What are some negative characteristics of a Maltese?

Answer 1

I wouldn't trade mind for the world, but he's 6 months old and here are some issues we're working on. These are common for this breed, which is why it's important to properly train them the moment you get them instead of letting them run all over you like I did.

1. Potty-Training - This is one of the most challenging breeds to train.

2. Separation Anxiety - They can become very dependent on one person. He flips out whenever I leave without him.

3. Finicky Eating - Never, ever let them have even a scrap of people food or the battle is lost.

4. Fragility - He's small so he has to have little stairs to get up on the couch or bed. I worry he may injure himself if he ever tries to jump down instead.

5. Yapping - He barks A LOT. He can hear the neighbor's dog next door who's a barker and they go back and forth.

However it's worth noting that with enough time and dedication, these type of problems can be resolved and even prevented if the new owner is ready for them. There are several wonderful resources out there on how to properly care for and train these little cuties. All of the above issues are my fault, not his. I spoiled him too much at first, and let him have his way all the time. Now I have to work twice as hard to train him properly. Had I done things correctly from the beginning, we'd be a lot better off by now.