If you’re looking for a designer breed but aren’t too fond of Shih Tzus, then a Maltipoo might be a good choice for you. These low-sensitivity dogs have a small stature that was taken from their Poodle parent while their excellent temperament comes from their Maltese parent. In this comprehensive guide, we answer the question, “What is a Maltipoo puppy” while providing other details.
Highlights
- The Maltipoo is known as a cross-breed between a Toy Poodle and a Maltese
- Because Maltipoos are energetic and active, they will need to get daily exercise. A game of fetch, going for walks, or even playing by the yard will get the job done.
- Maltipoos love barking and may not be a great choice for housing with noise restrictions or people who are noise-sensitive.
- They are hypoallergenic dogs because they shed little — however, be sure to spend a lot of time around them to see if they could trigger an allergic reaction.
- Maltipoos will need monthly baths and daily brushing to keep their coat free from tangles and clean. It’s also a good idea to clip their coats.
- Because of their gentle and loving nature, Maltipoos get along really well with kids. Just keep in mind that small dog breeds can easily get injured so they will work well with older children who know how to treat dogs.
- These dogs are intelligent and can be trained easily.
- They are generally friendly with other pets and dogs.
- Smaller dog breeds like the Maltipoo can settle in both homes and small apartments without much space but will have high energy levels no matter where they are.
- While they’re wonderful companions, they may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
- Be sure to source your Maltipoo from good breeders to reduce the possibility of disease and other health conditions.
What is a Maltipoo Puppy?
While it’s not actually a breed of dog per se, the Maltipoo puppy is a beloved cross between a miniature Poodle and a Maltese. They are known for their sweet and affectionate nature, while also being charming and full of energy. These charming, small dogs can fit into any home, whether you live in a house or apartment full of kids or with elderly parents.
This breed is often referred to as a “designer dog” but you might still find them in rescues and animal shelters — if you do, it’s better to adopt than to buy. Because they’re so easygoing, Maltipoos are a great choice for first-time pet parents. However, remember that they are companion dogs and will crave the company of their family, so be sure to give them plenty of love and attention.
When it was first created, the Maltipoo was purposefully given a small size to become a companion dog for those who suffer from allergies. For the most part, Maltipoos are the product of first-generation breeding between a Maltese parent and a standard Poodle, but some people also breed using two Maltipoos. While the Maltipoo isn’t an officially recognized breed, many fans worked together to form the North American Maltipoo Club and Registry.
Maltipoo Puppy Guide
Here are some facts and pieces of information you’ll need to know about getting your own Maltipoo and how to properly care for them.
Size
The Maltipoo will come in different sizes depending on the Poodle mixes used for breeding. However, Maltipoos will generally stand between eight to 14 inches tall and weigh around five to twenty pounds.
Personality
These fun-loving, intelligent, and friendly pups will usually get along with everyone they meet. Devoted and gentle, Maltipoos will spend their days by their owner’s lap or will be playing outside in a big backyard. They can be highly active, so be sure to provide them with consistent training to spend their energy and to teach them proper behavior.
While you can’t expect them to guard your home, they are excellent alarm dogs. Just like any other dog, it’s important that Maltipoos are given socialization training at a young age and are exposed to different sounds, sights, people, and experiences. Doing this will help your Maltipoo puppy to grow into a good-natured and well-rounded dog.
Health
While Maltipoos aren’t generally sickly, there are a few health issues that you may need to consider before you commit to raising this mixed-breed dog. Here are some of the most common reasons that you may find behind a sick puppy.
- White shaker syndrome: This manifests as tremors throughout the body, rapid eye movements, and a lack of coordination. The condition will usually start at around six months to three years of age. White shaker syndrome won’t affect your dog and isn’t painful, but if you suspect that your Maltipoo has it, be sure to ask your vet regarding treatment.
- Patellar Luxation: Also known as “slipped stifles,” this is a common problem found in small dogs and happens when the patella doesn’t line up with the tibia, and the femur. When left untreated, this condition can lead to arthritis, which is a degenerative condition and may require surgery.
- Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): This happens when there is an abnormal blood flow between the body and the liver. This can be a big problem because the liver is responsible for cleaning the body. Signs of this condition include hypoglycemia, lack of appetite, poor balance, stunted growth, urinary tract problems, and more.
- Progressive retinal atrophy: This is a degenerative disorder of the eye that can eventually lead to blindness but can be detected years before a dog shows signs of blindness. A reputable breeder will not breed dogs with this disease and will have their dogs’ eyes certified by a veterinary ophthalmologist every year.
Before you purchase a Maltipoo, be sure to do research into the possible health problems that could affect both Poodle and Maltese genes. Moreover, both parents should have a health clearance from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for Patellas that clears them of the conditions above. Some health problems won’t appear until the dog reaches maturity, so health clearances can’t be issued until a dog is 2 years old — look for breeders that only breed at this age.
Care
These friendly dogs love being with their humans and should only live indoors with their families, and never outside or in kennels. They can also be great apartment dogs if they get daily exercise, which will stop them from becoming nuisance barkers. This intelligent dog responds well to training and using positive reinforcement techniques will see that you have a well-behaved dog in no time.
Maltipoos are highly active and will need regular exercise and mental stimulation to live a healthy life and stay out of trouble. Having too much energy can result in destructive behavior so be sure to drain their energy by playing with them, or giving them 10 to 15 minutes of exercise every day.
Feeding
A recommended daily amount of up to 1.5 cups of high-quality dog food every day should be divided into two meals for your Maltipoo. However, your dog’s diet will also depend on your adult Maltipoo and its age, size, build, activity level, and metabolism. Each individual dog will have different needs, and the quality of food you purchase can also make a difference.
The higher the quality of dog food you feed them, the more they can stay nourished throughout the day and the less they need to eat. You can also keep your Maltipoo in good shape by measuring their food intake once or twice a day rather than having food out all the time. If you’re unsure about your dog’s weight, look down at it and check if you can see its waist — if you can’t, your dog may need more exercise and less food.
Coat and Grooming
The Maltipoo has one of the best coat types for those with allergies and is low-dander and low-shedding with a soft and fluffy texture. It can range from medium to long in length and can range from curly to slightly wavy. Maltipoo coats come in a variety of colors including white, cream, and silver.
Your Maltipoo will need daily brushing to keep their coat free of mats and shiny, and you can also clip their coats to keep them neat and tidy. In general, a Maltipoo will need clipping once or twice each year but its head should be trimmed every month. You’ll also need to give it a bath once a month at a minimum to keep its coat soft and to clear them of debris, dirt, and moisture.
They will also need care for their nails and teeth, so be sure to brush your pet’s teeth at least two to three times a week to prevent bacteria and tartar buildup. Be sure to trim their nails once or twice each month — if you can hear their nails on the floor, it’s time to give them a trim. Keeping their nails trimmed will keep their feet in good condition and protect your legs from scratches when they play with you.
Children And Pets
Because the Maltipoo is a very social dog, it can get along well with young children. However, a small Maltipoo won’t be the best for homes with kids under six years of age since these dogs can be easily injured. Just like with any dog, teach your kids the right way to touch and approach your pup.
Be sure to supervise all interactions between them to prevent rough play. Moreover, Maltipoos will generally be friendly with any other dogs and pets, even if you didn’t raise them together.
Raise a Maltipoo Puppy Today
Now that you have everything you need to know about this great breed, you can confidently purchase and raise one of your own. Just remember that they do have potential health problems, so be sure to source your pup from a responsible breeder. Moreover, make sure that you are committed to giving the care and love it deserves, to ensure that it lives a healthy and happy life.
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