Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is a recently developed hybrid dog created to be a companion for people with pet-related allergies. It is a cross of the Maltese and the Miniature Poodle, which are both low-shedding dog breeds. However, there is no scientific proof that Maltipoos have hypoallergenic coats. Whether the Maltipoo is hypoallergenic or not, there's no doubt that this charming dog is a popular choice for a household pet.

The Maltipoo is yet to be recognised as a true breed by any major kennel clubs including UK's The Kennel Club. However, fans and enthusiasts in North America have established Maltipoo Club and Registry to make sure that breeders produce only healthy generations of Maltipoos.

The Maltipoo is a small dog, weighing 5 to 20 pounds and standing 20 to 35 centimetres at the withers depending on which parent breed it takes after. This dog is a hybrid dog inheriting the physical features of its parent breeds, the Maltese and the Miniature Poodle. However, Maltipoos have a body structure resembling that of the Maltese than the Poodle. The head should not look too small or large with the rest of the body. It has a short muzzle, with dark nose and dark-coloured, tight lips. Its eyes are dark and round, while its ears are set high and wide apart.

When it comes to the coat, its length and texture vary depending on its parent breeds. Maltipoos may sport a soft wavy coat with a nice curl or scruffy harsh coat in general. The coat may differ in colours that include cream, white, apricot, silver, brown, café au lait, black, silver beige, grey, red, blue and phantom. There is one thing to note about its coat, which is the reason why the breed was developed – it is low shedding. The coat of a Maltipoo is believed to be hypoallergenic, although many will argue that there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog.

The temperament of Maltipoos will depend on their parentage. It is known to have an amazing and outgoing personality. Its inherent sociable personality makes them friendly towards strangers which is both a good and a bad thing. Maltipoos are loyal and affectionate, which make them a wonderful family pet. Because they are incredibly people-oriented, they tend to suffer from separation anxiety that may result in destructive behaviours. Like its Maltese parent, the Maltipoo likes the sound of its voice and can be quite vocal. Although it is not a natural watchdog, it is quick to bark to let owners know when there are strangers about.

Maltipoos are better suited to households with older children because they tend to be snappy with younger children or toddlers, especially when playtime becomes boisterous or noisy. With this said, it is important to make sure that they are well-supervised to keep playtime calm and safe. When socialised early or at a young age, they get along well with other dogs and family cats they grew up with. However, they won't hesitate to chase off any other cats or small animals they come across in the neighbourhood, so care should be taken.

• Senior and less active: up to 350 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 390 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 440 calories daily

If you plan to buy a Maltipoo puppy, then be prepared to pay around £1,000 to £1,200 especially for a well-bred puppy from a reputable breeder. Also set a monthly budget for affordable pet insurance, which can cost around £23 to £45.  However, the cost of pet insurance premium will vary depending on your location, the dog's age and health.

Food costs will also vary depending on the age and size of your Maltipoo but a fair estimation is around £20 to £30 a month. Veterinary care is also an enormous cost that will set you back a lot.  Taking your Maltipoo to regular veterinary consultations will cost you no lower than £800 a year. To cover the cost of caring for a Maltipoo, you will spend an average of £50 to £80 a month.