Breed Characteristics:
Apartment Friendly
?How well will this breed adapt to apartment living? Is the apartment size the most important factor when it comes to proper living conditions? Is the breed suitable for apartment living?
Good For First-Time Owners
?Some dogs aren't suitable for first-time dog owners. Is this breed a good match for someone with no dog experience? Can training help them be on their best behavior with owners with no dog experience? Are they suitable to be handled by someone who is just entering the canine world?
Overall Sensitivity
?Some dogs are sensitive. Certain breeds are rough on the outside, while having the softest heart on the inside. In other words, some dogs are 'thick-skinned' while some are 'easygoing.' Is this breed prone to sensitivity?
Tolerates Being Alone
?Separation anxiety in dogs is a serious condition that can affect a dog's life quality. Is this breed prone to this condition? Can you leave him alone for hours? How destructive this breed can become when bored, neglected, or not loved enough?
Affectionate With Family
?How affectionate this breed will be around his humans? Will he welcome new family friends easily or he will choose to be shy? Some breeds can be clingy with owners, while others don't attach a lot. Will this breed act as the family's best friend?
Kid-Friendly
?Some dogs will tolerate children, while others will adore well-behaved ones. Dogs and children should always be supervised, no matter how well trained the dog might be. Will this breed act as a nanny dog or he will stay away from children?
Friendly Toward Other Dogs
?Some dog breeds cannot wait to run to the dog park and run with others. Others prefer to be with their humans, and not to be a part of a multi-pet household. Is this breed dog lover or not? How friendly this breed will be toward other dogs?
Friendly Toward Strangers
?Some dog breeds tend to be reserved toward strangers and highly suspicious. Others are fast to walk away with them easily. How welcoming this breed is toward strangers?
Drooling Level
?If you love to clean all the time drooling level in dogs is a trait that you should mind. Is this breed less likely to drool, or you will always need a towel on hand?
Easy To Groom
?Heavier shedding during the shedding season is something that every dog needs to go through. However, some dogs shed just a bit all year round. Is this breed one of them? How often should you groom this dog?
Overall Health
?What can you expect from this breed in terms of health? Are there any genetic conditions to vary about? Is obesity a major issue in this breed? By knowing more about the dog's health, you are learning how to help him live a longer and healthier life.
Prone To Obesity
?Treats are a great addition to training sessions. Dogs love sweet bites of dog treats but they should be served in moderation. Treats can lead to obesity, next to poor nutrition. Can this breed gain extra weight from treats? How prone to obesity this breed actually is?
Trainability Level
?Training some dogs is easier than others. How easy this dog will be to train? What can you expect? Some dogs are huge people pleasers and they will master commands easily, while others will try to outsmart you.
Intelligence Level
?Dogs are smart beings. We do our best to train them, but they do still end up training us to adapt to their needs. How intelligent is this breed? Will he try to outsmart you? Or he will need multiple training sessions to master basic commands?
Prey Drive
?Dogs were bred for a specific purpose. Those who were bred to hunt have natural instincts to hunt, even today. This is why many dogs, like Terriers, will chase other animals. They will also have a hard time concentrating on your commands when there is something small moving. Is this breed prone to following his prey instincts?
Barking Level
?How vocal this breed is? Can you expect neighbors to ring you often to calm your dog? Or you can sleep without worries of hearing your Fido bark? Some breeds are highly vocal, others have unusual sounds, and some are silent. Is this breed prone to barking?
Energy Level
?Low-energy dogs are happy with regular walks and indoor chill times. High-energy dogs are always ready for action. Is this breed a couch potato, energetic dog, or somewhere in between?
Exercise Needs
?Some dogs are more than happy with a slow stroll down the street. Others need hours of active time to stay happy and fit. Is this breed demanding in terms of exercise? How much exercise this breed needs to stay happy and healthy?
Playfulness Level
?Some dogs never lose that puppy spirit, not even in their senior years. Others are more serious and prefer having a job to do. Is this breed demanding in terms of playfulness? Can you expect playfulness in their senior years as well?
Maltipoo is a popular cross of famous purebred parents, the adorable Maltese, and the very smart Poodle.
Thanks to parents of great qualities and features, Maltipoo is a breed of great temper, charming nature, and enormous love toward people.
Also, thanks to their compact size, Maltipoos can be seen strolling the busiest city streets across the globe.
They are fit to share an apartment with you, a smaller house, or just to be part of any family size, including children and elders.
Maltipoos are very affectionate dogs who love pleasing their people and being around them. These dogs are so people-oriented that they tend to suffer tremendously if left alone.
