12 Nov Maltipoo Dog Breed: Comprehensive Guide to Care, Grooming, and Personality

The Maltipoo dog breed is an adorable, small-sized crossbreed between a Maltese and a Poodle. Known for their affectionate and friendly nature, Maltipoos have become popular as companion pets, particularly for families and individuals looking for a low-shedding, hypoallergenic dog. This guide delves into everything you need to know about the Maltipoo, from Maltipoo puppies and temperament to grooming needs and Maltipoo health issues.

The History and Origin of the Maltipoo Dog Breed

The history and origin of the Maltipoo dog breed are rooted in the relatively recent trend of designer crossbreeds. The Maltipoo is a hybrid, or “designer” breed, created by crossing a Maltese with a Poodle. Although both of its parent breeds have ancient histories, the Maltipoo itself emerged in the United States in the late 20th century, likely in the 1990s, when breeders began creating crossbreeds to combine desirable traits from two established breeds.

Physical Characteristics of the Maltipoo Dog Breed

• Size and Build: Maltipoos are small, compact dogs, making them well-suited for indoor living. Their size depends largely on whether they have a Toy or Miniature Poodle parent. Generally, adult Maltipoos stand between 20 to 35 cm (8 to 14 inches) tall and weigh between 2 to 7 kg (5 to 15 pounds). They have a sturdy but delicate build with a slightly elongated body and a balanced posture.
• Coat Type and Texture: One of the most distinct features of the Maltipoo is its coat type, inherited from the Poodle and Maltese parents. The Maltipoo’s coat can be curly, wavy, or slightly straight and is usually soft to the touch. The texture and tightness of the curls depend on the influence of the Poodle genetics, with some Maltipoos having looser, wavy coats, while others may have tighter curls.
• Coat Colours: Maltipoos come in a range of coat colours, often with soft, pastel shades that can change slightly as they age. Common colours include: white, cream, apricot, tan, silver, gray. Some Maltipoos have a solid colour, while others may have subtle variations, including markings or spots.
• Facial Features: Maltipoos have an expressive, teddy bear-like face that gives them a charming and approachable look. Their eyes are large and dark, often round or slightly oval-shaped, giving them a sweet and gentle expression. Ears are medium-length, floppy, and covered in soft fur, often falling gracefully to the side of their face. The nose is typically black or dark brown, with a short, slightly rounded muzzle.
• Tail: The tail of a Maltipoo is generally medium-length, feathered, and may either be carried high and slightly curled over the back or be left to fall naturally. This adds to the breed’s fluffy and playful appearance.

Temperament and Personality

1. Affectionate and Loving: Maltipoos are highly affectionate dogs who love being close to their owners. They form strong bonds with their human families and enjoy cuddling, snuggling, and being by their owner’s side.
2. Friendly and Social: The Maltipoo’s temperament is generally pleasant and outgoing. They tend to get along well with people, including children and seniors. They’re also typically good with other pets, especially when socialised from a young age.
3. Playful and Energetic: Despite their small size, Maltipoos are playful and energetic. They enjoy games, playtime, and short walks, which help keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
4. Intelligent and Eager to Please: With Poodle genes, Maltipoos are smart and relatively easy to train. They’re quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement, making training an enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.
5. Adaptable and Easygoing: One of the best traits of Maltipoos is their adaptability. They’re known for adjusting well to various living environments, whether in a busy household, a single-person home, or a small apartment.
6. Sensitive and Attuned to Emotions: Maltipoos are naturally sensitive and intuitive dogs who can sense their owners’ emotions. They often try to comfort their humans if they sense sadness or distress, making them excellent companions for those needing emotional support.
7. Potential for Separation Anxiety: Due to their strong attachment to their owners, Maltipoos can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
8. Gentle with Children and Seniors: Maltipoos are typically gentle and patient with both children and seniors. While they’re playful enough to entertain kids, they’re also calm and gentle, which makes them a good choice for elderly dog owners.
9. Alert and Good Watchdogs: While Maltipoos are generally friendly and approachable, they can be alert and aware of their surroundings.

