15 Interesting Facts About Your Adorable Maltipoo

Welcoming a Maltipoo into your family is like adding a little bundle of joy wrapped in soft fluff. 

These adorable pups aren’t just cuddly companions. They’re also playful, loving, and fantastic with kids. That said, before you get one of these mixed-breed dogs, you may want to learn a bit more about them. 

So, let us introduce you to this adorable designer dog breed, including the average Maltipoo lifespan, heritage, personality, intelligence, and more.  

1. They’re designer dogs

Maltipoos are a sweet, hybrid breed created by mixing a Poodle and a Maltese. That said, they can have multigenerational mixes, meaning they can be bred as a first-generation (Maltese + Poodle) or an original Maltipoo bred directly from two Maltipoo parents.  

Maltipoos are small dogs, usually growing to 5-20 pounds and just 8-14 inches tall. That makes them smaller than many housecats. Their tiny stature puts them in Toy group status, even though they’re not an officially recognized breed by kennel clubs.

2. Maltipoos have long lifespans

You’re planning on having your pup around for a long time, so you may wonder how long Maltipoos live. 

As a smaller designer dog breed, Maltipoos typically have longer lifespans than both larger dogs and purebred dogs. Pups with mixed-breed genetics tend to live longer because of the wider diversity of the gene pool. The general Maltipoo lifespan is 8-12 years. But they can live even longer with proper care, including enough exercise, a balanced diet, and yearly vet checkups. 

3. Their lifespan is affected by breeding

As with all dogs, certain diseases and health conditions are hereditary. Some common hereditary diseases that affect Maltipoos include: 

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which can lead to vision loss
• Patellar Luxation, otherwise known as joint issues
• Heart problems, including Mitral Valve Disease
• Epilepsy and seizures
• Ear infections due to their Poodle heritage

However, purchasing your Maltipoo from a reputable breeder can help minimize the risk of some hereditary conditions since these breeders select parent dogs with strong and healthy genetics. While the cost of Maltipoos from responsible breeders is often higher, the investment is well worth it.

4. They’re picky eaters

Due to their delicate digestive systems, Maltipoos have sensitive stomachs, which can make them picky eaters. So, feeding them vet-approved, high-quality dog food is best. While they may look at you with those puppy-dog eyes when you’re munching on something delicious, it’s important to be cautious of the human food you feed them. 

Avoid giving them the wrong kinds of human food, and always share treats in moderation.

5. They remain puppy-like into adulthood

Aside from their small puppy-like size, Maltipoos are also high-energy and retain their puppy-like zest for life. (That’s one reason they’re so popular on social media.) They’ll continue to play, chase you around, and engage in games of fetch, no matter their age. While this may be exhausting to some pet parents, this behavior ensures they get regular exercise, ultimately helping them live a healthier lifestyle.

6. They have many colorful coats

Maltipoos have soft coats in various colors, including cream, white, brown, black, silver, apricot, and grey.

Their coats can range from silky-smooth to curly, depending on whether they inherit more from their Maltese or Poodle parentage. Maltese have smooth hair, while Poodles have curls. 

This unique blend ensures that your pup is truly one of a kind.

7. They’re considered hypoallergenic

Thanks to their Poodle and Maltese lineage, Maltipoos are considered a hypoallergenic breed, meaning they don’t produce as much allergy-causing dander. This is because they have hair instead of fur, which gives them a soft coat and reduces the likelihood of shedding. Of course, we’re using the term “hypoallergenic” liberally, as no dog is truly 100% allergen- and dander-free

So, if you’re wondering, “Do Maltipoos shed?”, the answer is rarely. Yes, you’ll find stray hair here and there, but there’s no need to keep the lint-removing brush on hand 24/7.

8. They have royal roots

The Maltese, one of the Maltipoos’ pet parents, was a favorite of ancient royalty. They were prized in Greek and Roman times and are often depicted in art. So, while your pup may live in modern times, their ancestors walked among the elite. 

9. They’re popular among celebrities

Several well-known celebrities have owned or currently own Maltipoos. For example, Blake Lively would bring along her Maltipoo, Penny, to the set of Gossip Girl. Ellen DeGeneres also owned a Maltipoo named Wolf. 

10. They’re very intelligent

Poodles are known as one of the most intelligent dog breeds. As a result, Maltipoos are also intelligent and require mental stimulation to thrive. 

One of the best ways to keep them entertained is through puzzle toys. Otherwise, they may become bored and find “creative” ways to entertain themselves, which isn’t always ideal for your shoes or furniture. Fortunately, their intelligence makes them easy to train, whether learning basic commands, advanced tricks, or even agility skills.

11. Maltipoos are great with kids

Their loving and affectionate nature makes them perfect family pets, great with kids and adults alike. This mixed breed thrives in environments where they get plenty of attention and affection, and their high energy means they’ll easily keep up with your little ones. 

That said, teaching your kids how to interact with your pup is essential. Due to their petite size, rough handling, such as pulling their tails or picking them up too roughly, could injure them.

12. They’re emotionally sensitive

Maltipoos are in tune with their owner’s emotions and can sense happiness, sadness, or stress. When you’re upset, they’ll often snuggle up next to you and try to comfort you. Similarly, when you’re happy, they’ll mirror your mood with tail wagging and plenty of kisses. 

This emotional intelligence makes Maltipoos loyal companions, especially to individuals who want a true best friend who’s always there to brighten their day.

13. They require regular grooming

Professional grooming can keep their coat clean and help prevent ear infections. Depending on their coat type (more curly or straight), they require brushing around 3-4 times a week and bathing every 3-4 weeks. 

Plus, since the Poodle is prone to ear infections, you’ll also want to clean your Maltipoo’s ears every 1-2 weeks with vet-recommended ear cleaners.

14. They’re perfect travel buddies

A Maltipoo could be your ideal companion if you’re a frequent traveler. Not only are these pups extraordinarily adaptable and able to live in busy cities or the countryside, but their small size makes it easy to take them on trips. And since they love being around their humans, as long as you’re there for the ride, these lap dogs can travel for long periods of time, whether by car or plane.

15. They love to “talk” 

Maltipoos can be very chatty, often expressing their excitement and communicating by barking. They’ll often bark when you get home after a day at work and when people visit. This can lead to excessive barking if you aren’t careful. However, with training sessions, this behavior can easily be managed.

As you consider adding this fluffy companion to your family, having a dog insurance plan is a great way to ensure that your pup and your wallet are protected if something goes wrong. Pumpkin Dog Insurance plans can help you afford the best care in the future by covering eligible vet bills for accidents and illnesses.

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