Separation anxiety in dogs tends to be strong and leads to many issues. These issues are manageable but will demand time and devotion.
Since Maltipoos are highly sensitive beings, make sure that you can always have someone around.
Another option is to have a dog with you whenever possible or to hire a dog sitter.
When unhappy dogs tend to be destructive, while small size dogs tend to develop even small dog syndrome.
Maltipoos are bred to be companion dogs, which means that they naturally crave human companionship.
If you manage to provide the right care and meet this breed’s needs, you will have a great family member.
Quick Facts
Real name: Maltipoo
Other names: Malt-A-Poo, Mal-t-poo
Origin: United States
Breed type: Hybrid Dogs
Weight: 5 to 20 pounds
Height: 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
Litter Size: 4 – 6 puppies
Color: Commonly white and cream, two-color occasionally
Coat: Soft, fluffy, and wool-like coat
Maltipoo History
The majority of crossbreeds originated in the United States, and the adorable Maltipoo is no exception.
Breeders’ goal was to create a small size dog that won’t be a huge shedder but will be a great companion. Another factor that breeders took into consideration with this breed was adaptability.
It was crucial to create the perfect indoor dog, that will easily fit any living area. This is why Maltipoos are often seen in big cities.
No matter how small your home or backyard might be, Maltipoo will fit in it perfectly.
Since Maltipoo is a relatively new crossbreed, there isn’t much history.
Dog lovers and experts of the breed claim that these dogs are bred in the past 20-30 years.
They are commonly promoted as the hypoallergenic breed which is why they are continually among the most popular dog breeds.
Maltipoo Physical Appearance
Since Maltipoo is a mixed breed, you can never know for sure how he may appear. This small breed might vary in size, and overall appearance.
Commonly, they stand 8 to 14 inches tall and weigh 5 to 20 pounds. Again, this may vary on whether the Poodle parent was a Toy Poodle or Miniature Poodle.
Maltipoo Physical Personality
Maltipoo is a breed of great temperament and high affection. They are true people-pleasers and as such, they will do anything to please.
Maltipoo is a fun-loving dog so learning tricks and trying new games is a must.
Dogs love to be physically and mentally stimulated, no matter how active they might be.
Maltipoos aren’t highly demanding when it comes to exercise, which is why you will often see them sitting on their owners’ laps. As true indoor dogs, they will enjoy every indoor game, but won’t be against a good play session outside.
Do not let their size fool you, because they will be fast to inform you of any strangers passing by. They won’t miss any sound, and their bark will be powerful.
All in all, these small size dogs are great alarm dogs. Like all dogs, Maltipoos need proper training and early socialization. This is the only way to make sure that your dog becomes a well-behaved canine citizen.
Maltipoo Grooming
Grooming your dog effectively is much more than just providing regular brushes.
Yes, brushing your dog is a big part of dog grooming practice and should be done weekly.
To avoid any mats and tangles use the right grooming tool to brush your Maltipoo.
This is a low-shedding breed, which means that they will shed minimally. Their coat is soft and wool-like texture, which makes it easy to collect from floor and furniture (although it will be in minimal amounts).
Their coat naturally ranges from slightly wavy to curly, so weekly brushing is in order to keep it clean, shiny, and tangle-free.
It is common for Maltipoos to be clipped to keep them tidy and cool. Clipping should not be performed more than once or twice per year. However, the head will need a monthly trim.
Maltipoo can be bathed when it is really needed. No matter how small they might be they do not need frequent (weekly) bathing like humans do.
Dogs have different skin compared to humans and too frequent bathing can cause them more harm than good.
When bathing make sure that you use only dog-friendly shampoo. You can always think about professional services.
It may be a bit pricey, but it will save you time. If you opt for professional services stick to weekly brushing as it can make the bond you have with your Fido stronger.
Overall, grooming practise should include:
- Weekly brushing
- Monthly nail trimming or grinding
- Bathe when needed
- Weekly eyes check for any sign of discharge
- Ear cleaning when needed
Start grooming your Maltipoo when he is a puppy, to get him used to it.
Dogs are extremely careful when it comes to their paws, so handle them frequently. Also, get your dog comfortable while he is a puppy by opening his mouth and checking his ears.
It is important to make grooming a positive experience. Once a grooming season is completed always serve your Fido a treat.
Maltipoo Training
Maltipoos are intelligent dogs and huge people-pleasers which makes them great for training.
No matter how small a dog might be they still have to go through proper training and early socialization.
Did you know that dogs can learn basic commands as of eight weeks of age?
Any responsible dog breeder won’t give you the dog before this period, so you should start training your dog as soon as you bring him home.
