Moodles (Maltipoos) are as smart as they are sweet. Their high energy and eagerness to please make them a joy to train, once you understand how their unique temperament ticks. But their mixed heritage can also come with quirks that keep you on your toes. 

In this guide, we’ll unpack the keys to training your Moodle with confidence. From tapping into their natural intelligence to supporting learning with nutrition that fuels focus, we’ll show you how to raise a happy, well-adjusted pup — one cue at a time. 

Read more: Moodle breed insights: care, personality & expert tips

Moodle temperament and trainability 

A blend of the affectionate Maltese and the sharp-witted Poodle, Moodles are generally intelligent, eager, and quick to learn. Their sociable nature and attachment to their people make them very responsive to training — especially when it's fun and rewarding. 

However, their sensitive streak can sometimes make them prone to anxiety or distraction in noisy or unfamiliar settings. While their Poodle side gives them a natural inclination for obedience, their Maltese heritage may contribute to occasional stubbornness or a preference for doing things their own way. 

The good news? With positive reinforcement, a consistent routine, and plenty of praise, your Moodle will thrive in training — and likely enjoy it, too. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

While generally healthy, Moodles can inherit certain issues from either parent breed that may impact their training: 

Skin sensitivities and allergies: Moodles 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 condition where the kneecap isn't correctly aligned and slips out of place) can impact a Moodle'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 Moodle appears disinterested in training or unusually reactive, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any underlying issues.

How real food fuels your Moodle’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. 

Moodles benefit from: 

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

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

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and blueberries 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 

Moodles may be small, but they’re bundles of energy. Giving your Moodle a bit of physical activity before training can help take the edge off their excitement and improve their ability to concentrate. 

They enjoy: 

• Brisk walks around the neighbourhood 

• Indoor games like fetch or scent work 

• Puzzle toys for mental stimulation 

Always keep an eye on signs of fatigue, especially if your Moodle is still a puppy or has joint issues. 

Training tips for Moodles 

Training a Moodle can be a joy — they’re bright, sociable, and usually eager to learn. 

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 Moodle, 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 Moodle motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you? 

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 

Dogs are sensitive souls that 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 Moodle puppy 

Moodle puppies are irresistibly fluffy, playful, and curious — and they’re often quick to pick up new cues. House training, crate training, and socialisation should be your starting points. 

What works? 

• A regular toilet routine. 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime. 

• Early, controlled socialisation with people, dogs, and new environments.

Like most small breeds, Moodles can be sensitive to harsh tones or corrections, so stick to force-free training methods that build trust and confidence. 

Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know

Training your adult Moodle 

Just because your Moodle’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.

• Teaching fun tricks and new games. 

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house. 

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp as they age. 

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. 

Read more: Training adult dogs: expert tips to boost learning, brain health & bonding

When to call in a Trainer or Behaviourist 

Not sure if your Moodle’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 Moodle 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 Moodle’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

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