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Malti-Poo

Toy Group, Non-Sporting Group

Affectionate, alert and energetic

Malti-Poo

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Breed Overview

The Malti-Poo is a loving and intelligent companion, blending the best traits of the Maltese and Poodle. With its adaptable size and hypoallergenic coat, this crossbreed is suited to a wide variety of homes, making it a popular choice for many dog lovers.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Small-sized breed
  • Height Generally 8 to 14 inches at the shoulder
  • Weight Typically ranges from 5 to 20 pounds
  • Life Span Typically around 10-15 years
  • Coat Soft and fluffy, can be curly like a Poodle or straight like a Maltese; often considered hypoallergenic
  • Color Varies widely, including white, cream, silver, and light brown
  • Grooming Regular grooming is required to prevent matting; professional grooming is recommended every 4-6 weeks
  • Temperament Known for being affectionate, gentle, and intelligent
  • Energy Level Moderate
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate; enjoys walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation
  • Trainability Highly trainable, with a responsive and eager-to-please nature
  • Socialization Good with children and other pets when properly socialized
  • Grooming Regular grooming is required to prevent matting; professional grooming is recommended every 4-6 weeks
  • Health Issues Generally healthy but can inherit issues from parent breeds, such as knee problems and eye disorders
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Ideal for families, singles, seniors; great with children and other pets; adaptable to various living situations
  • Suitable Living Space Adapts well to apartments and houses, needs minimal outdoor space, perfect for urban and indoor living

About the Breed

Malti-Poos are known for their charming nature and low-shedding coat. They combine the gentle temperament of the Maltese with the intelligence and hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle.

History of the Breed

Emerging in the late 20th century, Malti-Poos were bred as a part of the trend toward creating new hybrid breeds, especially those with hypoallergenic coats.

United States of American (USA)

Fun Facts About the Malti-Poo

What To Expect When Caring For a Malti-Poo

Health

Malti-Poos generally enjoy good health, with a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. However, they can inherit health issues common to their parent breeds, including patellar luxation, dental problems, and hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch and treat any health concerns early.

Grooming

Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles, including brushing several times a week and professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Regular dental care is also important to prevent dental issues.

Exercise

Despite their small size, Malti-Poos have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Training

Malti-Poos are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement techniques work best. Early socialization and obedience training are recommended to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults.

Nutrition

A balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level is crucial. Small-breed formulas are often appropriate, but it's best to consult with a vet for personalized advice.

The Malti-Poo is a delightful companion, combining intelligence, affection, and a hypoallergenic coat into a small package perfect for many homes. With proper care, including regular grooming, exercise, and health checks, the Malti-Poo makes a loving and joyful addition to any family.

Malti-Poo Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Malti-Poo, a cross between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, is generally a healthy breed, but they can inherit certain health issues from their parent breeds. Here are some common health concerns and recommended tests for Malti-Poos:

Description: A condition where the kneecap dislocates out of its normal position. It's common in small breeds.

Description: A group of diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina, potentially leading to blindness.

Description: Small breeds often face dental challenges, including early tooth loss and gum disease.

Description: Especially in very young or small dogs, low blood sugar can be a concern.

Description: Can manifest through skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues due to food or environmental factors.

Patellar Luxation

Description: A condition where the kneecap dislocates out of its normal position. It's common in small breeds.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Description: A group of diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina, potentially leading to blindness.

Dental Issues

Description: Small breeds often face dental challenges, including early tooth loss and gum disease.

Hypoglycemia

Description: Especially in very young or small dogs, low blood sugar can be a concern.

Allergies

Description: Can manifest through skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues due to food or environmental factors.

Ensuring that your Malti-Poo undergoes these recommended tests and evaluations can help you catch and manage health issues early. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best care plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. Regular veterinary visits, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercise will go a long way in keeping your Malti-Poo healthy and happy.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Malti-Poos

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Malti-Poo?

The annual cost of caring for a Malti-Poo, a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Poodle, can vary depending on several factors such as location, the dog’s health, and the level of care provided. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:

A purebred Malti-Poo puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$400 - 2000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Malti-Poo enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$300 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food is essential for a Malti-Poo.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Malti-Poos.

Malti-Poos require regular grooming due to their coat type.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Malti-Poos require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 400

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Malti-Poo's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Malti-Poo will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 100

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2000 - $6400

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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