Spaying/Neutering my Maltipoo

If you’ve just welcomed a new puppy into your life, you may have a lot of questions about the when’s and why’s about spaying or neutering. I can answer a few of those questions for you now.

What is the difference between spay and neuter?

Spaying or ovariohysterectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the female dog’s uterus and both ovaries through an incision made in the abdomen.

Neutering or castration, is the surgical removal of a male dog’s testes. It is a much simpler surgery than a spay. An incision is made near the front of the scrotum, then the testicles are removed through that incision.

Why spay and neuter?

There are some health benefits to getting your Maltipoo spayed or neutered. Spaying your female will eliminate the chance of getting uterine infections (pyometra) and mammary tumors. Neutering your male dog prevents testicular cancer and will reduce the risk of problems such as prostate disease.

Getting the surgery done will also help with some behavioral issues. It helps reduce the undesirable behaviors like leg lifting, mounting and roaming. Neutering your male may also help decrease aggressive behavior.

When you get a female dog spayed, this will prevent unwanted litters. Once she goes into heat, her scent becomes very alluring to male dogs. This will cause you to have some unwanted visitors in your yard. Surgery can help reduce roaming in both male and female dogs.

When to spay or neuter

Many people say that it is best to get your dog spayed or neutered before the dog becomes sexually mature. Some females come into their first heat as early as 5 months old. It could be best if you do not want to deal with the vaginal discharge or the behavioral changes. However, there have been studies and increasing evidence that this is too young and the dog has not been allowed to fully develop and grow. There may be some health implications that come with getting your dog spayed or neutered too young.

The recommended age for getting your puppy spayed or neutered is 6 months old or later. We suggest you also talk with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate age for this surgical procedure.

Caring for your Maltipoo after surgery

After spay surgery, your Maltipoo may be a little bit dazed and woozy until the anesthesia wears off. Some clinics will keep your dog overnight, while others will let her go home on the same day. This will depend on how well your Maltipoo does with the surgery. Your Maltipoo may have some discomfort after the surgery and your veterinarian will most likely send some pain medication home with you. You should limit your puppy’s activity for the next 7-10 days. Be sure to watch for swelling and redness around the surgery site during the recovery period. Your clinic may require a post-surgery check-up after about a week to make sure the incision is healing and to remove stitches.

After neuter surgery, if there are no complications or other health issues, male dogs can usually go home on the same day of the procedure. Your Maltipoo may have some discomfort after the surgery and your veterinarian will most likely send some pain medication as well as a protective collar home with you. You should limit your puppy’s activity for the next 7-10 days. Your clinic may require a post-surgery check-up after about a week to make sure the incision is healing and to remove stitches.

Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best time to complete the surgery. Smaller breeds like the Maltipoo may need to wait a bit longer than larger breeds to get the surgery done.

How to Move With an Anxious Pet

Moving is a stressful time for everyone. There are boxes everywhere, you have to relocate all of your things, and start completely from scratch. When you add moving with a pet into the mix, they tend to suffer from extreme separation anxiety which can complicate you and your furry friends moving experience. To help you calm the nerves of your anxious pet, the team at MyMove has created a guide on how to move with an anxious pet during each stage of the moving process.

Before the Move

Before you begin your moving process, there are several steps you can take to prevent stress for you and your pet. Tactics like touring the neighborhood beforehand and setting up your pets’ space in the house can make them familiar to your new space. 

1. Scope out the neighborhood. If possible, going on a walk around your new area before move-in day can help your pup feel more comfortable (and even excited) about their new home. Walks can even become part of your daily routine after settling in, so getting started on this tradition early can help the transition go smooth. 

2. Check for the nearest vet. Making sure there is a vet nearby to your new house or apartment is helpful in case of an emergency. Maltipoos might pull out their fur when they’re anxious, so having a vet to call just in case any out-of-the-ordinary behavior occurs is always a good idea.  

3. Set up everything before move-in day. Having a personalized, full set up prepared for them can make the house more exciting for them right off the bat. This makes move-in day just a little less stressful, allowing you to focus on other things on your to-do list by having your Maltipoo’s space ready to go. 

During the Move 

Move-in day can get quite hectic. The list below provides options for you to try out to make the process easier on you and your furry friend, from getting a pet sitter to taking a simple walk. 

1. Get a pet sitter. Hiring a pet sitter is a great way to ensure your pet gets the attention they need. If you know that your move is going to require a lot of time and effort on your end, the pet sitter can take your place for the day (or however long you need). 

2. Take them with you while traveling. Whether by plane or car, make sure you are with your pet for the duration of your traveling journey. Maltipoo’s are very attached animals and would feel a lot more comfortable being by your side. 

3. Make sure to get exercise to relieve stress. Although your Maltipoo doesn’t typically require a lot of exercise, going on a family walk can ease their nerves. Try and include two 20-minute walks the day of moving in for them to help release their anxiety. 

After the Move 

Finally moved in? After the move, your Maltipoo will soon start to feel at home. By keeping a consistent schedule and ensuring they are taken care of, you can make sure your post-move experience is a positive one. You will want to make sure the routine is established before you start regularly leaving your dog alone for longer periods of time

1. Keep a consistent schedule. The more consistent and similar the schedule, the better, especially in the beginning. Your dog isn’t used to their space yet, and with time and a routine, they will start to feel more at home. 

2. Check for hazards. After the move, make sure to constantly look for small hazards that you might’ve missed at first. Plastic wrap, leftover tools from setting up, and pieces of wood are all things that could potentially harm your pet. 

3. Give them attention. This one is especially important for Maltipoo’s! They need as much attention as possible to feel at ease. Although you have moved in already, the first couple of weeks should be spent making sure your pet feels safe and important. 

The newness of your new home might be overwhelming and scary at first, for you and your pet. However, as time goes on, the furniture will start to be in place, and your rhythm will start developing. In the beginning, staying patient and consistent while your pet adjusts is key to minimizing you and your pets’ stress level. By following the steps above, you and your furry roommate will soon be all moved in and ready to start your new chapter. 

Author: Sarah Hollenbeck

We're Here For You: What You Can Expect From Us During Covid-19

Due to the circumstances surrounding Covid-19, I wanted to share our thoughts and how we are handling things to prioritize your health and the transportation of our puppies. We have been making an effort to routinely clean and sterilize our dogs and puppies living environment to keep things as germ free as possible.

We are actively considering guidance from our local and national authorities and are complying with the laws and recommendations surrounding Covid-19.

We know you may have specific questions, so we’ve outlined a few below to help you understand more specifically what we are doing in these situations:

I reserved a puppy from you and requested transportation. Is this still an option?

We are going to work with you through any situation as best we can. Right now, we don’t foresee any issues with still arranging transportation through our puppy nanny service or in-flight cargo. You can learn more about these options here. If you request transportation, we will be transporting puppies in brand new kennels. Your puppy will be bathed and all items that come with her will either be brand new or sterilized before your puppy arrives to you.

Although we can’t predict what the future holds as far as rules and regulations surrounding transportation, please know if there is ever a situation with laws prohibiting us from transporting your puppy, you can rest assured we will work with you giving you a few options:

• We can hold your puppy until transportation is safer and laws are relieved at no extra boarding cost to you (only when laws prohibit transportation).

• If you want to enroll your puppy in our advanced 3 or 5 week obedience training, this will be a good time for us to work on their obedience and commands while waiting to see if situations change.

• We can offer a 100% refund (only in this case where laws prohibit us from arranging transportation).

• If cargo flight or flying with a nanny is prohibited, we still may be able to arrange ground transportation. These arrangements can be discussed on a case-by-case basis if your prior chosen transportation option is no longer an option.

Will I still be able to visit or pick my puppy up in person?

If you live outside of Utah and were previous considering flying in to pick up your puppy, we would strongly advise you to evaluate your state rules and guidance surrounding air travel and heed your state’s advice. That being said, we are open to visitors if you find it is safe to do so. In addition to our normal visitation rules, we have a few more rules during this time that we ask you to comply with:

• We will have hand sanitizer available for all visitors and we ask that you use this at the beginning and end of your visit.

• If you are planning on coming with others, we ask that you only bring one other person with you. I know sometimes it’s fun to have the whole family visit and see their new puppy, but it will be harder to contain the spread of germs the more there are.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, you can always reach out to us and we’ll be happy to talk through any circumstances in question.

Thank you all so much for your support during this time and my husband and I wish you all good health and fortune as we work together to stay safe and get through this challenging time together.

Sincerely,

Marlene
Owner of My Doodle Maltipoos

Pet Allergies

Allergies are widespread and almost expected to have; they are the most common chronic condition in the world. Probably every one of us has at least one allergy. 

