Maltipoo health problems & breed care

A cross between the Maltese, a toy companion breed dating back to the 1800s, and the Poodle, a water-retrieving utility breed, Maltipoos are clever, affectionate and irresistibly fluffy. They also have a long lifespan. Maltipoo’s typically live over 10 years, often reaching 13-16 years. 

These sweet, playful dogs bring fun, games and cuddles to almost any home. They also take guarding seriously and will bark to alert you to anything unusual, though this can be reduced with exercise and socialisation.

Maltipoos form strong attachments and consider themselves indispensable family members. For a calm, confident companion, encourage independence early by letting them spend short periods alone and setting a few boundaries so they can’t follow you everywhere.

#What is a Maltipoo dog breed?

• A Maltipoo isn’t a pedigree breed but a cross between the silky white long-haired Maltese and a toy or miniature Poodle. Mini Maltipoos are bred from slightly larger miniature Poodles.
• Toy Maltipoos come from smaller toy Poodles.
• Teacup Maltipoos are bred to be extremely tiny, which can compromise their health, so vets and the Kennel Club advise caution.

#Common Maltipoo health issues

Generally healthy and long-lived, Maltipoos are still prone to a few health conditions owners should be aware of.

##Physical issues in Maltipoos

• Luxating patella: Seen as a skipped step or hopping, this happens when the kneecap slips out of its groove. Over time, it wears down cartilage and leads to arthritis. For some, lifestyle changes help, for others, surgery is best.
• Legg-Calve-Perthes: An uncommon condition where poor blood flow causes the ball-shaped head of the thigh bone to collapse or flatten. The damaged hip joint causes pain and arthritis and may need surgery.
• Portosystemic shunt: Congenital shunts (present at birth) are abnormal blood vessels that divert blood around the liver, stopping it from developing properly. These pups grow poorly and show neurological signs like confusion or head pressing after meals. Early diagnosis and surgery offer the best outcome.
• Collapsing trachea: Noisy, difficult breathing, often with a goose-honk cough, is caused by a weakened windpipe which narrows and even collapses when a dog breathes in. It can get worse over time, and severe cases may need surgery.
• Eyes issues: Progressive retinal atrophy (gradual blindness), cataracts and dry eye can occur. Vision loss and sticky eyes warrant a vet visit.
• Dental disease: Common in most small breeds.

##Stomach issues in Maltipoos

Maltipoos can have sensitive stomachs, but bilious vomiting syndrome can also cause dogs to bring up yellow bile, usually when their stomach is empty, early in the morning. Normally fine in every other way, feeding small high-quality meals several times a day often helps, but always check with your vet to rule
out other causes.  

##Skin issues & allergies in Maltipoos

Maltipoos can develop allergies to fleas, food or environmental triggers, leading to itchy, inflamed skin. Their coat, whether silky like a Maltese or curly like a Poodle, can also trap dirt and moisture if matted, leading to skin infections.

##Maltipoos medical conditions

Epilepsy can cause full-body seizures or localised twitching. Young dogs are more likely to develop primary epilepsy, but other diseases can cause secondary epilepsy later in life. Treatment depends on the cause, frequency and severity of seizures.

Shaker syndrome or Little White Shaker Syndrome is a steroid-responsive generalised tremor condition. It typically starts in younger dogs and is worse when they are excited or exercising. The tremor can affect one area or the whole body, making it difficult to walk. Happily, most cases improve quickly with steroids.

Addison’s (hypoadrenocorticism) and Cushing’s (hypercortisolism) are conditions caused by under- or overproduction of hormones. While Addison's starts in young to middle-aged dogs with weakness, weight loss and tummy upsets, Cushing's is typically seen in older dogs with weight gain, lethargy and skin and coat changes. Of the two, Addison’s is more serious and harder to spot because it mimics many other common illnesses. Both can be treated medically.

#Caring for a Maltipoo

Maltipoos enjoy being pampered pets, but healthy habits bring out their best.

##Diet & nutrition tips

• Feed high-quality food designed for small breeds prone to dental issues.
• Offer two or three meals a day to reduce bilious vomiting.
• Maintain strict portion control to prevent obesity.
• Joint supplements are especially beneficial for dogs with luxating patellas.
• Calming supplements can help with separation anxiety when paired with training.

##Maltipoos behaviour, training & exercise tips

• Maltipoos don’t need high-intensity exercise, but several short walks, and even long ones,
  keep them calm and content.
• Positive reinforcement works well for these eager-to-please companions.
• Clever dogs will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones, so don’t skip training sessions.
• Early socialisation and teaching a “quiet” command can help minimise reactive
  barking.

##Grooming tips

Although Maltipoos are very low shedders and better for mild allergy sufferers, no dog is truly hypoallergenic.   

• Hairy ear canals need help to stay clean and dry. Check them weekly to spot problems
  early.
• Tear staining (reddish-brown under the eyes) is common but harmless, wipe gently
  with a pet-safe cleanser.
• Daily brushing helps prevent matting and skin problems.     
• Dental care, ideally daily brushing, is strongly recommended.

Playful and loyal, Maltipoos provide companionship and look cute to boot. While they don’t have the intense needs of a working breed, regular exercise, training and socialisation minimise barking and separation issues. Invest time in your Maltipoo and you’ll build a long, happy, rewarding
relationship.