Are Maltipoos hypoallergenic? This is something that many dog lovers want to know.
Maltipoos are more popular dogs with each passing year and it does not come as a big surprise that many want to welcome these small size dogs into their homes.
Now, you may have heard that there are many small size dogs that don’t shed, but what about Maltipoos – are they really hypoallergenic, and as such suitable for people with allergies?
Before we continue on this topic, we have to check… Do you know what the term ‘hypoallergenic’ stands for?
You may have heard a dozen times so far that a certain breed is hypoallergenic, but you may not be sure what it means really, so let us explain.
Hypoallergenic dogs are dogs that are less likely to cause any allergic reaction in people.
Bear in mind that even if a dog is promoted as hypoallergenic it doesn’t mean that the dog is totally allergy safe.
Truth be told there are no allergy-safe dogs, but that doesn’t mean that a hypoallergenic dog isn’t an option.
Dogs who shed less or dogs who have tight curls are better tolerated by those who have some sort of allergies.
We will elaborate further on why some people are allergic to dogs after we answer this burning question – are Maltipoos hypoallergenic? Simply said, yes, Maltipoos are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs.
Maltipoos are dogs who come with minimal risk of allergic reactions, which is why they are celebrated as hypoallergenic dogs.
Keep on reading to learn why Maltipoos are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs and what makes them so special… but first, let’s make a brief explanation of why some people are allergic to dogs.
Why Are People Allergic To Dogs?
How many times did you hear someone saying that they are allergic to dogs? Probably a few.
Saying this isn’t entirely wrong, but isn’t completely the truth, because people are not allergic to dogs, as much as they’re allergic to a protein found in the saliva and urine of the dog.
When dogs groom themselves or when brush them regularly, they spread the protein to their skin and coat.
Whenever a new skin cell is produced the old ones are shed and released into the environment.
Skin cells that are shed are among dog owners and others known as dander, which is why people are more allergic to dander than dogs.
As hair is shed into the environment, people get exposed to the protein-covered hair and may experience some allergic reactions if they are sensitive to dander.
Hypoallergenic dogs tend to shed less and they often have curly coats which trap hair and dander so less protein is shed into the environment, or they simply have less hair.
Even if you get a hairless dog know that these dogs still lose dead skin cells which can still lead to an allergic reaction.
Are Maltipoos Hypoallergenic?
Maltipoos are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs and as such can be a nice addition to any family, including families with members that are prone to certain allergies.
However, before you run and get the first Maltipoo there are certain things to know when it comes to Maltipoos and them being hypoallergenic. Let’s elaborate.
Are Maltipoo Hypoallergenic As Claimed?
Maltipoos are not heavy shedder, like German Shepherds are.
These small dogs are not only great companions, but their coat traps only a small amount of dander.
All in all, Maltipoos are promoted as low-allergenic dogs more often than 100% hypoallergenic dogs.
As a breed that produces very little dander, Maltipoos will cause very few reactions.
As such they are often recommended to people who manage well with less dander in dogs.
Still, if you have strong allergies make sure that you talk with your doctor first before you get a dog, or try to spend some time with this breed and see how you might react.
Important: There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog.
All dogs do shed so new strands can replace the old coat. If you don’t see it in large amounts around your home, it doesn’t mean that it is not there.
Put extra attention on the dog’s bed and you will notice extra care or dander in larger amounts.
Dander is the flakes of shed skin, and it will form even in dogs with a soft coat, so having a vacuum cleaner on hand is always helpful.
Do Maltipoo Shed A Lot?
Maltipoo is a cross between adorable Maltese and a smart Poodle making it a great companion dog.
When breeders first mixed these two breeds they wanted to create a new breed, as a safe choice for people with allergies.
Both Maltese and Poodle come with a coat that is promoted as a low-energy coat while breeds are promoted as hypoallergenic due to their coat and coat texture.
Thanks to its hypoallergenic parents, Maltipoo is considered to be a low-shedding or nonshedding breed.
Still, you can expect some dander and a bit of extra hair in-house during the shedding season.
When does shedding season occur? Shedding season in dogs occurs in spring and autumn.
Having the right grooming tools on hand during this period can only help you breathe better, and your dog has a better and healthier coat.
Maltipoos will have either Poodle-like or Maltese-like coats and you should know how to deal with coat styles.
To learn more about parent purebreds and their coats, as well as grooming needs, use this compare dog breeds tool to get more information on the parents so you can understand better how to care about Maltipoo.
Maltipoo Care And Grooming
Maltipoo is considered to be naturally a low shedding breed, but that doesn’t mean that you should not provide the right care and maintenance.
Maltipoos do not shed, or they shed really small amounts, but that does not mean that they cannot benefit from regular brushing and overall grooming.
Maltipoo is a part of the Doodle group, and like other Doodles, this breed requires a regular grooming schedule to prevent their coats from becoming matted or tangled.
Having a dog with a matted or tangled coat is something that you do not want to deal with, as it may be painful for your Maltipoo and stressful for you.