But what are allergies actually? They occur when our body confuses a harmless substance with an invader, and then overreacts. The reaction to an allergen can be mild to life-threatening, which is why we need to avoid contact with all potential allergens.

Pet Allergies

Pet allergies are an allergic reaction to proteins that are found in animal's skin cells, urine, and saliva. Most commonly, pet allergies are connected to cats or dogs because of the fur and the dead flakes of skin that pets shed. However, not only cats and dogs are the cause of allergic reactions.

Symptoms

There are a lot of different types of allergic reactions. Some of the symptoms include:

• Sneezing

• Runny nose

• Itchy, red, and watery eyes

• Itchy nose

• Nasal congestion

• Cough

• Swollen, blue-colored skin under the eyes

• Facial pressure or pain

• Frequent awakening

• Asthma

• Wheezing

• Chest tightening and pain

• Trouble sleeping because of the wheezing.

Skin Symptoms

Some people with pet allergies could also have a skin allergic reaction known as allergic dermatitis. Allergic dermatitis could occur with direct contact with an allergy-causing pet. The symptoms can be:

• Itchy skin

• Raised, red patches of skin

• Eczema.

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent pet allergies is to keep the pets outside as much as possible (if possible) and to wash them regularly with special shampoos.

Also, there are lots of medications to treat allergies, such as tablets, liquids, or nasal sprays, depending on the reaction. There are some things that cause itchiness which are not related to allergies and other ways you should treat your dog for itch relief.

When to See a Doctor?

Symptoms such as the runny nose, sneezing, or itching can easily be mistaken with a regular cold. If those symptoms last for more than two weeks, it is probably an allergy. There are many ways to check what your body is allergic to, with blood tests being the most common method.

If the allergic reaction happens to be serious, such as difficulty with breathing or drinking and eating, go see a doctor as soon as possible.

Author: Mira Rakicevic

All the Ways You Can Give Your Pets a Luxurious Life

If you have the means, you can show your pets some serious love with a luxurious life. No matter how you’d like to splurge on your furry friend, you can bet there’s someone who’s providing exactly what you need. As the options for pet luxury expand, chances are there are things you haven’t even thought of yet, but that will make Fido or Fifi feel like the royalty you know they are. 

Extraordinary Sleep Options

Just like you, your pets feel better when they sleep well so why not give them a decadent bed? Your cat sleeps for around 15 hours per day (and sometimes as much as 20!) so the right bed is essential. Whether you opt for a doughnut-shaped one or a bed that you can hang from a radiator, make sure you choose one that can be washed easily.

At 12 to 14 hours, dogs may sleep a little less than cats, but they deserve to be just as comfortable. Do your research so you’ll know which bed is best for your pup. For example, large or senior dogs may appreciate an orthopedic bed. On the other hand, you could get your smaller dog a self-warming bed, since as AireServ explains, smaller canines tend to be more vulnerable to the cold. 

Finding the best bed that your Maltipoo will love can be difficult. Check out this article from The Pet Daily to help make your decision a little bit easier.

Their Own Place

According to the Humane Society of Macomb, pets need an area to call their own so they can feel comfortable. It gives them somewhere to go when they’re feeling irritable or sleepy. If you’re interested in going all the way with your pet’s personal space, why not aim for a cozy, customized place of their own? You can build a fancy dog house from scratch or buy it pre-made, the design can go much further than the ordinary. 

The same can be said for your feline friend. A catio might be just the ticket to allowing your kitty the opportunity to savor fresh air and sunshine and daydream about feathers without disrupting your backyard feeder.  

Travel in Style

Pets need to be out in the wide-open air but that doesn’t mean they have to walk all the way to the park. You can be out and about with your pet easily with a great stroller. While there may not be much difference between the stroller you get for a dog or cat, both animals can certainly appreciate the comfort and opportunity to be with you. 

You can DIY a pet stroller from a second-hand shop or through a website like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, just modify it to meet your pet’s needs. 

Providing your furry friend some wheels is a great way to get older or less mobile pets out and about with you. And if your pet gets irritable or skittish around crowds or unfamiliar environments, the right stroller will keep them calm, safe and out of trouble.

Excellent Vacations

Even though you’re keeping your pet in the lap of luxury at home, that doesn’t mean they don’t want a break from everyday life too. How about treating them to the kind of vacation they never thought possible. This means taking them to hotels that do more than just accommodate them. 

When you’re planning a trip with your dog, make sure to check out all your hotel options. In the best dog-friendly hotels, they cater to both of you as you’ll both sleep on the best beds and eat only the best foods. Here is a great article on where to find the best pet friendly ski resorts if you would like to take your pet on a ski trip.

When it comes to giving your pets a more luxurious life, there are options aplenty. Whether you want to give them a better bed or their own lux space, carry them out in style or book a vacation they’ll love, make sure you do your research. That way, you’ll get exactly what suits your and your furry friend’s needs.

Author: Aurora James

How Often Should I Walk My Puppy?

Having a puppy is a handful, and there’s lots of things that you need to know – especially when it comes to walking and exercising your puppy. In this article I’m not just going to tell you how often you need to walk your puppy, but also how long the walks should be depending on the age and breed of your puppy.

When can you start?

First of all, when can you start walking your puppy? You need to wait two weeks after your puppy’s final vaccination booster, which means your puppy would be around 16-18 weeks old.

This is to ensure that your puppy will be protected, because their developing immune systems make them more susceptible to viruses which they can catch from going outside (such as distemper and parvo).

While you’re waiting for your puppy to be able to go outside, you can help them get their needed exercise simply by playing with them, or there are puppy training/social classes. This is ideal if you only have one puppy, so that they can start socializing with other dogs as early as possible. Also on top of that I recommend dog training books which will give you even more useful tips on things like socializing your puppy.

How often and how long?

Now that you can walk your puppy, to figure out how often you should walk them you need to take some things into consideration: what is your puppy’s energy level, both mental and physical, and what breed of dog is your puppy.

Your puppy will need to be let outside many times throughout the day to use the bathroom, but you should be going out for short walks at least once or twice a day. Every puppy has different limits, perhaps you happen to have an extremely high-energy pup for example.

Now, let’s look more specifically at exactly how long you can walk your puppy depending on their age.

On average, you should walk your puppy at a ratio of five minutes per month of age. This means that at three months, you take them for a walk for 15 minutes a day. When your puppy is six months old, you can walk them for a total of 30 minutes a day. You can choose to split this into two or three walks, or do it all at once – again, remember, this depends on the individual puppy.

Australian shepherds need longer walks than pugs, and border collies need more mental stimulation than other dogs. Bigger dog breeds, such as St. Bernards and Great Danes, shouldn’t be taken on long walks until they’re at least eight months old, but they do need several short walks. This is because the bones and joints of larger breed puppies take longer to mature than those of smaller dog breeds.

Don’t overdo it

Be sure not to force your puppy to do too much exercise, because overexerting him or her could potentially damage their developing joints. Slow and steady walks are necessary to build strong muscles, so don’t rush your puppy either.

Letting your pup play with other puppies is fine, but you shouldn’t really let him run around with adult dogs, because he will try to keep up with them.

Also, you shouldn’t take your puppy running because that level of activity is just too much for them.

Never exercise your puppy on a full stomach after eating because this can cause bloating, and you need to make sure your puppy has the time to take plenty of naps throughout the day.

As you increase the amount of time you are on walks, make sure you do it gradually, and don’t go out for walks during the hottest or coldest parts of the day.

Consistency is really important, so if you take your 4-month-old puppy out for 20-minute walks, but you split it in half and take him for two 10-minute walks a day, keep this up and avoid changing routine.

AUTHOR: David Gray

David is a long time dog lover since he can ever remember, he runs his own blog over at Dog Desires where he shares tips and advice for everything imaginable about dogs.

How to Shower Your Pets With Gifts Without Breaking Your Budget

It can seem like pet-related gifts get more and more extravagant every year, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw your budget out the window. It’s still possible to find fun, affordable gifts your furry, feathered or finned friend will love. Here’s how to do it. 

Coupons Make for Doggie Delights

When you’re looking for the right gift for man’s best friend this season, consider getting a few choice toys to brighten his days. As Companion Animal Psychology notes, dogs love to play, and mixing up their toys is enriching to their mental well-being. There is everything from chew toys, squeakers, ropes, puzzles, and fun balls to toss in the backyard.

If your pooch gets chilly or you just love dressing Fido up, consider a few clothing or accessories instead. You can get your dog some snazzy shirts, jackets, and shoes without breaking the bank. Finally, if your dog’s bed has taken a beating or just doesn’t fit anymore, a nice, cozy bed might be just what you’re looking for.

