If you’re looking to purchase or adopt a family dog, consider the Maltipoo. The major question when including any furry friend in your future family plans, are Maltipoos good with kids? This crossbreed is part Maltese and part Poodle. Maltipoos are considered to be very sweet and friendly dogs who are good with other animals, children, and adults alike. Their size depends on the breeding of their parents but they are generally on the smaller side. Keep on reading to learn more about Maltipoos and to see if they might be the right fit for you!
Maltipoo Personality And Physical Traits
Maltipoos are referred to as a type of “designer dog” because they are bred to look a certain way. They are energetic, quick learners and recommended for first-time dog owners because they are easy to train (via Dog Time). They are curly, sometimes scruffy little dogs that come in a variety of colors ranging from creamy white to a more grey, silver, or blue coat of fur. But are Maltipoos good with kids? This breed is affectionate and cuddly and responds well to positive reinforcement. Despite their size, Maltipoos are very protective of their family. They consider themselves to be a watchdog and thus are avid barkers. They are also very attached to their families and can have separation anxiety, so make sure you can give them the time they need to feel safe (via Pet MD).
Why The Age Of Your Child Is Important
Bringing any dog into a family should be a well-thought-out decision. Maltipoos may be small but they do require training and guidance. This dog may do better in a home with slightly older children due to their small size and need for training. You can decide if your young child will do alright with a small dog and if you have the time for training on top of other responsibilities. Be sure you speak with your child about the right ways to interact with their furry friends because Maltipoos are good with kids but should be treated with respect and kindness too. Maltipoos are eager to please and if your child can help in the training process, it is sure to further the bond between this sweet animal and your family (via A-Z Animals).
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What If My Child Is Allergic?
Because they are part Poodle, Maltipoos can be somewhat hypoallergenic. They have a fairly short coat and don’t shed all that much. It should be considered that no dog is completely hypoallergenic because people can still be allergic to the dander and saliva. However, medication can alleviate allergy symptoms and Maltipoos are a good option given their short hair and minimal grooming needs.
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How Big Do Maltipoos Get?
According to Pet MD, Maltipoos can reach up to 15 inches in height. Depending on the gender they can weigh anywhere from 10-20 pounds. They are generally on the small side owing to their breeding. Maltipoos on the smaller end, below 10 pounds are considered “toy” Maltipoos. They generally stop growing by the 8-10 month mark (via Pet Maltipoo).
Energy Levels of Maltipoos
Maltipoos are small but active dogs. Pet MD recommends a daily walk and some outdoor playtime. Encourage your family to play with your new pet, this will help everyone adapt and get used to the new routine of owning a Maltipoo. Exercise in any dog can help to keep their muscles strong and reduce the chance of unnecessary weight gain. Your Maltipoo puppy should be at least 12-14 weeks old before it can be brought outside for walks. Make sure you’ve gotten all the required vaccinations before encouraging your dog to play with others in a park setting (via Pet Maltipoo).
How Much Does It Cost To Own A Maltipoo?
Maltipoos are not an inexpensive dog breed. The dogs can be anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000. Cost depends predominantly on what breeder you’re working with to acquire your Maltipoo puppy. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to budget out for the costs of setting up your puppy’s new space, gear, food, and frequent vet checkups. Because Maltipoos are specially bred dogs, they can be harder to find in a rescue or adoption setting. Some Maltipoo-specific centers may offer reduced prices if they’re looking to rehome a Maltipoo.
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
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What To Know About Maltipoos
Maltipoos are a great option for a small, family-friendly dog. Maltipoos are good with kids, easy to train, and genuinely enjoy pleasing their families. They are affectionate and sweet little dogs. While they are small, they have a pretty loud bark and the cost of buying one through a breeder is worth taking into account. In terms of training and socialization, be sure that you have lots of time to spend with your new family member to help them feel safe in their new space. You want to be sure you can give your new Maltipoo the kind of home it deserves.
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