Cute as they are, Maltese Shih Tzus can be a handful — especially when their affectionate nature meets an independent streak. One day they’re glued to your side, the next they’re pretending not to hear you call. 

In this guide, we break down how to train your Malshi with patience, confidence and a little expert insight. From working with their unique temperament to tips that make daily routines smoother, we’ll help you turn challenges into progress. 

Read more: Maltese Shih Tzu breed insight: care, personality, and expert tips

Maltese Shih Tzu temperament and trainability 

Maltese Shih Tzus are affectionate, alert, and confident. They enjoy spending time with their humans and often make excellent lap dogs. Despite their cuddly nature, they can be quite headstrong, which may lead to some training challenges. 

While they’re intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they may resist commands if they’re not in the mood. Patience, consistency, and a positive attitude are key to bringing out the best in this breed. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

Maltese Shih Tzus can experience health issues that may impact training, including: 

Skin sensitivities and allergies: Maltese Shih Tzus may be prone to skin allergies or sensitivities, leading to itching, redness, or irritation. Such discomfort can distract them during training and affect their well-being. Regular grooming and a diet containing vitamin E, zinc and ingredients with antioxidant properties can help maintain healthy skin.   

Joint conditions: Joint issues, including patellar luxation (a hereditary condition where the kneecap slips out of place), can impact a Maltese Shih Tzu's mobility and willingness to participate in physical activities. Providing a complete and balanced diet with high-quality protein and rich in omega fatty acids, maintaining an appropriate exercise routine and a healthy weight can support your pup's joints. 

If your Maltese Shih Tzu seems distracted or reactive during training, it may be worth consulting a vet to rule out underlying issues. 

How real food fuels your Maltese Shih Tzu's focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Maltese Shih Tzus benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly.  

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil), support brain health and development, memory, and learning.  

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.” 

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)  

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience.

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health. 

Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus 

Though small in size, Maltese Shih Tzus need regular movement to help burn off energy and settle for training. A short walk or indoor play session can do wonders. 

Try: 

• Gentle tug-of-war or fetch 

• A walk around the block 

• Puzzle toys for mental exercise 

A mentally engaged Maltese Shih Tzu is a quick and eager learner — curious, attentive, and ready to master new tricks.

Training tips for Maltese Shih Tzus 

Training a Maltese Shih Tzu is all about working with their playful and sometimes stubborn personality. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship. 
 
Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Malshi, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat. 

Find their favourite motivator 

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Maltese Shih Tzu motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you? 

Lyka’s Piggy Training Perks are a high-value, low-calorie treat that’s designed to keep your pup motivated and rewarded during training.  

Train at the right time 

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered. 

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue. 

Stay consistent 

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues. 

Be playful and engaging 

Maltese Shih Tzus can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious. 

Watch their body language 

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point. 

Training your Maltese Shih Tzu puppy 

Maltese Shih Tzu puppies are inquisitive and sociable but can be prone to stubbornness. Early training is important to set boundaries. 

What works? 

• A regular toilet routine 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime 

• Early and controlled socialisation with people, dogs, sounds, places and situations 

They’re especially sensitive to harsh corrections, so focus on reward-based methods. 

Training your adult Maltese Shih Tzu 

Just because your Maltese Shih Tzu’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

This might look like: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings at the door 

• Learning new tricks or games 

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house 

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep training light and engaging and celebrate progress, no matter how small. 

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist 

Not sure if your Maltese Shih Tzu’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper? 

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity 

• Anxiety or phobias 

• Aggression 

• Resource guarding 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.” 

– Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Maltese Shih Tzu is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Maltese Shih Tzu’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Maltese Shih Tzus across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.