Maltipoo puppies for sale in Miami

Maltipoos are small dogs with big hearts. The Maltese side brings a sweet, devoted, lap-dog nature, and the Poodle side adds brains and a playful, clownish streak. Most Maltipoos are bright, happy, and very tuned in to their people.

They love to be close to you, whether that means following you from room to room or curling up on the couch. Many are friendly with visitors and other pets once introduced. Some are a little shy at first, and early socialization helps them grow into confident adults.

Maltipoos can be alert little watchdogs and may bark at noises in the hallway or at the door. With training, most settle down quickly. Their biggest challenge is being alone, since they bond tightly and can develop separation anxiety.

A Maltipoo can inherit health issues from either parent, so it helps to know what runs in both the Maltese and the Poodle.

• Dental disease Small mouths crowd teeth, which traps plaque. Dental problems are one of the most common issues in Maltipoos, so daily brushing matters.
• Luxating patella A kneecap that slips out of place is common in toy breeds. You may notice skipping, hopping, or holding up a back leg.
• Eye disease Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can come from either parent and slowly affects vision. Other eye problems, such as cataracts, can also occur.
• Tear staining Reddish-brown stains under the eyes are common, especially on white and cream coats. Usually it is cosmetic, but sudden heavy tearing or a red, squinting eye needs a vet visit.
• Low blood sugar in tiny puppies Very small puppies can drop their blood sugar if they skip meals. Feed on schedule and call your vet if your puppy seems weak, wobbly, or sleepy.
• Liver shunt This blood vessel problem is seen in some small breeds, including the Maltese. It can cause poor growth or strange behavior after meals.

Ask about health testing for both parents. Ask about eye exams, patella checks, and a PRA DNA test for the Poodle parent. A good source should be glad to share results.

Size depends on the Poodle parent. A Maltese bred to a toy Poodle usually makes a smaller Maltipoo, while a miniature Poodle parent usually makes a larger one. Ask which type of Poodle was used.

Call your vet if you notice: bad breath, red or bleeding gums, trouble eating, limping or skipping, cloudy eyes, bumping into things at night, squinting, vomiting, weakness, or wobbling.

Pet insurance is worth pricing out while your puppy is young and healthy, before any condition can be listed as pre-existing.

This is general information, not veterinary advice. Your veterinarian knows your dog best. You can also read about your rights under Florida law.

Heat and humidity. Maltipoos handle Miami heat only moderately well. Walk early in the morning or after sunset, bring water, and keep midday outings short. Test the pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for paws. Never leave your dog in a car, even for a few minutes. Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, weakness, vomiting, and collapse. Move your dog somewhere cool and call a vet right away.

Pool and beach safety. Tiny dogs can tire fast in water and struggle to climb out of a pool. Supervise closely, use a dog life jacket on boats and at the beach, and rinse off salt water and sand afterward.

Birds of prey. Hawks and owls are common in South Florida. Stay close to a very small Maltipoo when it is outside in an open yard.

For the Miami basics every dog owner needs, like hot pavement, parked cars, year-round parasites, cane toads and hurricane prep, see our Miami puppy care guide.

Common Maltipoo colors include white, cream, apricot, red, silver, black, and parti (white with patches). Many lighter puppies darken or lighten as they grow. Coats can be wavy, curly, or straighter and silky, and puppies in the same litter can turn out different. Curlier coats usually shed less but need more brushing.

Maltipoos are often called hypoallergenic, but no dog is fully hypoallergenic. Allergens come from skin, saliva, and dander, not just hair. If someone in your home has allergies, spend time around the breed before deciding.

Your first week checklist:

• Get supplies ready: small-breed puppy food, bowls, a light harness and leash, ID tag, crate, bed, small chew toys, a slicker brush, a comb, and a puppy toothbrush
• Book a first vet visit within a few days of coming home
• Keep the vaccine schedule going and bring your puppy's records to the vet
• Start a crate and potty routine from day one, with frequent trips outside or to a potty pad
• Feed small meals on schedule to help keep blood sugar steady
• Practice short alone time early, a few minutes at a time, to help prevent separation anxiety
• Begin gentle socialization with new people, sounds, and places once your vet says it is safe
• Get your puppy used to brushing, face wiping, and having teeth, paws, and ears handled

Ask us about our Maltipoo puppies or learn about our financing options.