A maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a poodle. Maltipoos vary in color and size, with adults weighing 5 to 10 pounds. A maltipoo puppy can be a good choice if you are looking for a small, intelligent dog with a zest for life. Maltipoos are good with children and are very loyal pets. They do well in apartments but love their time outdoors. Maltipoos shed very little, and--like poodles--don't stir up animal-dander allergies. Their long coats need to be brushed regularly, or they may mat.
Things You'll Need
- Dog food
- Food bowl
- Water bowl
- Kennel crate
- Grooming supplies
- Collar
- Leash
- Pet odor neutralizer
- Puppy toys
Instructions
Bring your puppy home in its kennel crate. Set the crate on the floor and let your maltipoo come out and investigate its new home at its own pace. Make sure to look for cues that your puppy needs to eliminate̵2;these include sniffing the floor, walking in circles, and beginning to squat low to the floor. Teaching your puppy to eliminate in the area you designate right away will help your house-training efforts. Help your maltipoo feel comfortable by encouraging but not overwhelming. Introduce all members of your maltipoo̵7;s new family, one at a time.
Show your new maltipoo puppy where food and water can be found. Also, place the crate where you want it to be and encourage your maltipoo to feel at home and safe in its space.
Use crate training and positive reinforcement for house training. According to the American Dog Trainers Network, crate training is a very effective and humane way to teach the proper place for elimination. When your maltipoo makes a mistake in the house, clean it up and use a good pet odor neutralizer to prevent use of the same spot again.
Your puppy should be in the crate whenever you are not directly supervising it. Provide regular elimination breaks, because it can be very traumatic for a dog to be forced to eliminate in the crate.
Crate training can also help teach desired behavior, reduce separation anxiety, and keep your puppy safe from ingesting anything dangerous when you are not watching it. The crate can create the den-like environment many dogs crave. Fill the crate with comfortable bedding and a few toys.
Take your maltipoo puppy out for a walk once per day for exercise and fresh air; and to teach proper social behavior.
Brush your maltipoo's long hair and double coat often. Start brushing and grooming early to ensure your maltipoo will enjoy it instead of fighting it. Bathe your maltipoo as needed with a non-irritating puppy shampoo.
Give your maltipoo the affection and positive reinforcement it craves. Play with your pup to encourage natural pack instincts, but be sure to take a dominant position--your dog needs leadership to be well-adjusted and happy, according to the Continental Kennel Club.