5 Maltipoo Myths Everyone Thinks are True
Maltipoos are a reasonably popular doodle breed today, but many prospective puppy buyers are turned off by some of the myths circulating about the breed. If you already have a Maltipoo puppy, you might be worried about some of these myths! We've debunked the five most common Maltipoo myths everyone thinks are true to shed some light on the breed.
Myth #1: Maltipoos Are Really Hyper
It's often said that Maltipoos are incredibly hyper and can't settle down. They will run circles around you outside, playing, nipping, and zooming around the neighborhood. This myth originates from many going through the puppy phase with their Maltipoo, resulting in higher energy levels, teething, and overall more hyperactivity than the other life stages.
The Truth
Maltipoos are one of the calmest small breed dogs. While they can go through bouts of hyperactivity and "zoomies" like any other breed, there are a few remedies to calming a hyper Maltipoo. Giving your dog regular exercise and companionship really goes the extra mile for this breed, trips to the mall and joining parties with their owner are fun ways to ensure your furry friend will settle at bedtime. The trick here is ensuring your Maltipoo pup gets adequate time to burn off excess energy. Fortunately, though, we can confirm #1 is a myth; Maltipoos are known to be very gentle and affectionate lapdogs who do great with children and the elderly.
Myth #2: Maltipoos Bark a Lot
Another common myth is that Maltipoos are very yappy dogs that bark a lot, howling and whining non-stop. If you're the type who likes to keep peace and quiet around, then steer clear of Maltipoos as a whole.
The Truth
This is far from the truth and likely stems from the Maltipoos' small size. Thankfully Maltipoos bark the same way as most dogs as a form of communication. Generally, when your Maltipoo pup is kept in a proper environment and training is used to set the expectations, you won't have to worry about excessive barking from this cuddly breed. Maltipoos barking, whining, or howling often occurs most within the first three days at a new home while the puppy is adjusting and learning the basics of crate training, but this is typical of any breed. Scientifically speaking, there is no evidence indicating that maltipoos are an overly vocal breed of dog. This myth tends to be born out of a small few who have faced behavioral issues such as boredom or fearful barking.
Myth #3: More Hair, More Shedding, More Baths
Widespread myth #3 is that the Maltipoo's coat has more hair than the Maltese, which amounts to more shedding, harbors bacteria, and quickly stinks due to the long, lanky hair, requiring more frequent baths.
The Truth
Maltipoos are a non-shedding hypoallergenic breed. While the non-shedding nature of this dog might make it seem like it gets stinky more easily, it actually does the opposite. Hair that stays intact has less dander and dust on the top of the coat and won't shed hair to other surfaces. While the hygiene aspect of a Maltipoo is typically just as good as any other breed, they may require more frequent grooming. This is not due to needing more frequent baths; instead, it's a result of the long hair needing to be cut monthly. Grooming requirements for this breed are higher than others, but we can assure you it's not due to a dirty dog!
Myth #4: Maltipoos Don't Live As Long As Big Dogs
Some people have fallen victim to believing that small dogs don't live as long as larger purebred dogs. The reason why people think this is unclear, but we can debunk myth #4 with science to back it up!
The Truth
Unlike the above-listed myth would lead us to believe, the truth is, "the larger the dog, the shorter the lifespan." The largest breeds like Saint Bernards and Great Danes will live an average of 8-10 years, whereas small dogs can live 15-20 years, in some cases even longer! This is also accentuated by the purpose a dog was bred for. Working dogs like sheepdogs or border collies are more likely to die in a work-related accident Vs. a Maltipoo, whose only occupation is to simply look cute and offer lots of cuddles. Most well-documented purebred dogs suffer from some level of inbreeding or small gene pools that can affect their lifespan. However, some hybrid breeds are known to be affected by something called the "hybrid vigor factor," which could extend the Maltipoo lifespan.
Myth #5: Maltipoos Are Bad for First Time Dog Owners
Due to the Maltipoo's additional grooming needs and small size, it's been said that they make poor pets for first-time dog owners.
The Truth
The Maltipoo can be an excellent first-time dog for new owners. They are very friendly, well mannered, and relatively easy to train as well. The Maltipoo may still prove to be a lot of work; you're bound to find that with almost any puppy. There's so much to overcome, from crate training and teething to wild bursts of puppy energy. With a Maltipoo, you're bound to find a lifelong friend as your bond strengthens over time. We'd argue they're the best breed there is!
Many indoor or small dogs share similar myths and misconceptions. Maltipoos have their unique grooming needs, temperament, and sleep patterns. Each dog is an individual, but one thing is for sure with this breed. All myths aside, the facts are clear; Maltipoos are one of the cutest doodles around that will maintain their puppy-like appearance throughout its life.