Bear in mind that just because a gift has an expensive price point, it doesn’t mean you can’t get it. You can use coupons and promo codes to fit a higher-priced gift into your price range.

Ideas for Cats

As Vetstreet points out, cats are pretty good at entertaining themselves, but that doesn’t mean Fifi won’t enjoy getting a new toy now and then. Also on kitty’s wish list list are things like scratching posts and training toys. 

Of course you can use the same coupon options that apply to your pooch, and to stretch your funds, you can DIY some of your cat’s faves! Try a rope-covered scratching post, a sock toy, or a mouse from an upcycled shirt. And of course, there’s the classic cardboard box, which cats simply can’t seem to get enough of!

Best Gifts for Bunnies

Next on the list are more of your small, furry friends. Sometimes the simplest things are much appreciated by little guys. For instance, rabbits love everyday items like toilet paper tubes, towels, and crumpled paper bags. 

Want something a little snazzier? Online retailers like Bunny Supply Co. offer pretty much everything for your bunny, from cage mats and specialized toys to more frivolous and fun things, like sunglasses to make your rabbit look like the rock star you know he is, to a backpack with built-in window so he can be your adventurous sidekick. Best part - they have free shipping on the whole shebang!

Gifts for Other Pet Friends

If you have a less common pet, that doesn’t mean you can’t spoil them with new goodies. As an example, pet birds might appear to not have many options, but sometimes a cage upgrade could be just the ticket. Your winged friend might like having a different perch to sit on, a warm lamp for sunbathing, or a hanging toy to fiddle with. 

Where reptiles are concerned, you could be looking at toys and a new habitat, which Wide Open Pets explains you can DIY inexpensively from recycled materials. You can also give their housing a new look with some brand-new accessories. Check with stores like Petco for a great selection of things like hidey holes and greenery, and note they have free shipping at $49 to stretch your dollars. For other pets, you can do some research and even ask your pet’s veterinarian for recommendations. 

It doesn’t matter what kind of pet you have. You definitely love them enough to want to get them gifts they will enjoy. Remember to DIY some fun things and check online retail stores before you head out, since there are discounts and deals to be had. With prices safely under budget, you might be able to get your pet his own massive gift basket!

Photo courtesy Pixabay

Author: Cindy Aldridge

How to Keep Your Maltipoo Home Germ-Free and Clean for Less

Your furry family member can make life so much better. If your dog loves to make messes in your home, though, you may feel like you’re constantly dealing with stress and extra expenses. Thankfully, cleaning up after your pup doesn’t have to be so costly or time-consuming, especially when all you need to keep your dog-friendly home clean and your sanity in check are these budget-friendly cleaning tips that just about any pet parent can make work. 

Invest in a Monthly Deep Clean for Your Home  

Okay, so you may see the word “invest” and wonder how paying for a professional home cleaning can save you money? The truth, however, is that a one-time interior cleaning doesn’t have to be expensive. In Salt Lake City, most people pay between $115 and $253 to have the inside of their homes scrubbed from top to bottom. That sort of thorough cleaning can be really helpful for busy pet parents, who are always waging a war with pet hair and dander.

Now, if you own a low-shedding and hypoallergenic breed like a Maltipoo, Labradoodle, or any other poodle cross, you may not have as much fur and dander to deal with in your home. Still, if you’re always on the go, paying for maid services can save you stress and time, which can make the added expense worthwhile. Also, keep in mind that just because your Maltipoo doesn’t shed, it doesn’t mean that your pet can't track dirt and germs. Those adorable little paws are capable of bringing some serious bacteria into your home, including staph and salmonella, which can make you sick if you don’t have time to constantly clean your home. 

Keep Dogs Confined to Certain Areas of Your Home 

This one should be a no-brainer, but if you want to keep certain areas in your home spotless, you may need to keep them off-limits to your pets. One way to train your pup to avoid these “off-limit” areas of your home is to use training collars. These handy training tools can range in price and features, so be sure to check out online reviews so that you can find one that will work for your pup and your budget. Training collars can be especially useful for pet parents who don’t have a lot of time to spend training stubborn or younger dogs.

Another way to keep rooms in your home off-limits for pets is to install pet gates, which you can find for around $17 at pet-friendly retailers such as Chewy. This article has some great pet-gate options. For example, in addition to keeping pristine areas off-limits for your dog, you can also put gates up to protect your pup from common household dangers such as toxic plants. In addition to baby gates and training collars, teaching your dog some basic commands such as “leave it,” “stay,” and “off” is your best bet for protecting your furniture and home. 

Look for Savings When Re-Stocking Your Cleaning Supplies 

If this is your first dog, or you’re just looking for tips to keep your dog-friendly home cleaner, you should know that there are some basic cleaning tools that every dog owner needs to own. Actually, some of the tools on this list, such as throws, scratch-resistant furniture, and food covers, aren’t actually cleaning supplies, but they will help you keep your home clean of most dog messes and smells. When it comes to actual cleaning products for your home, just be sure to avoid these toxic products. Harmful ingredients like ammonia and bleach can linger on surfaces and cause issues for your pet, so opting for more natural ingredients is best for pets. Since many pet-safe cleaners are more expensive, you should also look to coupon sites for promo codes and special offers, and even earning potential when stocking up on supplies. 

Seriously, stop stressing out over keeping your home clean and your budget balanced! Because having a clean home can be simple if you use the tips above to save time and money. That way, you’ll have more time to spend with your Maltipoo, and more time to enjoy all of the benefits of having a furry family member to warm your heart. 

If you’d like to learn how to train your puppy at home, The Great Pets has a great article on how to train your puppy.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Author: Tyler Evans

How Much Does a Maltipoo Cost?

This Maltipoo Pricing Guide will help you in learning the costs of purchasing as well as continued costs of a Maltipoo. There are many factors to consider when looking for a maltipoo and the costs and value of these factors can vary. We’ll go through a few of the most common items to consider when looking for a Maltipoo Puppy.

• The initial purchase of a Maltipoo

• Things to watch out for when purchasing a Maltipoo

• The lifetime cost associated with raising Maltipoos

Cost of a Maltipoo

The cost of a Maltipoo can range anywhere from $600 - $4,000 depending on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a reputable breeder. There are also other factors to consider in price as well such as health guarantees, microchipping, and more.

Adopting a Maltipoo from a Rescue Shelter ~ $100 - $600

Maltipoos from rescue shelters can cost around $100 - $600. There is nothing wrong with wanting to adopt a pet from a rescue shelter. Pet’s often find their way to these shelters through no fault of their own and it is noble to want to rescue an animal and potentially save a life.

Many people consider adopting through a shelter but it is more rare to find a particular breed that you have in mind. Sometimes you have to wait months for the chance of a Maltipoo showing up at a shelter and you’ll often be on a waiting list. If you’re interested in adopting a Maltipoo from a shelter, the best chance is to call your local shelters and discuss with them the costs and chance of adopting.

Keep in mind, when adopting from a shelter there can be many unknowns, and for some that is completely okay. Not knowing where your maltipoo came from means not knowing the origins of the parents or knowing what conditions they lived in previously. Maltipoos are very affectionate breeds that need lots of love. If they come from an abandoned or abusive environment, it can be more challenging to build a trusting relationship with your Maltipoo and it can take more time to correct any less than ideal behaviors.

Cost of a Maltipoo from a Puppy Classifieds $1,000 - $4,000

Purchasing a Maltipoo from a puppy classifieds can cost anywhere from $1,000 - $4,000. When browsing websites like Craigslist, PuppyFind or PuppySpot you want to do your homework and not assume you’re covered by any breeding standards that a classifieds lists. It’s often hard for these classified sites to guarantee breeders meet a certain breeding standard. The risk of buying from a classifieds is not knowing the reputation of the breeder and their ethics in raising their puppies.

The range of risks in purchasing a Maltipoo puppy are likely the highest when purchasing from these classifieds. There are many stories of irresponsible breeders meeting people at a central location to sell puppies and when they finally purchase the puppy, they find out there are health problems or other issues and they have no way of contacting the breeder again for any resolution.

If you do find a puppy you’re in love with on one of these sites, there are a few things you want to consider like the living conditions, health guarantee, and breeding standards. We’ve put together a helpful article to guide on how to verify a breeder is not a scammer, which will help if you go this route.

A good rule of thumb, if you see a Maltipoo puppy placed below $1,000 it’s more likely to be a scam. If they want you to meet somewhere other than their home, it is often because they don’t want you to know where they live in case the puppy gets sick or something goes wrong.

