Pint sized perfection! The Maltipoo, also known as a Multipoo, or Maltepoo, brings together the size and features of a Maltese and furry characteristics of a poodle, making them a hypoallergenic and friendly companion.
Maltipoos are charming, affectionate, and versatile dogs, combining the best traits of both the Maltese and the Poodle breeds. Their small size, friendly nature, and low-shedding coat make them a popular choice for dog lovers seeking a lovable and hypoallergenic pet.
Size:
Weight Range:
Male: 3 - 9 kg
Female: 3 - 9 kg
Height at Withers:
Male: 20 - 34 cm in height
Female: 20 - 34 cm in height
Features:
Physical characteristics: Varied - depending on genetic leanings. Generally a small dog; toy to miniature sized. Compact and well-proportioned body with a sturdy build. Low-shedding fur. Relatively round head with a well-defined muzzle. Endearing facial expression.
Other notable attributes include: Affectionate, devoted and loyal with their owners. Hypoallergenic Coat. Generally adaptable to living conditions. Very intelligent, eager to please and well trained. Lack of mental stimulation can lead to behaviour issues. May be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Requires regular grooming.
Expectations:
Exercise Requirements: Low to medium requirement, small walks up to 30 mins to 1 hour across the day as needed.
Energy Level: Low - medium. This dog breed will happily lie next to you across the day and sleep while you work, as long as you are by their side, they're most content and happy to relax.
Longevity Range: 13-15 years.
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Moderate, Maltipoo's are a very chatty dog breed and they will happily let you know when they are excited, playful, wanting attention or concerned.
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: High. Maltipoos are very people orientated and so social exposure and time with their family is very high on their priority list, being alone is not something they prefer and they will happily tell you and your neighbours about it.
Mental Stimulation Needs: Medium to high.
Bred for: Companionship. The hybrid nature of this dog breed was bred specifically for allergenic reasons. There are limitations to people owning dog companions due to allergies. The Maltipoo features an array of characteristics, notably the fur, that makes them allergy friendly and classified as hypoallergenic.
Bred for:
Companionship. The hybrid nature of this dog breed was bred specifically for allergenic reasons. There are limitations to people owning dog companions due to allergies. The Maltipoo features an array of characteristics, notably the fur, that makes them allergy friendly and classified as hypoallergenic.
Coat:
Length: Short curly fur.
Characteristics: Very soft, dense and wool like in nature.
Colors: Varying in colours due to the Poodle and Maltese combination, however, tend to be predominantly white from the Maltese influence. They can also be cream, apricot, brown, black, or a combination of these colors.
Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate. The Maltipoo can develop matting around their ears and chest where the length of fur appears longer, to avoid this, brushing weekly as a minimum is recommended. Grooming at least once a month to maintain length of coat is also desirable to maintain health.
Club recognition:
AKC Classification: Toy
UKC Classification: Companion
Prevalence: Moderate. This is likely due to their even temperaments, affectionate nature, and hypoallergenic reputation; as well as a high adaptability to skyrise living for many apartment dwellings.
Two completely different parents; a vast range of adorable pups.
This dog breed is a great small to medium sized companion that prefers being social with their close companions and are easily maintained energetically. They do not require large amounts of exercise yet, for their small stature are surprisingly energetic with a playful nature. The Maltipoo would benefit from regular exercise, such as walks or interactive play sessions.
Their hypoallergenic coats win the approval of many households who have members that suffer with allergies but still want the companionship of a dog in their life.
Personality:
The Maltipoo is a cross-breed dog that is perfect for all members of the family, as they usually have a very even temperament about them. They are loving and affectionate, gentle with children and get along well with other dogs. This dog breed is quite excitable and they also have no issues expressing themselves with their voice. They are receptive to training and have a highly intelligent nature.
Living With:
The Maltipoo is low malting/shedding, making for a clean companion in the home. The fact that they are easily house trained coupled, with their lower exercise requirements means that they are adaptable to climates with limited outdoor areas to navigate, such as complexes and apartment style living. They adapt well to various living environments like this, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Recommended Diet:
Puppy: Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Breed Dry Dog Food
Adult: Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Breed Dry Dog Food, Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Breed Dry Dog Food
Mature: Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Small & Mini Breed Senior Dry Dog Food
History:
The Maltipoo is a hybrid cross between a Toy Poodle/Miniature Poodle and a Maltese, both featuring low allergenic fur. This breed due to it’s hybrid like nature, does not feature a long history behind its existence and has only been recognised as of the last 30 years. Its combination appears to originate around the late 1990s in America.
The goal with Maltipoos was to have a small, affectionate companion dog with a hypoallergenic coat. The Maltese, known for its charming personality and beautiful white coat, was chosen for its temperament and appearance. The Poodle, renowned for its intelligence and low-shedding coat, was selected to add those desirable traits to the mix.
It's worth mentioning that the Maltipoo's history is intertwined with the broader trend of crossbreeding and the development of designer dog breeds. While the Maltipoo itself may not have a long history, its popularity and presence have grown significantly over the past few decades.
Health Concerns:
This cross-breed dog is generally considered to be healthy. Yet, Maltipoos may inherit certain health considerations from their Poodle and Maltese parents.
Some health issues to be aware of include:
- Patellar Luxation: Where the knee joint (usually in a hind leg) slides in and out of place. This can be very painful - however, some dogs can lead a relatively normal life with the condition.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and other eyes conditions such as dry eye and cataracts: Regular veterinarian eye examinations can help detect and address any eye issues early on.
- Collapsed trachea: This condition causes difficulty breathing due to the dog's windpipe becoming closed off. If there is any concern, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Whilst not a physical health concern, social and mental health can be a concern for the Maltipoo.
- Separation anxiety: a condition where dogs experience distress when they are left alone or separated from their owners. As Maltipoos are well known for their strong attachment, this breed can become highly dependant on their human companions and sometimes this can be to their detriment. Behaviour such as attempting to escape, excessive barking, destructive chewing, unusual soiling habits or pacing can all be signs of separation anxiety in your dog.
In severe cases it is important to seek professional help from your veterinarian, dog trainer or animal behaviour specialist to support both yourself and your dog through this time.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and responsible breeding practices can help mitigate the risk of both physical and social health conditions.
We encourage prospective pet parents to do their own research before bringing home a new dog and that you are both prepared and aware of potential health challenges faced with this breed.
