Maltipoo- not just a sweet name but a crossbreed with a personality that perfectly fits the title. The winning combination of Maltese and toy poodles resulted in a beloved breed that is a great companion and perfect watchdog.
With a great temperament, this popular breed can get along with families, single owners, and everyone. It has been purposely bred, so preferably called a “designer breed.” This mix has been undergone to create a hypoallergenic dog that goes well with allergy sufferers.
Maltipoo has yet to be recognized by AKC as a true breed, but there are a few Maltipoo clubs and registries. This vigilant dog breed has many traits that make it a first and foremost companion for you.
Maltipoo-General Characteristics:
Dog lovers may be intimidated by the maintenance requirements that come with the dogs, but Maltipoo is so small in size that it can easily be trained and taken care of. Because of various elements of their personality, Maltipoos are pretty popular in many households
WEIGHT | Small (5-20 pounds) |
HEIGHT | 8-14 inches |
LIFE SPAN | 10-13 years |
BREED SIZE | Small (0-25 lbs.) |
TEMPERAMENT | Gentle, friendly, outgoing, playful |
INTELLIGENCE | High level |
SHEDDING AMOUNT | infrequent |
EXERCISE NEEDS | Moderate |
ENERGY LEVEL | Highly Active |
BARKING LEVEL | Moderate to high |
DROOL AMOUNT | Low |
COAT LENGTH/TEXTURE | Medium, long, curly |
COLORS | Black, gray, red, blue, cream, white, fawn, brown / chocolate / livergold / yellow |
PATTERNS | Bicolor, tricolor, tuxedo, sable, merle |
SIMILAR BREEDS | Maltese terrier, Bichon Frise, Maltese dog, poodle, Yorkshire terrier, Malshi, |
Maltipoo History
Though very little information about this designer breed’s history is available, it is likely to be originated in the United States in the 1990s. Just like other breed mixes, the intention was to create a hypoallergenic dog, but Maltipoo does shed some dander around, though in a minimal amount.
Maltipoo Personality
This little pack has an astonishing level of energy and overwhelming with the traits of poodles and Maltese. They are affectionate and soft-hearted, and their goofy side will keep entertaining you all day.
Breeders use three sizes of parents to create teacups, tiny toys, and toy Maltipoos. If you are fond of wee dogs that can fit into your pocket, teacup Maltipoo puppies are the best choice.
They make a strong bond with their owners, so do not leave them for hours as they dislike it the most. They crave your love and attention and would love to play with children. They would love to see the world through the comfort of your lap or couch but are also ready to play fetch when they want to snuggle.
Maltipoos are very friendly and calm but can be slightly nippy when provoked. So explain to your kids to be careful while playing with them.
Having vigilant watchdog tendencies, they will bark excessively at something suspicious, but you cannot deny that this tiny breed is physically incapable of protecting you.
Maltipoo Trainability
Maltipoo is intelligent, so training them won’t be a headache. Their small size and sensitive nature make you forget the harsh training method; go slowly with the procedure so they won’t get hurt.
Screaming or having a hard-line attitude is never a good idea while training any breed, especially the miniature ones. If you think you cannot control your anger or have little time to progress slowly, hire a professional trainer. This will make things easy, both for you and your Maltipoo.
Maltipoos can even be trained for therapeutic purposes. They are long being served as therapy animals helping individuals heal with their soft and caring nature.
Maltipoo Grooming Requirements:
Though Maltipoo requires less maintenance, grooming them is more challenging than you think. Their long hairy coat requires daily brushing; failing to do it will result in tenacious mats and various skin issues.
Also, make sure to bathe them once a month with a conditioner. They often need clipping, except for the hair around the eyes and face, which favors monthly trims.
Small breeds do not love the outdoors, which means Maltipoo nails won’t file down naturally, so carefully trim their nails after every month. Just importantly, make some time to brush your dog’s teeth twice a week at the minimum.
Maltipoos are hyperactive, but they do not demand much exercise. A 15-minute walk outside your home will be enough for them. They can even settle for a game of fetch in your home. Maltipoo love to play, so incorporate some fun while training to get the best experience.
This toy breed takes some time to excel in potty training, either using the wee pads or looking for an outdoor place to do the job, so be patient.
Maltipoo Health Issues
Maltipoo is a healthy and energetic dog having a life expectancy of up to 15 years which is quite long for canines. But the fact that Maltipoo is a crossbreed makes it susceptible to all the health issues that affect both poodles and Maltese.
Common health issues found in Maltipoo are Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Epilepsy, Patellar Luxation, Portosystemic Shunt, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and White Shaker Syndrome.
Crossbreds are also vulnerable to skin problems, such as allergies and skin sensitivity, especially if they own a white coat. So if you are eyeballing a designer breed, keep a consistent routine with your vet so you can quickly treat these diseases.
Maltipoo Diet:
Diet makes a considerable part of Maltipoo’s health, so choose high-quality, grain-free, and protein-rich small dog breed food to keep your dog healthy and fit. Moreover, keep the diet simple to avoid stomach problems in your furry friend.
You can add boiled chicken, brown rice, and vegetables to your dog’s dry kibble to fulfill the nutritional requirement.
The feeding amount for your Maltipoo depends on the size and weight of your canine, but do not overfeed your pooch out of love. You are overfeeding leads to obesity resulting in several health implications.
Recommended daily feeding amount is 1.5 cups of dog food. Compared to a large bowl at once, divide this amount into two meals for healthy outcomes.
Conclusion:
Those who love poodles but hate excessive grooming needs that come alongside it can go for this designer breed, “Maltipoo.” This hyperactive, intelligent, almost hypoallergenic dog makes a great companion and will liven up your life with his goofy acts and playful personality.
As a responsible dog owner, you must know the personality needs of the pooch you eyeball. Here we have mentioned the characteristics and requirements of Maltipoo; now you are all set to bring this fantastic wee pack home.