Maltipom Dog Breed

Other names:
Maltese Pomeranian
Malti Pom
Pomanees
Teacup Maltipom

Maltipoms are hybrid canines that are part Maltese and part Pomeranian. For those looking for a small, yet energetic, dog for companionship this is an excellent choice. They are friendly and playful with kids as well as with other pets (although they will choose a favorite). Members of this breed will require daily grooming but exercise needs will be met much easier. These mixes may be hard to train for first timers but if you put in the effort, they will reward you with plenty of love. We recommend you visit both parent breeds' pages before deciding upon a Maltipom since hybrids inherit traits from both parents in unpredictable fashion.

Maltipom Breed Details

Maltipom-Pomeranian crosses are sure to be amusing and loving little companions, as are both parent breeds! They are great choices for most owners and the most important thing is that you have time to spend with them. Members of this breed are indoor dogs that aren't usually left outdoors for long periods of time.

PROS

  • Produce less dander than many breeds
  • Does not bark frequently
  • Sized well for indoor living
  • Doesn't require a yard
  • Easy to exercise
  • Loving and affectionate lapdog
  • Good with kids and other pets

CONS

  • Sheds frequently
  • Not very easy to train
  • Requires daily grooming
  • No guardian abilities
  • Not an exercise buddy
Type
Hybrid
Lifespan
12 - 15 yrs.
Height
8 - 10 in.
Weight
4 - 8 lbs
Friendliness
OverallFamily FriendlyChild FriendlyPet FriendlyStranger Friendly
Maintenance
Easy to GroomEnergy LevelExercise NeedsHealthShedding Amount
Behavior
Barks / HowlsEasy to TrainGuard DogPlayfulnessWatch Dog
Ownership
Apartment DogCan be AloneGood for Busy OwnersGood for New OwnersIntelligence

Maltipom Breed Description

Pomeranian Maltese mixes will inherit traits from both parents and not always in equal amounts. Some will look and act closer to the Maltese and others will favor the Pomeranian more. Read our pages for both parent breeds to gather info about Maltipom appearance, temperament and possible health issues.

These dogs are amusing and clever. They know just the perfect way to sneak into your heart but be careful you don't allow them to run your home. Maltipoms need early training and socialization; although they are not unintelligent, they may be difficult to instruct and housebreak. Patience, repetition and treats are key, but if you don't have that certainly take them to obedience classes.

This breed is a social and friendly towards other pets if socialized and trained early. They do have a tendency to become domineering so this is key to a harmonious household. With kids the Maltipom will be playful and accepting of their attention. Youngsters should be properly taught how to handle a small pet before being left to play unsupervised. These guys will be reserved to friendly around strangers but shouldn't be aggressive.

They may appear to be active little dogs but 30 minutes per day should satisfy their exercise requirements. Short walks, training, trips to the park and playtime with toys are all things they enjoy.

Maltipom Temperament

Maltipom characteristics can vary from one individual puppy to the next, even within the same litter. Some will inherit more Maltese traits while others will look and behave like the Pomeranian. Generally, the Maltipom temperament is friendly and social, attention loving, playful and amusing. The high-strung behavior of the Pom is tempered quite well by the laid back nature of the Maltese, and produces a pet that is a lovely family pet.

These dogs should be trained and socialized early. They are typically social, even friendly with other pets, but if not properly trained they can become bossy. Don't let their affectionate disposition fool you! If you let them go without training they can develop Small Dog Syndrome and you will be a servant in your own home. Maltipoms enjoy the attention of children but it is important to make sure the kids are of age to be taught how to gently and respectfully handle a tiny pet.

Maltese x Pomeranian crosses will enjoy the company of the whole family but will probably choose a "favorite" person. With strangers they may be timid or reserved but, if well trained, shouldn't be aggressive or yappy.

Maltipom Health

Maltese and Pomeranian crosses should produce puppies prone to less health disorders than their purebred parents. Due to genetic variation, they often live a longer healthier life if the breeder is responsible and credible. The typical lifespan of a Maltipom is between 12-15 years. Some of the most common reported health issues include:

  • asthma
  • eye disease
  • hypoglycemia
  • hypothyroidism
  • patellar luxation

We recommend to visit the breed pages for both parents to explore all health issues that can be inherited by a cross of these two breeds.

Maltipom Health Concerns

Below are potential health concerns associated with Maltipoms.

Patellar luxation
Collapsed trachea
Hypothyroidism
Hypoglycemia
Asthma

About this Article

Authored by:Dog-Learn
Updated:October 19, 2016
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