A small Doodle dog can be the perfect addition to your family, and you have a lot of choices. It’s true that you have a variety of purebreds to choose from. Hybrid breed dogs, on the other hand, offer even greater opportunities and diversity.
In addition to Shih Poos and Maltipoos, Shih Poos are also popular small hybrid Doodles. In other words, both of these dogs are breeds that are intentionally crossed, which means that they have two different breeds of dogs in common.
Adding a Shih Poo or Maltipoo to your family can be a great option if you’re looking for an easy-going and friendly addition. Additionally, their coats are typically hypoallergenic and non-shedding.
Other articles you would like: Maltipoo Dog Breed Guide.
Table of Contents
History
Maltipoos
Historically, Maltipoos are quite similar to their mixed breed peers. Approximately 20 to 30 years ago, this mix of Poodles and Malteses was created in the United States.
In order to create a companion that would be small and affectionate, breeders created the Maltipoo dog.
It is their purpose to be wonderful pets that can be incorporated into any family’s lifestyle. They certainly hit the mark with their original breeders.
A Maltipoo is a wonderful companion for almost any family, there is no doubt about that. A combination of both the Poodle and the Maltese is a popular dog breed, so many believe that the two breeds will produce the best results.
It’s obvious that this pup was born to be loved, and once you’re in their presence, you’ll feel the same way.
Shih Poos
The origins of individual designer dogs are never easy to determine. The majority of mixed-breed dogs are the result of an accidental mating, even though breeders intentionally crossbreed purebreds for decades now.
Unless someone comes forward and claims a breed as their own, it’s sometimes impossible to determine when a breed originated.
In history, there have probably been many Shih Tzu and Poodle mixtures, but when that crossbreeding became intentional is when the history of the Shih-Poo became interesting.
There’s nothing you can do about that moment. Despite their popularity, it is unclear exactly when these designer pets became popular. The mystery must sometimes be embraced and accepted.
Shih-Poo hybrids are likely to share their origin story with most other designer dogs, even though there is no clear history of the breed. As a result, it is most likely that the breed began in the United States during the last 30 years.
To be sure, it is not the most interesting history around, but it is as accurate as can be. However, even though we don’t know who created the Shih-Poo breed, it’s easy to see why it was created.
Their hypoallergenic coats make them perfect companions for people who suffer from allergies.
Temperament
Shih Poos
A Shih Poo enjoys chasing balls and is very playful. A squeaky toy or stuffed animal makes them happier than anything else. It does not matter if they get a short walk every day, as long as they get a chance to play indoors every now and then.
Crossbreed dogs can differ from one another in temperament due to the fact that they are crossbreeds. The behavior of some people may differ from that of others when it comes to dealing with strangers, for example.
However, they still enjoy snuggling up with their owners and even sharing beds. Their other common trait is their love of barking.
Their training requires them to do this, and it’s hard to stop them. Neighbors aren’t going to appreciate you annoying them.
Playful and energetic, Shih-Poos make excellent pets. Playing with squeaky toys, chasing balls, or dragging stuffed animals around the house is their favorite activity.
Children over the age of four who are respectful and gentle will be able to enjoy Shih-Poos as great playmates, but they are not tolerant of harsh handling or pulling of their hair.
The pup might not be the best choice for children under the age of 5. Despite being a crossbreed, Shih-Poos can be affectionate and accepting towards strangers, as well as reserved and shy.
It is common for them to sleep in bed with their owners at night, as they love cuddling with them. Hence, you won’t ever have to worry about your Shih-Poo being far from you.
However, there is one very big downside to owning one of these puppies. Shih-Poos enjoy hearing themselves bark. If you aren’t careful, he could very well trap you with his yaps all day and all night.
Keeping your sanity and avoiding problems with your neighbors depends on training your dog to quiet on command.
Maltipoos
Maltipoo puppies can also be playful. In order to avoid destructive behavior like chewing furniture, they need daily exercise. The difference can be made with a short walk and some playtime in the yard.
It won’t be a problem if you have strangers over since these dogs get along with everyone.
As with Shih Poos, the Maltipoo likes to sit on your lap and sleep with you in your bed. If you have another pet, the Maltipoo often becomes friendly to them as well. Your apartment is therefore a relatively stress-free place for friends to visit.
Accidents can, however, occur as a result of this friendliness. Friend or kid pick-ups are the most common cause of this. In the watchdog category, your Maltipoo is unlikely to win due to his innate friendliness.
The good-natured disposition of this dog makes him quite able to get along with other household pets.
Health
Maltipoos
No matter if you’re a current or future Maltipoo owner, you should pay attention to Maltipoo health issues. Having a happy, healthy, and long-lived Maltipoo is our goal.
We can take measures to prepare ourselves for or even prevent Maltipoo health problems, so it can help to understand some surface-level knowledge of common Maltipoo health problems.
Shaker Syndrome in Maltipoos
It is classified as general head and body tremors and is also referred to as “little white shaker syndrome” for its prevalence in small white dogs. This is a neurological condition that is inherited.
There is always the possibility of issues arising suddenly and becoming more severe if left untreated. Benzodiazepine drugs are generally used as treatment. Generally, this will cost a few hundred dollars or less.
Dental Issues in Maltipoos
Dental problems are more common in Maltese than in other breeds. Thus, Maltipoos are prone to tooth and gum problems.
