There’s something about Maltipoo puppies that get to us. Most of us react predictably when confronted with the wide eyed stare of these aliens: we stop in our tracks, our eyes soften and all the worry lines from our faces fade away. Then, we smile.
It is at this point that we are most vulnerable; the pup know that and they pounce. He will spring onto all fours, and the fifth appendage will start wagging violently, doubtless urging the rest of the body forward.
After he has you cornered, he will attempt to drown you with licks. You, meanwhile, dissolve into a language that no adult human can understand, one that you’d be too embarrassed to practice on your own, but which makes perfect sense to the him
Yes, there certainly is something about Maltipoo puppies..
But, all young ones also need to be looked after. Maltipoo puppies are no exception. Here are the most critical aspects of their care.
1. Prep Work
Some of the most important tasks are accomplished before your Maltipoo puppy arrives home.
You need to do your homework with regards to their temperament, you should choose the breeder from whom you acquire your puppy carefully, and you need to purchase the necessary doggie care equipment that you will need.
The latter will include a collar, leash, toys and grooming equipment.
2. Diet
Maltipoo puppies have metabolisms that are different from adults, so their nutritional needs differ.
When purchasing dog food, make sure the label indicates that it is suitable for puppies. Quantities are also important.
Maltipoo pups are small, so make sure that he is being fed a quantity that’s appropriate.
In general, discuss quantities with your veterinarian rather than relying on label directions — the latter often tends to lead to overfeeding.
3. Socialization
Socialization of your puppy is critical. There are two aspects to this.
The first involves getting him familiar with humans; the second, equally important aspect, is ensuring that he’s comfortable with other dogs.
The critical socialization period for a dog is between the ages of 4 to 14 weeks, so part of the responsibility does belong to your breeder, reinforcing the importance of choosing a good breeder.
The essence of socialization is exposure in varying situations. So, invite friends and their dogs over, or visit them. Also, take your Maltipoo puppy for walks in places where he will encounter humans and animals.
4. Training
It is never too early to start training. There are many aspects to training that need to be addressed: house training, table manners, leash walking, obedience.
Enrolling him in an obedience training school is a good option, but follow up at home is critical.
5. Grooming
Your Maltipoo will require regular grooming. Commencing the grooming routine early sets up your pup’s attitude that will affect his willingness as an adult.
The earlier you start, the more comfortable he will be with the whole process. Most pups and adults will be quite happy with being brushed.
But nail trimming is often resisted. Ask your veterinarian or her assistant to demonstrate how to go about the nail trimming process, then perform it regularly at home so that your pup is desensitized to it as early as possible.
The same goes for daily teeth brushing, something that an increasing number of veterinarians are recommending. Again, your veterinarian will help with selection of materials required.
6. Exercise
Over 50 percent of dogs in America are overweight, making them prone to a host of diseases including diabetes, asthma, kidney and heart disease and others.
Unlike humans, the responsibility for maintaining a dog at an appropriate weight rests with you, the owner.
Exercise is a great way to keep your dog healthy and within the recommended weight range. Adult Maltipoos can weigh between 5 and 15 pounds; your veterinarian should be able to advise you on your pup’s ideal weight.
7. Vaccinations & Neutering
Your breeder should have completed some of the early vaccinations that your Maltipoo puppy is required to have. But do make sure of it.
Key puppy vaccinations are normally administered in three doses at four week intervals between the ages of six and 16 weeks.
Subsequent vaccinations occur at yearly or three yearly intervals; your veterinarian will provide advice.
8. Veterinary visits
Choose your veterinarian wisely, because she will be a great asset to you in the rearing of your Maltipoo.
Regular visits are recommended, particularly when your Maltipoo is a puppy.
Your veterinarian will help you chart your pup’s growth and provide valuable advice with respect to diet and exercise.
She will also look for a number of possible puppy conditions: ingrown teeth, unique heart conditions, issues with blood flow to the liver.
A Final Word About Maltipoo Puppies
A Maltipoo is one of the most popular small dogs. And no wonder: it has a great temperament and normally exhibits robust health. Most owners treat them as family. Get your Maltipoo puppy off on the right foot by following the basic tips listed above and both you and your Maltipoo will be the better for it.
Calvin is the co-founder and one of the main contributors to dogtemperament.com. He has been an avid dog lover all his life. He enjoys researching and sharing great ideas on how you can avoid common pitfalls of dog ownership and build the most loving and enjoyable relationship with your dog.