The Best Treats for Training a Maltipoo

Going into training your Maltipoo puppy for the first time is fun but challenging. New dog owners can agree that teaching your pup commands with hand gestures can be tricky. However, Maltipoos are very smart, and they are also food-driven. So with the best treats, your Maltipoo training experience can be a breeze. 

The difference between Snacks, Treats, and Chews

While they are very similar, there are a few differences that your little friend might prefer.

Snacks: These are a small portion of food; they are usually dry and crunchy that can help prevent your dog from feeling hungry in between meals.

Treats: Treats are usually small and moist. Their purpose is to give the puppy something delicious and small as a reward that won't fill them up. Treats help encourage the puppy subsequently, making it easier to train them.
Chews: Chewy food is usually going to be hard and take longer to eat. The dog will usually sit or lay down to enjoy its delicious chewy. The main benefit is helping build up their jaw and help their teeth.

What to Look For in Treats

Here is a list of things that you should look for when deciding whether or not you like a brand.

• 100% all-natural

• Contains no cheap fillers that may trigger allergies such as high corn and soy levels.

• Soft and moist that won't dry out too quickly (Look for the zipped 'stay fresh' bags)

• The flavor should be enticing, immediately sending the message to your dog that it's a reward.

• Be small enough that it won't fill up the puppy fast.

Some Great Treat Options

1. WellBites Soft Natural Grain-Free Treats are an excellent example of a great treat. They are perfect little squares that are soft and chewy. They have great meat flavors that dogs love, like chicken & lamb, beef & turkey, chicken & venison, lamb & salmon, and turkey & duck. 

Well Bites are made in the USA with 100% natural ingredients with no synthetic additives or preservatives; they contain no corn, soy, or wheat.

2. Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Treats are another smart option. They are tiny circles that are moist. They also have different flavor options that aren't too filling. So you can choose the one that is perfect for your pup!

These are made in the USA; they're 100% natural with no corn, soy, or wheat.

3. Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are the perfect size for small puppies; they are soft and also have different flavor options.

They use all-natural ingredients with no corn, soy, or artificial colors or flavors.

There are a lot of good options when it comes to training your Maltipoo. With the help of this article, you can make sure you and your puppy both love training time!

Maltipoo Allergies - Causes and Solutions

If your maltipoo is itching uncontrollably, you might want to consider checking to see if they are having an allergic reaction. Allergies are probably the biggest nightmare for most maltipoo owners, but the worst part is when you can’t figure out what the cause is, as a lot of the symptoms are similar for the different causes. 

In this article, we’ll be showing you a list of causes for Maltipoo allergies and we hope to help you find the cause of your problem and some quick and long term solutions.

Types of Allergies

Dogs are usually allergic to multiple types of allergen, like pollen, perfumes, metal etc. Crossbreds are more prone to allergies than pure breeds. There is a high chance that your Maltipoo is allergic to some things. Here is a list of the most common types of allergies.

1. Food Allergies:

This would be anything in the food that they eat. This includes synthetic preservatives, added in by companies to save money. There’s Artificial ingredients, Fillers (used to bulk up food) soy, corn, wheat, some grains, eggs, meat by products, and it’s uncommon, but even some proteins can be a trigger.

Some foods that would be better to feed your Maltipoo would be natural unprocessed protein (lamb, chicken, fish, beef, and turkey). It’s important to make sure you get the unprocessed kind, as many processing methods destroy the protein. 

Carbohydrates are one of the most important ingredients in your Maltipoos diet. But you need to be careful as some Maltipoos stomachs have a hard time digesting some of the common carbs, like corn and soy. Look for ones like brown rice and sweet potatoes.

Fats, every maltipoo needs some good fats, they help your puppy keep a nice, shiny, and healthy coat. Fish oils are one of the best ingredients for a healthy coat.

You want to make sure your dog is fed quality dog food that includes all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.  

2. Contact Allergies:

Contact allergies are one of the less common allergies but it is always a possibility. This would be something that a dog comes into physical contact with. Plastic bowls is a big one, certain fabrics (like carpet) also can be a cause for allergies

Other triggers would include lawn care chemicals, carpet cleaning solutions, cheap shampoo and other grooming products, toys, and laundry detergent.

3. Inhaled (Environmental/Seasonal) Allergies: 

There are many things your Mlatipoo may be breathing in that is causing them to have an allergic reaction. 

Common seasonal dog allergens

• Pollen

• Grass

• Weeds

• Mold

• Fungi

• Flea Saliva

Allergy Symptoms to Watch For 

Symptoms can be a little confusing because a Maltipoo could have some of them, one of them, ones that change throughout the year, or even all of them. All maltipoos can get allergies, but if their immune system isn’t as strong, they are more likely to have allergies.

Itchy Skin: This is the number one sign that something is causing an allergic reaction from you Maltipoo. Although, it could be shown in different ways, like licking or chewing at the paws, scratching at parts of their body, or rubbing against surfaces.

Skin Reactions: This is another common sign which includes hot spots (specific areas on body are red, irritated, and sometimes moist; hair may also be thinning or balding over these spots), they might have a rash, or excessive dryness.

Coat Issues: This one isn’t as common but it usually occurs when there has been a problem with the skin for a while. This would be things like thinning hair, bald spots, or poor coat textures.

Respiratory Issues: This is also uncommon but it does happen, it would be stuff like coughing, wheezing, sneezing, congestion, runny nose, teary eyes, and exercise intolerance.

Gastrointestinal Distress: This symptom is not a sign of seasonal (inhaled) or contact allergies, but it is a sign of food allergies. This would be things like upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea

Other Signs: Teary eyes, red/bloodshot eyes, repeat ear infections.

Diagnosing and Treatment

Even Though it’s always nice to be able to help your Maltipoo at home there are a few reasons why going to the vet is needed.

Diagnosing: Sometimes other issues can mimic allergy symptoms or even it can get confusing deciding which allergies are linked to what as they can have many at a time. So seeing the vet is always a good idea. It can also be hard to pinpoint the exact cause of the allergic reaction.
There are two ways a vet could test to see if your Maltipoo has allergies. The first way is blood testing, it’s often done with the ELISA test, which tests the bloodstream for anti-allergens. This has a few cons though, it is more accurate with airborne allergens rather than food or contact allergies, even then, it can have some false positives because the test was created for humans and not dogs.

The second option is intradermal skin testing. For this one the dog needs to be sedated. A section of the coat is shaved down to expose skin, then tiny pinpricks of common allergies are tested, if there is a reaction, this shows that the puppy is allergic to it.

Treatment - if your Maltipoo is having severe allergic reactions, they may need to take medication to help calm down the itchiness or runny eyes or any other symptoms that may be bothering them.

You can also consider getting allergy shots which would help long term, but you might want to give this some thought before making your decision. Like how you want to give them, or if it is needed. First, make sure your Maltipoo does really have this allergy, then they would get a series of shots. In some cases medication can be given orally, which would be a long term process.

Resolving Maltipoo Allergies

The first thing you want to do is make sure that there are no more triggers that could cause them to have a reaction. Even if you don’t take your puppy to the vet, this is one way to make a big difference.

The number one thing you should check first is their food and snacks, you want to check and see what it is made of and make sure it has no preservatives, dyes, or anything like wheat, grain, soy, or corn.

If you have eliminated these and they are still having a reaction, there is a possibility that they could be allergic to certain proteins. It is very rare, but they can be allergic to chicken or turkey (both are usually extremely well tolerated by most dogs), fish, lamb, beef, rabbit, bison, or any other meat. 

But, when you make any changes just remember that it can take a dogs’ body a long time to clear out the food allergies, so you might have to wait about 12 weeks to see changes in the symptoms. You can use sprays and shampoos to help with the symptoms until then.

You also might want to make changes to get rid of the allergens around your house. You’ll want to get rid of any old beds that aren’t being used. Replace pillows that don’t have any protectors. Vacuum your entire house, the floors, couches, pillows. Just vacuuming won’t get rid of all of the dust mites and pollen so sprinkling baking soda on everything and letting it sit for about 15 minutes before vacuuming can help to neutralize them.

Dusting all of the surfaces in your home and getting an air filter will help a lot too. Wash anything that can be with hot water (dog bed cover, clothing, throw rugs, etc.) set your washer temperature to at least 130 F to kill the dust mites. 

Once you’ve cleaned your house, keep windows and doors closed, and don’t let anyone walk around with shoes, keep them at the door.

Maltipoos usually aren’t very allergic to a lot of things, but if you do see any of these symptoms, you might want to look into it and find the root cause and get rid of it. If it does ever get severe, the best option is to contact a vet. Allergies can actually be very harmful for your little friend so be sure to watch out for any of these symptoms. But if your puppy is itching or anything else and it doesn’t seem to be from any allergies, it could be other things and you can read more about that in this article: Helping Your Maltipoo with Itching Issues.

