Maltipoo
The Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This small breed dog was intended to have the intelligence and affectionate nature of both the parent breeds, as well as the low-shedding coat of the Poodle. These sensitive and gentle companion dogs are a great choice for new dog owners as well as the elderly.
Temperament
Maltipoos tend to be gentle, devoted and fun-loving companion dogs. Because they were bred to be around humans, they need a significant amount of interaction with their owners each day. Maltipoo puppies may also be feisty and playful, even into their adult years. When properly socialized, a Maltipoo is an instant friend to everyone they meet, whether it be people or other dogs.The Ultimate Guide to Maltipoo
Origins
The past decade has seen Poodle mixes becoming increasingly popular, and the Maltipoo is no exception. Hybrid breeds have existed as long as people have had dogs, so it’s possible that there have been “Maltipoos” in the past. However, the Maltipoo was intentionally bred for the first time in the 1990s, with the goal of creating a hypoallergenic, low-maintenance companion dog for novice owners.
Key Characteristics of Maltipoo
| Maltipoo | Maltipoos tend to be gentle, devoted and fun-loving companion dogs. Because they were bred to be around humans, they need a significant amount of interaction with their owners each day. Maltipoo puppies may also be feisty and playful, even into their adult years. When properly socialized, a Maltipoo is an instant friend to everyone they meet, whether it be people or other dogs. |
| Exercise Needs | Maltipoos love their exercise just as much as other dogs, but due to their small stature, they tend not to play for as long as bigger, more active breeds. A daily dose of moderate exercise in the form of short walks is typically enough. Around a half hour total of walking and some light play or training sessions will tire out most Maltipoos. Because Maltipoos are intelligent dogs, they’ll also need significant mental stimulation to prevent boredom. |
| Maltipoo Grooming | The exact grooming needs of a Maltipoo puppy will vary based on their coat. In general, Maltipoos will require brushing two to three times a week to avoid tangles. Since both of the parent breeds require regular grooming, it’s safe to assume that the Maltipoo will as well. A good guideline for the grooming schedule is a visit to a professional groomer every four to six weeks for a trim to avoid painful matting of the coat. As with all dogs, regular tooth brushing and nail trimming are important. |
| Maltipoo Training | Maltipoos are generally easy to train. They tend to be food-motivated, and are also eager to please their human owners. The high intelligence of both parent breeds translates into most Maltipoos being smart. Since they’re sensitive dogs, positive reinforcement is the most effective method of training. Some Maltipoos are known to be stubborn, so consistent and patient training will yield the best results. |
| Maltipoo Lifespan And Health Issues | Maltipoos have a normal lifespan for small to medium sized breeds, living up to 10 to 15 years old. Maltipoos may be prone to:
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| Maltipoo Size And Space Requirements | Because Maltipoos love people so much, they’re best suited to living indoors with their human family members. Their small size means they are fine staying in almost any size of home, from apartments to larger properties. The only requirement is that they not be forced to use stairs too often, as it can be stressful on their joints.
Both male and female Maltipoos are around the same size. Adult Maltipoos may weigh between 5 to 20 pounds, and stand anywhere from 8 to 14 inches at the shoulder. |
Other considerations:
- Maltipoos can be very vocal from a young age. Maltipoo puppies should be trained to know when it is and isn’t appropriate to bark, lest they develop the habit and it carries into adulthood. Maltipoos are very alert and make good watchdogs, but are not very good at protecting their territory.
- As companion dogs, Maltipoos can get very attached to their humans. This may develop into separation anxiety, so alone time training at an early age is important so Maltipoo puppies learn that it is okay to be alone. Leaving a Maltipoo alone for extended periods of time is still discouraged, as it may result in behavioral problems.
- Well-socialized and trained Maltipoos are good with the elderly and children. The Maltipoo is sometimes also used as a therapy dog.
How can I take good care of my Maltipoo or Puppy?
Proper socialization
Once you pick up your Maltipoo puppy, it’s important to begin socializing them as soon as possible. Most breeders will release dogs at 8 weeks old at the earliest. This period is key to proper socialization and training, as any habits and tendencies formed during this time may carry into adulthood.
Proper nutrition
A Maltipoo puppy should be given a high-quality diet formulated for small breed dogs. Before switching to your preferred dog food, it may be a good idea to take a few days to transition your Maltipoo off the brand of dog food that the breeder recommends. Most puppies should eat small meals three to four times a day to avoid an upset stomach and indigestion. Maltipoos may require a dog food that contains more calcium than usual to promote the development of strong bones and teeth. For more specific recommendations, consult with your veterinarian.
Up-to-date vaccinations
Your veterinarian will be better able to advise you on when you should bring in your puppy, but most Maltipoo puppies will have regular vaccinations and deworming within the first few weeks. Puppies should be kept away from other dogs and places where dogs have been until the vet allows them to mingle with other dogs. There are some diseases and harmful bacteria that can live on the ground for days or weeks.
Most Asked Maltipoo Questions
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+How Much do Maltipoo Puppies Cost