Maltipom Dog Breed Traits – Pomeranian Maltese Mix

What is a Maltipom?

A Maltipom usually has one purebred Maltese parent and another purebred Pomeranian parent. But they can be second or even third generation Maltipoms, meaning that one or both of their parents were Maltipoms themselves!

• Popularity: Rising
• Purpose: Companionship.
• Weight: 3 to 7 pounds.
• Temperament: Smart and lovable.

Maltipom History

The Maltipom is still considered a first-generation crossbreed, meaning they are new to the canine scene and therefore very little documentation exists about their origin. However, we can learn more about them by checking out the backstories of their purebred parents—the Maltese and the Pomeranian.

The Maltese were brought to Malta by the Phoenicians before 1500 B.C. The Maltese were not only renowned for their perfect proportions and gorgeous white coats but also their charming disposition and loving personality. These little dogs were bred as a symbol of status and a fashion statement.

Although their miniature stature makes it difficult to believe, the tiny Pomeranian is actually a descendant of the Arctic sled dog! The Pomeranian was named after Pomerania, now a region that is part of Poland and Germany. Also known as “Poms”, these dogs were bred down to their current size hundreds of years ago.

So, with histories as regal as these, it’s no wonder designer dig enthusiasts decided to cross the pair and create the Maltipom!

Fun facts about the Maltipom dog

Maltipoms are a rather new crossbreed, but their Maltese and Pomeranian parents have a lot of funny anecdotes!

• Maltese pups were a fashion statement for noble Roman women. They soon made regular appearances in Roman myths and fables, as a representation of devotion and loyalty.
• An archaeological research team found that the Romans loved their Maltese pups so much they even cared for them when sick, treating their arthritis and other age-related conditions.
• On the other hand, Pomeranians were one of the favorite breeds among the British royals in the nineteenth century. The Queen brought some pups back after a visit to Italy and she quickly became an avid breeder!

How Big are Maltipoms?

When dealing with a purebred puppy, it’s pretty easy to estimate their adult size, height, and weight. All you have to do is look at their parents! However, with a crossbreed like the Maltipom, pinpointing exact size, height and weight outcomes are a bit more complicated.

This is because a crossbreed can inherit any number of characteristics from their purebred parents—it’s all left up to genetics. Still, since the Maltese and the Pomeranian are both toy dogs, we can estimate that the fully-grown Maltipom is going to be pretty tiny. But what is the full range of his height and weight? The easiest way to gage this is by looking at his purebred parents.

The Maltese, for example, stands at a mere 7 to 9 inches tall and weighs under 7 lbs. The Pomeranian, on the other hand, can be even smaller! They only grow to be around 6 to 7 inches tall and weigh between 3 to 7 lbs Prepare for your adult Maltese Pomeranian mix to be in the range of 6 to 9 inches and weigh around 3 to 7 lbs at most.

Maltipom Appearance

Because this is a crossbreed, every puppy could inherit a number of physical characteristics from either of their purebred parents. The coat of the Maltese, for example, is long and silky, and always white. If left to grow to its natural length, a Maltese’s coat can grow all the way to the floor!

They have no undercoat and therefore their fur more like hair and will have some variation of between curly or wavy.

The Maltese also have long ears and a long tail, a proportionate body, and bright, dark eyes. These pups tend to shed a bit less than other dogs, while Pomeranians are prone to the usual shedding.

On the other hand, Pomeranians have a fox-like face and pointed ears with round, black eyes and a lot of furs starting from their upper neck down. The Pom has a double coat—the undercoat is short and dense and the outer coat is very long and very thick! And they have an abundantly plumed tail, which is perhaps one of their most notable features.

Coat Colors

Typically orange, the Pom also comes in nearly 24 standard colors and markings. Some possible shades include:

• white
• black
• grey-Shaded
• tan
• brown

When it comes to this Maltese Pomeranian mix, your pup could end up with any combination of the above characteristics. In general, though, they will have medium to long hair, and keep a fluffy appearance throughout their lives.

Maltipom Grooming

In general, your Maltese Pomeranian mix will need consistent care for them to feel and look their best. This crossbreed is prone to dental issues, just like its parents and other toy-sized dogs. Because of it, it’s important you schedule teeth brushing as part of their regular routine.

We also recommend a high-quality dog food specified by your veterinarian since Pomeranians are prone to obesity and your Maltipom may be too. Your pup will also need their ears cleaned regularly to avoid infection and claws trimmed to avoid painful cracking and splitting.

Regardless of the type of coat your pup has inherited, grooming should be an important part of your new routine. Because both the Maltese and Pomeranian need a bit of extra grooming, your mixed pup will require daily brushing to keep their silky coat free of knots.

Of course, if your puppy won’t be on the ring, you can always give them a haircut. This will make upkeep more manageable and avoid matting. Willing to dedicate time every week to grooming? Here’s what you need to know about the health of your pup.

Maltipom Temperament

Maltipoms are as cute as can be and at a glance seem like they’d make the perfect lap dog and the sweetest, snuggliest family companions. Of course, the temperament of your Maltese Pomeranian mix is going to depend on what type of personality traits they inherit from their purebred parents.

However, since the Maltese and the Pom are tiny lap dogs built for companionship, it’s safe to assume your pup will have similar traits. Nevertheless, there are some personality differences between the Maltese and the Pomeranian you should know about to really see if this is the right fit for you.

Maltipom Personality

The Maltese are known for their gentle nature and spirited disposition. They are also affectionate and very adaptable to all types of situations and styles of home. In addition, they’re wonderful with children of all ages and other household pets, making for a great family dog or singles companion.

Quite the athlete, your Maltese will love snuggling up on your lap just as much as they will love running, playing, and showing off!

The Pomeranian is a bit livelier than the Maltese and can be vocal at times, unafraid to use their voice when they deem something to be out of place or suspicious! Because of this, excessive barking can be an issue when not properly trained.

They have a bit of a Napoleon complex and may be completely unaware of how small they are. This could end up being dangerous if you’re around strange dogs since your tiny pup may be unafraid to pick fights with almost anyone.

Are Maltipoms Good With Kids?

Maltipom puppies are cuddly lap dogs that do great with children of all ages. They also get along with other house pets, love to play and run around the home.

By nature, these pups will be great family companions. Nevertheless, we recommend early socialization and training to keep your pup well rounded and happy.

Maltipom Training and Exercise

The Maltese and Pomeranian are both active breeds, but they are also quite small. This means that a daily walk or play in the yard should be enough to meet your pup’s exercise needs. Also, both of the Maltipom’s purebred parents are intelligent dogs, so training your Maltipom should be fun and fairly straightforward.

Of course, as with all pups, it’s important to train through positive reinforcement and keep a consistent schedule. Early socialization and obedience training will be key to ensure your pup feels confident in all situations and behaves accordingly.

In the case of Maltipom puppies, it will also help with any excessive barking that might come up.

Training your pup is only part of their care. As a responsible owner, you need to groom your furry friend to make sure they stay healthy and happy.

Maltipom Lifespan and Health

Your Maltipom is a crossbreed, so similar to temperament and physical characteristics, they may also inherit health issues from either parent.

The Maltese has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, and although described as a hardy dog, they are still prone to a number of issues. Among them, we can count:

• inherited deafness
• hypoglycemia
• tracheal collapse
• pyloric stenosis
• dental issues
• liver shunt

Although relatively uncommon, Maltese are also more prone to inheriting “white shaker dog syndrome”—a neurological disease that causes involuntary or stress-related shaking in syndrome.

On the other hand, the Pomeranian, with a lifespan of 12 to 16 years, is prone to

• obesity
• dental issues
• distichiasis
• entropion
• hypoglycemia
• patellar luxation
• tracheal collapse
• severe hair loss syndrome (SHLS)
• hypothyroidism

Since there is no way to tell by looking at a Maltipom puppy what they may have inherited from their purebred parents, we recommend early health screening. Talking to your chosen breeder and knowing the possible conditions your pup might have will help you avoid or prepare for any future health issues in your Maltipom dog.

Do Maltipoms make Good Family Pets?

The Maltese Pomeranian mix is by all accounts a wonderful, hardy, and easy-going family pet! They adapt well to many different home environments and get along with everyone. However, if you have very small children it might be wiser to wait a bit. This is a tiny dog and they could be easily injured if handled too roughly.

It’s also important to consider the time invested in grooming your pup. Maltipom puppies need consistent upkeep and care, and you need to plan your time accordingly. If you have the time for grooming and have older, gentle children, then this may be the perfect dog for you!

Pros And Cons of Getting A Maltipom

Cons

• Consistent grooming needed
• Excessive barking if not trained
• Too small and delicate to be handled by small children

Pros

• Great outgoing dog for people of all ages
• An active pup that can get all their exercise inside the home
• Excellent cuddlers

Maltipom Adoption

While shelters and rescues are always a great option, remember that finding a Maltipom may be hit or miss, depending on the time and place you are looking. You may be able to find other mixes, like the Pomeranian Maltese Poodle mix, for example, but finding a Maltese Pomeranian crossbreed will definitely be up to chance.