Is Your Maltipoo Overweight (How To Avoid It, And What To Do If They Are)

Thorough studies have shown that 56% of dogs in the U.S. are actually overweight or obese. While it is never healthy to let your maltipoo be overweight as it can cause many health problems and complications, especially as they get older, consult your vet to determine whether your maltipoo is in fact overweight, or if your maltipoo is bigger than expected. Your maltipoo being overweight will cause a variety of health complications such as:

• Increased risk of cancer

• Damage to joints, bones, and ligaments

• Increased surgical and anesthetic risk

• Decreased life length and quality 

What to Avoid

As you may already know, Maltipoos take a lot of time, energy, and attention to keep healthy, but where should you start? Here are the biggest causes for an unhealthy Maltipoo:

Lack of Exercise

Exercise may be one of the biggest factors on your Maltipoo’s health. Just like for a human, exercise is an essential to living a healthy lifestyle for a four-legged furry friend. For a dog, exercise can vary from playing fetch in the backyard to going on a walk through the park. An inactive dog will get overweight much faster than the dog that stays active throughout the day.

Over-Feeding

Overfeeding your Maltipoo can cause your puppy’s stomach to bloat. A Maltipoos bloated tummy puts pressure on other organs and can cause tears in his stomach lining, delay blood flow to the heart, and give them difficulty breathing. 

You can avoid feeding your dog too much by putting your little friend on a food schedule. Their food schedule should depend on your dog’s age. Most of the time, the food bag should have a chart on the back that tells you how much to feed your dog, but it can vary depending on the product and product brand.

In general, a young puppy should eat more often than an adult dog because they are growing rapidly. Feeding them about three or four times a day will help them to digest easier. However, it is much more important to not overfeed them. An overweight puppy is more likely to grow up to become an overweight dog.

Signs Your Maltipoo is Overweight

Typically, it is actually really easy to spot some of the symptoms showing whether or not your Maltipoo is overweight, but some are more difficult to spot, especially if you aren’t looking for these signs:

No Palpable Rib Cage

Your maltipoo’s rib cage should not be visible or feel like sharp ridges when you pet him, however, you should be able to feel its ribs with little muscle covering them. You should not have to push through a layer of fat to be able to feel the ribs. If you do have to push through an excess layer of fat to feel your dog’s ribs, your dog is overweight. If you can easily see your Maltipoos rib cage or feel the sharp ridges of your dog’s ribs, your Maltipoo is underweight. It is important to pay attention to these things because this is one of the best signs for telling you whether your dog is malnourished, overweight, or ideal.

No or Hardly Visible Waistline

When you look at your Maltpoo from an above angle, you should see a slight hourglass shape. You should see where their ribs are, and then a waist in front of their hind legs. If your Maltipoo is overweight, you won’t see a waist on your dog as prominently as the ideal weight of Maltipoos. Their body shape will look straight or round. 

Remember, if your Maltipoo has a thicker layer of fur, it is really important to make sure you aren’t only watching for the visible signs. A dog that does hav a thicker layer of fur will be much harder to see whether or not he is overweight rather than the dog who has a shorter, thinner layer of fur. It may seem obvious, but not may people actually take the time to use the fee method despite their dog having thick fur, and that sometimes leads to an overweight maltipoo.

So, What If My Maltipoo Is Overweight?

Every dog is different so you should first take him to a professional, or even a local vet, to get a check-up and some advice. If your Maltipoo is overweight, it will take a lot of time, effort, and attention to get your dog back to a healthy state. Despite all that, it is definitely worth it for both you and your dog. Here are some simple ways you can get him back in shape:

Playing Active Games

This can take place almost anywhere. All you really need is space. You can play different games like Fetch, Chase, and any other active games that come to your mind. They are all fine, as long as your dog is being active and moving. For some dogs, you may need to motivate them to get moving with a healthy dog treat, or even some exciting dog toys. Your dog needs to keep moving no matter what. 

Taking him on a hike will also help a ton. It will get your dog fresh air and keep him active. However, if your dog is too overweight, he will need to lose a bit before going on this adventure. You should always take your dog on walks, this will help indefinitely. You need to constantly give your dog exercise, as expressed above as it should always be a priority when owning a four-legged friend like yours. It doesn’t matter the breed or the age. Exercise is always one of the keys to a healthy dog.

Feeding Your Dog The Right Food At The Right Time

Feeding your dog the right food is also really important, as well as putting your dog on a food schedule. Feeding your dog too much food is probably going to make the biggest impact on his health. Sure, you should constantly be giving him exercise, but if you are feeding your dog too much anyway, it isn’t going to make the biggest difference.

 I cannot stress this enough. If your dog is overweight, you NEED to get your dog on a food schedule. It would also help your dog get faster results if you buy dog food specifically for your dog’s needs. There are many dog food companies that specialize in putting your dog on a diet. Sure, it might be a little more expensive, but it’s definitely worth it considering your dog’s health and life quality is on the line.

Do Maltipoos Colors Change?

The term “Color Changing Dog” isn’t as exciting as it sounds. No, your maltipoo isn’t going to be every color of the rainbow, but it is very likely your Maltipoo’s coat may lighten or darken as he gets older. Maltipoos changing their coat color as they grow up is actually very common, and for the most part, should be expected.

What Causes Color Changing Maltipoos?

There are actually many causes any breed of dog’s coat color may change, but the most common cause is simply aging and nature. As mentioned earlier, a Maltipoo changing color is more common than not, due to genetics. 

The Common Changing Colors of Maltipoos

When it comes to your maltipoo changing coat colors, note that some colors are more likely to change than others. 

Apricot

If your Maltipoo is an Apricot color, it is very likely for your puppy to change his color when he gets older. With Apricot Maltipoos, the chances your pup’s coat will lighten with age is much higher than the chances it will darken. It is actually very uncommon for an apricot colored maltipoo to transition to a darker shade rather than a lighter one. Most of the time, an apricot Maltipoo will transform into a beautiful Cream-Colored Maltipoo.

Dark Red

Red is also a very likely-to-change color when it comes to Maltipoos as they age. A lot of times they will start out a deep, beautiful red and then grow up and become a much lighter version of that red. It is also very rare for them to darken rather than lighten.

Black And White 

A black and white maltipoo could change colors variously. It could range from the darker parts going lighter and the lighter parts going darker or vice versa. The most common way that a black and white maltipoo will change colors is that the black sections of the coat will lighten and get little grey parts in it and the white part will stay exactly as it is. 

Seasonal Color Changes

Did you know that a Maltipoo’s coat will often change depending on the season? Well they do. For example, a black Maltipoo will often be completely black in summer, but by the time winter rolls in, that same black dog will have more of a gray coat than the beautiful black coat he had in summer. Or even take the adorable pictures above, for example. The Maltipoo could go a deep brown instead of black during a specific season and be completely black during another season. Note that this doesn’t only occur with black Maltipoos. It can occur with any Maltipoo of any color.

So, When Will My Maltipoo Change Color?

Well, we can’t say for sure because every dog is different. Some dogs don’t change their coat color at all. If your Maltipoo does change colors, it can happen more than just once in your dog’s life. They will most commonly change their coat color about three times. They could be one color at birth, another when the age of adoption, and then a whole new color once they become adults. The biggest change overall will be when your puppy transforms from his puppy fur into his adult fur. If your Maltipoo does not change his coat color during this transformation, your dog might not change colors at all, which is also very common. A Maltipoo changing his coat color is about a 50/50% chance. It is very common both ways.

Can I Stop My Maltipoo From Color Changing?

Well, a Maltipoo changing the color of his coat is a natural process, and you can’t change that, BUT there are companies who specialize in trying to preserve your dog's color with some Color Enhancing Shampoos. We understand. You have the perfect puppy who you love just the way he is and don’t want him to change in any way, and that’s fine too.

Are Maltipoos For You? - Pros and Cons

You’ve probably seen the adorable mix between a Maltese and a Poodle. Maltipoos, they’ve gotten more and more popular in recent years. We’re going to show all of the Maltipoo pros and cons and what you might want to consider while adopting a Maltipoo puppy. They have a lot of good traits, but you also want to make sure Maltipoos are the perfect pup for you.

The Pros of Maltipoos

Maltipoos are the cutest little puppies and they’re so fun to play with.

Maltipoos are Hypoallergenic

One of the many qualities of the Maltipoo is they are considered hypoallergenic. This is a pro for many reasons, it’s a lot less likely to trigger allergies, it’s great for people with asthma, and there's a lot less to clean up from hair fallout. Although Maltipoos are hypoallergenic, there are rare instances a dog can trigger allergies based on their saliva and urine proteins so it’s a good idea to visit and spend a few minutes with a Maltipoo puppy if you’re worried of allergies.

Maltipoos have a Great Temperament

Maltipoos are known to have a mild temperament. They are sweet, affectionate, and gentle. Maltipoos are loyal and enjoy life with a happy demeanor. There are a few differences between males and females.

Males are viewed as more loving, while females are more independent. Males are slightly bigger than females, but only by a few pounds. Females mature faster than males and are usually considered mature by six months. 

Maltipoos are the Perfect Small Size

On average, Maltipoos will weigh between 5 to 20 pounds depending on if the poodle parent was toy sized or a moyen. Their small size makes them excellent for smaller homes or even apartments.

Maltipoos come in Many Colors

Another great quality of the Maltipoo is that they come in basically every color imaginable. If you have ever dreamed of having a puppy in a specific color, take a look into the maltipoos and see if it’s the perfect color for you. These color variations can make having a Maltipoo fun and unique. 

Maltipoos are Easy to Train

Maltipoos are very intelligent and are easy to train with the right rewards. They are very reward-driven, and this can help speed up the training process. With regular practice, your puppy will learn in no time.

Maltipoos are Great with Kids

If you have children in your home, you’ll have luck with Maltipoo. Maltipoos are gentle and sensitive with little kids, they are understanding and know when they need to be calmer. But as younger children can be a little rougher, they can easily harm a small puppy. Because of this, it is best to keep all children supervised around pets.

They are also sensitive, and they love to be around you all of the time. And when you’re hurt, they can feel it. Their sensitivity also makes them great therapy dogs.

Manageable Energy Levels

Your maltipoo will love to play, they have a lot of energy and need daily exercise. But they don’t require intense workouts of larger breeds. A quick walk around the block or a game of fetch will wear them out. But they might feel like they are too excited sometimes and need help calming down. 

Cons of Maltipoos

Like all breeds, Maltipoos have pros and cons.These will probably be the factors you look at when deciding whether a Maltipoo works for you or not. If you can make it through this part, nothing is stopping you from your dream dog.

Grooming

Maltipoos have the fantastic benefit of being hypoallergenic. But this means they are also high maintenance for grooming. One of the best ways to maintain their beautiful hair is by brushing them with a slicker brush every day. You will want to brush them from head to tail, focusing behind the ears and on their stomachs. You will also want to have special brushes in case of mats. If you are able to keep up on this, you will save a lot of time in the long run for grooming.

Stubborn

Like most intelligent breeds, Maltipoos are known to be a little stubborn, especially females. This can make it a little harder to train them but Maltipoos are reward driven so if you have a treat to encourage them, it will be a lot easier.

Common

Yes, the fact that Maltipoos are common is a pro and a con. Because they are so common, it can be hard to find a reputable Maltipoo breeder. There will be a lot of puppy scammers, but there are usually common red flags that you can find out about here, How To Spot a Puppy Scam. Most Maltipoos are likely to come from backyard breeders and puppy mills. 

Barking

Like all dogs Maltipoos do bark, but there are a few reasons why your puppy might be barking. This article has different reasons they might be barking and solutions for the different reasons,Do Maltipoos Bark a Lot?  The maltipoo barking level is a medium, so not too bad, but they will still bark at some things.

Separation Anxiety

Maltipoos love attention, and if you leave for long periods of time, they may not take it well. Your dog will develop separation anxiety if you separate yourself from them most of the day. But they are so fun to be around so this one shouldn’t be hard.

Known Potential Medical Conditions

As Maltipoos are a mixed breed, it is possible they may get common illnesses that are associated from the breed of either parent. Some of them may include:

1. Hip and elbow dysplasia

2. Epilepsy

3. Diabetes

4. Eye disease

5. Tooth and gum disease

6. And Colitis

While with proper breeding you can reduce these risks. Usually a reputable Maltipoo breeder will have genetic testing done on both parents before the breeding has even taken place. My Doodle Maltipoos test every parent dog in our program and we also offer a 10 year health guarantee for hereditary diseases.

Price

Some may consider the price of the Maltipoo breed to be a con. The price can be as high as $4,000, depending on your area. You may find a lower price on local classifieds but generally you can’t be sure of the health and breed of the parents. The high price of quality breeders can help guarantee you're getting a healthy puppy bred in excellent conditions. And with our puppies, you get a 10 year health guarantee along with your purchase.

Newer Breed

Maltipoos are still considered a new designer breed. It makes them highly sought after, and we still have a lot to learn about them. We can not be sure which traits they will pick up from the Poodle or the Maltese. They are very unpredictable on coat colors and sizes, and there could be a medical condition that we don’t know about yet. But for the most part, they are pretty consistently healthy and happy dogs.

Food

Another con is that Maltipoos eat a lot. You will find that they always seem hungry if not fed a proper diet. We have done some research and found out the best way to feed your maltipoo, Properly feeding your Maltipoo. They can also quickly become obese if the owner isn’t careful.  

Now that you’ve seen all of the pros and cons, you can decide whether a Maltipoo is for you. We think they are the best dogs out there. They are great family dogs and also great apartment dogs if you live alone in a small area. If you are interested in one of our puppies you can check out our available Maltipoo puppies.

Why Your New Puppy Might Need Insurance

If you are considering getting a puppy or have just welcomed one into your home, then there are likely many things on your mind.

You’ll want to sign them up for obedience school, ensure your home is puppy proofed, get puppy-friendly food (and hide the chocolate) and sign them up for pet insurance as quickly as possible. 

As the proud puppy owner, you want nothing but the absolute best for your new little furry friend. This included ensuring that they get all the medical care they need and are never prevented from a healthy life as the result of you not having enough money stashed away.

Puppies will eventually grow into the ultimate companion—there is a reason they are often referred to as man’s best friend! Puppies are full of life, are always happy to see you and have non-stop energy. But with all their energy also comes the increased risk of something going wrong while training them. 

So there really is no better time than now to get your puppy pet insurance. That way you will know that for their entire life you can always take care of them when they are healthy, sick or injured.

To further encourage you to consider getting your puppy pet insurance, we’ve rounded up the top reasons why they—and you—will benefit from it.

1. You will save more money in the long-run

While you could simply set money aside in a savings account, you can’t predict the timing of when you will need to tap into your rainy-day fund for your pet or how much the medical bills will cost. But when you get your puppy insurance from day one, you can have peace of mind that you will always get reimbursed for veterinarian visits and never have to go into debt over caring for your dog. Instead, you can use that extra cash to spoil them instead! Starting puppies out on pet insurance at a young age will also help keep your premiums lower as they get older.

2. You can help them when they are naughty

How many stories have you heard where a young, cheeky puppy gets into a stash of chocolate or eats all the pillows in the house? Chances are that it won’t take long before their tummy starts to hurt and they need medical help. This is a scenario where you will be very grateful you have pet insurance, so you can spend less time being angry and more time helping your puppy recover and learn an important lesson in what to not eat in the future—without you having to be financially punished for their behavior as well!

3. You can ensure they have good oral hygiene

Puppies are super cute, but they certainly can get smelly. When you have pet insurance that covers dental hygiene, you will be able to ensure that their teeth remain healthy and that you don’t have to deal with bad dog breath when they jump on the bed to cuddle you each morning. A lot of puppies who don’t get proactive care for their oral hygiene at a young age end up having much more severe complications down the road—which can impact their wellbeing and rack up quite the medical bill. Good teeth on puppies mean a healthy life for them as they age.

4. You can keep your puppy protected

While you can’t protect them from everything, pet insurance allows you to get your puppy all the vaccinations they need to have a healthy life. When you choose to have vaccines included in your plan, you are helping ensure your puppy will be able to grow old and not have to deal with viruses and diseases that can get them severely ill. Pet insurance is a small means to keeping your puppy protected for many years to come. Plus, you can also afford to take precautionary measures in neutering them if needed so you don’t end up looking after a dozen of their puppies later down the track!

5. You can afford their surgeries or therapies

Puppies are all different, and some may require surgery or alternative therapies for a range of reasons. Pet insurance comes in handy in enabling your puppy to get this type of medical care without you having to stress about it financially—as with the best pet insurance you can get reimbursed for 90% of the costs.

Puppies are simply too vulnerable to not get them pet insurance now. When you sign them up for quality coverage you are helping ensure they live a long and healthy life with you!

Helping Your Maltipoo with Itching Issues

There are many reasons why your Maltipoo may be itching. It could just be a small one-time itch and that is very common, but if they are scratching regularly or just in one spot, it may point to a serious issue. The itching can also vary from being only in the paws to their whole body

What to look for when your dog itches

It’s normal for a dog to scratch here and there and you should only have to worry about it if they are constantly scratching or if it’s always in one spot.

If your dog is itching in one specific spot, you might want to take a look at it and see if there is anything visible that might be causing the itch. You also might want to talk to your vet if the scratching gets worse or continues.

What Causes Itching

Cleanliness

Sometimes itching can simply be a case of cleanliness. Even if you’ve recently given your dog a bath they may have rolled around in dirt or something else while they were outside. Check the area they are scratching for matted fur or other signs of uncleanliness. If you think cleanliness is the issue you can follow these Maltipoo cleaning tips and if the itching continues you should check for other issues.

Seasonal Changes

Seasonal temperature changes can have negative effects on your dogs skin. One cause of itchiness in dogs is dry skin which may happen in colder climates and winter months. If you think this is the cause ere are some tips on protecting your dog in the winter.

Fleas

One of the main reasons for scratching is usually caused by fleas, fleas can be really risky as they can transmit dangerous diseases. One of the best ways to keep fleas away is to use natural prevention, or if you see any fleas on your pup, you can give them a bath with dawn dish soap, it gets rid of the fleas and eggs without hurting your adorable puppy. Just make sure you don’t do it too often as it also strips their natural skin oils that can take 5-7 days to return.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is usually only a problem if you live in a low humidity area. Low humidity could cause puppies to have a lack of moisture in their skin, which leads to it becoming dry and itchy. Another cause for dry skin is the lack of Omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure the food you are giving your dog is high quality and provides all the nutrients they need.

Allergies

Another typical cause for your Maltipoos’ itching issues could be allergies. If you suspect your dog is allergic to something they are eating make sure to avoid the most common food allergies in dogs until you can get them tested by a professional. This website has a list of foods that are the most common allergens for dogs. It could also be an environmental problem, which would come from inside or outside. One thing that would help is to make sure you wipe down your puppy when they are coming back into the house. You can use a grooming wipe and wash off their paws with the outdoor hose or in a sink or tub if it’s too cold out.

You can also apply paw wax, this helps in many ways. It will help keep any of the allergens away plus it will add as a moisturizer. Vet Preferred Paw Balm is a good one, it has natural products and is non-toxic. 

Relieving Itchiness

Provide Fast Relief

There are a few ways to help your dog receive fast relief from its itching issue. You could help your puppy by giving them a cool bath or even just putting something cold onto the itchy area. But if you have access to any spray or anything else, that would also help your Maltipoo’s itching issues a lot.

Provide Long-Term Relief

One of the best things to do for long-term relief is to find the source. If you think it might be allergies, you can take them to the vet and get an allergy test. There are some anti-itch sprays and the website, Doggie Designer, has a list of their top ten favorite anti-itch sprays and they also list the pros and cons of each one. You can also use some home remedies like baking soda, you just mix one part baking soda to one part water, which will create a paste, and you can apply this to any irritated areas and let it dry. Another option is to use apple cider vinegar, again using one part apple cider vinegar and one part water, you’d then put it in a spray bottle and spray that on affected areas, just be sure to be careful of any open cuts and not put a lot there.

How To Train Your Dog to Be Home Alone

1 month ago, I came across Teacup Maltipoos for sale on Facebook and ended up adopting the cutest little Maltipoo. Yesterday, we celebrated Chi-Chi's 1 month anniversary, and we have never been happier!

Bringing a new dog home is a huge responsibility – it's like having a child that needs to be cared for and looked after. The weeks after meeting a new furry friend and welcoming them into your home are simply amazing – you spend most of the day playing around with them and taking care of all their needs.

The honeymoon period is great until responsibilities kick in, and it's time to get to work and run some errands, and you have to be separated from your four-legged BFF and have to hear him whimper every time you step out of the door.

What can you do in such a situation?

It may be difficult, but the best and essential thing to do is to train your dog to be home alone.

As challenging as it may be, training your dog to stay home alone while remaining safe is an important step in the overall grooming of your dog. If dogs aren't trained to stay home alone, they can develop separation anxiety.

Therefore, in this article, we'll be discussing tips and tricks to train your dog, especially your Maltipoo, to stay home alone.

Is it Safe to Leave Dogs such as Maltipoos Home Alone?

Dogs can stay home alone. However, it's certainly not recommended for long periods. Many dog parents leave their pets by themselves when doing everyday work, but your pet being on its own for too long can be harmful to its health as it can result in anxiety issues.

The same is the case with Maltipoos – If you own a Maltipoo dog or are planning to get one, know that they are a very social dog breed that adores interaction with humans and other dogs.

Having little to no social interaction can result in them getting lonely. However, leaving them at home for a few hours is completely safe and okay. However, you must train your dog to be home alone before you can start doing so. If you don't, your dog will suffer separation anxiety.

How to Know Your Maltipoo is Suffering from Separation Anxiety or Loneliness?

It's not always easy to pinpoint when your dog is feeling lonely or is anxious. However, there are some signs you can watch out for:

·         Your pup is following you around the house way more than usual: Whenever dogs such as Maltipoos tend to get lonely, they become clingier than usual. So, if your dog isn't leaving your side for hours, this may be a sign it is feeling lonely. This clingy behavior can be due to them craving companionship or simply the fear of you leaving the house again.

·         Your pup is being destructive: Lonely Dogs tend to show destructive tendencies to get their owner's attention, such as chewing furniture or breaking things around the house.

·         Your pup is sleeping more than usual: If you notice your dog sleeping more than usual – this too can be a sign of loneliness.

What Can You Do to Make Your Maltipoo Less Lonely and Anxious?

There are several steps to take to make your dog feel better. Start by gradually leaving them on their own. For example, start by leaving the room for 15-20 minutes and eventually increase the number of minutes. Other things you can do is to provide them with more toys as a way to keep them busy and socialize with them before you leave. All these steps are a good part of their training to make them learn to be by themselves.

How to Train Your Maltipoo to be Home Alone?

1.  Ensure His Surroundings are Pleasant

If your Maltipoo has comfortable surroundings and things to do while you're away, he'll never get lonely or anxious. There are several things you can do to keep his surroundings comfortable and fun, they are:

·         Make sure your furry friend has a comfortable bed with blankets and some toys. Move it to a spot where he spends most of his time, so the space feels familiar and home-like to him.

·         Try taking your dog for a walk and some playtime before you leave him at home. If your pup is tired, he's more likely to spend his time sleeping when you're out. This will prevent boredom and loneliness.

2.  Trick & Train

Training your Maltipoo to be home alone is a time-taking process, particularly due to his social nature. But your future self will thank you for doing so in the long term as it's a part of keeping your dog mentally strong.

·         Whenever you come home after leaving your BFF alone, make sure you give him his favorite treat along with loads of love and attention. Eventually, he will associate your arrival with treats and affection and may not mind being by himself.

·         Avoid making your pup sleep with you daily, as this attachment will make it harder for him to stay alone or even nap during the daytime.

3.  Invest in a Dog CCTV Camera

Can we ever truly be separated from our loved ones during this era of technological advancement? Leaving your Maltipoo may not seem like the hardest thing in the world if you invest in a good dog camera.

Dog cameras enable you to keep a check on your pup at all times. Whether you're at the office or stuck in a long queue somewhere, you'll know exactly what your BFF is up to. Moreover, some even allow you to speak with your pup back home through two-way audio.

It is a great way to keep up with your Maltipoo every day while also preventing him from getting lonely.

4.  Turn on the Telly!

Another fascinating trick to keep your four-legged friend distracted while you're absent is to turn the channel to DOGTV! Your Maltipoo can enjoy some movies or tv shows and may not even notice that you're gone!

You're Ready to Train Your Dog to Be Home Alone

Dogs are precious beings that only ask for their owner's love and attention. However, many pet owners have responsibilities that can't be neglected which is why leaving your dog alone at home, as hard as it may be, can be inevitable.

But worry not! With the right tricks and tips, you can eventually train them to enjoy some me-time while you're gone.

But It's also important to remember that Maltipoos – like most dogs are fun-loving and active dogs that need attention and interaction to thrive. So, a Maltipoo shouldn't be left alone at home for longer than four hours. If you have commitments that require you to be busy for longer hours – it's best to hire a dog sitter as Maltipoos tend to be prone to social anxiety. 

Author Bio:

Ashir provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. His educational background in the technical field and business studies helps him in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development and digital marketing. He occasionally writes articles for We Love Doodles.

How Long Can Maltipoos Be Left Alone?

We know, Maltipoo Puppies are so cute, who would ever want to leave them alone? But the harsh reality is there are times that require us to be away for longer than we’d like. In this article, we will offer some guidelines for keeping your Maltipoo safe and entertained while being home alone.

There are many factors to consider when thinking about how long to leave your puppy home. Their age, size, temperament, and how much training and practice they have in house manners. One of the most important things you never want to forget when you get a puppy, and that is teaching your puppy how to enjoy being alone.

Also, puppies need to use the bathroom a lot more often than adult dogs.

How long is Your Maltipoo Required to “Hold It”?

One important factor to consider is how long between potty breaks your puppy or adult dog can be expected to hold it. The main guideline to use is age. As a puppy matures, its bladder will grow much stronger. From only being able to hold it for 1 hour or so, to holding it for 8+ hours. Here are a few age guidelines you can use to consider the frequency your dog should go out.

8 to 10 weeks:

When you just adopt a puppy is when you should stay with them the most, just so they can become more familiar with you and their new environment. They also have really small bladders, so they are more likely to have an accident if you leave them for too long.

So when they are this young, they should only be left alone for about an hour in a puppy safe place like a kennel or a playpen with toys and comfortable bedding

10 to 12 weeks:

Once they are a little bit older, they start to gain some independence, but they still can’t be left alone for a full day because they are still curious. Instead, puppies should be alone for no longer than two hours, but you should still be aware that accidents are still very likely to happen. 

So when you do leave, use baby gates to keep them in a hard floor area and this will make cleanup a lot easier. 

3 to 6 Months:

Once your puppy reaches about 3 to 6 months, you can consider the one-hour-per-month rule. 3-month-old puppies can be alone for three hours, and 4-month old puppies can be alone for four hours.

Bathroom issues will be less common, but not completely gone. Maltipoo’s bladder also used the same month rule, so however old they are is how many hours they can hold it, Maltipoo Training by Age.  Also, remember that negative reinforcements don’t generally work, especially when it’s hours later when you return.

Now, you can also extend the area that they are left in, but before you do, it’s best to make sure that it is safe and do a test run that is shorter and ease your puppy into the longer times and make sure they can handle it. 

7+ Months:

By now, they can hold their bladder long enough, and you can leave them alone if they show signs that they are ready. 

However, there is another issue that you need to be aware of, before they are 1 year old, puppies are likely to chew, bite, and ruin things if they begin to feel scared or upset. So if you ever come home to some furniture chewed up and ruined, your puppy might be telling you that they're not ready to stay alone for that long yet.

How Long Can You Leave Your Maltipoo In a Crate?

Crate training is very important, the first thing to remember is to keep it positive, like give them treats or other things so, to them, it feels like a reward. It’s better to start slow and limit how long they stay in there. When you are first training them, try 10-15 minutes and see if they're ready for more time or if they need more help. If they are having a harder time in the crate, try leaving the crate open. 

Maximum time in crate recommended by age:

• 8-10 weeks: 30-60 minutes

• 11-14 weeks:1-3 hours

• 15-16 weeks: 3-4 hours

• 12+ weeks: 4-5 hours (Although, it is not healthy to do this very often)

Also, having a crate trained puppy has so many benefits, it creates a place where the puppy can feel safe if they ever feel scared, it also makes housebreaking a lot easier. Another big benefit is you can transport the puppy safely and they’ll enjoy it. You do want to make sure you’re not leaving them in there for too long otherwise they won’t like it and will have a harder time staying in there in the future.

How Can You Train Your Maltipoo To Manage Alone Time?

First of all, your dog needs to learn to let you leave and come back. Maltipoos whining is one problem owners face when leaving the house. Even though your dog showing you that he misses you by running up to you, it’s not good for them to have this type of behavior.

Train your dog to let you leave.

First, walk to the door with your shoes as if you were leaving. Walkout and come back, if your dog jumps up and runs after you, command them to go back and sit in a faraway spot. Repeat this procedure and when they stay, reward them with a puppy treat. 

The next thing is to train them to stay calm when you come back home. Usually, they’ll get excited and bark happily, but you should ignore this behavior completely until they quiet down.

Then, command them to go sit in a spot and when they listen, give them a treat and all of the attention and love they deserve, because you’ll probably miss them too! Training isn’t about withholding attention, it’s about giving it to them at the right time.

How Can You Make Being Alone Easier For Your Maltipoo?

If your dog isn’t super bored while you are gone, they tend to behave better while you are gone or when you get back. There are many ways to make sure your pup has fun while you’re gone too.

For starters, tiring out your little friend before you leave is a great idea. Like taking them for a walk, or even playing a fun game in the yard that lets them run around. Then, they are more likely to take a nap while you are gone.

Get some toys for your puppy that will keep them occupied, like some puppy puzzles, which most of the time have a spot where you can put a treat for when they solve the puzzle. You can get a lot of different kinds here.

Should My New Puppy Receive a Haircut Before Coming Home?

At My Doodle Maltipoos often receive this question from future families asking if we include a hair cut before their puppy comes home either at 8 weeks old, or after they have graduated dog obedience training, when they’re 13 weeks old. Although we do not give your puppy a full haircut before going home, we will trim around the eyes and face to ensure your puppy can see clearly and hair doesn’t irritate the eyes or ears and we will give them a bath and blow dry before they go home.

There are a few reasons we don’t offer a full haircut before your puppy goes home. We’ll list a few starting with the most important reason.

Your puppy should be fully vaccinated before going to the groomers

Typically during your puppies time with us, they have not had their full round of vaccinations. Even at 13 weeks old (after they graduate training), they still require one more vaccination before it’s safe for your puppy to visit the groomers or any place that could have other animals. We will send your puppy home up-to-date on vaccinations and will provide records of each vaccine as well as recommended schedule for future vaccinations. You can read more about our recommended vaccination schedule, but we always recommend following the recommendations of your local veterinarian.

A great piece of advice when you first bring your puppy home is to call your local vet and schedule the remaining vaccinations and then call a local groomer to schedule their first haircut as most groomers are typically 2-4 weeks out on scheduling.

We recommend your puppy’s first hair cut be with a local groomer you plan to stick with

The first puppy cut experience is really important for your new Maltipoo. It helps you and your Maltipoo get familiar with the grooming process and build a relationship with the right groomer. Your puppy’s first haircut can be a scary experience that they aren’t used to yet. Groomers are not only trained to clean and trim your puppy, but also in how to keep them calm and learn to really enjoy this grooming experience over time.

Choosing the right local groomer is very important

If you visit the worlds largest Maltipoo Facebook Group, you will find many stories (good and bad) of their puppies first time at the groomers. Based on many recommendations from these group members on how to find the right local breeder, we have summarized a few tips that will help you.

If you don’t yet have a groomer in mind, I would highly advise that you talk to any friends or family that have a dog and ask for personal recommendations and why they like their groomer to help you make a more informed decision on the best groomer for you. You can also visit google and read through reviews and even customer submitted images to ensure you feel comfortable with the right groomer during this first-time experience.

We do offer a few exceptions upon request

Although we never bring any dogs to the groomers before they’re fully vaccinated, if your puppy ends up boarding with us beyond the time they are fully vaccinated, we will offer to schedule and bring your puppy to our local groomer upon request for an additional fee.

What Is Pet Insurance and How Does It Help My Dog?

Years ago, people had few options for insurance. Protection covered things like homes, businesses, cars, and life, but not much more. Today, you can find insurance for almost anything, including your pets. While some people might think of this as a frivolous expense, dedicated owners completely understand the decision to ensure the health and safety of their animals.

A Long History
Interestingly, Claes Virgin of Länsförsäkringar Alliance wrote the first pet insurance policy in 1890. Although his focus was on livestock rather than domesticated animals, that opened the door for new opportunities. Even so, it wasn’t until 57 years later when, in 1947, a company in Britain wrote the first policy for domesticated pets.

What Is Pet Insurance?
Just as the name implies, this is an insurance policy specifically written for the animals that people live with. Not only can you buy pet insurance for dogs, but also cats, birds, and other beloved critters. Although a policy like this benefits animals of any age, it’s especially recommended for people with aging or older pets

For instance, say you have a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever. This breed has an average lifespan of 12 years (smaller dogs lifespan such as Maltipoo ranges from 12-16 years). So, by the age of 10, most start to experience health problems associated with age. As a result, their owner anticipates spending more time and money at the vet. After all, they want to provide their dog with the best remaining years of life possible.

Another scenario involves buying a puppy. Around the age of three months, he’s romping around the house and yard. However, he’s also discovered an interest in the street. Obviously, that’s not good. If a car accidentally hit the puppy, its owner would need to rush him to a veterinarian clinic for treatment. Something like that can get expensive.

In both cases, having pet insurance for dogs will cover all or a good portion of vet bills. Depending on the exact plan, some only cover preventative care, while others also include the cost of emergencies. This is why it’s so important to compare different policies for pet insurance before choosing one.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?
Pet insurance for dogs, cats, birds, and other animals works in much the same way as car and renter’s insurance. You pay a monthly premium for the policy. The price depends on the type and amount of coverage. When working with a reputable insurance provider, you can look at numerous options to find one that’s ideal for your pup.

One big difference with pet insurance for dogs, as well as other critters, is that in most cases, the provider would reimburse you after you pay the vet. Most pet insurance policies cover between 70 and 100 percent of the vet bill. When you get a policy from a reputable provider, you can expect to receive your claim money in about seven to nine days.

Regarding the types of things that pet insurance covers, most policies pay for emergency injuries and illnesses. They also pay for many surgeries, medication, diagnostic procedures, and emergency examinations.

One important note: Seldom will pet insurance cover anything mentioned if it’s related to a preexisting condition. But if you buy pet insurance sooner than later, even if your dog develops a chronic health condition later in life, it could be covered. 

Summing It Up
To avoid paying the full expense to keep your pet healthy and safe, consider pet insurance. If you’re interested in coverage for your pup, make sure you choose pet insurance for dogs with the lowest deductible, highest reimbursements, and fastest claim turnaround.

Be sure your regular vet is part of the network, as well. Otherwise, you would need to take your furry friend to a different clinic. Fortunately, most pet insurance companies have a broad selection of covered veterinarian services.

5 Effective Maltipoo Care Tips That Every Owner Must Know

Maltipoos are cute little dogs that are very soft and playful. Here are a few requirements that the owner who pets a Maltipoo needs to keep in mind. They have more or less average exercise needs and they do not need very high levels of activity as well. 

Given their size and functioning, average activity levels will ideally suffice but that should be very intensive. Let’s say its regular demand for exercise can be fulfilled by practicing for less than 40 minutes per day. So, in reference to that, the walking mileage of every week should be somewhat around 3 to 5 miles. 

Moreover, it is an extremely playful dog and should not be forced by any means. Deeply furry as it is, it needs a very high grooming frequency as well. However, this cute doggo has no inclination to either drool or snore. It does bark pretty well and is not really a great digger. 

It is therefore evident that while on one hand, these doggos have quite some pros, as an owner you also have to know some essential tips for taking adequate care for your dog. 

Remember a Maltipoo needs a lot of social importance. It won’t be happy if it is not being made the centre of attraction or attention. However, just like you have ample entertainment opportunities in Texas, so does your dog! Following are compiled a few effective measures that will help the owner in taking proper care of their Maltipoo.

1. Removing items from your home that might be dangerous for the pup

As Maltipoos are playful, they take something out of pure fun and swallow it which might face dangerous consequences. Vets have often said from experience that dogs swallow fish hooks, coins, candy wrappers, headphones, sewing needles, thimbles, adhesives, even knives, coins, buttons,- not to mention socks, toys, rubber geese, etc. 

Such dangerous items like metals, electrical gadgets, and adhesives can be fatal for dogs. Electric sockets should also be checked such that the pup is never electrocuted. Removing these items will make the home much safer, especially for the times when you leave your dog alone.

2. Healthcare depends on climate too

Maintenance of regular healthcare and hygiene is very important. One should not wait for the dog to become sick to reach out to a vet but pay regular visits to ensure the dog’s proper functioning. Saving for the dog’s medical aids and insurances become very important. Even if one saves 1 dollar a day, it should be sufficient. If you love your dog really, that is nothing! 

However, the health of your dog also depends on the surrounding climatic conditions. Maltipoos cannot survive a hot climate and it can cause your pet to fall ill frequently or even worse. Places like Salt Lake city or Monahans in Texas have a very high temperature with a desert climate which is not suitable for maltipoos. These dogs can however stand cold temperatures up to 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pet insurances should be sought and properly verified to be of some usage during an unforeseen accident. Health issues of Maltipoos, and dogs in general are important and should never be postponed. There are a number of policies regarding pet insurance in Texas which you can opt for your dog and ensure its well being. 

3. Proper grooming and Maintenance of hygiene

The vets often provide personalized information for Maltipoo grooming. Cleaning teeth is very important. Brushing their teeth, every day, without any skip can prevent a number of health issues. Most Maltipoos are fine with brushes which have bristles on three sides. Along with this, after intervals, the doggo must be taken to the vet for a complete dental checkup of it.

 Since it has dense flowing fur, either trimming or clipping them on a bimonthly basis is important. Ears should be cleaned once every month. Nails should be cut every week. As and when required, tear stain cleaning must be undergone. Finally, much to the doggo’s disgust and slithering away, a good bath with soap now and then is very important.

4. Ensuring ample exercise

Exercise can help the your pup live a full maltipoo lifespan by keeping them physically fit and also enriches its mental health as well as enhances emotional experiences. You should additionally be focused on ensuring that your Maltipoo gets adequate exercise even during the lockdown to stay fit. When you are in Texas, you need not worry about this. There are a number of dog parks which maintain top notch hygiene. Thus, you can easily take your doggo for a walk to these parks. 

It is an extraordinary way to give a dog social training such that it doesn’t jump or bark causelessly. It keeps the dog engaged and effectively reduces its restlessness which might stem from monotony. It prevents a wide spectrum of diseases and develops cardiac muscles and capacity. 

It makes ligaments and tendons stronger as well as increases oxygen circulation to the tissues, thereby developing and maintaining the muscles as well as the bone structure. Smoking around a Maltipoo pup is also absolutely prohibited for its health and disposition.

5. Getting a proper dog-seat

A seat should be chosen that is at once strong as well as has longevity. If the Maltipoo has a habit of hovering around all over the place, a mesh seat partially restricting its movements all the while might be helpful. It should always be ensured that the buckle is properly positioned for the dog’s safety.

In conclusion

It is evident that there are a number of things that an owner needs to consider to ensure the proper well-being of his Maltipoo. Amongst various other measures, all dedicated pet lovers should make sure that their dogs are able to receive all the love and care they need and are treated just like a family member.

How To Set Up Your Home For A New Dog

Adopting a dog comes with responsibilities as you want to keep your companion in good health and safety. To make your new dog happy, you need a dog room designed with good features. Here are some ideas to prepare your home for a new dog. 

Planning a Room for a New Dog in the Home

Getting a dog is an exciting experience as you introduce a new friend into your life. Whether you have one dog or several, you should provide a comfy space that your pets can call home. There are many dog room ideas you can explore that will help you design and build a good shelter for your new dog. If you’re preparing to receive a new dog, here are some tips you could implement to prepare your home. 

Gather Supplies 

Besides exploring house plans with a dog room, you should gather supplies needed in advance. Prepare the items your new dog will need to be happy. Some of the things you should get include a martingale or flat-buckle collar, identification tag, food and water bowls, and some toys. 

When buying toys, look for items the dog cannot swallow, such as Nylabones. Also, consider getting an appropriately-sized crate or pet playpen that’s enough for the dog to stand up and turn around. 

If you have information on the kind of food the dog eats, buy a bag and keep it to maintain consistency in their diet. Of course, you can always change their diet on the road, but this should be a gradual process. 

Where to Make the Dog Room 

While outside is considered a dog’s domain, you should also consider indoor dog room ideas. There should be a designated spot inside the house that they will be comfortable in when leaving your dog alone. Here are some ideas you could try out if you want to create a warm space for your dog.  

1. Under the Stairs 

Some of the ideas available include having the dog room under stairs, as this space is often left idle. You can build a lovely house for the dog. While building the dog house under the stairs, ensure it’s slightly elevated from the floor to give your pet warmth and prevent water from entering. 

A raised floor is good for the cold months. Explore different ideas available on the internet to find inspiration and get started with the project. Mostly, you’ll need drywall, so also understand how that material can be used, especially if the space is prone to getting wet. 

Be creative with the doorway because this is the part that you and guests see first. If the door is unattractive, it can wear on you quickly. Focus on friendly, whimsical touches that will give the space a personal touch that makes it feel at home. Ensure to include a dog bed.  

2. In the Laundry Room 

Also, you can double up your laundry room by adding a comfy dog bed and the dog’s favorite toys. This allows you to create a multi-use room. You could convert one of the cabinets to a sleeping zone if there’s a pre-existing shelf. Remove the cabinets’ doors to create a space where the dog can enter and leave without requiring your assistance. Of course, you also need to consider the risk of getting wet in this area, so you, if it’s necessary, make the dog room elevated. 

3. In the Mudroom

The mudroom is not just a drop zone for jackets and shoes. It can also be the perfect spot to place a dog kennel or discreetly store lashes, chew toys, and food. If there’s an extra bedroom and you look to adopt several dogs, you can convert it to your dog room for the pets. 

4. Attic or Basement Space 

If there’s a large room sitting free, there are endless indoor dog room ideas you could explore. Basements and attics and areas that serve as flex rooms will offer an open space for your pet to run. Such areas can be perfect for your dog to relax during the day. Just ensure there’s enough padding to protect the pet from adverse weather. 

5. Pick a Corner 

Sometimes you don’t have an entire room you could dedicate to your pup. With different corners in your house, you can identify the most suitable spot or find a dog closet where you can hang up their seasonal sweaters, their collars, and store winter boots. 

Tips for Designing and Organizing a Dog Room 

Whether your dog is small or big, you require a lot of stuff. Also, have tools like a ceramic electric kettle to help you prepare the dog’s meals. 

• Designate a Spot for Toys: Even if the pup doesn’t put things away, a designated toy storage area will help you stay organized. Bins and boxes are a good way to organize toys while making them accessible to the dog. 

• Install Hooks: Don’t waste time searching for the leash. Install hooks in the dog’s bedroom or by the door to make getting ready for routine walks easy. 

• Choose Strategic Colors: Among dog room decorating ideas you could implement include adding the right colors to the dog play room. Dogs see color, so find stimulating colors for your dog room décor. Explore apps like Dog Vision HD to pick the right colors.  

• Pick the Perfect Bed: While you may focus a lot on exploring how to dog proof a room, it’s essential to find the perfect bed for your dog. Set the mood in the room with a comfy bed. For multiple pets, you can build a DIY bunk bed. 

• Add a Grooming Station: In your senior dog gathering room, you can add a small pet grooming area. This will help you keep the pet smelling fresh. It gives a spot to clean up muddy paws and makes bath time a breeze. 

Preparing for receiving a new dog is an exciting process as you get to put your ideas into action. It includes finding the perfect spot to place the dog’s house. You also spend time looking for essentials like a comfy dog bed and foods the dog enjoys. 

How did you prepare your home to receive your new dog? Leave a comment below. 

Author’s Bio:

Kevin is a content writer for about 3 years. He studied Design and Arts at College in Pennsylvania. A fan of home interior design and, he has taken it upon himself to spread his love for decorating homes by informing people on some of his ideas through his articles.

How Has the Pandemic Affected Pet Adoption? (New Pet Study by Money.com)

The pandemic has deepened the bond between Americans and their pets, and a majority of those who acquired new pets during the pandemic did so in part from loneliness. Money.com found this out and more in their new survey study revealing how people have adopted, treated, and feel about their pets during the pandemic.

These results are among the key findings from the first comprehensive survey, by Money.com, of how people have treated and felt about, their pets during the pandemic.

10 Tips to Make Your Home Pet-Friendly

Description: Have a pet snooping around your home and don’t want it to get into anything that could hurt it? That means you have to make your home as pet-friendly as possible. Here are stylish, yet pet-proof home improvements. You and your furry friend will love them!

Home sweet home! Do you think it’s not so “sweet” without your cute furball? Yes, having a pet is a fabulous and totally rewarding experience! We, pet lovers, are ready to do just about anything for our furry, feathered, or finned friends, and keeping them healthy and happy is our high priority. Therefore, when we buy a new home or plan to renovate the old one, we have to design it smartly with our animals in mind. 

Yes, creating a comfortable space, choosing home furnishings & decor that will be both stylish and pet-proof isn’t that easy. However, with the right planning, materials, and essential tools for home, it’s totally possible! 

We love pets and have already upgraded our houses and yards to make them more convenient and safer for our pooches. Today, we want to share our experience with you.

So, here are our ten top tips that will help to make your home base a pet-friendly paradise for you and your four-legged friend.

1. Keep Your Home Safe

Creating the safest home for you and your pet must be your high priority. It means that in addition to getting good home insurance, there are hundreds of things to consider that could pose a risk to your four-legged friend. You should do some research to find out what is really dangerous for the particular type of pet. For example, certain plants are hazardous to animals - if a cat eats a lily, its kidneys can shut down. 

Here some general things every pet owner must consider to make sure the animal stay safe and healthy: 

• Use childproof latches on bathroom and kitchen cupboards to prevent pets from getting to chemicals and foods that can cause harm to them.

• Keep medications, chemicals, and breakable items on high shelves, so that your pet can’t get dangerous stuff.

• Keep garbage can covered, and store it in a closet, cabinet, or outdoors. There is a collection of old foods, small indigestible pieces, hazardous chemicals that can be very harmful to pets. 

• Make sure to put up blockades to prevent your pet from getting trapped behind large units like a fridge, washing machine, dryer, air conditioning, etc. 

• Some foods cause digestive problems in animals, plus a wrapper can also present a choking hazard. So, keep all foods behind a closed door.  

• Small animals can drown in the toilet. To prevent this, keep the toilet lid down.

• Avoid dangling wires from TV, lamps, gaming systems, etc. Pets may get hurt if they chew on wires. 

• Be sure to research if your houseplants aren’t hazardous to your pet. Watch your four-legged friends not to chew the following plants: Tulips, English Ivy, Chrysanthemum, Yew, Oleander, Azaleas, Lilies.

• Ensure to put away all threads and strings, they can be very dangerous for animals. 

• Keep your shoes and laundry in proper bins or a closet since small pieces like zippers and buttons are choking hazards. 

• Do not buy rugs that have high loops - pets can get hooked by claws and hurt themselves.

• There are so many cats that fall out of windows! So, if you really need to open windows, install screens. Window guards are not adequate protection since cats can easily fit through bars.

• The smell and taste of antifreeze are very appealing to cats and dogs. Unfortunately, about 10.000 pets die yearly due to antifreeze poisoning from as little as a drop. So, use it carefully and clean up any spills or drips immediately. 

  2. Keep Your Home Clean

An important part of making your home pet-friendly is keeping it clean even with cats and dogs running around. The tips below will help do it easily and quickly: 

• Try to hide pet hair - if you have a white pet, think about going with lighter colors in your home decor. If you have a black animal, consider darker colors. Easy-peasy!

• Be prepared for accidents - ensure to have a good cleaner that will wash and disinfect pet waste and other messes.  

• Groom your pet, it’ll help reduce the amount of pet fur around the house. 

• Get a good vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air filter. It’ll be better at picking up animal hair.

• Have enough lint removers to get rid of fur from your clothes before you go out. 

• Keep a plastic mat under the pet’s bowls to make cleaning spills easier. You can also keep bowls elevated, this way you’ll avoid having unwelcome critters from getting into the pet’s food. 

• Always wipe off the pet’s paws before you let it in your house. It’ll help keep the home cleaner. 

  3. Choose Upholstery Wisely

When it comes to home design, upholstery is one of the most important decisions. Think carefully about upholstery materials and do some research to find out how likely they are to collect fur. Do avoid fabrics like chenille, velour, corduroy, mohair, and velvet - they are a magnet for pet hair. Besides, pet owners should steer clear of delicate materials like silk, since they can be easily damaged by the little friends. 

Consider investing in quality upholstery that can withstand the test of claws. Opt for high-quality synthetic fabrics, leathers, or smooth tapestries. 

4. Choose The Right Furniture

Another crucial home edit is new furniture. Avoid wooden furnishings with exposed rattan or wicker - excitable puppies will see it as their new favorite teething toy and cats will find it a perfect scratching post! Go for chrome and metal furniture and provide your teether with other toys. 

If you have a cat, give it something to scratch. This way, you’ll lessen the number of new marks on the sofa, trim, or carpet. It would be great to set up scratching posts in several areas in your home. 

5. Invest In A Pet-Friendly Flooring

Home living with your pet will be much more convenient if you choose easy-to-clean, non-slip flooring. With proper flooring, you’ll make your life easier during the early months when your pet is learning to toilet-train or is old and has a hard time standing up. You’ll also appreciate an easy-to-clean floor when the days are rainy and muddy. 

So, what materials to choose? Opt for ceramic tiles, stone, or laminate. Avoid hardwood floors since they dent, scratch and stain easily. Carpets are also a no-no for pet owners - they gather fur, stain, and smell. You’ll just hate cleaning those carpets! 

6. Consider Wall Texture

Do not overlook walls! They can really become a headache to clean if you haven’t considered their texture. Remember that highly textured walls will attract pet fur, even if your four-legged friend doesn't rub against them. Choose satin or semi-gloss paint, it’ll help to repel fur and keep walls clean. 

7. Invest In a Comfortable Pet Bed

A high-quality pet bed is one of the essential home goods for every caring pet parent. It creates a cozy space for your furball to relax, unwind and recharge after a busy day of play. 

When you choose a pet bed, consider your home decor. Don’t put a

traditional tartan couch into a fashionable, sleek apartment, instead, opt for a more contemporary design that will improve the rest of the interior. 

8. Create A Playzone For Your Pet

While you are making important home choices, you should also think about what and where you’ll let your pet do. Positively reinforcing your animal’s behavior and organizing a dedicated space in your home where it can chase balls, roll excitedly around and play tug of war will definitely protect your belongings. However, don’t let your energetic pet run riot around the entire house.  

9. Provide Your Pet with Healthy Chew Toys

Pets, especially puppies, need stuff they can play with and chew on. To make sure they won’t gnaw your home essentials, provide them with durable, high-quality toys, snouts, hooves, and other pet-friendly chewing snacks. However, some toys can pose a choking hazard, e.g., rope toys. So, check all items before you leave your furry, little friend with them. 

10. Make Your Yard Pet-Friendly

If you let your furball out into the garden, tick and flea prevention isn't the only concern. You'll have to decide whether you need to add structures and install invisible fences. Additionally, you’ll have to detect toxic plants in your landscape. Do read the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database before you put something in the ground. It’s a comprehensive database of plants that are dangerous to cats, dogs, and even horses. Some of the most hazardous plants for pets include azaleas, daffodils, daylilies, some ferns, and ivies, so avoid planting them in your garden. Animal-friendly plants are bamboo and, of course, catnip. 

Furthermore, insecticides and fertilizers are known as pet poisons, so it would be wise to try organic gardening - you and your lovely little friend will only win from it. 

Home is where the heart is, and it must be as comfortable and cozy as possible! However, our beloved bushy tails and clumsy paws cause lots of accidents. So, we, pet parents, have to make plenty of special considerations to create a safe and healthy home for us and our furry friends. Hopefully, our post will help you to design a perfect environment for both of you! 

Bio:

Archie was a builder for more than 40 years. Mainly after his retirement the enthusiastic electrical works in garden and writes for a blog Homemakerguide.com to keep himself occupied. His many years of experience can get you the right tool reviews whether it is a drill, welding machine or so. An impressive fact to note about him is that almost everything in his house is a representation of his skills made by his hands. 

Picture Source (delete if not required from your side):

https://unsplash.com/photos/EbV9cE1EiEU

6 Tips For Keeping Your Maltipoo Fit During Lockdown

A brief list of lockdown-friendly activities for you and your Maltipoo!

As a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Miniature Poodle, Maltipoo are amongst the most affectionate, playful, and intelligent dogs out of all small breeds. Their playful energy requires their parents to keep them engaged and active or otherwise face the risks of boredom-related behavior. 

Let’s face it – keeping your Maltipoo active and fit during the lockdown can be tough. This article explores socially-distant tips and tricks to keep your Maltipoo happy and healthy during the pandemic.

Tip #1: Play with toys

Maltipoo are infamous for keeping their puppy-like playfulness throughout their entire lives. A good way to keep your Maltipoo fit during the lockdown is to toss a toy up and down the hallway for a game of fetch. Thanks to their small size, it’s easy to burn up their energy even in an area as small as a studio apartment. 

Below is a list of toys that are bound to get your furry friend riled up for playtime:

• Balls: Tried and true, balls are a proven favorite with dogs. Whether it’s a soft plush ball or a tennis ball, this toy is perfect for playing fetch. A ball that bounces and rolls seems to trigger a primal instinct and a chase ensues. You’ll need to use a small-sized ball so that your little Maltipoo can pick is up and bring it back.

• Rope Toys: The king of tug-of-war, rope toys are another fan-favorite. When playing tug-of-war, you can be aggressive as you want to be to get your Maltipoo some exercise. Playing aggressively will require your Maltipoo to put more effort into the game, ultimately burning more energy and keeping your pup fit.

• Stuffed Toys: Stuffed toys offer the best of both worlds. You can play fetch or play tug-of-war. Stuffed toys are soft and squishy which provide peace of mind when playing tug-of-war. The toy’s softness will protect your Maltipoo’s teeth and mouth. 

• Chew Toys: It’s natural for your dog to want to chew on things. A chew toy can be thrown for a game of fetch or played with by itself. It’s a great toy to have around the house while you’re at work. Encouraging your dog to chew on a chew toy makes it less likely that your Maltipoo will chew on your sofa or bedpost.

With a small breed like a Maltipoo, playing with toys alone should be enough to keep your dog in shape. It’s recommended that you play with or exercise your dog for 30 minutes to one hour per day to keep them fit. 

Tip #2: Puzzles

There are tons of great puzzle options to keep your Maltipoo active while you’re at work or you’re otherwise too busy to play. Puzzle toys are challenging, stimulating, and require brainpower. Since your dog is part Miniature Poodle, it needs its brain stimulated as much as it needs physical exercise. A puzzle offers a solution to both.