By providing the right grooming practice, you are helping your Maltipoo live a healthy and happier life.
Provide regular grooming practice that will include:
- Weekly brushing
- Bathing when needed
- Monthly nail trimming or grinding
If you don’t have time to deal with grooming practice, you can invest in professional groomer services every six to eight weeks.
This may be a bit pricey, but it will save you time and you will always have a well-looking Maltipoo.
Even if you opt for professional grooming services know that you should still provide regular brushing sessions, as they are great for bonding with dogs.
Bonding time is a way of showing them that you care for them. Make brushing sessions short and consistent, and your Maltipoo will love them. Do not forget to serve him a nice treat afterward.
Tips For Families With Allergies
If you decide to get a Maltipoo even if your family member suffers from allergies, there are some things to know about.
The more attention you put into overall Maltipoo care the more you will get from owning this adorable breed.
Having a dog in the house means that you need to clean more, have regular walks, and overall invest in your environment to meet the dog’s needs while sticking to your routine and schedule.
Living with a hypoallergenic dog such as Maltipoo is much easier than living with a non-hypoallergenic dog there is still something to take into consideration.
The most important this ng is that if allergies start building up once you brought your Maltipoo home, know that it is not your dog to blame. Never blame your dog.
Know what you are getting into once you decide to welcome a dog into your life.
If your allergies start spreading up after some time, know that it is up to you to take full responsibility.
It is up to you to understand that you haven’t taken the right precautions to keep your home free from various allergens.
To keep your home allergens-free, here are a few things to have in mind. Keep on reading.
1. Bathe Your Dog
Dogs have different skin than humans, and they do not need frequent bathing as humans do.
Bathing them should be done occasionally and always by using a shampoo that is specially designed for dogs.
After a nice bath, your dog will leave less dander behind, but you won’t remove dander completely by bathing him intensely or too frequently.
To keep dander at its minimum, stick to weekly brushing and occasional bathing.
If possible, do not bathe your Maltipoo more than once a month, and even that is too frequent.
If your Maltipoo gets into something nasty, of course, you will bathe your Maltipoo if you have to, but otherwise, a nice cleaning with dog tissues should be fine.
2. Use Air Cleaners
This is something that people with allergies usually have in their homes.
Those who want cleaner air inside their homes will use different cleaners to get clean air. If you are thinking about it, test it.
3. Wash Your Hands After Petting Your Maltipoo
This may sound a bit unusual, but it is something to think about.
When you pet your dog it is most likely that you will pick up dander on them and you put yourself at direct risk of getting some dander off your hands.
You won’t be able to see it, but it does not mean that the dander isn’t there.
That being said, make sure that you wash your hands after cuddling with your Maltipoo, especially before your meal or a face-cleaning routine.
Otherwise, dander may easily end up in your eyes or face and easily trigger your allergies.
This should not stop you from petting your Maltpioo but it should inspire you to think about possible ways to get dander on your skin.
You can cuddle and pet your Maltipoo as much as you like, just remember to wash your hands before moving on to other activities.
4. Frequently Clean Your Home
Once you get a dog you know that you will have to clean more often.
Paws, rainy days, frequent runs around the house, it all adds to some adorable, but messy moments.
In those moments, your opening may leave more dander on floors. This can also be a risk, that can be treated with regular vacuuming sessions.
Do not forget to use rollers before you leave your home and remove dander from your clothes. This is especially a must after a nice cuddle session.
5. Take Medicine
If your doctor prescribes you, you should follow the medicine.
Do not take additional medicine on your own, but make sure that you visit your doctor and provide enough information on the breed.
Last But Not Least… Mos Popular Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
So far you know that Maltipoo is a hypoallergenic dog breed, but you would want to know if other dog breeds are labeled as hypoallergenic.
If so, check this list of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds:
- Affenpinchser
- Afghan Hound
- American Hairless Terrier
- Barbet
- Bedlington Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Bolognese
- Chinese Crested
- Coton de Tulear
- Giant Schnauzer
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Maltese
- Peruvian Inca Orchid
- Poodle
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonka
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Schnauzer
- Xoloitzcuintli
The Bottom Line
Maltipoo is a common choice for first time dog owners. They are smaller in size and compact, which makes them suitable for city strolling.
Maltipoos love being around people, they will do their best to make you laugh, and training them will be true enjoyment (if you have enough patience).
Know that small size dogs usually come with big attitudes, and Maltipoos are no exception.
Maltipoos are often promoted as hypoallergenic dog breeds, which makes them suitable for someone who suffers from a dog allergy.
Still, without talking with your doctor first do not get this breed or any other. Even if your doctor allows it, make sure that you spend some time around this breed first.
Does your friend or a family member share a home with an adorable Maltipoo? Great! Go for a long coffee and see how you react.
Is there an animal shelter nearby? Go volunteer for a while, and keep track of your reactions.
Once you are 100% sure that you get to be around dogs without any consequences, then you should think about getting Maltipoo.