Cost of a Maltipoo from a Reputable breeder $2,000 to $4,000

Purchasing a Maltipoo from a breeders website is where the price can really range from $2,000 to $4,000. Our available maltipoo puppies are on the higher end at $4,000 but our breeding standards are bar-none. Our puppies come with an amazing 10 - year health guarantee that far surpasses the typical 6-month health guarantee, or the less common 2-year guarantee some breeders give. There can be many advantages to buying a puppy from a breeders website as opposed to a classifieds. A website can offer more information and transparency than a simple puppy listing. You can read more about a breeder and their history with Maltipoos and not just about the puppy itself and you can know exactly what kind of puppy you’re getting and the environment they’re being raised in.

Although purchasing from a breeder’s website can make you feel more confident about the quality of puppy you are buying, it’s also easy for a breeder to tell you what you want to hear and make you feel confident in your purchase. The truth is you can still get caught up with the same risks as purchasing from a classified site but the risks are far less likely and are reduced greatly when doing your homework which we’ll guide you through below.

What to look for when purchasing a Maltipoo Puppy

Now that we went over a few places you can find a Maltipoo, here is a list of things you should watch out for when considering your options:

• The more information the better - Don’t just get caught up in the emotions of puppy pictures. When checking out a classified listing or a breeders listing on their site, look out for the details they offer in the listing.

• Make sure the Maltipoo comes from a loving home - If a breeder is local, you want to ask if you can visit and see the living and whelping conditions in their home. If they are not local, ask if you can meet them and the puppies via facetime or another real time video solution. Those that are not comfortable with you in their home or initiating a video chat, likely means they have something to hide.

• DO NOT meet anyone in a public place to look at their puppies - There are many stories of irresponsible breeders meeting people at a central location to sell puppies and when they finally purchase the puppy, they find out there are health problems or other issues and they have no way of contacting the breeder again for any resolution.

• Review all pictures on the site - Many breeders will showcase dozens of puppy pictures on their site and some sketchy breeders can easily take photos from other places and showcase them as their own. Look for some consistency in the images and see whether they’re all taken in a similar environment. You can also look on their instagram pages or other social sites to see what kind of images they are sharing there as well as what others are saying.

• Maltipoo Health Guaranty - You want to make sure the breeder has a clear and easy to understand health guaranty such as our 10 year health guarantee.

• Look for videos - When breeders showcase videos on their website or classifieds, it’s much harder to falsify a video than images and there’s a lot more you can learn about a breeder. A video that includes puppies and the breeder can help you become acquainted with a breeder and see the relationship between a breeder and their Maltipoos. You also have an easier time seeing the nature of the maltipoos.

• Look for a breeder with training programs - Now it’s rare for breeders to also offer puppy obedience training and I wouldn’t consider it a requirement when looking for a puppy but more of a bonus. You may or may not be interested in including your Maltipoo in puppy obedience training but finding a breeder that does offer training tells you they have a lot of experience with these breeds and are dedicated to the relationship they have with their Maltipoos.

Recurring Costs of a Maltipoo ~ $1,000 per year

Aside from the one-time expenses, there are also recurring costs associated with the care of your Maltipoo. Some of these include supplies, food, toys, and healthcare. Let’s go over some of these in more detail:

Food for your Maltipoo ~ $200 to $400 per year

Maltipoos are small which is great for the cost of food but you’ll want to make sure you get healthy dog food to support the energy level and lifespan of your Maltipoo.

We buy Purina Pro-Plan for our Maltipoos which is around $25 on amazon. One 5 lb bag can generally last 2 months per dog. But the cost variance can depend on other brands of dog food and the size and eating schedule of your dog. Purina Pro-Plan has an option for puppy food which helps with bone and body growth and adult dog food when they get 6 months old and up.

• Puppy Food - Toy Breed Dry Puppy Food

• Adult Food - Toy Breed Dog Food

Toys for your Maltipoo ~ $50 per year

The Maltipoo is much more comfortable as an indoor dog so outdoor toys are not mandatory. But to save them from boredom, you’ll want a few chew toys and dog balls on hand. These toys need to be replaced over time depending on how aggresive your maltipoo is with them. We have a few suggestions on Toys for your Maltipoos if you’re interested in what our Maltipoos love!

Maltipoo Care ~ $600 per year

Your Maltipoos wellbeing is very important and this not only includes the food they eat and their exercise but also making sure they have regular vet checks and vaccinations. Now Maltipoo healthcare varies considerably and can be the highest driving cost of your Maltipoo but there are things you can do to help prevent any illnesses or diseases from arising in your Maltipoos life. Let’s break some of these down.

• Spay/neuter service ~$200 one time - This service can be much less expensive for maltipoos since the charge typically depends on the dogs weight. The cost can be around $200

• Vaccinations ~ $50 per year - Some vaccines you can give to your Maltipoo yourself or you can take them to a Vet. In the first year of your puppies life they’ll have more vaccinations so the first year will cost more but it gets reasonably less expensive each year.

• Maltipoo Dental Care $100 to $300 per year - Dental care is an important part of your Maltipoos health because poor teeth can lead to more serious health problems. Some veterinary clinics offer dental cleaning and polishing for around $100 - $300 depending on the service you’d like.

• Maltipoo Grooming ~ $360 per year - Because the Maltipoos coat is low to non shedding, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy and groomed coat. Groomers are usually between $30 - $60 for each groom and it’s ideal to have your maltipoo groomed every 30 - 60 days.

Although it’s very rare, your Maltipoo could have the risk of a number of hereditary problems that could drive the cost in your Maltipoos health care considerably. Some of the possible health problems are Epilepsy, Pancreatitis, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, White Shaker Syndrome, Cryptorchidism, and Hypoglycemia. These shouldn’t stop you from getting a Maltipoo as every single breed or mixed breed has their own risks of health problems, but they’re important to look out for and make sure you have proper screening processes in place.

How to Calm a Hyper Maltipoo

Having a pet Maltipoo puppy means that you most likely have a hyper and active dog. Does it ever stop? You may be surprised to know that Maltipoos are one of the calmest breeds of smaller dogs. But just like most dogs, they have their days, and mostly when they are younger. So how do you calm a Maltipoo when it's hyper? We’ve put together some categories to consider when your maltipoo is hyper and how to deal with the energy.

Your Maltipoo is Growing Up

When a Maltipoo is first beginning to learn how to bark, walk and run, it is super exciting, and they love it. Running around and barking is one of their favorite things. They love to have fun and enjoy life. But fear not it does go away after age. Once a dog starts into it's growing up phase, it starts to fade slowly. Less noise and running around and more cuddles and laying down. However, it may not ever stop entirely.

Training Your Maltipoo

Yay! The best is yet to come. Maltipoos are super knowledgable and usually easy to train. With determination and patience, you can get your Maltipoo trained in no time. You can teach them how to sit stand and even to take a nap. 

Training your Maltipoo will help direct their energy into learning and obedience. Engaging your puppy in training can also be a fun way to spend time connecting and building trust between each other.

Playing with Your Maltipoo Outside

If your Maltipoo is hyper and you don't know what to do, try taking them outside for some fun. Unlike indoors, outside tends to be a lot more spacious for playing and running around. It is a great way for your puppy to get tired and need to rest when they have a variety of things they can do. 

Exercising Your Maltipoo

Every dog needs exercise, whether they are big, small, or even fluffy. If you need to find toys or exercise equipment that your dog can play with, we have a few toy recommendations for your Maltipoo. Being hyper and energetic is what they are made for. If you can keep them entertained with exercise, they will start getting tired and want to relax.

Keeping a Peaceful Home

The feeling in the home tends to be the main thing that can make your dog hyper or calm. If you naturally have a quiet, peaceful home, your Maltipoo will usually be compatible with it. But if you have a rough more hyper unorganized home your Maltipoos can often be consistent with that as well. If a dog feels unsafe or as if there is an uneasy feeling toward its territory or property that could cause the dog to be hyper too. Make sure your Maltipoo feels safe around its area of food or space. Do not walk around or by its bowl during mealtime or while there is food inside it. A Maltipoo's toys are unique to them so unless you are playing a game with them or you are helping them get their toy don't touch it or take it from them. It could cause hyper behavior from feeling betrayed or at harm. 

Getting Your Maltipoo Familiar with Their Environment

When your Maltipoo is young, they are still getting used to the way of life. New noises such as a washing machine, a vacuum, or even the television might make them hyper seeing as they are not used to that sort of life yet. Other things like having new pets in the home such as a dog, cat, or another type of animal may be causing your Maltipoo to feel less attention or love and could cause them to be more hyperactive. 

