This happens quite often with rescue dogs (certain people may remind them of past abusers), but this has been seen with dogs with no past history of neglect.
3. Fear
– It can be fear that triggers barking, growling, or other behavioral signs of acting out. This said, most Maltese will cower, shadow their owner, and/or whine when afraid of any certain element.
If a dog is barking like mad at a stranger out of fear, this may be related to irritating and loud noises (lawn mower, etc.) or they may have a larger dog alongside them.
4. Sensory overload
– Canines have incredible senses; when out in the yard or out for walks, not only are they seeing everything that’s happening, but they are also hearing far more noises than your human ears can pick up… And, they are smelling all types of scents.
For some Maltese, instead of picking up a scent here, or seeing a person there, there is a barrage of triggers along the walking route. And this may be too much stimulus.