Maltipom

Malti-Pom, Pomanese, and Pomamees

Purpose

Companion

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Maltipom is a charming blend of two loving purebred breeds: the attentive Maltese and the clever, gentle Pomeranian. This hybrid dog is recognized by five canine organizations and can be known by various names, including Maltipom, Malti-Pom, Pomanese, or Pomamees, depending on the association. Unlike its purebred lineage, the Maltipom does not have a well-documented history, which complicates efforts to determine when it first appeared as a designer breed.

Breed Origin

The Maltipom, a designer breed, does not have established standards or a clearly defined lineage. This hybrid does not necessarily represent a perfect 50/50 mix of its parent breeds and may display characteristics from either one. However, since both parent breeds tend to have similar temperaments, potential owners can gain valuable insights into the Maltipom's traits by exploring the histories, personalities, and health records of its progenitors. The Maltese, an ancient Toy breed, hails from Malta and has played a significant role in the development of other beloved Toy companions, including the Havanese from Cuba. Its lineage can be traced back over 2,000 years, and it has been cherished as a companion animal throughout history, known by various names such as "The Comforter," "Roman Ladies Dog," and "Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta," before finally being recognized as the Maltese. The breed standards we see today were influenced by English imports that arrived in the British Isles during the 15th century. These dogs made their way to the United States in the late 1800s, where the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Toy breed in 1888. Conversely, the Pomeranian is part of the northern Spitz family and shares close ties with larger breeds like the American Eskimo, German Spitz, and Schipperke. Originally, Pomeranians were classified as medium-sized dogs, weighing up to 30 pounds, but the modern standard has evolved to favor a smaller Toy size. This shift can be attributed to Queen Victoria's preference for the diminutive version, prompting breeders in the late 1800s to selectively breed Pomeranians to weigh under 7 pounds. Interestingly, the American Kennel Club also recognized the Pomeranian in 1888, the same year it acknowledged the Maltese.

Breed Appearance

The Maltipom is an endearing small hybrid breed that emerges from the crossbreeding of the Maltese and the Pomeranian. Its coat may vary slightly depending on which parent breed it resembles, but it is generally known for being soft, long, and straight. The fur on its head often stands upright, adding to its distinctive appearance. With a compact body that is well-balanced in relation to its head, the Maltipom showcases triangular, erect ears and dark, round eyes that give it a "fox-like" look, highlighting its alert nature. This breed also boasts slender legs with paws reminiscent of a cat's, and its tail is notably plumed, curling elegantly over its back.

Care Routine

The Maltipom features a beautiful coat that demands regular brushing and combing to maintain its health. To remove tangles and dirt, it's best to gently use a pin brush or comb on the fur. A light spray of water can be helpful, but it's wise to avoid bathing the Maltipom unless absolutely necessary. Dogs with white fur are particularly susceptible to tear staining; however, using pet wipes to clean the area around the eyes and face can mitigate this problem. Furthermore, the long hair on the Maltipom's head can trap dirt and debris in the ears, so incorporating ear checks and cleaning into your grooming routine is recommended.

Behavior & Temperament

The Maltipom is a hybrid breed that merges two beloved and established Toy companion dog breeds. Renowned for its affectionate and gentle demeanor, this crossbreed forms deep connections with its family while remaining vigilant enough to alert them to potential threats. While the Maltipom can coexist with children, it may not be the ideal choice for families with very young kids who may not understand how to interact appropriately with dogs. Furthermore, this breed often exhibits a cautious attitude towards strangers, typically keeping its distance and barking until it feels reassured. The Maltipom's friendliness towards other pets can differ, largely influenced by which parent breed it resembles and the extent of its socialization. Both parent breeds are generally eager to please and respond positively to training. However, housetraining can be somewhat challenging for the Maltipom, so employing crate training and puppy pads is advisable.

Play & Exercise

The Maltipom is a breed known for its low energy levels, requiring little exercise. You’ll often find this dog enjoying short bursts of activity, like racing over to snuggle in your lap. With minimal exercise needs, they make for a serene and easygoing companion. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them ideal for apartment living, as they can comfortably remain indoors for extended periods. Maltipoms prefer moderate climates and tend to dislike extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

0.5 Cups

Daily Activity

15 Minutes

Average Lifespan

14 Years

Origin

Unknown

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

United States

Brush Frequency

Daily

Coat Texture

Straight

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Height & Weight

Weight

6 lbs (3 kg)

Male: 6 lbs (3 kg) , Female: 6 lbs (3 kg)

Height

8 inches (20 sm)

Male: 8 inches (20 sm) , Female: 8 inches (20 sm)

6 Months

4 lbs

5 inches

4 lbs ( m 4 lbs, f 4 lbs )

5 inches ( m 5 inches, f 5 inches )

12 Months

5 lbs

7 inches

5 lbs ( m 5 lbs, f 5 lbs )

7 inches ( m 7 inches, f 7 inches )

18 Months