Maltipoo as Adults: A Guide to Their Characteristics

Author

Posted Oct 11, 2024

Reads 1.2K

Small purebred dogs in colorful clothes standing together on white background and looking away
Credit: pexels.com, Small purebred dogs in colorful clothes standing together on white background and looking away

Maltipoos as adults are a delightful combination of their parent breeds' characteristics. They typically weigh between 4-8 pounds and stand 8-14 inches tall.

Their coats can be either curly or straight and require regular grooming to prevent matting. Regular brushing is essential to keep their coats looking their best.

Maltipoos are known for being friendly and outgoing, making them great companions for families with children or other pets. They are generally quiet, with some owners reporting that they bark only occasionally.

Their intelligence and trainability make them relatively easy to teach basic commands and housebreaking.

Physical Characteristics

Adult Maltipoos typically weigh between 2.5 to 7kg and stand between 8" to 14" tall. Their small size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for families with smaller spaces.

Their soft coat is usually medium-to-long length and can be wavy or curly, coming in a variety of colors including brown, gray, apricot, red, and creamy white. Maltipoos are known for their low shedding, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies.

Here are some key physical characteristics of adult Maltipoos:

  • Weight: 2.5 to 7kg
  • Height: 8" to 14" tall
  • Coeff: soft, medium-to-long length, wavy or curly
  • Colors: brown, gray, apricot, red, creamy white

Appearance

Credit: youtube.com, How to describe APPEARANCE in English - Essential Advanced Adjective Vocabulary Lesson

Maltipoos are a small breed, with most standing between 7-14 inches tall. Their weight can range from 5-20 pounds, making them a great companion for apartment dwellers or those with limited space.

Their soft coat is typically medium-to-long length, and can be wavy or curly. As a result of their diverse parent breeds, Maltipoos can come in a wide range of colors, including white, cream, apricot, red, and gray.

A Maltipoo's coat color can change as they mature, with puppy coats often darkening or fading as they grow. Grooming and haircut styles can also dramatically alter their appearance.

Maltipoos are known for their fluffy and wool-like coat, which is one of their most distinctive features. However, their coat type can vary, ranging from curly to scruffy.

Here are some key physical characteristics of Maltipoos:

Eyes and Nose

Maltipoos have large, round, and full of expression eyes that are often dark brown or black. This contrast makes their eyes stand out, especially in lighter-colored Maltipoos.

Small terrier dog with brown fur and tongue out standing near wooden fence on grassy ground in sunny suburb area
Credit: pexels.com, Small terrier dog with brown fur and tongue out standing near wooden fence on grassy ground in sunny suburb area

Their eyes are filled with warmth and intelligence, playing a significant role in their ability to communicate with their human families.

These expressive eyes are one of the key features that make Maltipoos so endearing. Regular check-ups are necessary to ensure the health of their eyes, including cleaning around the eyes to prevent tear stains.

Maltipoos usually have a small, cute, button-like nose that may vary in color. The color often corresponds with the color of their coat, typically ranging from black in darker Maltipoos to a lighter brown or even pink in white or cream Maltipoos.

Here are some key facts about Maltipoo eyes and noses:

  • Eyes: Large, round, and full of expression, often dark brown or black.
  • Nose: Small, cute, button-like, and may vary in color to match the coat.

Coat and Grooming

As your Maltipoo grows into adulthood, their coat and grooming needs become a priority. Maltipoos don't shed much, but they still require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Their coat type can vary depending on their parents, with three basic types: straight and silky, thick and curly, and wavy and wiry. The curly coat is prone to matts and tangles, making regular brushing essential.

Readers also liked: Maltipoo Curly Hair

Credit: youtube.com, Maltipoo Full Groom | The Popular Teddy Bear Puppy Cut!

Maltipoos have medium to long-length coats that need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. They may shed several times a year, making them not entirely hypoallergenic.

To prevent skin issues and parasites, regular grooming is crucial. Regular baths, usually every 3-4 weeks, are part of a proper grooming routine.

Here are some popular grooming styles for Maltipoos:

  • Teddy Bear Cut: A uniform length of 1-2 inches all over the body, with a slightly longer length around the head and ears.
  • Puppy Cut: A short cut all over the body for a neat and low-maintenance look.
  • Show Cut: A long cut that leaves the hair brushing the floor, ideal for those who want a luxurious look.

The right grooming style depends on your lifestyle, local climate, and your pet's comfort and health.

Health and Lifespan

Maltipoos typically live between 10-16 years, with some living up to 13 years. Their lifespan is influenced by genetics and lifestyle factors.

Health issues can arise, but they're not extremely common. Conditions to watch out for include White shaker syndrome, which can cause a dog's entire body to shake, and patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap becomes misaligned.

Small dog breeds, like Maltipoos, are prone to dental disease, so regular brushing and a quality diet can help prevent future vet appointments. A veterinarian can recommend the best food for your Maltipoo.

Here are some potential health issues to be aware of:

  • Lameness from patellar luxation
  • Epilepsy
  • Shaker syndrome
  • Portosystemic shunt
  • Dental disease

Health

Playful purebred dog with smooth coat and small ball having fun on lawn while looking up in sunlight
Credit: pexels.com, Playful purebred dog with smooth coat and small ball having fun on lawn while looking up in sunlight

The Maltipoo's lifespan is relatively long, ranging from 10-13 years. This is a decent amount of time to enjoy your furry companion's company.

