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Maltipoo
Maltipoo
Origin
United States
Size
Small Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
10º-24ºC
Life Expectancy
12-16Â years
Cost of buying
₹ 20,000 - ₹ 50,000
Top 5 Traits
Affectionate
Playful
Intelligent
Friendly
Energetic
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 3,300 - ₹ 5,400
Maltipoo Overview: The Adorable and Affectionate Toy Dog
Maltipoos, a mix between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, are well-known for their charming and adorable temperament (not to forget their irresistibly cute looks). They are small, energetic, and get along well with other pets and humans. This makes them excellent companions for people living in apartments, senior citizens, families with young children, and everyone else.
Maltipoos are smart and playful dogs, but they don't have to be always moving like some other breeds. Playing in the backyard and going for a regular stroll might help release pent-up energy. According to PetMD, they are eager to please their owners and can be easily trained using positive reinforcement. They are very well-mannered and often maintain puppy-like behaviour throughout their lives. They thrive on human interaction and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
What Is the Lifespan of a Maltipoo?
According to the Spruce Pets, the average lifespan of a healthy Maltipoo is 10-13 years.
The Origins and History of the Maltipoo Breed
The 1990s saw the development of the designer dog breed known as Maltipoos. According to the Spruce Pets, they were developed to be loving lap dogs, and they have since lived up to the expectations. The parent breeds of Maltipoos have ancestries that stretch back hundreds to thousands of years, although the breed itself is relatively new.
Originating from the island of Malta, the Maltese have captivated people for centuries, even attracting Aristotle's attention. The poodle, the other genetic half of the Maltipoo, was first bred as a water retriever in Germany and subsequently became the French national dog.
Maltipoo Appearance and Distinctive Physical Traits
- Height - 8-14 inches
- Weight - 2-9 kgs
- Coat texture - wavy, curly, or soft
- Coat colour - Common colours include black, brown, cream, and white
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Maltipoo Price in India
Cost of buying
₹ 20,000 - ₹ 50,000
The average cost of a Maltipoo in India ranges between ₹ 20,000 - ₹ 50,000.
There are two ways of acquiring a Maltipoo pup for your house. They are adoption and buying.
If local shelters or rescues have Maltipoos available, consider adopting instead of buying. Adoption helps reduce unethical breeding and offers a deserving dog a second chance at a loving home.
Here are some breeds that are similar to the Maltipoo: Bichon Frise l Shih Tzu l Cockapoo l Cavapoo
Prerequisites to pet a Maltipoo
Access to Groomer
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Lifestyle Compatibility
Financial Capability
Important Things to Know Before Buying or Adopting a Maltipoo
- Study - Understand the unique requirements of the breed, including its diet, medical care, and grooming needs.
- Interact - Speak with friends or family members who own a Maltipoo to get firsthand insights on what it's like to raise and care for one.
- Visit - Schedule a visit to local shelters, rescues (if adopting), or the breeders to check the surroundings in which they are raised.
- Play - Interact with the pup to check if it is compatible with you and your family.
- Medical Records - Ensure that the medical records are up to date, and get the dog checked by a veterinarian.
- Shopping - Stock the house with essential supplies like dog food, bed, treats, leash, etc.
How to Feed a Maltipoo: Daily Diet and Nutrition Tips
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Calories per day
Puppies:Â 250 kcal
Adults:Â 400 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fibre
Carbohydrates
Fats
Vitamins
List of foods
Chicken
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Home made meals
Dry Dog Food
- Protein - Helps repair tissues and build lean muscle mass.
- Fats- Provide sustained energy and look for sources that provide omega-3 and omega-6. They also enrich their coat health and keep it shiny.
- Carbohydrates - Provide them with energy for their physical and mental activities. They also support digestion.
- Fiber- Enhances gut health and regulates bowel movements.
- Vitamins A, B, E, and C are crucial for their overall development and well-being. It protects their cells and boosts immunity.
- Minerals - Calcium, zinc, phosphorus, and iron boost their bone health and keep them healthy and strong.
- Water- Ensure access to clean water at all times. This helps with hydration as well as digestion.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Food Options for a Healthy and Happy Maltipoo
- Protein - Provide high-quality, digestible protein. Good sources are cooked and boneless chicken, salmon, eggs, and turkey.
- Healthy fats like fish oil, flaxseed oil, chicken fats, and chia seeds.
- Carbohydrates - Cooked sweet potatoes, brown rice, and oatmeal.
- Fiber - Fresh vegetables and fruits.
- Maltipoo puppies can be fed 3-4 times a day, while adults can be given 2-3 small meals a day.
- Ensure that the diet follows the recommendations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
- Maltipoos are prone to obesity; thus, in order to prevent overfeeding, it is important to measure out their food.