Common Health Issues

1. Dental Issues: They are prone to plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay, which can lead to painful infections and tooth loss if not managed.
2. Patellar luxation: This problem can cause the patella to move out of its normal position, causing lameness or an unusual gait. This condition may require surgical intervention in severe cases, but mild cases can often be managed with weight control and joint supplements.
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited eye disorder that leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually causing blindness.
4. Hypoglycemia: Small breeds like the Maltipoo are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially as puppies.
5. White Shaker Syndrome is a neurological condition that causes body tremors. It is more commonly seen in small, light-coloured breeds. Although the cause is not fully understood, it is thought to be an inflammatory response affecting the nervous system.
6. Allergies: Maltipoos can be prone to allergies, manifesting as skin irritations, itching, or respiratory issues.
7. Heart disease can affect Maltipoos, particularly as they age. Common conditions include mitral valve disease, where the heart valve deteriorates, leading to murmurs and, eventually, heart failure.
8. Ear Infections: Due to their floppy, hairy ears, Maltipoos are prone to ear infections if moisture and wax are not regularly cleared.
9. Collapsed Trachea: A collapsed trachea is a condition where the cartilage rings weaken, leading to breathing difficulties, a dry cough, or a honking sound when the dog is excited or exercising.

Read More About Common Health Issues in Dogs:

Ear Infections in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Care

Understanding Patellar Luxation in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Comprehensive Guide to Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Care

Grooming and Skin Allergies: Strategies for Dogs with Sensitive Skin

Grooming Needs of Maltipoo Dog Breed

The grooming needs of the Maltipoo dog breed are an essential aspect of their care, as their soft, often curly coat requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy, clean, and free of mats. Maltipoos inherit grooming traits from both the Maltese and Poodle breeds, which makes them low-shedding and, in many cases, hypoallergenic. However, their coat care demands consistency to prevent tangles and maintain a neat appearance. Here’s an overview of Maltipoo grooming needs:

1. Brushing

Maltipoos generally have soft, curly, or wavy coats that can easily mat and tangle if not brushed frequently. Brushing 3 to 4 times a week (or even daily for longer coats) is recommended to keep their coat smooth and free from knots. A slicker brush or a metal comb designed for curly-coated dogs can help reduce matting and distribute natural oils.

2. Bathing

Bathing is an essential part of Maltipoo grooming. However, they should not be bathed too frequently to prevent drying out their skin. Bathing every 3 to 4 weeks is usually sufficient, although you may need to adjust this depending on their activity level and coat length. Always use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation, and follow with a conditioner to keep the coat soft and manageable.

3. Haircuts and Trims

Since Maltipoos’ hair grows continuously, regular trims are essential to keep them looking tidy. Professional grooming is often required every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain a manageable coat length. Common haircuts for Maltipoos include:

• Teddy Bear Cut: A popular style where the hair is trimmed evenly to give them a plush, rounded appearance.
• Puppy Cut: Keeps the hair short all over, making it easier to maintain.
• Lamb Cut: The body hair is kept short, while the legs are left slightly longer.

Groomers can also trim the hair around sensitive areas like the eyes, paws, and sanitary areas for cleanliness and comfort.

4. Ear Cleaning

Maltipoos have floppy ears, which can trap moisture and lead to ear infections if not properly maintained. Cleaning their ears every 1 to 2 weeks with a vet-approved ear cleaner can help prevent infections. Keep an eye out for any redness, odour, or excessive scratching, which may be signs of an ear infection.

5. Nail Trimming

Regular nail trimming is essential for Maltipoos to prevent overgrowth, splitting, and discomfort when walking. Typically, Maltipoos will need their nails trimmed every 3 to 4 weeks. If you can hear their nails clicking on hard surfaces, it’s usually a sign they need a trim. A groomer or veterinarian can assist those unsure about trimming nails.

6. Teeth Cleaning

Dental hygiene is important for Maltipoos, as they are prone to dental issues. Brushing their teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste can help prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. Dental chews and routine vet cleanings can also be beneficial for their dental health.

7. Eye Care

Many Maltipoos are prone to tear staining, which can cause dark stains around the eyes, particularly on lighter-coated dogs. To manage this, gently wipe around the eyes daily with a damp, soft cloth or a vet-recommended eye cleaner to keep the area clean. Regular trimming of hair around the eyes can also help reduce tear staining by preventing hair from irritating the eyes.

8. Coat and Skin Checks

During grooming, checking your Maltipoo’s skin for any signs of irritation, redness, or lumps is a good idea. This is especially important for detecting allergies or infections early on. Keeping their coat clean and their skin well-maintained can help prevent skin conditions.

Mishka Professional Dog Grooming Service for Maltipoo Dog Breed

Mishka Professional Dog Grooming Service provides specialised, gentle grooming for the unique needs of Maltipoos in London. Due to their soft, often curly coat, Maltipoos have distinct grooming requirements, and Mishka’s experienced team understands the best care techniques to keep your Maltipoo looking adorable and comfortable.

By choosing Mishka, you’re selecting a service that offers professional care and a love for dogs. This ensures that your Maltipoo receives the best grooming experience possible.

‌Book Online Now