As a result, premature tooth loss may occur, or gum disease may develop. In addition, Maltipoo’s are more likely to develop gingivitis and tartar than other breeds of dogs.
Portosystemic Shunts in Maltipoos
Birth defects and severe liver diseases can cause portosystemic shunts. Usually, blood is delivered to the liver for filtration and then shunts around it instead of going through it when this happens.
Since the liver filters toxins and other waste products from the blood, this is clearly a serious issue. There is a cost associated with correcting this problem. The cost of treatment can range from $2000 to $6000.
Shih Poos
The Shih-Poo has a high incidence of dental problems. The eyes and skin of these animals are also affected.
In addition to hypothyroidism and patellar luxation, Shih-Poos are also prone to kidney and lung disorders as well as Von Willebrand’s Disease and Intervertebral Disk Disease.
A crossbreed with this phenotype has also been diagnosed with a cleft palate. In this case, you will need to visit your veterinarian on a regular basis.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
In many toy breeds and mixes, including Shih Poos, Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS) is a common health problem. Anatomical malformations in dogs cause BAS.
It can be difficult to breathe if the trachea is malformed or damaged, the nostrils are contracted, and the soft palate protrudes.
Shih Poos are not uncommon to suffer from such physiological challenges, and they are not necessarily severe. Shih Poos may show signs when they are physically active or under stress.
You should discuss such breathing problems with your veterinarian, as well as under which unlikely circumstances your dog will need to be treated.
Radical Retinal Atrophy
The Shihpoo is no different from the other Poodle hybrids when it comes to having Radical Retinal Atrophy (RRA). Night blindness and vision loss can result from this health condition.
A regressive retinal nerve disorder can result in the loss of vision and deterioration of vision.
Shihpoo families are understandably concerned about this type of health condition, and it may require medical attention and treatment early on.
Dogs with this condition do not have a proven medical cure. As their families adapt to losing their vision, so will their dogs.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Degeneration of the intervertebral disk is what causes Intervertebral Disc Disease (IDD). Spinal cord vertebrae are separated by this shock-absorbent disc. During various movements, these discs absorb shocks, thus earning their name shock-absorbing discs.
IDD can cause pain in older Shih Poos when there is nerve compression and degeneration. There may be a need for medical care. Such cases are generally treated well with anti-inflammatory medications, but surgery of the intervertebral disc is also possible.
Sebaceous Adenitis
An inflammatory skin condition known as Sebaceous Adenitis (SA) can affect Shih Poos. It causes irritation, hair loss, and other skin infections when the sebaceous glands in the skin swell.
Some cases of skin irritation and skin infections may require a visit to the vet, who may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications. Skin irritation may also be reduced by medical shampoos.
Grooming
Maltipoos
There can be a wide variety of coats on Maltipoos. A few are wavy or curly while others are poker straight. There are a variety of colors from white to black, as well as everything in between.
For a Maltipoo’s coat to remain healthy, it must be brushed regularly. For him to avoid forming snarls or mats, he should be brushed several times per week. Every month, you should shampoo and deep condition.
It is safe to assume its offspring requires professional grooming just as its parents do. If you want to keep their soft hair in check, you’ll have to take them to the salon for a trim from time to time.
Shih Poos
There is a wide variety of appearances among Shih Poos. Shih Poos have hair that can be straight, curly, or wavy. It’s even possible for some to have a mix.
Therefore, you can find out what to expect from Shih-Tzus and Poodles by learning more about their characteristics. Long, silky, curly, or somewhere in between is how Shih-Poos’ coats can look. As varied as the colors of the rainbow, so are colors.
Even within the same litter of Shih-Poo puppies, major differences can occur in coat style and color. This crossbreed is so new, it is hard to know what you will get from Shih-Poo puppies. Shih-Poos are always adorable, however.
Two to three times a week, you should brush your teeth. Seasonal trimming may be necessary for Shih-Poos. A dog’s coat type determines its coat type. In order to prevent skin issues, he needs to be bathed every month at the very least
Exercise Requirements
Maltipoos
This mix of Poodles and Maltese requires little exercise, despite being quite energetic. You can keep your pooch happy by taking him for a short walk before and after dinner.
Despite his small size, this little guy enjoys playing and may chase a ball across the floor for hours. Due to his well-behaved and caring nature, he is an excellent playmate.
Maltipoos are perfect for apartment dwellers, but they are also happy in the suburbs with a yard. Maltipoos should never be left unattended unless they are in a secure dog park or fenced yard.
All pups are like that, after all. Maltipoo’s energy level will challenge you, so be prepared! These small dogs can sometimes run for hours on end, so their energy levels can be high.
Shih Poos
It does not require vigorous exercise, despite the Shih-Poo’s energy. The only thing this spunky little guy needs to keep fit is brisk morning and evening walks. The rest of the time, he will happily play with a ball or other toys around the house.
Shih-Poos also enjoy running around a dog park with their canine friends or romping around the grassy backyard with their children. A hybrid dog like this won’t enjoy jogging or hiking with his owners.
Shih-Poos enjoy playing, but too much exertion can be harmful. Therefore, if you are a particularly active dog owner, you should keep that in mind. Dogs with Shih-Poo characteristics are energetic and playful
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For more information about the Differences between Shih Poo and Maltipoo, check out the video below:
