Facts about the Teacup Maltipoo
Designer dogs have become quite a trendy possession for many; one such example is the teacup maltipoo. The danger of creating cross breeds is that not all breeders give as much thought to the health and safety of such breeds as they are to the money that they can make from the demand they create.
Pure bred dogs carry specific traits and characteristics that give them the distinction of being the breed they are. Some breeds are lovable and cuddly; others are aloof and dignified. Still others are energetic and lively, while some prefer a more sedate life. There are dogs of giant stature and others that considered as “toy” dogs because of their tiny size. All dogs of a specific breed will maintain a quality standard and reflect particular features that distinguish them as the breed they are. Several dog breeds may carry similar traits and characteristics, which make them compatible crosses. When breeds cross, however, they are no longer considered to be pure bred since blood lines are mingled. Breed intervention is sometimes a natural event, as dogs do not consider a mate’s breed as a qualification when in heat; the reason why there are so called “mutts” in the world. When breeds are crossed specifically to achieve a desired dog blend, the result is called a designer dog.
A cross between a Maltese and a poodle creates the designer dog called a maltipoo. These dogs can range in weight between four and ten pounds; the smallest size of 4 pounds or less is categorized as a teacup maltipoo, tiny toy maltipoo dogs ranging between 4 to 6 pounds and the toy version is between six and ten pounds. The characteristics of the cross breed will be a mixture of both parentages, with no standards since the genetic balance can differ with each puppy. This includes both appearance and personality. The physical appearance of the maltipoo can be curly haired, long legged and extended muzzle if the puppy obtains more of the poodle genetic makeup; generally if the sire is the poodle and the dam is the Maltese. When the reverse is true, the puppies will likely be smaller in size with less curl.
In most cases, the cross between the two pure breeds has positive results in the personality of the puppies. Maltipoos are usually loveable and playful dogs that are intelligent and easy to train. The tiny size of the so called teacup variety is desirable as they resemble little balls of fur, and are quite adorable in their delightful antics. Because of their miniature size, they are not considered to be a good choice for families with small children who tend to be a bit rougher in their handling of pets, however unintentional. For all others, however, they make fun and loving additions to the family. In addition, they are ideal for families with whom allergies are an issue, since all sizes of the maltipoo shed very little.
When considering adding a teacup maltipoo to the family circle, the first step will be to find a reputable and conscientious breeder. Avoid contact with any breeder who tries to pass off the puppies as a “specialized” breed; charging high prices for what they term as a separate breed from other maltipoos. Also ensure that the puppies are healthy and are the product of two pure bred dogs; good breeders will be able to document parentage of the puppies.
Choosing a cross breed as a pet will likely be a successful endeavor when dealing with only the most reputable breeders; those who care more about the health and well being of their puppies than for the money they can make from marketing them.