Learn More About Maltipoo

Summary

An adorable cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, the Maltipoo is a small to medium-sized dog breed known for its friendly nature, intelligence, and distinctive curly coat. They are not recognized by the FCI, but that doesn't make them any less lovable or desirable. Maltipoos typically have a round face with large, expressive eyes and a black or brown nose. Their ears droop and are often covered in curly fur that extends over their entire body. They have a robust but delicate body structure that reflects their lively and agile nature.

Character

Maltipoos are known for their lively and loving personalities. They are very people-oriented and love spending time with their families, making them excellent companion dogs. This breed is also very intelligent, which, combined with their desire to please, tends to make training a pleasant experience for everyone involved. Maltipoos are very playful and enjoy a variety of activities, from long walks to indoor games. Despite their playfulness, they are generally not hyperactive dogs and are quite capable of enjoying quiet moments. When it comes to their ability to stay alone, it is important to remember that Maltipoos, like many other breeds, form close bonds with their owners and therefore may have difficulty staying alone for long periods of time. It is therefore important to teach them how to self-soothe and relax when they are alone. When it comes to hunting behavior, Maltipoos are generally not known as hunters. However, they may show some interest in smaller animals, which can be controlled with good socialization and training. In terms of their alertness, Maltipoos can be quite alert and are known to bark when they notice something unusual. However, this can be minimized through training, especially when done from an early age. When it comes to their temperament, Maltipoos can be quite active, although they are not hyperactive. They enjoy walks and playtime, but don't require as much exercise as larger or more athletic breeds. However, it is important to keep them occupied both physically and mentally, otherwise they may be prone to developing unwanted behaviors. Maltipoos are quite intelligent and learn quickly. This, coupled with their desire to please their people, makes them a good choice for first-time owners who are willing to dedicate the time and energy to basic education and training for their dog.

What to Expect

The first Maltipoos were bred as pets by American breeders 30 years ago. Many Maltipoos are white, but there are also black, brown, and red Maltipoos. Maltipoos should be kept indoors and not allowed to be outside for too long. They should only be allowed outside to go to the toilet, to play or to exercise. Maltipoos should be bathed every 3 weeks to a month. Maltipoos shed little to no, making them a good pet for people with allergies.

Care

Maltipoos are very adaptable dogs and can live well in both the city and the country. They are small enough to be kept indoors, but require daily walks and playtime. Maltipoos are very people-oriented and should not be left alone for long periods of time. They typically get along well with children and other pets, although interactions should always be supervised to ensure no one gets hurt.

Training & Education

Maltipoos are very intelligent dogs and learn quickly. They love learning and respond well to positive reinforcement and rewards. Maltipoos can learn a variety of commands and are often good candidates for dog sports such as agility or obedience. However, it is important not to overwhelm the Maltipoo as they may tend to become anxious or insecure under pressure. Frustration tolerance and impulse control are important aspects of raising a Maltipoo and should be encouraged early on.

Nutrition & Grooming

In terms of nutrition, the Maltipoo has no special requirements and can be fed high quality commercial dog food. However, it is important to maintain a balanced diet as Maltipoos can be prone to obesity. Grooming Maltipoos can be demanding. Their curly fur tends to become matted and should therefore be brushed regularly. A regular visit to the dog groomer may also be necessary to keep their coat short and well-groomed. Maltipoos have no undercoat and therefore shed little, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. However, their fur offers little protection from the cold, which is why they may need a coat or sweater during the cold months in Germany.