Below is a list of puzzle toys to keep your Maltipoo fit and stimulated while you’re unavailable to play:

• Kong: The Kong is a classic interactive dog toy. Just fill it with peanut butter and watch your Maltipoo go to work. Be sure to use a Kong that is small so that it’s challenging for your little Maltipoo to get at. Make your dog work for its reward!

• Hide-A-Squirrel: Imagine a plush toy log that has little squirrels hidden away within holes on the log. Now imagine your Maltipoo digging through each hole to find a little squirrel with its own squeaker. This is a fun puzzle game that doubles as a stuffed toy.

• Treat-Dispensing Toys: Similar to the Kong, treat-dispensing toys make your pup work for its reward. We recommend finding a treat-dispensing toy in the form of a ball. This way, your pup will be clumsily knocking and chasing a ball around the house for hours as it tries to figure out how to get the treats dispensed!

• Puzzles: Puzzles require your dog to use its nose to identify where a treat is hidden. Once your pup locates the treat, it will have to either slide, slip, or open a trap door to reap the reward. Puzzles are great because they are sold at different difficulty levels, which is perfect to keep your highly intelligent Maltipoo engaged. 

Tip #3: Go for walks

Taking your furry friend on a socially-distanced walk is the best way to keep your dog fit and happy. The benefits of walks stretch beyond just health benefits to social benefits as well. Embarking on just a 15-30 minute walk around the neighborhood once per day will not only keep your dog fit but will help keep you in shape as well.

Health benefits of walking your dog include cardiovascular fitness, lowers blood pressure, builds strong bones, and decreases stress. Regular walks help prevent obesity, which can lead to arthritis, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and more. And guess what – not only does your dog benefit from these health benefits, but you do too.

A regular walking schedule with your dog will help you bond. It gets both of you out of the house and into the fresh air. Let your dog sniff around and explore during your walks. This is a natural behavior that stimulates and keeps your dog happy. A dog’s nose tells a story. After all, their olfactory receptors are 40x stronger than ours.

Tip #4: Build an obstacle course

There was a viral trend circulating social media platforms for a while where pet owners were constructing towers made of plastic solo cups to jump over. Consider doing something similar for your Maltipoo! 

The Miniature Poodle in your dog is intelligent enough to navigate through obstacle courses while the Maltese in your dog is surprisingly nimble and athletic. The combination of the intelligence of the Miniature Poodle and athleticism of the Maltese results in an obstacle-capable Maltipoo. 

Start with just one layer of cups on the ground and bribe your pup to jump over it with a healthy treat. If you’re dog successfully jumps over the first layer of cups, then add a second layer. Repeat this process until your dog can no longer jump over the cups without knocking any down. 

Other obstacle courses can be created with tunnels, tubes, gates, chairs, or whatever furniture you have available in the house. This is a fun way to change up your surroundings and combat the monotony of the lockdown. Old cardboard boxes from Amazon packages make for great obstacles as well!

Tip #5: Healthy eating

Your pet is likely getting less exercise than normal thanks to the lockdown. Less exercise means fewer calories burned and more calories stored. Because of this, you may notice that your Maltipoo is gaining weight despite not eating more than usual. If this is the case, then take a close look at your portion sizes and the quality of the food.

Think of it like this – If you wouldn’t eat low-quality, highly processed fast food every day, then why should your dog? Cheap dog food is equivalent to fast food for humans. Consider upgrading to high-quality dog food with a natural source of protein, no fillers, and no artificial flavoring.

High-quality dog food can be identified first by a high-quality protein. Look for food with real chunks of chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, or whatever else. Low-quality pet foods use animal by-products as protein, which is pretty much the unwanted animal bits that are ground up and put into your dog’s food. 

It’s also important to stay away from fillers like corn, soy, and wheat. Fillers are unnatural in a dog’s diet and can be difficult for your Maltipoo to digest. Similarly, stay away from artificial flavors that may contain unwanted cancer-causing chemicals. 

As far as portion sizes go, you have the option of either free-feeding or measuring out your Maltipoo’s meals. Free-feeding is great if your pet has self-restraint and doesn’t overindulge. Measuring your dog’s meals and feeding on a regular schedule is ideal if you notice weight issues. 

Check with your veterinarian to see how often your dog should be eating each day. An average Maltipoo that weighs from 9 to 12 pounds should only be eating ¾ to 1 cup of dry kibble per day.

Tip #6: Treat responsibly

We know it’s hard to resist that cute Maltipoo beggar face, but you mustn’t go overboard with treats. More time spent at home during the lockdown means more meals eaten at home, and ultimately more temptation to feed your adorable Maltipoo off of your plate.

Maltipoo are great actors. They can give you that innocent look that says, “I’m starving and I haven’t eaten in weeks!” face pushes you over the edge give them a nibble. Resist the urge at all costs! Dog’s digestive systems aren’t designed to digest people food and you can actually be doing more harm than good by caving in. 

We’re not saying that you should never give your dog a treat, rather have restraint and treat responsibly. It’s okay to give your dog the occasional bite off of your plate, but try keeping that to a minimum. Only give your dog a treat as a reward. For example, if your furry friend goes potty outside like a good boy or girl, then go ahead and give them a treat!

Much like humans, treats should never be overindulged. Treat your dog’s diet like you would your own. Although stuffing your face with peanut butter cups is delicious, it’s certainly not good for your long-term health. The same goes for your dog. Especially during a lockdown when they’re getting less exercise than normal!

In Summary

It’s difficult to keep your Maltipoo fit during the lockdown; you can’t take your dog to the dog park, you can’t socialize your dog at your friend’s or family’s house, and there’s more temptation to overeat out of boredom. Thankfully, your Maltipoo is small enough to exercise and keep fit within your residence. 

Aside from keeping your pet fit with puzzles, toys, obstacle courses, and socially-distanced walks, keep an eye on your Maltipoo’s diet. If your pet is gaining weight, then you may need to cut back on portion sizes or switch to healthier food. Lastly, resist that signature Maltipoo puppy face, and don’t overindulge your dog with treats!

Author: Hannan Ahmad

Recommended Maltipoo Outfits & Apparel

Maltipoos are small dogs and it can be fun to dress them up in clothing and accessories to make them look adorable as you carry them around town with you. Along with looking stylish, clothing can help keep your Maltipoo warm in cold weather and shoes can protect the paws from the heat as well as the cold that can burn and crack their tender pads.

Because Maltipoos have a single coat of hair, layering them with a sweater or vest can help so much while out in the cold weather. Maltipoos are more vulnerable to weather changes than the bigger breeds so you should try to avoid bringing your Maltipoo out in severe weather. However if there is a need to go out in the weather, a good coat is all you need to make your Maltipoo more comfortable.

If you live in an area that has cold, harsh winters, clothing will be helpful for keeping your Maltipoo comfortable enough to be willing to go outside. This is great when it comes to house training or staying outside long enough to maintain his exercise requirements.

Below are some great options for keeping your Maltipoo warm out in the cold weather.

Your Maltipoo’s paws should be protected as well. You do have the option to choose between shoes and paw wax. If you do decide to go with paw wax, be sure to choose a good quality option.

Another thing to think about is using a harness. The toy Poodle and the Maltese are prone to collapsed trachea so this means that the Maltipoo will be at risk for this as well.

It is a genetic weakness in the trachea rings. The most common way for this to develop is when a dog is on leash with just a collar on. Any tugging, lunging, etc. puts all pressure onto the dog's neck and this can wear on the cartilage rings or in some cases, cause a sudden collapse. You can avoid this and keep your Maltipoo happy and healthy by using a harness when on leash. It helps to disperse the pressure across a dog's chest, back and shoulders and keeps any force and tension away from the neck.

You can look for clothing that has a harness connector hole sewn into the back of the garment. It looks like a button hole. This way, your puppy or dog can wear his regular harness, with his coat on top. This will allow you to easily attach the leash.

Along with all of these necessities, it is also fun to include things likes bows, handkerchiefs, swimsuits for the summer etc.

Black & White Maltipoo (Pictures Included)

The Black and White Color is more rare to find on Maltipoos and can give maltipoos a really creative look. The black and white can range from many spots to a more simple two toned look.

The gallery below includes Maltipoo pictures submitted by our Maltipoo Facebook group members. If you want to learn more about Maltipoos and get advice from thousands of Maltipoo owners around the world, be sure to check out our group.

Cream Maltipoo (Pictures included)

Cream is among the most popular and sought after color for Maltipoos, along with Red and Apricot. The lighter cream color can sometimes appear to be white and may also have patches or blends of lighter or darker colors.

The gallery below are not necessarily Maltipoos from our program but were submitted by their owners in our Maltipoos Facebook group. This group includes over 3,000+ members that share very helpful information about the Maltipoo breed and how to care for your Maltipoo.

Apricot Maltipoo (with Pictures included)

Apricot is among the most sought after colors for Maltipoos along with Cream and red. The apricot color can come in many shades in between cream and red and can sometimes have white or lighter patches or blends.

As you can see in the gallery below, the apricot coat (like any other color)can vary from straight, wavy, or curly in texture depending on their parents. These images are not necessarily pictures of puppies in our program but were submitted by their owners in our Maltipoo Facebook group. If you want to become a part of the best Maltipoo group in the nation, be sure to check it out.