Helping Your Maltipoo Release Energy

If your dog doesn't have enough space or area to move around in that may cause it to be hyper. Maltipoos need a healthy way to release energy and exercise. Not allowing them the chance to have the right amount or type of activity decreases their happiness. It may even cause them to be hyper or loud to make up for their loss of current time. 

Giving Your Maltipoo the Proper Attention

If you give your Maltipoo too much attention and are only giving them active time when they are with you, they might start to cling to you, and they will start to need you with them to have fun, causing them to be hyper and loud in order to get your attention.

Thank you for reading this article. If you are interested in adopting a Maltipoo from us, you can visit our adopt page or contact us online. We have the best selection of Maltipoo puppies and offer to train your puppy before they join your family.

Is Your Maltipoo Getting Enough Sleep?

Maltipoos, like most dogs, take a lot of naps throughout the day. Sometimes they will sleep up to 14 hours a day, including their naps. If you are having trouble with your Maltipoo getting sleep at night, there may be things in their routine that are causing this. Maltipoos are great lovable puppies and aren't usually hard to handle. If your Maltipoo is not getting the sleep it needs, we can help! I’ve listed some reasons that may be causing your Maltipoo to lose sleep and what you can do to help them.

Not enough exercise

If your Maltipoo seems to be sleeping a lot during the day and is only having trouble during the night, it may be because they need more exercise throughout the day. Activities such as running around the house or chasing a toy doesn't count as exercise. They need to go on a walk or be able to get some real exercise outside of the house. If this is the reason your Maltipoo is losing sleep, you will notice some boredom or more naps throughout the day. To fix this you may need to get some equipment that can keep them moving around or you can take them on a walk at least once a day. 

Sickness

If your Maltipoo is acting more tired than usual and is taking naps about one hour apart, your Maltipoo may be sick and could even have hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is a sickness that is most common in dogs before the age of 6 months. To ensure that your puppy does not have this type of illness, rub some maple syrup on their gums. There may also be other types of illnesses causing your puppy to be tired more often. To test this out, you may need to take your Maltipoo’s temperature and try playing some games with it. If your Maltipoo doesn't come when you call and continues to lay down try giving them a treat or holding their favorite toy when you call them. If they continue to stay where they are at and look tired that could be a sign you need to take them to the vet. 

Age

Once a Maltipoo starts to get older it gets tired more easily and will take more naps throughout the day. This shouldn't be a cause for concern unless the Maltipoo is whining or having a hard time sleeping at night. 

Medication

If you've put your Maltipoo on another type of medication and they are getting sleepy more frequently, it is probably just the medication but should be looked at right away. Check with your veterinarian to see if it is a common side effect or if they should be taking a smaller dosage.

Things that can help your Maltipoo stay asleep at night

Having a personal room or area 

When you are off to work during the day that leaves your Maltipoo without a friend or playmate. This may cause them to fall asleep more when you are gone and then have less sleep during the night. To fix this, you can have a separate room for them to play in with extra toys and equipment. Also, having a buddy or another pet to play with during the day could help keep your Maltipoo entertained and get more sleep during the night. 

Having a Schedule

When you are home, it is always better to keep to a schedule with your Maltipoo. This way, they are in a routine and can stay asleep better at night. Having a plan can even keep them asleep all night unless they need to get up to use the bathroom. Here are a few things you should include in your schedule:

• Grooming

• Walking

• Play Time

• Nap Time

• Training 

• Family Time 

• Sleep Time

Thank you for reading this article, "How much Sleep Should Your Maltipoo Get?" If you are interested in adopting a Maltipoo puppy, you can visit our Available Puppies page or contact us online. At My Doodle Maltipoos it is our goal to breed the best and healthiest Maltipoos. You also have the option to have us train your puppy before they are welcomed into their new home. Have an amazing day! 

Hypoglycemia in Maltipoo Puppies

Most people have not heard of puppies getting hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is not very common, but does occasionally happen. It is more common in the toy and teacup breeds. That is why it is a good idea to keep a close eye on your new puppy until he/she matures and watch for signs of hypoglycemia.

What is Hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is a potentially life-threatening situation for a Maltipoo. It occurs when your Maltipoo’s blood sugar (glucose), its main source of energy, drop below normal levels. His ability to function will decline and will result in loss of energy. In severe cases, your Maltipoo can lose consciousness or even die.

How does this happen?

Small puppies younger than 16 weeks old have a smaller liver and muscle mass (decreased glycogen stores) and a larger brain (increased glucose utilization) in proportion to their body size. The brain uses a lot of energy, depleting the stored glucose faster than it can refill. It is very important to keep a close watch on your puppy and make sure he/she is getting enough to eat and drink.

Sometimes if a puppy leaves its mother too early, it can cause separation anxiety, which in turn can cause the puppy to become distressed and stop eating. Always make sure your puppy has had enough time to be properly weaned from its mother before you take it home to a new environment.

Signs of Hypoglycemia

Sign to watch for are:

• seizures

• hypothermia

• depression

• lethargy

• confusion

• incoordination

• weakness

• trembling

• lack of appetite

• unusual behavior

Common causes of hypoglycemia include poor nutrition, infections, intestinal disturbances, prolonged fasting and vaccination.

Treatment

If you think your Maltipoo may have hypoglycemia, you can help to increase his blood sugar by rubbing a small amount of Karo syrup on his gums. You must be careful not to give him too much or get it in the back of the throat, as this can cause aspiration or obstruction of the air way. If he/she does not start acting a little bit more normal after about 5 minutes, it is very important to get your puppy to the veterinarian as quickly as possible.

Prevention

The key in preventing hypoglycemia is by ensuring that your Maltipoo is consuming frequent meals and staying warm.

When to Vaccinate Your Maltipoo Puppy

Vaccines are needed to protect dogs and puppies from becoming infected by diseases and viruses, such as parvovirus. Be sure to follow a good vaccination schedule. Too many vaccines at the same time or too close together is fatal!

See the bottom of this article for the Maltipoo Puppy Vaccine Schedule

How Does a Vaccine Work?

A vaccine is a way to improve the bodies immunity to a particular disease. It usually consists of an agent that is similar to a specific disease. The only difference being that it is severely weakened. The vaccine is injected into the puppy’s body, and his immune system is activated. The immune system will look for the weakened disease, and once it finds it, the puppy's body will destroy it. After it successfully destroys it, the immune system will start preparing for future encounters. The puppy's body prepares by creating memories of the disease it killed for all the white blood cells to study. The white blood cells get better at fighting against that particular disease. So if the body were to ever become infected again by that disease, the white blood cells will be called upon. Remembering their training and studies, the white blood cells will use their knowledge and effortlessly destroy the disease.

Dangers of Multiple, Simultaneous Vaccines

Extreme caution must be practiced when administering vaccinations to small puppies. There are a few irresponsible breeders, and even more surprising, veterinarians, who give puppies multiple vaccines simultaneously without worrying about consequences. They may figure that the disease contained within these vaccinations are so weak, a puppy should be able to handle plenty of them at the same time, right? That is not true. It's very dangerous and life threatening!

The diseases are in a weakened state, but the body's immune system must respond to each of the individual threats. Introducing several threats at the same time confuses the puppy's immune system, hindering its ability to keep up with the huge demand for help.

As the puppy's body struggles to handle the massive invasion, supression of the immune system becomes possible. Suppressed immune systems are not able to create the appropriate antibodies against the vaccines. This creates a severely weakened puppy that needs time to recover. During the recovery period, the puppy is extra vulnerable to attacks from real diseases! It's these secondary infections that can be deadly.

Age of Puppy is Important

The age of a puppy is the key factor in determining when you should give a vaccine. My Maltipoo puppies get their first vaccine at 6 weeks of age.

At the end of the day, providing vaccines to dogs or puppies is something that requires careful planning. The puppy needs to be old enough, and the body mature enough, to defend itself from the vaccines. Time is also necessary between vaccinations, as it ensures the antibodies have time to be formed.

A Warning Against Certain Veterinarians

You are now aware of the dangers multiple vaccinations can pose to a dog or puppy, so it's time you protect them. When you take your dog to a veterinarian, keep careful watch on what's happening. Sometimes, a veterinarian may try to give a Rabies shot along with the booster shots; a combination like that could be very fatal for your puppy.

Also, check to see if your veterinarian attempts to give your adult dogs a Corona shot. Corona is a disease only found in puppies so giving it to an adult dog is pointless. This won't stop them from trying though, because they may not know this fact. Additionally, watching for this mistake is a great way to know how knowledgable your vet is in his field of expertise.

What Is Parvovirus?

