Small dogs often come with big opinions, and despite their mini stature, they have voices that travel long and far. Maltese puppies are no exception to this rule, and when they’re tired, frustrated, or mildly inconvenienced, they have no problem expressing their fury at full volume.
We see that play out in this cute video that captures a Maltese puppy in peak cranky mode, complete with dramatic noises and very clear, determined body language. The intensity of his frustration packed into such a small frame makes the moment impossible not to laugh at. Take a look!
On January 30, TikTok user @lisy.tran shared a video of her adorable Maltese dog, named Leo, who proves that small packages can be underestimated. In Leo’s case, he looks like a quiet, tiny pup who would be far easier to manage than a human toddler, but once he’s awake, it becomes clear that’s very much not the case.
In this clip, Leo’s mom jokes that she added a dog to her family instead of human kids because she doesn’t want to deal with the tantrums. But little did she know at the time that this Maltese’s cranky tantrums could easily rival a human 2-year-old.
Little, forceful barks, full wagging of the tail, bouncing on spot, there’s no missing this sweet dog full-on yelling at his mom. For what? Who knows. But he’s going to keep you on your toes until you figure it out.
Related: Small Maltese Siblings Working Together to Open the Bedroom Door Are an Absolute Hoot
In the comments, people had fun giggling at Leo’s crankiness.
One person wrote, “OMG, same with mine, down to the sneeze.”
Another shared, “They are soooo much more fulfilling. When a child hits puberty, they turn into jerks.”
Someone else added, “Looks like a Maltese. 100% attitude.”
Other comments included, “Always so sassy,” “We can’t get enough of your cuteness,” and a lot of heart and heart-eye emojis.
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Maltese Dogs Have Fun Personalities
Leo may be small in size, but you can’t tell him that because he won’t believe you; he’s a Maltese. According to experts, these dogs, part of the toy group, are known for being playful and fun.
The American Kennel Club notes that the Maltese can be described as “playful, charming, [and] gentle,” and are at the very top of the “Affectionate with family” scale. They’re also really good at being an “alert watchdog,” the site explains, because these pups are fearless as well as charming and stubborn, too, which is quite the interesting mix.
And watching Leo being hilarious and playful, we don’t doubt that for a second.
This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Feb 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.