The Maltipoo is a charming and affectionate hybrid dog breed, a delightful mix of the Maltese and Poodle. Known for their friendly disposition, hypoallergenic coat, and intelligence, Maltipoos make excellent companion animals. They inherit the best traits from both parent breeds, combining the playful and energetic nature of the Poodle with the gentle and loving temperament of the Maltese. This breed is highly adaptable, thriving in both apartments and larger homes, and they are particularly well-suited for families, seniors, and individuals looking for a loyal and loving pet.
History
The Maltipoo is a relatively new hybrid dog breed, intentionally bred to combine the desirable traits of the Maltese and the Poodle. This crossbreed originated in the United States, where breeders aimed to develop a dog with the hypoallergenic coat and intelligence of the Poodle and the affectionate and charming personality of the Maltese. The breed has gained popularity particularly among allergy sufferers and those looking for a small, friendly companion. Despite being a modern creation with no extensive historical background, the Maltipoo has quickly become beloved for its playful nature and adaptability.
Maltipoo Temperament
The Maltipoo is renowned for its friendly and affectionate temperament, making it a popular choice for families, seniors, and individuals alike. These dogs are highly sociable and form strong bonds with their owners, often thriving on human companionship and attention. Maltipoos are gentle and playful, displaying a lively energy that makes them excellent playmates for children and compatible companions for other pets. Despite their playful nature, they are not aggressive, making them safe around small children and other animals. Additionally, their high intelligence and eagerness to please contribute to their trainability, allowing them to learn new commands and tricks quickly. However, Maltipoos do not do well when left alone for extended periods, as they can develop separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to their human families.
Maltipoo Price
The cost of a Maltipoo dog breed can vary widely based on several factors, including the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, and its coat color. Generally, purchasing a Maltipoo from a reputable breeder can range from $1,000 to $4,000. Specific colors, such as brown, black, and particularly the popular red Maltipoo, can drive the price even higher due to their desirability. Teacup Maltipoos, which are smaller in size, tend to be priced around $2,000 or more. The overall price can also be influenced by the location of the breeder and any additional services they may offer, such as health guarantees and initial vaccinations. In Europe, Maltipoo puppies typically cost between 1,500 and 2,000 euros.
Maltipoo Life Expectancy
The Maltipoo, a hybrid of the Maltese and Poodle breeds, typically enjoys a relatively long lifespan, reflecting the general longevity of small dog breeds. On average, a Maltipoo can live between 10 to 15 years. Some sources suggest that with proper care, diet, and regular veterinary check-ups, Maltipoos can even reach up to 16 years. Factors influencing their lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health management. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and providing regular medical care, owners can help ensure their Maltipoo lives a long and happy life.
Common Health Issues
Maltipoos are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues commonly seen in small breeds. Here are some of the most common health concerns for Maltipoos:
- Patellar Luxation: This condition, where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, is prevalent in small dogs and can cause pain and mobility issues.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This disease involves the degeneration of the femoral head, leading to hip joint problems and lameness. It is more common in toy breeds.
- Dental Disease: Small breeds like the Maltipoo are prone to dental issues, including tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss, which can affect their overall health.
- White Shaker Syndrome: Also known as “Little White Shaker Syndrome,” this condition causes tremors in small, white-coated dogs. The exact cause is unknown, but it is manageable with medication.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This genetic condition leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, causing vision loss and potentially blindness.
- Epilepsy: Maltipoos can suffer from epilepsy, which results in recurrent seizures that can be controlled with medication.
- Allergies: These can manifest as skin irritations, ear infections, or gastrointestinal problems, often requiring dietary adjustments or medication.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help manage these conditions and ensure a long, happy life for your Maltipoo.
Size of the Maltipoo
The Maltipoo exhibits a wide range of sizes due to the varying sizes of its parent breeds. Typically, adult Maltipoos weigh between 5 to 20 pounds and stand 6 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. Smaller Maltipoos, sometimes referred to as “teacup” Maltipoos, can weigh as little as 3 pounds and stand about 6 inches tall, while larger ones may exceed 20 pounds and reach up to 14 inches in height. This size variability makes the Maltipoo a versatile pet suitable for various living environments, from small apartments to larger homes.