Parvovirus is one of the deadliest diseases a puppy can become infected with. It's known as Canine parvovirus, or parvo. It's highly contagious, allowing it to spread from puppy to puppy very easily. It is so easily spread that when a dog with Parvo poops at a park and another Parvo-free dog smells it, they will soon show sign of it.

If you have a sick puppy and are curious if it may be this virus at work, check for the following symptoms

1. Lethargy

2. vomiting

3. fever

4. diarrhea (usually bloody)

The first signs of parvo is lethargy, or a lack of energy. This is followed by a loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.

A dog's chance of surviving parvo is dependant on their age and how quickly they were diagnosed. If you suspect your puppy has parvo, then rush them to a veterinarian.

Maltipoo Puppy Vaccine Schedule

6 - 8 weeks:

• Distemper, parainfluenza

• (optional) Bordetella

10 — 12 weeks:

• DHPP (vaccines for distemper, adenovirus [hepatitis], parainfluenza, and parvovirus)

• (optional) Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease

12 — 24 weeks:

• Rabies

14 — 16 weeks:

• DHPP

• (optional) Coronavirus, Lyme disease, Leptospirosis

12 — 16 months:

• Rabies, DHPP

• (optional) Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease

Every 1 — 2 years:

• DHPP

• (optional) Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease

Every 1 — 3 years:

• Rabies (as required by law - see why)

Maltese vs. Maltipoo

How does a Maltipoo Compare to a Maltese?

Let’s start with the obvious. The Maltese is a purebred dog and the Maltipoo is a hybrid dog. In order for a dog to be considered 'purebred' he must be a descendant of known purebreds of the same breed. Most purebred dogs are registered with a kennel club, but it is not required. The clubs were created to keep a guideline that dictates the expected size of the dog, coloring, ear set, tail set etc.. This helps keep a consistent appearance within the breed.

The Maltese has been around for about 2,800 years and has had the same appearance for most of that time. We know this from the Ancient Greek ceramic artwork.

The Maltipoo is a crossbreed and has no history and no consistency of size, coat, color or temperament. This should not prevent you from falling in love with the Maltipoo. They are generally very smart, friendly dogs that love to cuddle. The Maltipoo lifespan also tends to be long because of their smaller size.

Face Shape Comparison

You will find that most Maltipoos have a muzzle similar to the Maltese.

• Poodles have long, narrow snouts.

• Maltese have moderate snouts. The skull is 'slightly rounded' and ears are drop ears (they hang by the side of the face) and set low (the base is on the side of the head, not on top).

Since many Maltipoo dogs have these same facial structures, it's easy to see the Maltese influence.

Differences in Coat

Maltipoos can inherit their coat type from either their Maltese parent or their Poodle parent. You might get a silky coat like the Maltese, a tightly curled and frizzled poodle coat or a coat that combines these traits.

Both the Maltese and Poodle are single coated breeds. However, the Maltese hair is usually soft and silky and can be wavy or straight depending on the length of the hair. The Poodle hair is dense, curly and somewhat water resistant.

Maltipoos, on the other hand, have both Maltese and Poodle genes affecting the coat. Many Maltipoo dogs have slight to moderately wavy hair; this is a result of more Maltese genes influencing the coat. The more curls, the more Poodle there is.

Differences in Color

Another huge difference between these two types of dogs is their coloring. Many people think that Maltese are only found in pure, solid white, but they can actually have a little bit of color too. Light tan or lemon may appear on the ears.

The Maltipoo can be found in a wide range of colors and markings. Any color that is found on a Poodle can appear on a Maltipoo. However, in most cases the white of the Maltese will water down or lighten the coloring.

This coat makes them different from the Maltese, which has one type of coat - long, silky coat and generally one color - white.

Size Differences

Both Maltese and Maltipoo dogs are considered to be toy size. The Maltese is officially a toy sized dog with a weight of 4 -7 lbs. The size of a Maltipoo depends on the size of the Poodle parent. It can either come from a Toy sized Poodle (4 to 10 lbs.) or a mini (15 to 17 lbs.)

The majority of Maltipoo will be slightly larger than Maltese dogs because it can come from either a toy or mini size poodle.

In regard to height, which is measured from the top of the shoulder blades to the floor, both Maltese and Maltipoo have a starting range of 8 inches.

Maltese can be as tall as 10 inches and Maltipoos may sometimes be as tall as 14 inches.

So, on average, a Maltipoo may be slightly larger than a Maltese in both weight and height. However, it is still considered to be a small lap dog.

Personality

Each dog has his or her own unique personality. How a dog is raised plays a huge role in his behavior and general disposition.

The Maltese is charming, gentle and playful. With the Maltipoo, we must look at the other gene influence: the Poodle. The poodle is a smart and very proud dog. Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. It places 2nd in the Intelligence of Dogs, a book published in 1994 and still serving as the main reference for the intelligence of canines. The Maltese places 59 out of 79.

Most Maltipoos are very friendly, outgoing and personable dogs with high loyalty to owners and a good record of being obedient. Puppies of both breeds are outgoing and energetic, often calming down as they reach the 12 to 18 month old range. Adult Maltese dogs tend to be rather mellow and calm and some Maltipoos can be a bit more active and outgoing.

Both typically get along very well with children and other dogs, yet may be a bit wary of strangers. Due to their strong bonding capabilities, both Maltese and Maltipoo dogs can have some separation anxiety issues when left home alone.

Summary

The Maltese and Maltipoo are very similar in most ways. Although, the Maltipoo definitely gets some things, like its energy and zest for life, from its Poodle parent.

If you are interested in a Maltipoo puppy, you can take a look at some of our Maltipoo Puppies that are available to adopt.

Maltipoo Safety Tips

All Maltipoo parents want what’s best for their puppies, but have you ever stopped to think about whether there were more precautions you could be taking to keep them safe? I have listed a few things you can do to make sure your Maltipoo is well taken care of and safe.

#1 - Puppy Proof Your House

There are many dangers just in your home for a new puppy that is curious about the world around him especially when leaving your dog alone in the house. But this tip is not just for puppies. Adult dogs have often swallowed items such as coins, batteries, candy, jewelry and pieces of children’s toys. This has led to choking emergencies and surgeries. Here’s what you can do to prevent injuries to your Maltipoo:

Be Aware of Poisonous Plants

Puppies like to chew on everything so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with which plants are poisonous. You can find a general list here: Poisonous Plants for Dogs.

Tie up, Cover, or Remove Electrical Cords

Puppies often chew on electrical cords, and this can result in severe burns or death from electrical shock. You can secure them together up high or cover them with something like these Petcords.

Know Which Human Foods Are Toxic to Dogs

There are many foods that are fine for humans to eat but cause illness or even toxicity in dogs. Follow this link to learn which foods are toxic to dogs.

Always Supervise Interactions with Kids and Other Pets

Children don't always know the right way to handle puppies and may inadvertently hurt yours. Alternatively, a puppy may scratch or bite a child, resulting in injury. Other pets in the home might not take to your new puppy immediately, and cats and older dogs could hurt the puppy either purposely or by accident.

Secure Garbage Cans and Cleaning Supplies

Dogs have excellent noses and may try to get any leftovers in the garbage can, which can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. Many cleaning supplies are toxic to dogs. If they get it on their paws they might lick their paws to clean it off and be poisoned. Be sure to use child safety locks on any cupboard containing cleaning supplies.

#2 - Don’t Leave Your Maltipoo Outside Alone

It may save you time to let your dog outside on their own and maybe they don’t mind being out their alone, but even if your yard is fenced in, there are many dangers still. Secure open water sources and chemicals. If you are in an unfenced area with your puppy, keep him on a leash so he doesn't inadvertently escape, get hit by a car, or get into other trouble.

#3 - Use a Harness Instead of a Collar

Toy and small breeds are prone to collapsed trachea (the rings of cartilage that surround the windpipe collapse inward). Harnesses distribute pressure over a dog’s back, shoulders, and chest instead of placing it all on the neck like a collar would do. If you need a harness, this vest harness is a great option!

#4 - Buckle Your Maltipoo Up in the Car

The car is a very dangerous place for you Maltipoo if it is not buckled up. If you have to stop suddenly and your Maltipoo is just sitting on the seat or in your lap, he can get seriously injured. if you are going 30 mph and have a Maltipoo that weighs 10 pounds, he will be thrown with the force of a 300 pound object. Even if you are just going a short distance, it’s a good idea for you Maltipoo to be buckled. Most vehicle accidents happen within 5 miles of your home.

