Maltipom Guide: Your Complete Source on the Maltese Pomeranian Mix

The Maltipom is a delightful small dog breed that you might consider if you’re looking for a puppy that combines the affectionate Maltese with the spirited Pomeranian. Known for their fluffy coats and friendly dispositions, Maltipoms can be an ideal pet for those living in smaller spaces, like apartments. They’re often described as sociable and intelligent, making them relatively easy to train and capable of forming strong bonds with their owners.

As with any mixed breed dog, the traits of a Maltipom can vary from one dog to another, blending characteristics from both the Maltese and Pomeranian breeds. You might find that your Maltipom is as playful and curious as Pomeranians are known to be, or they may exhibit the gentle and sweet temperament typical of Maltese dogs. To understand this breed better and navigate the joys and challenges of raising one, you’ll want to refer to expert sources like the book “Maltipom As A Pet” by Allison Karen.

Caring for a small dog like the Maltipom involves understanding their specific needs in terms of grooming, exercise, and health. They have coats that require regular maintenance to prevent matting and also need daily activity to stay healthy and content. However, the effort is well worth it, as Maltipoms often reward their owners with unwavering loyalty and affection.

Here are some quick facts about Maltipoms:

• Size: They’re small, usually weighing between 5 to 12 pounds.
• Coat: Their fur can be a mix of their parents’ coats. It’s often fluffy and soft, and it comes in a variety of colors.
• Temperament: Maltipoms are known for being friendly, affectionate, and full of energy. They are super lovable!
• Lifespan: These pups can live around 12 to 14 years if they’re well taken care of.

Keep in mind, the Maltipom must not be confused with the Maltipoo, which is a Maltese Poodle mixed breed.

This hybrid is also sometimes called a Pomtese, mixing the names of both breeds. You might find them to be sociable little buddies who enjoy being with people and other pets. They can brighten up your day with their playful antics and are often good for apartment living due to their small size.

But remember, every Maltipom is unique. Your pup might have more Maltese traits or lean a bit more towards the Pomeranian side. It’s all in the genetic lottery! They’re a popular choice for dog lovers who want a pet with a big personality in a small package. Just make sure you’re ready for the brushing and grooming their coats require, and you’ll have a perfect little pal by your side.

Origin and History of The Maltese Pomeranian Mixed Breed

The Maltipom stems from the blending of two breeds with rich, distinct histories. Let’s explore the origins of both parent breeds and the development of this designer dog.

Maltese History

The Maltese is an ancient breed hailing from the Mediterranean island of Malta. Its history can be tracked back thousands of years, where the breed was a favorite among royalty across Europe. These small, silky-coated dogs were cherished companions, revered for their graceful appearance and affectionate temperament.

Pomeranian History

The Pomeranian, on the other hand, originated from the Arctic region for sledding but later bred down in size in Pomerania, which is now part of modern-day Poland and Germany. They gained popularity after Queen Victoria brought one back from Italy, leading to the breed’s miniaturization. The breed is known for its fluffy coat and vivacious personality.

Maltipom & Designer Breed Development

The Maltipom emerges as a cross of Maltese and Pomeranian. These dogs are part of a larger trend in creating designer dogs, aimed at blending the best traits of two purebreds. This mix results in a diminutive and charming companion that inherits its parents’ friendly and affectionate nature. 

Crossbreeding like this seeks to produce a pup with a balanced temperament suitable for a variety of owners, including those in urban living situations. Although not a breed recognized by major kennel clubs, Maltipoms have been gaining the hearts of dog lovers with their amiable disposition and manageable size.

Physical Characteristics: What Does The Maltipom Look Like

When considering a Maltipom, you’ll notice they blend the best of both breeds in their appearance, making each one unique.

Size and Weight

The Maltipom typically weighs between 3 to 9 pounds (1.4 to 4.1 kilograms) and stands about 8 to 12 inches tall (20 to 30 centimeters) at the shoulder when fully grown. This small size makes them ideal for apartment living and easy to handle for most people.

Coat and Colors

The coat of a Maltipom can be one of the most distinctive aspects of their appearance. They often have a thick, fluffy coat which can come from their Pomeranian heritage and can vary between being straight and wavy. 

While the Pomeranian Maltese mix is usually not hypoallergenic, they can inherit the Maltese’s single coat if back crossed for several generations, resulting in a more allergy-friendly and low shedding companion. Otherwise, they often have the Pomeranian’s double coat and can shed quite a bit. Their colors range widely, including white, black, brown, and even merle patterns, which are eye-catching and unique.

Distinctive Features

The face of a Maltipom usually features expressive eyes and a short muzzle, which adds to their adorable expression. Their ears can either stand up like a Pomeranian’s or flop down more characteristic to the Maltese. A Maltipom’s coat is often one of their most notable features – it’s common for them to sport a fluffy coat which adds to their cuddly appearance.

Maltipom Temperament and Personality

When you think of a Maltipom, picture a small, affectionate companion with a lively personality. They’re clever and friendly, making them a great match for many families.

