Maltese VS Maltipoo Dogs

The Maltese is an ancient breed, thought to originate in the Mediterranean area and its name stems from the Mediterranean island of Malta where small white dogs were revered. These dogs were eventually transported into Egypt and Europe. It is believed that over centuries, the dog was bred down in size and we do know that in the 1600's and 1700's, selective breeding was done to make the Maltese smaller. 

Maltipoo lovers that understand about crossbreeding should find it interesting that in the early 1800's, there were very few Maltese dogs and at that time these dogs were crossbred with Poodles and miniature Spaniels to help keep the breed from going extinct. This created at least 9 different types of Maltese dogs; some of which had color. 

In the early 1900's both parti-color (two colors) and fully solid colored Maltese dogs were accepted in UK show rings. It is only relatively recently that Maltese have been expected to be pure white (with tan or lemon markings on the ears being acceptable with some kennel clubs). The Maltese was accepted by the AKC in 1888 and by the FCI in 1955 (with Italian patronage). 

The Maltipoo is a hybrid dog, being either a cross of a toy or mini Poodle and a Maltese or is produced by pairing two Maltipoos. As noted above in looking at Maltese history, crossbreeding is not unique to just' hybrid' dogs, as every purebred was crossbred at some point. Some crossings are unknown due to poor record keeping and others are well documented. This sort of selective breeding has been happening since dogs were domesticated, yet only starting in the late 1900's did the terms of 'hybrid' and 'designer' dogs gain popularity.

  

Some hybrid dogs did not catch on and others did. The Maltipoo is one of the most popular hybrid dogs and if ethical breeders keep working towards a standard appearance, it is possible that someday Maltipoos will be an accepted breed. The AKC, FCI and other large kennel clubs accept new breeds every few years that were once 'hybrid' dogs. 

For example, in 2011 the Boerboels dog was accepted in the Miscellaneous class (most dogs enter here and after 2 to 3 years, move to being an accepted purebred) and this dog was crossbred with Bullmastiffs in the early 1900's.

Both Maltese and Maltipoo dogs are considered to be in the Toy size class. The Maltese, being recognized, is officially a toy sized dog with his weight of 4 -7 lbs (1.81 - 3.18 kg). The Maltipoo, although not recognized, does fit this classification. The smallest toy is the Chihuahua with a top weight of 6 lbs. (2.72 kg) and the largest is the Pug with a weight of 14 to 18 lbs. (6.35 to 8.16 kg) Most Maltipoos range from 5-12 lbs. (2.27-5.44 kg), putting him correctly in the category of toy sized. 

The size of a Maltipoo depends on if a toy Poodle is a parent and what weight that dog was (6 to 9 lbs. - 2.72 to 4.08 kg) or a mini is one of the parents (15 to 17 lbs. - 6.8 to 7.7 kg). 

Since most Maltese will only be 7 lbs. at the most and some Maltipoo are as tiny as 5 lbs., there are some Maltipoo that are smaller than Maltese dogs. However, since many Maltipoo dogs are typically in the 8 to 10 pound range(3.62 to 4.53 kg) and they can grow to be as large as 12 lbs. (5.44 kg). (these are often the ones that have a miniature Poodle as a parent), the majority of Maltipoo will be slightly larger than Maltese dogs. 

In regard to height, which is measured from the withers (the top of the shoulder blades) to the floor, both Maltese and Maltipoo have a starting range of 8 inches (20.32 cm). Maltese can mature to be as tall as 10 inches (25.4 cm) and Maltipoos may be a bit taller, sometimes as tall as 14 inches (35.5 cm). 

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

When you read about a dog's character and temperament, it is important to note that these are general statements and that each dog has his/her own unique personality. How a dog is raised plays a huge role in his behavior and general disposition. 

Maltese, per the AKC, are described as charming, gentle and playful and this certainly holds true for many Maltese dogs. In regard to the Maltipoo, we must look at the other gene influence: the Poodle. That breed is described, per the AKC, as active, smart and very proud. This is true of many Poodles and the 'very smart' description certainly is accurate since Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. According to the Intelligence of Dogs, a book published in 1994 yet still serving as the main reference for canine intellect, this breed places 2nd. The Maltese places 59 out of 79 (though it must be noted that this is only one conclusion based on Professor Stanley Coren's poll questions sent out to AKC and CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) trial judges. 

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

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

Both breeds are essentially equal in regard to ability to be trained for housebreaking and commands. Having a good plan, having all family members stick to a training schedule and an owner's enthusiasm will all play a role in how quickly a puppy is trained and how successful a dog will be with commands. 

One of the benefits of hybrid dogs like the Maltipoo is that hybrid vigor may lead to a healthier dog. Though some will exaggerate the extent of how hybrid vigor works, typically it will reduce the odds of some health issues; it has not been proven to completely eliminate any conditions. Studies have found that crossbreeds are less likely to develop: cataracts, allergic dermatitis, elbow dysplasia and portosystemic liver shunts, among other issues.  Nevertheless, Maltipoos are prone to many of the same conditions as Maltese:

Shedding - Both breeds have a single layer of hair. This means that shedding is very minimal for both Maltese and Maltipoo dogs. However, the coat is in a constant state of renewal; this is true for all dogs that have hair and not fur. Every hair follicle is in a certain state: Growth, rest or fall out. So, just like hair on a human's head, some will fall out each day. Therefore any breed of dog that is classified as a 'non shedder' will have natural hair loss; though this is not to the degree of heavy shedding dogs that can leave clumps of fur behind.

Coat care - When a dog has a single coat, like both the Maltese and Maltipoo have, improper coat care often affects the skin more than dogs that have thick, dense fur. Both breeds should be bathed once every 3 weeks with a high quality shampoo and conditioner. With both Maltipoo dogs that have a soft, wavy coat and Maltese dogs, a light leave-in conditioner should be applied both after baths and approximately every 3 days. 

Three of the most important care elements apply to both Maltese and Maltipoo:

1) Use a harness when on leash. Due to their small size and with collapsed trachea always a concern, it is best to avoid connecting a leash directly to the collar. If this is done, when the dog is walked and any time he jumps to the side, this puts pressure on the neck. Using a harness distributes pressure across the chest and back and can greatly reduce the chances of neck injury. 

2) Stick to a feeding schedule. Small dogs like the Maltese and Maltipoo are prone to hypoglycemia, which is a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This is more apt to happen to young puppies; however it can develop quickly in a tiny dog of any age. While stress (such as moving to a new home) can cause this, one of the main contributors is inconsistent feeding, when the dog goes too long without food. 

While some larger breeds can do just fine with one main meal per day, Maltese and Maltipoos need to eat more often. Puppies should have 3 meals per day plus healthy snacks. Adults should have 2 meals per day plus healthy snacks. 

3) Prevent chills. It is common for toy sized dogs to shake and shiver and this is not usually due to nervousness; it is most often due to being cold. With a tiny body and only a single coat of hair, Maltese and Maltipoos can become cold quickly…and the best way to prevent this is to place a soft cozy sweater on your dog on cool/cold days. 

Both Maltese and Maltipoos are adorable toy sized dogs with happy dispositions and playful, friendly personalities. Being minimal shedders, they are both considered low-maintenance (though Maltese with long show coats do require more grooming care). Being so small also means that you'll be spending less money on food each year than you would with a large sized dog. Both breeds make wonderful canine companions, happy to live in a small apartment or a large home with multiple pets.