#5 - Protect Your Maltipoo’s Paws

Poor paw pad health can lead to issues with traction and mobility. Paws can become dried out and irritated from things like hot cement, ice, small gravel and sand. In the winter time, snow can become wedged in between the toes and stretch the delicate skin. So be sure to test the ground yourself before you make your Maltipoo take a walk on it. If it is too hot or cold for you, it’s too hot or cold for your Maltipoo. You should also check your Maltipoo’s paws routinely for cuts, burns, slivers and other damage.

How to Properly Feed Your Maltipoo

When considering a healthy diet for your maltipoo, it’s important to think about how often you feed them, what types of food is best, what times are best, and what foods to avoid in your maltipoos diet. This article will go through the puppy stages from 2 months on and help you understand the type of diet they need as they grow into adulthood.

How Often should you feed your maltipoo?

2-3 Month old puppies 

When you first bring your puppy home for the first month or so, it’s recommended to have dog food available to them at all times. This is important during their early stages of growth. 

3-12 months

During the puppies first year, they should be eating at least 3 times per day. You can also provide treats in between but I would recommend reserving treats as rewards during house training and obedience training as this is the perfect time for them to learn.

After 1 year

It is recommended to feed your maltipoo at least 2 meals per day. As they are a smaller breed, they may not do so well with just one large meal. Again, treats could be offered in between meals as positive reinforcement during training.

How much should I feed my maltipoo?

Although the answer to the question depends on the type of dog food, whether it’s wet or dry, the activity level or your maltipoo, and so-on, we have a few guidelines you can follow to start off with, and then I would change it based on the needs of your dog and ingredients of your dog food.

• 2 to 4 lbs - Feed 1/3 to 1/2 cups per day

• 5 to 8 lbs - Feed 1/2 to 3/4 cups per day

• 8 to 10 lbs - Feed 1/2 to 3/4 cups per day

• 10 to 12 lbs - Feed 3/4 to 1 cup per day

• 13 to 16 lbs - 1 to 1 1/4 cups per day.

You may also find recommended portions on certain brand dog foods so I would read the labels and keep their recommended portions in mind as well.

Should I feed my maltipoo Wet or Dry Dog Food?

The answer to this question might differ for each dog so here are a few things to keep in mind.

Dry dog food can play a big part in keeping your dogs teeth strong and healthy but wet dog food mighty be better received by your maltipoo. Our Maltipoos eat the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Oatmeal.

If your maltipoo’s diet consists of mainly wet food, they may be at risk of having loose or runny bowels so we recommend trying dry dog food at first.

If your maltipoo isn’t very receptive to the dry dog food, you can always try adding a little bit of water just to soften the food or mix in a little bit of soft dog food.

Foods that are unhealthy or poisonous for maltipoos

There are certain ingredients that may be very healthy for humans but are poisonous or unhealthy for dogs, so it’s very important to be mindful of this list and make sure your maltipoo avoid these ingredients.

• grapes and raisins - These can be poisonous to dogs even in small doses.

• Chocolate - All chocolate is toxic to dogs.

• Salt - Although small doses are okay, a large quantity could cause kidney issues.

• Onions - Onions can be harmful to your dogs red blood cells which is one reason why it’s not good to feed your dog table scraps.

• Coffee, tea, soda - These drinks can give your dog seizures and comas and can be life threatening.

• Fruit seeds and pits - While dogs may enjoy certain fruits, if they were to eat certain seeds or pits, it could cause some medical issues that could potentially be fatal.

I hope this has helped you decide what and how often to feed your furry friend. Remember, a good feeding schedule is important to the health and happiness of your maltipoo.

If you are interested in adopting a Maltipoo, you can visit our Maltipoo Puppies for sale page to learn more and get on our waitlist.

Maltipoo Lifespan

Although the average lifespan of all dogs is about 10 - 13 years. Smaller dogs, such as the Maltipoo tend to have a bit longer of a life of 12 to 16 years.

You may also find it interesting that female dogs generally live longer than males by about 1 to 1 1/2 years.

Some also speculate that mixed breeds such as the Maltipoo might live longer than purebreds but we have found no conclusive studies to back this up.

There have been some studies that have shown that some health issues show up less in cross-breeds; but not all.

The Leading Cause of Death in Maltipoos

Although we don’t have enough information to determine the leading cause of death in maltipoos, we can estimate this a few ways. First let’s look at the common causes of death in mixed-breeds which are Musculoskeletal disease, Cancer, and trauma.

We can also look at the Poodle and Maltese causes. The Leading cause of death in the toy poodle are Neurological, Trauma, and Cancer. For the Maltese it’s Cardiovascular, Congenital, and Cancer.

How can I Help My Maltipoo Live a Long and Healthy Life?

There are things we can include in our maltipoo puppies life to help increase their life and make them healthier and more active overall. A few of these things include:

Spaying or Neutering

You might think you would spay or neuter your puppy to prevent unwanted litters but doing this can also reduce or eliminate some specific health risks including certain cancers.

Feeding Your Maltipoo a Healthy Diet

Diet plays a huge part in your maltipoos health. Making sure your maltipoo avoids certain foods and ensuring her dog food has the most healthy ingredients, will help her live a long and healthy life.

Keeping a Safe Environment for your Maltipoo

It’s important to consider the environment around a maltipoo is safe. They are small and some things a larger dog might be able to cope with, a Maltipoo may not.

Keeping your maltipoo primarily indoors is almost a certainty. They are not able to handle extreme temperatures and don’t do well outside. When your maltipoo is outside, a fenced yard is recommended. They can get very curious and wander off in dangerous areas.

Watch your step around Maltipoos. This is also especially important with small children in the home. Maltipoos might be very active and agile, but they are still small dogs and accidentally stepping, sitting, or falling on them can cause major injuries or death whereas a larger dog may be okay.

Keep your maltipoo on a leash when walking her will also ensure she is safely by your side and away from the harm of oncoming traffic or other potential dangers.

Stay Current on Vet visits

When you get your new puppy, it’s important to get their needed initial shots. they should come with their first shots already but there are some following shots such as Rabies shot that come a few weeks after.

It’s a good idea to visit the vet once per year for a checkup so you can catch any potential issues early on.

Read my article on When to Vaccinate Your Maltipoo Puppy for a schedule of recommended vet visits.

Recommended Supplies for your New Maltipoo Puppy

Before bringing your maltipoo puppy home, you’ll want to make sure you’re equipped to make his or her stay with you as pleasant as possible. We’ve put together a few recommendations from our experience.

Dog Crate

Before bringing your new Maltipoo puppy home, you will need to decide where he/she will sleep. Most dogs don’t like to feel exposed and prefer cave-like spaces, so be sure to select something that will be just bigger than your dog that they can feel safe in. Here is a great kennel we recommend

Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Carrier

The Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Carrier is durablle, lightweight, easy to assemble and has up to 10 lb capacity which is perfect for smaller maltipoos. It’s very easy to clean and simple to access.

MidWest ICrate 30 Inch Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate w/ Divider Panel

iCrate double-door dog crates by MidWest Homes for Pets are the Inclusive Home Training System designed completely around the safety, security, and comfort of your dog.

BinetGo Donut Dog Bed

Our Maltipoos like to sleep in the crate at night because that is where they feel safe. We also have a nice soft bed similar to this one that they sleep in during the day.

Snuggle Puppy

You may also want to get a Snuggle Puppy for your new puppy to cuddle with in the crate. It mimics the mother’s or littermate’s heartbeat to help your puppy feel safe.

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Food & Water Bowls

You will need something for your Maltipoo to eat and drink out of. This food & water bowl would be a great size for any Maltipoo.

Vivaglory Dog Bowls Stainless Steel Water and Food Feeder
This bowl is 100% food safe and eco-friendly, has a spill and skid proof design, is perfect size for the maltipoo, and easy to clean.

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Food & Treats

Food is one of the most important things to have when getting a new puppy. There are many different kinds of dog food to choose from. Most breeders will send a small bag of food home with you to help them transition to whichever food you have decided to feed them.

Be sure to choose a healthy dog food for your new Maltipoo. Look for food that has meat and meat meal as the first ingredients. Also look for the AAFCO certification to make sure it meets the basic requirements for vitamins and trace minerals that dogs need. Never buy any dog food that contains corn or soy.

Treats are very useful when training your Maltipoo whether it is potty training, kennel training, or simply learning some new tricks. I have found that my Maltipoos really love to learn when I have these treats made by Blue Buffalo:

Small & Medium Breed Puppy Food

Small & Medium Breed Puppy Food is formulated with select ingredients to help your puppy grow and thrive. With Life’s Abundance, you can be confident that you’re feeding advanced nutrition to help your puppy achieve and maintain optimal health.

Blue Pack of 4 Buffalo Treats Bits Dog Treats Pouches

These moist dog treats come with 4 flavors and is made with real meat. This is a healthy treat made without chicken or poultry by-products and does not contain corn, soy, or wheat.

