to channel their energy

In quiet environments, Maltipoos may come running. But parks or high-distraction spots can make them tune out.

To improve reliability:

• Practise recall on a long lead in calm spaces before moving to busy areas
• Use high-value rewards every time they come back
• Make recall a fun and rewarding experience, not just the end of play
  
  

The first few months with your Maltipoo puppy are the most influential. Between 8 and 16 weeks, your pup is soaking in new experiences, and this window sets the stage for how they respond to the world long-term.

Maltipoos respond best to gentle, reward-based methods. They thrive on praise, treats, and playful engagement. Keep sessions short and positive, and always end with a win to keep your pup confident and keen to learn.

Start with the essentials:

• Crate training gives your Maltipoo a secure, quiet space. It also helps with toilet habits and teaches them how to enjoy solo downtime.
• Toilet training should be regular and predictable. Take your puppy out after eating, sleeping, and play. Celebrate every outdoor success immediately.
• Bite inhibition is learned through play. If your puppy mouths too hard, calmly stop the interaction so they begin to understand boundaries.
• Early socialisation is crucial. Introduce your puppy to new people, friendly dogs, different surfaces, and common household sounds. Positive exposure now builds confidence for life.

Further reading: The Vet’s Puppy Guide: Facts, Care, and Training Tips

Once your puppy has the basics, it is time to focus on daily behaviours that help your Maltipoo navigate the world calmly and confidently.

Core behaviours to build:

• Sit, Stay, Come
  Use clear cues and tasty rewards. Practise in low-distraction settings first, then slowly introduce more challenging environments.
  
  
• Walking calmly on lead
  Maltipoos can become zig-zag walkers if not shown how to pace beside you. Reward them when they stay by your side and use short sessions to build attention.
  
  
• Polite greetings
  Teach your dog to sit when meeting people. Reinforce calm body language and reward stillness before allowing interaction.

Keep training light and engaging. Most Maltipoos can focus well in short bursts, especially if the activity feels like a game. A few minutes a few times a day can be far more effective than long, formal sessions.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical movement for this breed. Try enrichment toys, puzzle feeders, scent work, or simple tricks like spin or touch to give their clever minds something to do.

Training an adult Maltipoo can be just as rewarding as working with a puppy. These dogs love mental stimulation and often enjoy the one-on-one time that training provides. Whether you are introducing new behaviours or fine-tuning old ones, patience and consistency are key.

Start by observing their current habits. Reinforce what is already working, and gently redirect any behaviours that are causing issues. Be clear, calm, and consistent with your expectations.

Tips for adult training:

• Build structure into their day with walks, play, and quiet time
• Break behaviours into small, manageable steps
• Focus on redirection and praise rather than correction

Adult Maltipoos tend to respond quickly once they feel secure and understood. The more training becomes part of your daily connection, the more confident and settled your dog will be.

When should I start training my Maltipoo, and is puppy school necessary?

Training should begin as soon as your puppy comes home, usually around 8 weeks. Puppy school offers great early socialisation, but follow-up at home is essential to build long-term habits.

Are Maltipoos harder to train because they are small?

Not at all. Their small size can be deceiving. Maltipoos are intelligent and love to please, but without structure, they can quickly fall into habits like barking or fussing for attention.

Why does my Maltipoo bark at everything outside?

Maltipoos are naturally alert. If they bark at passersby or unfamiliar noises, it may be a sign they need help understanding what is safe. Teaching a quiet cue and reducing visual triggers can make a big difference.

Do Maltipoos need a unique training style?

Yes. Their emotional awareness and quick thinking mean they respond best to calm guidance and clear rewards. Training that is rushed, loud, or inconsistent can lead to confusion or anxiety.

Can Maltipoos be crate trained?

Absolutely. When introduced properly, crates become a peaceful retreat. Add soft bedding, enrichment toys, and quiet time to help your Maltipoo associate the crate with safety and rest.

Maltipoos are warm, intelligent, and eager to be part of your everyday life. With early guidance, positive reinforcement, and a healthy mix of routine and variety, they can grow into confident, well-mannered companions.

Training is more than obedience. It is how you build communication, reduce anxiety, and help your Maltipoo feel safe and connected. Every dog is different, but all Maltipoos thrive when they know what is expected and are rewarded for getting it right.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe