Maltipoo Male vs. Female – How Do They Compare? (With Pictures)

The Maltipoo is an example of the many so-called designer dogs that hit the world by storm in the 1980s. As you may surmise by its name, it’s a cross between two toy breeds, the Maltese and link the Toy or Miniature Poodle. These pups bring together some of the best traits of both breeds. Their small size makes them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers who want a loving pet to cuddle with on the sofa.

If you’ve decided to get a Maltipoo, you may wonder whether you should get a male or female puppy. A lot depends on how the pup was raised, and when it left its mother and littermates. The socialization period between 3–12 weeks is critical in a dog’s temperament as an adult. Let’s explore some differences to help you choose the best pet for you.

 

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Male Maltipoo Overview

Personality / Character

One trait common with many small breeds is aggression. Scientists theorize it may be a failure of not selectively breeding it out of these dogs. After all, a little pup would hardly strike fear in many people. It may also rest with the animals’ lower height. At least one study has found a correlation between this trait and some undesirable behaviors, like dog-directed fear.

These findings are more significant if you delay or don’t neuter your Maltipoo. However, you’ll likely find that male dogs are playful and affectionate if given enough attention. They are sensitive animals and don’t like being alone.

Variability in the weight and height depends on whether one of the parents is a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The former won’t grow more than 6 pounds and 10 inches tall. The Maltese brings its gentle, sweet nature to the mix, while the Poodle adds its intelligence and agility to the Maltipoo. A male can be noticeably larger than a female, depending on the particular mix.

Training

The Poodle’s intelligence makes this pup easy to train. It is eager to please, especially if a treat is involved. We also suggest making socialization a priority for puppies to quell any aggressive tendencies that arise from unfamiliar situations. Expose your pup to other dogs and people while it’s young. It’s also wise to get them used to being in a car.

Health & Care

Both parent breeds are relatively healthy with few issues. Nevertheless, it’s essential to get a Maltipoo from a reputable seller who conducts pre-breeding health screenings. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends a DNA-based Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) test and an evaluation for patellar luxation after your pet is 1 year old.

We also suggest having your Maltipoo examined for heart issues based on the OFA’s recommendations for Maltese pups. You should also monitor your pet’s weight since obesity could worsen these conditions:

Breeding

Breeding or neutering is a decision we strongly urge you to discuss with your veterinarian. The latter can help curb aggression associated with sexual maturity in males. However, the timing of the procedure may heighten your pet’s risk of specific health conditions and behavioral problems. It’s worth noting that the cost and recovery are less expensive, as well as easier for male dogs versus females.

Female Maltipoo Overview

Personality / Character

A female Maltipoo is just as cute and friendly as a male pup. Again, we must return to socialization and its influence on a pet’s behavior. It’s worth mentioning that this dog is prone to separation anxiety, although it’s more of a care issue than one associated with the pup’s sex. The female might become more aggressive and protective over its toys or food when it’s in estrus or heat.

Training

Its eagerness to please makes the Maltipoo an excellent choice for a first-time pet owner. They are playful pups that will get along well with kids, which applies equally to male and female dogs. The difference may lie with its size. Parents should supervise playtime with young children with a small pup that may not handle roughhousing well.

Health & Care

Females require the same care as their male counterparts. They are at risk for the same congenital and hereditary health issues, making health screenings imperative. Females require more care and attention during their estrus cycles with intact animals. The main differences between the sexes involve neutering. The Maltese and Poodle share some genetic susceptibility to specific conditions, regardless of sex, such as:

Breeding

As we’ve discussed, you should consult your vet about neutering and its timing with your pet. Smaller dogs reach sexual maturity at about 8–12 months. Some experts think it’s vital for a dog to get to this life stage before neutering because of hormonal involvement in growth and development. The Maltipoo and its parent breeds have an average risk of developing sex-related conditions, like mammary tumors.

Another concern lies with urinary incontinence. Spayed females are more likely to develop this condition than intact ones, which is particularly true with larger animals. The typical occurrence is between 5%–20%. These findings have prompted veterinarians to recommend allowing a female to go through its first cycle because of the possible hormonal influences.

While some breeds had a greater likelihood of developing cancer and joint disease with neutering, the evidence suggests that it’s up to the pet owner and their veterinarian to make the call. Spaying is a more invasive surgery that is more expensive than neutering for males.

Gender and Pet Allergies

Perhaps one of the driving factors for breeding the Maltese and Toy Poodle is that neither breed sheds. However, it doesn’t affect your risk of dog allergies. Contrary to popular belief, it is usually the animal’s dander causing the issue and not its hair. Scientists have identified six allergens produced by dogs and found in their saliva and urine.

Interestingly, they also point to an unexpected difference between males and females. Researchers have identified a specific protein produced in the prostate of males. Furthermore, a test now exists that can determine whether you’re allergic to that particular protein. If you have a dog allergy, you may have better luck getting a female Maltipoo than a male.

Maltese, Poodles, and Maltipoos are all excellent choices for sensitive individuals, anyway. The test can better your chances of enjoying having one of these animals as a pet. It’s worth mentioning that the concept of a hypoallergenic pet is false, as all canines produce dander. We suggest avoiding buying from a seller who makes these claims about their puppies.

Conclusion: Which Gender is Right For You?

While some personality differences exist, a male or female Maltipoo will make a delightful pet. They are gentle and loving dogs that can brighten your life with their unconditional love. The things that may sway you towards one or the other are mostly minor unless you are allergic to males. That can make your choice a no-brainer. If you have the time to devote to a pet, you can’t go wrong with a Maltipoo.

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Featured Image Credit: (L) dezy, Shutterstock | (R) Elena Bennett, Shutterstock