Behavioral Traits

Your Maltipom is likely energetic and playful. They enjoy a good game and will be highly spirited when it’s playtime. Given their intelligent nature, they thrive on mental stimulation and love learning new tricks. Remember, without proper activity, they may resort to barking to catch your attention. Maltipoms can also experience separation anxiety because they don’t like being left alone. To keep your Maltipom happy, ensure that it has enough interactive playtime and companionship throughout the day.

Suitability for Families

Maltipoms are known for their affectionate and loving traits, making them particularly good with kids. They’re also loyal to their family, which usually makes them quite lovable. However, due to their small size, they are very prone to injury, so it’s crucial to supervise interactions with younger children to prevent accidental harm.

Interaction with Other Pets

Generally, Maltipoms can be quite friendly and social. Even so, like with any dog, early socialization is key to a well-behaved pet. Your Maltipom might be small, but they often come with a big personality, enjoying the company of other pets. Remember, their diminutive stature means you’ll want to keep an eye out during playtime to avoid any roughhousing that could lead to injury.

Training and Exercise The Maltese and Pomeranian Mix

Your Maltipom is a bright and enthusiastic companion that will thrive with the right mix of training and exercise. Understanding their needs and using effective methods can ensure a happy, well-adjusted pet.

Training Needs

Maltipoms inherit a high intelligence from both Maltese and Pomeranian breeds, which makes them easy to train. However, starting early is key. They do well with structured training sessions that are short and engaging. To get the best out of your Maltipom, introduce a variety of training exercises that stimulate their mind and keep training sessions fun.

• Commitment: Regular training routines
• Consistency: Same commands and rules
• Patience: Positive reinforcement without harsh methods

Exercise Requirements

Despite their small size, Maltipoms are relatively active and need daily exercise to maintain their energy level. A good balance of indoor play and outdoor activities is ideal. Aim for:

• Two 15-minute walks per day; and
• Additional indoor playtime with toys.

This mix of activities will cater to their exercise needs and help prevent any destructive behavior due to pent-up energy.

Obedience and Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement techniques work wonders with Maltipoms. As sensitive dogs, they respond well to praise and treats making obedience training a smoother process. Be patient and consistent with your commands, and with time, your Maltipom will follow your lead with eagerness and attention.

• Rewards: Treats, playtime, and verbal praise
• Avoid: Negative and punitive measures

Remember, a well-exercised Maltipom is easier to train, and a well-trained Maltipom is a joy to exercise!

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of a Maltipom requires attention to their grooming, diet, and exercise needs. With the right approach, you can keep your pup healthy and happy.

Grooming Essentials

Grooming is key for your Maltipom due to their thick coat that can easily mat. They need daily brushing to prevent tangles and to manage shedding. 

Although they are not fully hypoallergenic, regular grooming can reduce allergens. Every few weeks, give your Maltipom a bath to keep their coat clean, but not so often that it dries out their skin. Remember to check their ears for dirt and to trim their nails regularly to avoid overgrowth which can be painful for them.

• Brush: Use a soft-bristle brush or a pin brush.
• Bath: Mild dog shampoo, once every 3-4 weeks.

Feeding and Diet

Maltipoms need a diet rich in nutrition that matches their energy levels. You should feed your Maltipom premium dog food that caters to small breeds, as these formulas contain the right balance for their size. It’s important to stick to the recommended serving sizes to avoid overfeeding.

• Feeding: 2-3 small meals per day.
• Health: Monitor your pet’s weight to prevent obesity-related health problems.

How Much Exercise Do They Need?

Your Maltipom doesn’t require extensive exercise but they do need daily activity to stay fit and burn off energy. Aim for short walks or play sessions. Exercise also helps to prevent behavior issues which can stem from boredom or excess energy.

• Exercise: At least 20 minutes of walking or playtime each day.

Remember, every Maltipom is unique so you might need to adjust these guidelines to suit your pet’s individual health and lifestyle. Regular check-ups with the vet are crucial to detect any dental issues or health problems early.

Health and Lifespan

The Maltipom, a combination of Maltese and Pomeranian, may deal with certain health issues inherited from its parents, having an effect on its life quality and duration.

Common Health Problems

• Cardiovascular Conditions:
  • Mitral Valve Disease and Patent Ductus Arteriosus are common, particularly as these dogs age. Females may be more predisposed to certain heart conditions.
• Dermatological Conditions:
  • Alopecia X (especially from the Pomeranian side), where the dog might experience significant hair loss.
• Endocrine Conditions:
  • Hypothyroidism, particularly noted in Maltese, can affect thyroid function, leading to various health issues.
• Gastrointestinal Conditions:
  • Congenital Portosystemic Shunt is more frequently seen in both parent breeds, affecting the liver’s ability to detoxify the body properly.
• Haematological/Immunological Conditions:
  • Immune-mediated Haemolytic Anaemia and Haemophilia B (the latter particularly in Maltese) could lead to serious blood-related disorders.
• Musculoskeletal Conditions:
  • Patellar Luxation is common in both breeds, where the kneecap may dislocate easily.
• Neurological Conditions:
  • Both breeds have a predisposition for conditions like Hydrocephalus and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), affecting the brain and spinal health respectively.
• Ocular Conditions:
  • Cataracts may develop, although the Maltese are at a slightly lower risk compared to other small breeds.
• Renal and Urinary Conditions:
  • Both breeds show a higher risk for Urolithiasis (stone formation), especially calcium oxalate stones.
• Reproductive Conditions:
  • Issues like Cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) are common in both parent breeds, with potential risks of reproductive organ cancers.
• Respiratory Conditions:
  • Tracheal Collapse, particularly noted in Pomeranians, could cause coughing and other respiratory issues.

