Because of their teddy bear-like appearance, Maltipoos are a popular dog choice amongst any dog lover. However, what is the average Maltipoo’s lifespan? Keep reading to learn more about the average Maltipoo lifespan.
What is a Maltipoo?
A Maltipoo is bred from one Maltese and one Poodle. Generally, the Poodle parent is likely to be Teacup, Toy, or Miniature size. In addition to being called Maltipoos, they also sometimes go by the following monikers: Moodles, Malt-oodles, Maltipoo, and Maltipoodle.
How Long do Maltipoos Live?
The average Maltipoo lives for 10-16 years. On average, a Maltipoo will live for 14 years. Interestingly enough, female Maltipoos live approximately one to one and a half years longer than their male counterparts.
For more information on Maltipoos, visit our comprehensive guide on the Maltipoo breed.
Maltipoo Lifespan: Overview and Contributing Factors
To ensure a long life for your Maltipoo, you should make sure your pet is vaccinated, and either spayed or neutered. You should also provide them with a healthy diet. Additionally, you should regularly take your pet to the vet, and make sure their living environment is a safe one.
Common Maltipoo Ailments
While Maltipoos are low-maintenance dogs, certain health issues impact the Maltipoo lifespan. Some common diseases and ailments are:
- Hypoglycemia
- Epilepsy
- Collapsed Trachea
- White Shaker Syndrome – neurological, general head and body tremors
- Portosystemic Shunt – abnormal blood flow to and from liver
- Dental Problems
Maltipoo Size
The American Kennel Club doesn’t have an official size standard for Maltipoos. This is because they’re not considered purebred (and therefore can’t be classified by the AKC). Because of this, the size of your Maltipoo may vary with breeders. A full-size Maltipoo is between 8” – and 14” tall, and weighs 5 – 20 pounds. Typically, a Maltipoo’s weight and height will be attributed to its Poodle parent size. To determine your Maltipoo’s expected full size, ask the breeder to see the parents and grandparents of your future pup.
Senior Maltipoos
As your Maltipoo ages, you’ll need to provide additional care for them during their senior years. In particular, you’ll want to make sure you keep your dog’s gums healthy. Senior dogs are prone to dental issues such as plaque, tartar buildup, and gum disease. You should ensure that your dog has its teeth scraped or brushed and gums cleaned twice each week to maintain optimal dental health. By providing oral care to your dog, you can stave off a host of dental problems that adversely affect older dogs (such as systemic inflammation, jaw issues, and endocarditis).
Likewise, you’ll want to make sure your dog is a healthy weight. In general, your senior Maltipoo shouldn’t weigh more than 20 pounds. Similarly, you should be feeding your dog high-protein, heart-healthy dog food. Be sure not to give your dog any table scraps or human treats.
When it comes to physical exercise, you should aim to walk your Maltipoo twice a day. Your walks don’t need to last long. Each walk need only be about 20 minutes.
Wrapping it up
As long as you’re responsible for your dog’s health, your Maltipoo will continue to enrich your life for many years ahead. Your dog is sure to bring you affection, entertainment, and unconditional love, all for the reciprocal currency of your care and attention.