Health issues aren't extremely common for Maltipoos, but they can still occur. It's essential to be aware of potential problems.

White shaker syndrome is a condition to watch out for, although not all Maltipoos will develop it. Consult with your veterinarian about this condition.

Luxating patellas, a common issue in this breed, can be prevented by ensuring both parents have health clearances through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

Allergies and dental disease are also potential problems for Maltipoos. A quality diet and regular dental care can help prevent these issues.

Progressive retinal atrophy can affect Maltipoos, so it's crucial to monitor their eye health. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help identify any potential problems early on.

Most small dog breeds are prone to oral health issues, so it's essential to take preventative measures such as brushing and dental treats.

On a similar theme: Maltipoo Health Problems

Lifespan

Small Chipin Dog in the Green Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Small Chipin Dog in the Green Grass

Maltipoos can live a long and healthy life, with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. This is because small dogs like the Maltipoo tend to live longer than larger breeds.

One of the advantages of owning a Maltipoo is their relatively long lifespan. This means you'll have more time to enjoy the companionship of your furry friend.

As with any breed, Maltipoos can be prone to certain health issues. These include patellar luxation, epilepsy, shaker syndrome, portosystemic shunt, and dental disease.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Maltipoos:

  • Lameness from patellar luxation (the tibia, femur, and kneecap become misaligned)
  • Epilepsy
  • Shaker syndrome: Mostly observed in white dogs, where the dog's entire body shakes
  • Portosystemic shunt: A congenital condition causing seizures and stunted growth (the blood bypasses the liver)
  • Dental disease: Small dogs are more prone to dental issues, so get your pup used to having his teeth cleaned

Temperament and Behavior

Maltipoos are gentle, affectionate, and fun-loving, making them a joy to be around. They thrive on attention from their humans and love to be loved and cuddled.

Their big personality and energy come from their poodle parent, but they're not aggressive and will only bark at suspicious things. Maltipoos are also quick to get along with others if socialized properly from an early age.

As Marlene Kingston, a breeder and trainer, notes, each Maltipoo has its own unique personality, and they're just as happy to play fetch as they are to snuggle.

Temperament

Little purebred dog looking at camera while lying alone near small skateboard in light studio on white background
Credit: pexels.com, Little purebred dog looking at camera while lying alone near small skateboard in light studio on white background

The Maltipoo temperament is hard to beat - they're gentle, affectionate, fun-loving, and happy. They're completely satisfied watching life go by from the lap of their human.

Maltipoos are alert and will bark at anything suspicious - but don't expect them to show any aggression. They can get along with just about anybody, as long as they're properly socialized in puppyhood.

Each Maltipoo has a big personality and a lot of energy that comes from the poodle parent, but they also want to be loved and cuddled by their human, which comes from their Maltese parent.

Characteristics

The Maltipoo's physical characteristics are quite endearing. They are a cross between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, often referred to as a 'Teacup Maltipoo' if bred with a Toy Poodle.

Their adult weight ranges from 2.5 to 7kg, which is quite a small range for a dog. They stand proudly at 8" to 14" tall, making them a compact companion. Maltipoos come in a variety of colors, including brown, gray, apricot, red, and creamy white.

How Big?

Credit: youtube.com, Puppy to Full Grown Adult Maltipoo Dog: MUST WATCH journey in this MALTIPOO video COMPILATION

So, you're wondering how big a Maltipoo gets as an adult? Well, they're a relatively small breed, with adults typically ranging from 10 to 12 inches in height.

Their weight can vary depending on their gender, whether they were spayed or neutered, and the size of their parents. Most Maltipoos weigh between 10 and 20 pounds, but some can be smaller or larger.

If you're looking for a smaller Maltipoo, consider choosing a female from parents that are on the smaller side. On the other hand, if you want a larger dog, pick a male from parents that are on the larger side.

Here's a rough guide to Maltipoo size, based on their parentage:

  • Height: Most Maltipoos stand between 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.
  • Weight: In terms of weight, Maltipoos typically range from 5 to 20 pounds.

It's worth noting that while small in size, Maltipoos are packed with an energetic and playful personality. They're active little dogs that love their playtime and walks.

Credit: youtube.com, MALTIPOO PUPPY GROWING UP: from 1 week to 1 year | Rosco's Journey from Puppy to Full Grown

To give you a better idea of their growth rates, here's a rough estimate of Maltipoo weights at different ages:

Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and individual Maltipoos may vary depending on their genetics and upbringing.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age does a Maltipoo calm down?

Maltipoos typically calm down between 1 to 2 years old as they mature from playful puppies to adult dogs. This age range marks a significant shift in their energy levels and behavior.

At what age is a Maltipoo considered old?

A Maltipoo is considered old at around 10-12 years, as it approaches the end of its typical lifespan of 13-16 years. At this stage, regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced lifestyle can help ensure a comfortable and happy golden age.

Is a Maltipoo a good dog for seniors?

Yes, Maltipoos can make great companions for seniors, as they are gentle and affectionate, but proper socialization is key to ensure a smooth transition. With the right care and attention, a Maltipoo can thrive in a senior's household.

Sem van der Velden

Writer

Sem van der Velden is a writer with a passion for storytelling and a knack for crafting compelling narratives. With a background in creative writing, Sem has honed their skills to weave engaging tales that captivate readers of all ages. As a seasoned wordsmith, Sem has had work published in various literary magazines and anthologies.