Owners of a Maltipom should be prepared for these potential health challenges and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to manage and possibly prevent some of these conditions.

How Long Does The Maltipom Live?

The lifespan of a Maltipom usually ranges between 12 to 16 years. How you care for your pet can influence their longevity.

Healthcare Tips

• Regular Vet Visits: Catch health issues early.
• Diet: Feed your Maltipom a balanced diet to prevent obesity, which is a risk.
• Grooming: Brush their coat to prevent matting.
• Exercise: Keep your Maltipom active to avoid weight gain.
• Dental Care: Brush their teeth regularly.
• Vaccinations and Preventive Medications: Stay up-to-date on both to ward off preventable diseases.

Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are your best tools to manage your Maltipom’s health.

What is the Average Cost of a Maltipom Puppy?

When you’re considering adding a Maltipom puppy to your family, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how much they cost. These adorable little furballs aren’t just cute; they’re also a bit of a financial investment.

Price Range: Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,200 to $4,000 for a Maltipom puppy. Several factors can affect the price, like the puppy’s health, the breeder’s reputation, and even the colors of their coat.

• Breeder Reputation: If you’re buying from a well-known breeder, the price might be higher. These breeders often invest more in the care and genetic testing of their dogs, which can drive up the cost.
• Location: Where you live can also play a part. In some places, Maltipoms might be more in demand, and breeders can charge more because of this.

What You’re Paying For:

• Health Screenings: Reputable breeders will screen for health conditions, which is something you definitely want.
• Vaccinations: Your pup will usually have their first shots.
• Microchipping: Sometimes, your puppy will be microchipped before you take them home.
• Spaying/Neutering: Some breeders include this in the price.

Remember, while you might find cheaper prices out there, it’s essential to make sure you’re getting your puppy from a responsible source. Here’s some advice on how to find ethical sellers.

Keep in mind that your Maltipom will also have needs that go beyond the initial purchase price, like toys, food, and regular vet visits. So, when you’re budgeting for your new puppy, consider these ongoing costs too.

Adoption and Buying

When looking to bring a Maltipom into your home, you have two main routes: buying from a breeder or adopting from a rescue or shelter. Each option has its unique process and considerations.

Choosing a Breeder

When considering a breeder for your new puppy, it’s crucial to find someone reputable. A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of both the puppies and the parent dogs. This often means they’ll provide health clearances for the pups showing they’ve been tested for common genetic issues. Here’s a checklist to guide you:

• Health Clearances: Ensure clearances for the Maltese and Pomeranian breeds.
• Clean Environment: Visit the breeder’s facility to check that the puppies are raised in a clean and safe environment.
• Questions and Answers: A good breeder will ask about your lifestyle to match you with the right puppy.

Rescue and Adoption

Adopting a Maltipom from a shelter or rescue organization can be a rewarding experience. These pups may be purebred or mixes and come in all ages. When adopting:

• Meet Multiple Dogs: Spend time with several dogs to find the one that suits your lifestyle.
• Ask About Background: Some rescues can provide information about the dog’s history.

Remember, adopting from rescues or shelters not only gives a home to a pet in need but often includes the cost of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.

Puppy Selection

Selecting the right Maltipom puppy, whether from a breeder or rescue, is a critical step. You’ll want to look for signs of good health and temperament. Here’s what to look for:

• Activity Level: A healthy pup should be curious and active.
• Physical Health: Check for clear eyes, clean ears, and a healthy coat.

By focusing on these areas, you’re more likely to find a Maltipom that’s the perfect new addition to your family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In this section, you’ll find answers to common questions about Maltipoms, giving you insights into their appearance, allergenic potential, size, and temperament.

Final Thoughts

When considering a Maltipom for your family, remember you’re getting a blend of Maltese charm and Pomeranian spunk. They can be a great addition, especially if you’re looking for:

• A friendly companion that’s eager to socialize
• A small dog that can fit comfortably in most living spaces
• An adorable pet with a unique appearance

Keep in mind, your Maltipom will need regular grooming to keep their fur in tip-top shape. Also, these little guys can be quite energetic, so set aside time for play and exercise.

Here are some quick care tips:

• Grooming: Brush their coat several times a week.
• Training: Start early! They’re smart and can learn quickly.
• Exercise: Regular walks and playtime to burn off energy.

Remember, because of their small size, you should watch out for bigger animals or rough play that could hurt them. And lastly, these pups love to be with you, so they’re happier in homes where they won’t be left alone for long periods.

Think about whether a Maltipom aligns with your lifestyle and you could be on your way to welcoming a bundle of joy that’ll bring lots of fun and affection into your home.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.