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Supplements

NuVet Labs

NuVet Labs has been making the finest nutritional supplements since 1997. Their mission is to provide your pet with products that are completely safe, nutrient-rich and formulated to strengthen the immune system and give your pet many healthy years of life.

We have recently started using NuVet Labs’ supplements for our dogs to keep them healthy as they have puppies. We also start all of our puppies on these supplements once they are weaned from their mother’s milk.

Use code: 591017 when placing your order

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Collar/Harness & Leash

Make sure you have a good collar and leash so you can take your Maltipoo on some nice walks.

Barleygoo Bow Tie Dog Collar with Leash

This collar and leash set has soft nylon fabric and includes a easy to use snap and plastic buckles. The leash is perfect for walking, hiking, and training and works well with smaller maltipoos.

Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness

COMFORTABLY WALK YOUR PET NO MATTER THE WEATHER. Our Step-in Air All-Weather harness is designed to ensure that regardless of the conditions outside, youll still manage to take your pet on those walks that get their tail wagging like crazy.

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Booster Seat

Pet Car Booster Seat

It is a good idea to have a booster seat for your Maltipoo to sit in while in the car. It is much safer for them than sitting directly on the car’s passenger seats.

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Toys

Toys are a must have for your new Maltipoo, especially chew toys. They will keep him/her busy so they don’t start chewing on furniture, shoes, carpet etc. Refer to my article ‘Best Toys for Your Maltipoo’ for help in selecting the right toys for your Maltipoo.

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Grooming Brush

Glendan Dog Brush Brush- Slicker Pet Grooming Brush- Shedding Grooming Tools

Doing massage for your pet is good for preventing skin disease and increasing blood circulation.and leaves your pets coat soft and shiny.

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Shampoo & Conditioner

Everyday Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Shampoo

Designed for long or short coated breeds to help the coat lay flat, this shampoo softens, detangles & cleans, featuring our signature warm floral jasmine & vanilla fragrance.

Everyday Isle of Dogs Silky Coating Dog Conditioner

This deep-penetrating conditioner gives noticeable softness, smoothness & manageability to the coat, featuring our signature warm floral jasmine & vanilla fragrance

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Stain & Odor Removing Cleaners

You will want to have some good cleaners that can remove any stains and odors from your Maltipoo’s urine, feces and vomit accidents.

Biodeodorizer Spray

Our specialized Viable Bacterial Cultures live to serve, and they’re hungry for odor-causing organic debris.

Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags

We've got dogs, and we know where your hands are going. We want them to stay safe, clean and poop-free which is why we guarantee our Earth Rated dog poop bags are 100% leak-proof, extra thick and strong!

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Training Handbook

The Puppy Training Handbook: How To Raise The Dog Of Your Dreams

A proven way to effectively and efficiently raise and train your dog.

Best Toys for your Maltipoo

Think of your Maltipoo's toys as being tools. Each should serve a specific purpose. Depending on the age of your dog, a dog toy will be: a comforting item, a chewing object to help with teething, a focus item to prevent boredom, a soothing sense of security when left home alone or a way for you and your Maltipoo to bond.

Teething toys

Teething is a difficult time for both puppy and owners. It brings about intense itching and a need to chew. If you have the right toys, it can be a lot easier to get through the teething phase. Having the right chew toys will help your Maltipoo concentrate on his own belongings and not chew on household items. 

For teething toys, you'll want one of an appropriate size, that is durable, and importantly is designed with soft nubs and/or a variety of textures. In this way, a puppy can maneuver the toy to the areas in his mouth that are itchy at any one particular time. 

Nylabone or Rope toys

Nylabones often work great, as do small rope toys. You may also find that offering ice cubes (plain or flavored) can help with the discomfort that comes along with teething.

DURABLE CHEW TOYS

All dogs like to chew, but to varying degrees; and chewing is not limited only to teething pups. Dogs of just about every age may like to work their jaws and occupy themselves by working on a toy.

The degree to which a Maltipoo is able to chew apart a toy will depend on his overall size, his individual jaw strength and the level of enthusiasm that he has with the toy. 

If you find that your Maltipoo is ripping apart his basic toys in a short amount of time, this often warrants choosing a few toys for aggressive chewers.

TOYS FOR BORED DOGS

Some toys that you'll want to get for the times that you aren’t home are some toys that entice a dog to play. The best method for this are toys that literally call out to a dog. 

Toys that let out funny noises or those that speak are incredibly useful. Also, treat-releasing toys are great for bored dogs. This can keep a dog busy for quite a while and can definitely remove the feeling of being alone when his owners are busy or not there.

Maltipoo Cleaning Tips

Image Credit: Well Pet Coach

There are many factors to consider when keeping your Maltipoos skin and coat healthy. Minimize your maltipoo coat problems by getting to know your maltipoos needs. You can follow these basic guidelines:

Bathing Your Maltipoo

Bathing your Maltipoo too often can strip away essential body oils. Daily baths is not practical or advised. It is advised to give your Maltipoo a bath once every 3 weeks. But what do you do if your Maltipoo gets dirty within those 3 weeks (which is highly likely)?
Fortunately, there are easy ways to keep a Maltipoo looking very clean and smelling nice in between baths. Many of the methods to keep a Maltipoo clean have added benefits that contribute to good health, so this is definitely a win-win.

• Keep the face clean with eye wipes when necessary. 

• Brush the coat on a regular basis. 

• Keep teeth clean with brushing, a spray, or a supplement powder and offer a dental treat once per day. 

Brushing Your Maltipoo

Thoroughly brushing the coat every 2 to 3 days will help keep your Maltipoo clean by removing dirt and debris. Brushing also frees the coat of dead hairs which is an important step in keeping a dog smelling nice. Though Maltipoos do not shed like other breeds that have fur, hairs on the coat are always in 1 of 3 phases of a cycle: growth, rest, or fall-out. Hairs that fall out and stay in the coat end up coated in body oils, and if not removed will start to smell.
If your Maltipoo has medium to long hair, a pin brush with polished tips will work well. If your Maltipoo has a short puppy cut, a lightly compacted bristle brush is the way to go.

Cleaning Your Maltipoos Ears

The Maltipoo breed has drop ears which put them at a disadvantage compared to dogs with standup ears. Hanging ear flaps mean that dirt and debris stay in the ear and excess wax can accumulate fast. In addition, dogs with drop ears that trap moisture tend to have more frequent ear infections. Below are a couple of different options to keeping your Maltipoo’s ears clean.

1. Regular use of ear wipes. With a good ear wipe, you can keep the ears clean before matter makes it way down into the ear canal. You may wonder if you can use a general grooming wipe for this; but, there are 2 main reasons that ear wipes are preferred over general wipes: 1) Wipes designed specifically for the ears, contain witch hazel which is ideal to clean the ears and 2) these wipes are only semi-damp and therefore do not introduce moisture into the ears which can lead to infections. 
As often as every other day or at least once per week, take one ear wipe for each ear and clean the entire inner ear (just try not to push this down into the canal). 

2. Use an ear cleanser. This is a liquid that flushes out the ear canal. If your Maltipoo is prone to ear infections, cleaning the ear canals every 2 to 3 weeks with a quality ear cleanser can be quite beneficial. 
Place a few drops into the entrance of the ear canal, massage the base of the ear for 1 minute, and then use a clean piece of gauze, a cotton ball, or an ear wipe to swipe up any goop that comes out. 

Keeping Your Maltipoo’s Face Clean

Baths alone are often not enough to keep up with facial staining. Stains under and around the eyes and sometimes down the cheeks, around the mouth, and/or on the chin can make a Maltipoo’s face look unclean. 
Stains around the eyes can be due to a number of causes including additives in food, allergies, or partially blocked tear ducts. Natural tears may stain hairs at a faster rate if a dog drinks tap water that contains a high mineral count. 
Other causes of stains, both around the eyes, and over the face (and particularly around the mouth and/or chin) include hairs staying wet after drinking water, eating kibble that contains artificial coloring, and/or eating or drinking from brightly colored plastic bowls. 

1. Take steps to reduce stains by kibble that has no artificial coloring, use only stainless steel or ceramic bowls, and have any allergies or excessive tearing diagnosed and treated. 

In addition, do not offer unfiltered tap water. Aside from possible high mineral content, tap water contains hundreds of contaminants ranging from traces of prescription medicine to known carcinogens. Instead, offer bottle spring water or invest in a filtering device.

2. Routinely wipe the face. Using a fresh wipe each time, swipe over and around the eyes, as well as down the cheeks, around the mouth, and over the chin if needed.