However, one of the best things about going through a rescue is that shelters will often cover the initial veterinarian fees. They can also offer first-hand advice on a dog’s personality because they’ve had the time to interact with them.

Maltipom Breeders

If you think the Maltipom is the right dog for you, it’s important to go through a reputable source when looking for the right puppy.

Pet stores and puppy mills might seem like a good option, but it’s important to understand these sources don’t have the pups best interest in mind. These establishments indiscriminately breed dogs without regard to the health and wellbeing of neither parents nor pups.

You will be paying an affordable price, but you’ll never be sure what diseases your pup might have, or the temper of either parent. Instead, when choosing a breeder you’ll know exactly what you’ll get. You’ll get to know the parents, their tempers and appearance, so you can have a better idea of what your puppy will be like.

A breeder will also do proper genetic testing and health screening of both parents to make sure that no diseases are passed on. Especially because crossbreeds have gained popularity and these dogs don’t have a standard, it’s key you source your puppy from a trustworthy person.

Maltipom Puppies

Caring for a vulnerable Maltipom puppy is a big responsibility. To make sure you’re 100% prepared, check out our handy guides. From training to socialization and family introductions, you’ll have everything you need to keep your new pup happy and well behaved.

In general, this crossbreed won’t be a big challenge, and your Maltipom pup will soon be completely integrated into their new home.

Similar Breeds

If you like the fluffy look of this pup, make sure to check out these other crossbreeds before making up your mind!

• Maltipoo
• Malshipoo
• Morkie
• Peek-a-Pom

Still sure you want a Maltipom in your life? Start with some local breed rescues

Maltipom Breed Rescues

This mixed breed is still somewhat of a rarity, and being a first generation mix, their presence in shelters is somewhat limited.

Nevertheless, if you’re interested in adopting or rescuing one, take a look at Maltese or Pomeranian rescues. They might encounter a Maltipom puppy once in a while, so it’s worth to try your hand and call a few local rescues.

USA

• American Maltese Association Rescue
• Maltese Rescue California
• Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue
• Rescue me! Maltese Rescue
• Pawsitively Pom Rescue
• Recycled Pomeranians Rescue

UK

• Pomeranian Club Rescue
• Pomeranians For Life

Australia

• Pomeranian Rescue Australia
• Maltese Rescue Australia

We hope your Maltese Pomeranian puppy will help make your home a lively and very happy place for years to come! Let us know about it in the comments.

References And Resources

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• O’Neill et al. 2013. Longevity and Mortality of Owned Dogs In England. The Veterinary Journal
• Adams VJ, et al. 2010. Results of a Survey of UK Purebred Dogs. Journal of Small Animal Practice.
• Schalamon et al. 2006. Analysis of Dog Bites In Children Who Are Younger Than 17 Years. Pediatrics
• Duffy D et al. Breed differences in canine aggression. Applied Animal Behavior Science 2008
• Strain G. Deafness prevalence and pigmentation and gender associations in dog breeds at risk. The Veterinary Journal 2004
• Packer et al. 2015. Impact of Facial Conformation On Canine Health. PlosOne
• Turcsan B, Miklosi A, and Kubinyi E. 2017. Owner Perceived Differences Between Mixed-Breed and Purebred Dogs. PLoS One.
• Howell TJ, King T, and Bennett PC. 2015. Puppy Parties and Beyond: the role of early age socialization practices on adult dog behavior. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports.
• Sutter NS and Ostrander EA. 2004. Dog Star Rising: The Canine Genetic System, Nature Reviews Genetics.
• Acumen L. 2011. The Genetic Connection; a Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs, Second Edition. AAHA Press.
• Yoshiki YAMAYA, Etsuko IWAKAMI, Masashi GOTO, Hiroshi KOIE, Toshihiro WATARI, Shigeo TANAKA, Akira TAKEUCHI, Mikihiko TOKURIKI, A Case of Shaker Dog Disease in a Miniature Dachshund, Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, 2004, 66, 9 , p. 1159-1160.
• MacKinnon, M., & Belanger, K. (2006). In sickness and in health: care for an arthritic Maltese dog from the Roman cemetery of Yasmina, Carthage, Tunisia. Dogs and People in Social, Working, Economic or Symbolic Interaction, 38-43.