Maltipoo Puppy Buyer’s Guide

 

Mixed breeds have become increasingly more popular over the years. They are also often referred to as “designer dogs”. The Maltipoo is a cross between two loveable breeds, the Poodle and the Maltese.

Maltipoo dogs tend to inherit the best of both breeds, but on the other side of the coin, they can also receive the less than desirable traits. However, in general, these dogs are loving, affectionate and very playful.

Since they are considered a small breed, they can adapt well to city living in a home with children or thrive on a large property.

What to Look for When Buying Maltipoo Puppies

Since mixed breeds are a hit or miss and there is no way to predict which parent it will take after, getting a look at him or her before purchasing is the safest choice. It’s possible that in the same litter you have a few pups that resemble the Poodle more, and the others taking after the Maltese.

Definitely take a look at the parents. You can also decide which breed is more of your preference. Would you prefer a dog with curly furs like the Poodle or long silky locks like the Maltese? The breeder should be able to tell you which Maltipoo puppy will be a better match for you.

Both the Poodle and Maltese are hypoallergenic breeds and will be easy on allergy sufferers. However, it’s important to take note that there is no such thing as 100% hypoallergenic dogs. All dogs shed and drool to some extent.

Maltipoos should be extremely friendly and affectionate. They are among the most well-tempered dogs, with four or five stars across the board in the temperament department.

Make sure you ask the breeder correct questions about the lineage of the parents. For mixed breeds, you have double the concern due to the different breeds.

Maltipoo Life Stages

These hybrid dogs can grow to be 8 to 14 inches tall, depending on who they take after. Again, there is really no guarantee of designer dogs. They also have a wide weight range from 5 to 20 pounds! Because they are bred with smaller breeds, the Maltipoo can live a long and happy life with you for anywhere between 10-13 years.

Maltipoo Health Concerns

Again, there is really no telling with crossbreeds. Your pup could be lucky enough to not get any of the diseases both parents suffer from, or all of them.

They are prone to patellar luxation, which plagues many small breeds, epilepsy, White Shaker Syndrome (the tremors many small breeds have), and progressive retinal atrophy among many others.

You should be able to have some idea of the risks with the documents the breeder provides.

Recommended health tests:
• Patella Evaluation
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• Cardiac Exams
• Hip Evaluation (for Maltipoos with larger Poodle parents)

Maltipoo Breeder Information

A breeder, no matter for what breed, should be getting to know the pups in the first eight weeks. They will be able to discern the differences in personality, tendencies, etc. This way they can help you make an informed decision when you pick out your pup.

Puppy shipping is frowned upon by many breeders, and they might turn you away or cross your name off the waiting list if they discover you’re planning to take the pup back this way. We suggest looking for breeders within a driving distance from your location first.

Dog breeders should have recognition or badges from either the AKC (American Kennel Club) or the equivalent. You might even be able to find other previous clients of the breeder for references and social media pages with more background information about them.

A good breeder will properly vet the potential owners. Don’t be offended if they ask more personal questions and maybe even request house visits for the first year or two. They are just doing their job to make sure the Maltipoo puppies go to good homes.

Responsible and professional breeders will have done the initial legwork for you, including the first couple of shots, socializing, and maybe even potty training.

Maltipoo Puppy Diet

Maltipoo pups need food with higher protein packed with vitamins and minerals plus essential fats. They are a small breed as well and require enough nutrition to keep up with their rapid growth rate during the first 10 months or so.

Try to find a dog food for Maltese or Poodle dogs that meets the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards or the equivalent.

Is A Maltipoo Right For You?

Maltipoos are low-shedding hypoallergenic dogs. They should be among your first considerations if you suffer from allergies. Although they rarely shed, they still need to be combed and brushed every day to avoid mats.

Other than that, these loving and adoptable pets only need to be bathed once a month. They are very friendly and loveable, but they don’t handle alone time very well. Be prepared to always have a furry tagalong buddy.

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