Maltipoo

Here are the physical characteristics of an average Maltipoo:

Size: A Maltipoo can weigh between 5–15 pounds depending on what type of Poodle has been used to breed them. Their height can be between 8–14 inches at the top of their shoulder blades.

Coat: Their coats are curly with medium to long lengths. They can come in a large variety of colors and patterns. Both Poodles and Maltese dogs are known for having hypoallergenic coats because they’re low-shedding and Maltipoos often inherit this trait.

Tail and ears: Maltipoos have floppy ears that can be prone to infection. It is important to have their ears checked to determine if a routine cleaning plan needs to be implemented Signs of an ear infection include redness, unpleasant odor, swelling, itching at the ears, and frequent head-shaking. 

Maltipoos usually have tails that curl up and are fluffy. Some breeders choose to dock the tail at five days of age. However, tail docking doesn’t benefit the dog in any way. 

Pet parents should always provide their dog with a “balanced and complete” diet. The Association of American Feed Control Official (AAFCO) is an organization that sets standards for optimum pet nutrition. The first thing to look for when buying dog food is something showing it’s AAFCO-approved. A manufacturer cannot put “balanced and complete” on the packaging unless it’s AAFCO-approved.

Maltipoos should be fed a high-quality diet. Fresh water should be offered each day in a clean bowl. Maltipoos also need carbohydrates and some healthy fats to meet their energy needs. 

A high-quality diet will also contain essential vitamins and minerals. Pup parents should consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to make sure they’re providing the best diet for their Maltipoo. 

A Maltipoo’s coat can require a lot of grooming. They should be brushed daily with a brush specific to their coat’s needs. Professional grooming should be done every six weeks and include a coat and claw trim. Their coats can get matted very quickly, and matted coats can cause skin infections if not dealt with quickly.

Maltipoos are also prone to periodontal disease. Their teeth should be brushed regularly to slow tartar and plaque build-up. Advanced dental care with a veterinarian is likely to be recommended in mid-age or older Maltipoos.

Maltipoos often enjoy playtime with their family. They tend to respond to a variety of rewards including food, physical attention, and praise. Try these kinds of activities with your Maltipoo:

• Walks
• Playing with balls and other toys
• Positive reinforcement training

When using treats for rewards, the treat should be broken up into multiple pieces to prevent overfeeding. Using part of the dog’s normal diet is also a good way to reward them.

A Maltipoo’s average lifespan is about 10–15 years.

Did you know?

75{f3144cec44010028409d17bd3026ee0365f1426f888e7a1ae9d101532b9b9f38} of dogs are either at risk for or a carrier of a genetic disease. Embark dog DNA tests screen for 270+ genetic health risks so you can give your dog the proactive care they deserve.