Maltipoo Puppy Weight by Month Chart
Standard Maltipoo Puppy Weight Chart (in pounds)
| Month | Male Weight (lbs) | Female Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1.5 – 2.0 | 1.3 – 1.8 |
| 2 | 2.5 – 3.5 | 2.3 – 3.0 |
| 3 | 3.5 – 5.0 | 3.0 – 4.5 |
| 4 | 4.5 – 6.0 | 3.8 – 5.5 |
| 5 | 5.5 – 7.5 | 4.8 – 6.5 |
| 6 | 6.5 – 9.0 | 5.5 – 7.5 |
| 7 | 7.5 – 10.5 | 6.3 – 8.5 |
| 8 | 8.0 – 11.5 | 7.0 – 9.5 |
| 9 | 9.0 – 12.5 | 8.0 – 10.5 |
| 10 | 10.0 – 14.0 | 9.0 – 11.5 |
| 11 | 11.0 – 15.0 | 9.8 – 12.5 |
| 12 | 12.0 – 16.0 | 10.5 – 13.5 |
Teacup Maltipoo Puppy Weight Chart (in pounds)
| Month | Male Weight (lbs) | Female Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.5 – 0.8 | 0.4 – 0.7 |
| 2 | 1.0 – 1.3 | 0.8 – 1.1 |
| 3 | 1.5 – 2.0 | 1.3 – 1.8 |
| 4 | 2.0 – 2.5 | 1.8 – 2.2 |
| 5 | 2.5 – 3.0 | 2.2 – 2.7 |
| 6 | 3.0 – 3.5 | 2.5 – 3.2 |
| 7 | 3.3 – 4.0 | 2.8 – 3.5 |
| 8 | 3.5 – 4.5 | 3.0 – 4.0 |
| 9 | 3.7 – 5.0 | 3.2 – 4.3 |
| 10 | 4.0 – 5.5 | 3.5 – 4.5 |
| 11 | 4.3 – 6.0 | 3.8 – 5.0 |
| 12 | 4.5 – 6.5 | 4.0 – 5.5 |
Maltipoo Colors
Maltipoos boast a wide array of coat colors, making each dog unique. The most common colors include white, cream, and apricot, which are highly popular among Maltipoo enthusiasts. These colors can vary in shades, from lighter to more vibrant tones. Additionally, Maltipoos can be found in darker hues such as black and brown, although these are less common.
Other unique colors include red, gray, and silver beige. Multi-colored Maltipoos, such as the phantom variety, have a darker base color with lighter markings, creating a striking contrast. Phantom Maltipoos typically display combinations like black with apricot or tan markings. There are also parti-colored Maltipoos, which feature large patches of two or more colors, adding to their distinct appearance.
Overall, the diversity in Maltipoo colors and patterns adds to their charm and makes each one a delightful and unique companion.
Maltipoo Image
Below is an image of the lovable Maltipoo! If you are interested in a Maltipoo puppy from a reputable breeder then download our DogHouse puppy finder app!
Maltipoo Grooming Needs
The Maltipoo requires consistent grooming to maintain its charming appearance and overall health. Their grooming needs can vary depending on the type of coat they inherit. Generally, Maltipoos have a coat that is either curly or slightly wavy, necessitating regular care to prevent matting and tangling.
Grooming Tips for Maltipoos:
- Brushing: Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles and mats. Using a detangling spray can help manage any stubborn areas.
- Bathing: Regular baths, approximately once a month, keep their coat clean and fresh. Use a gentle dog shampoo suitable for their sensitive skin.
- Haircuts: Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain their coat length and style. Popular styles include the puppy cut, which is short and easy to manage.
- Ears and Eyes: Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections. Tear staining around the eyes is common and can be managed with gentle cleaning.
- Nail Trimming: Trim their nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
- Dental Care: Daily brushing of their teeth is recommended to prevent dental issues, which are common in small breeds.
By adhering to these grooming practices, Maltipoo owners can ensure their pets remain comfortable, healthy, and looking their best.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Maltipoo is a delightful and versatile companion, combining the best traits of its Maltese and Poodle parents. With their friendly and affectionate nature, hypoallergenic coat, and adaptable size, Maltipoos are well-suited for a variety of households, including families, singles, and seniors. Their playful demeanor and intelligence make them easy to train and a joy to be around. However, they require consistent grooming and regular veterinary care to ensure their health and happiness. Overall, the Maltipoo is a charming and loving addition to any home, bringing joy and companionship to their owners.