Dogs are food-driven beings which means that you should use food, and treats more specifically to motivate the dog to perform tricks.
Only use positive reinforcement methods. No dog should ever experience any harsh handling method.
Like other small-size breeds, Maltippos tend to be a bit stubborn, so training them will require extra time and patience.
If you feel like you could use support during the training process you can think about one of the two following options:
- Hire a professional dog trainer. This option may be a bit pricey, but it will speed up the training process tremendously. Plus, you will get professional input on further training.
- Think about puppy classes. This is a great way to bond firmer with your dog, as you will have training sessions together. Dogs thrive on body language and love being next to their humans.
Another thing to think about is socialization. You want to socialize your dog from an early age.
This way your dog will learn how to behave in different surroundings and won’t be fearful.
Small size dogs tend to be very scared of almost everything when not socialized the proper way.
To get the most out of the socialization window try doing the following:
- Implement effective dog house rules
- Let strangers approach to your dog
- Have frequent visitors over
- Let your Fido explore the backyward
- Teach your Maltipoo which house areas are allowed, and which are off-limits
Once your veterinarian gives you the green light, you are allowed to introduce your Maltipooto to other dogs. This means that you can organize dog play time, and visit the dog park on daily basis.
Be careful when it comes to training and socializing puppies. They are growing and any physically challenging obstacle might lead to different injuries. What about the exercise needs of this small breed?
Maltipoo Exercise
Small size dogs may not need rigorous exercise like larger dogs need, but they still have to be active.
If you want a really active dog you should think about getting super-agile Border Collie, as this breed comes with enormous energy.
On the other hand, if you want a dog who loves to explore but isn’t a high-maintenance breed energy-wise, Maltipoo is a great choice.
They might be small, but need a minimum of 15 minutes of long walks on a daily level.
Due to their size, Maltipoos should be allowed to walk at their own pace. Do not force them to walk faster, or run faster, and do not pick them to seep up the walking time.
Dogs love to explore, and for them being outside is more than merely using a toilet break.
Learn how often dogs should pee, this should help you organize the toilet and exercise time better.
Do not neglect indoor games, as Maltipoos might become destructive when bored.
Maltipoo Health
You might provide the best care possible and your Maltipoo might still get sick.
All dogs, purebred and mixed breeds, have the potential to develop some sort of disease.
Some issues in certain breeds are more prone than they are in others, which is why you should think about finding the best breeder possible.
Responsible breeders are your only guarantee that your dog is healthy.
They will provide you with medical records on the dog and inform you about the dog’s health, personality, and overall well-being.
They will also show you the facilities, let you meet the bitch if not both parents, and ask you a lot of questions.
No responsible breeder will ever just hand you the dog over without a proper check.
Breeders will ask you a lot of different questions to make sure that you are the best fit for their puppy.
Once they are sure that you are the right fit, they will provide you with more input on proper care, grooming tips, and directions for a future health check.
Some breeders will even tell you to return the dog to them if you jump into any hardship. This is not a practice, but an individual choice.
Responsible breeders will screen puppies for most common health issues, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t get any issues.
Dogs are sensitive beings and just like humans, they are prone to different factors. These factors can affect a dog’s overall health and lead to certain health disturbances.
Here are some of the most common health issues that Maltipoo may experience:
- White Shaker Syndrom
- Epilepsy
- Patellar Luxation
- Portosystemic Shunt
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Last but not least health-wise you need to think about your dog’s weight. Once you get a dog you are directly responsible for his weight.
Obesity in pets, especially in dogs, is on the rise across the States and you don’t want your dog to be part of this brand.
It is extremely easy to give small size dogs more treats than they should have. This is why you should always think about moderation.
Serve treats as an occasional treat and always in moderation. As for the nutrition, know how much your Maltipoo should eat and when. They should do fine on high-quality commercial dog food.
If you have any doubt regarding the dog’s food, make sure that you walk with your veterinarian.
Is Maltipoo For You?
If you are a first time dog owner, Maltipoo is a breed to consider having.
Before you get a small size dog know that small size dogs tend to live longer than larger breeds.
Dogs are a years-long commitment and before you get one be sure that you can afford to own a dog.
Maltipoos are loyal, friendly, and playful dogs who love spending time with their humans.
If you are ready to have a little shadow following you around and you love small size dogs, then a Maltipoo is for you.
On the other hand, if you don’t want a small size dog who will react and bark tough on every move, you might think about getting a different breed.
Not sure which breed is for you? Use this compare dog breeds tool to get a dog that will fit your lifestyle perfectly.
Popular Maltipoo Comparisons