- According to PetMD, Maltipoos can benefit from joint supplements. But, consult with your veterinarian before giving any supplements.
Foods You Should Never Feed Your Maltipoo
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Chocolate
Almonds
Onions
Garlic
Xylitol
Grapes
Coffee / Tea
- Avoid common human foods that are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, avocados, raisins, and grapes.
- Cooked bones can pose a choking hazard. They may get lodged in your dog’s throat or mouth. Additionally, they can splinter and cause blockages or injuries in the digestive tract.
- Stay away from overly sweet foods and artificial sweeteners like xylitol, as they can cause blood sugar issues.
- Both coffee and tea are harmful to dogs and should be completely avoided.
Maltipoo Medical Care
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 900 - ₹ 1,800
Common Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
Heartworm
Parasites
Bloat
Leptospirosis
Kennel Cough
Canine distemper
Lyme disease
Well being
Exercise
Agility Training
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
30 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Common Health Issues Seen in Maltipoos
- Patellar Luxation - A prevalent health problem in Maltipoos is luxating patella, which occurs when a dog's kneecap falls out of position due to improper alignment. Maltipoo parents may find this health concern shocking because their pup may appear normal one minute, then be limping and in agony the next. According to the Canadian Veterinary Journal, dogs with luxating patellas frequently walk with a distinctive bunny hop. Sometimes the disease goes away on its own, but in more severe cases, surgery can be necessary. Arthritis and severe discomfort result from luxating patellas if left untreated.
- Dental Issues - Maltipoos are susceptible to gum disease, often known as periodontal disease. This is common among small dog breeds. This occurs when oral microorganisms lead to tooth loss, decay of bones, and gum disease. According to PetMD, this can be avoided by brushing their teeth every day. Introducing brushing at a young age helps them become comfortable with the routine.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease- According to a scientific review, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is mostly a condition that affects small breeds of dogs and is brought on by irregular blood flow to the leg or hip. This results in discomfort, limping, blood clots, and bone degradation. Contact your veterinarian if you observe your Maltipoo limping or propping up a leg.
- Epilepsy- Maltipoos have a predisposition to epilepsy, a neurological disorder. According to PetMD, dog owners must be on the lookout for the following symptoms: collapsing, stiffening of the body, paddling of the limbs, and unexpected urination or defecation. While some Maltipoo dogs may only experience epileptic seizures once or twice in their entire lifespan, others may experience them frequently. With treatment, the majority of dogs with epilepsy can lead normal lives.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
10-12 Weeks
Rabies, Leptospirosis
16-18 Weeks
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
How to Care for a Senior Maltipoo: A Guide for Pet Parents
- Ensure that the diet is specially curated for senior dogs. Food should be easy to chew and digest while being high in nutrients and low in calories.
- Maltipoos are prone to weight gain, so monitor their weight regularly. Portion their food and limit treats that are high in calories.
- Reduce the intensity of exercises. Opt for shorter and regular walks to keep them healthy.
- Consider giving them an orthopedic dog bed to support their joints.
- Groom them regularly to keep irritation at bay.
- Older Maltipoos are prone to dental issues. Regular brushing of the teeth can help prevent this.
- Schedule regular appointments with the veterinarian to stay proactive with their health.
Maltipoo Grooming Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Shedding Level
Low Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Eye Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents infections
Quality of life
- Skin - According to PetMD, they should be groomed by a professional every 4-6 weeks. They should be brushed and bathed regularly to prevent infections.
- Coat - The coat of a Maltipoo might be straight and smooth like that of their Maltese parent, or curly like that of their Poodle parent. Regardless of their appearance, Maltipoos require daily brushing with a wire slicker brush. This prevents the fur from matting. Pet owners who want a more relaxed schedule can hire a groomer to give their dog a lovely Maltipoo haircut, such as the short, popular "puppy cut." This facilitates the upkeep of their coat.
- Eye - Maltipoos may have clogged tear ducts at birth, which could result in tear stains later in life. When necessary, pet owners can use a pet-safe eye cleaner to remove any tear stains.
- Ear - Maltipoos are prone to ear infections because of the hair that grows in their ears. There will be an accumulation of fur and wax within their ears if they are not cleaned on a regular basis. You may help avoid infections by cleansing their ears following bath time or making sure the groomer does it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maltipoos good family pets?
Yes, Maltipoos are friendly, loving, and gentle. They get along well with kids and make great family pets.
2. Do Maltipoos shed a lot?
No, Maltipoos are low-shedding dogs.
3. How much exercise does a Maltipoo require?
Adult Maltipoos require 30 minutes of exercise every day.
