Like any other mixed breed, they can inherit temperamental traits or physical traits from one of their purebred parents. So, are Maltipoo Doodles hypoallergenic? Maltipoos are mostly dubbed hypoallergenic crossbreed because they typically have low-shedding coats. Keep reading to learn more.
The Maltipoo is one of the most popular choices for dog enthusiasts when it comes to looking for a little toy dog. Most dog lovers prefer them because they come with attractive traits of the Maltese companion breed as well as the additional smart traits of the Poodle. Many questions have been raised about the status of the dog’s coat.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
The cosmetics industry originally coined the term hypoallergenic in the early 1950s. It is now a common name used alongside dog breeds.
It was initially used in the cosmetic industry to refer to a cosmetic product that could less likely trigger an allergic reaction as compared to another product. The term hypoallergenic means a product that can less likely lead to an allergy flare-up.
What is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
In dogs, the term hypoallergenic refers to dogs that are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction in a person who has allergies around dogs. Although some breeders claim that some dogs are 100% hypoallergenic, it has not been scientifically proven. According to the American Kennel Club, no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic.
What Causes an Allergy to Dogs?
Over the past few decades, the popularity of hypoallergenic dogs has increased immensely across the world and in the USA, given the popularity of canines. According to recent research, about 10% of Americans are allergic to dogs.
There are several reasons why a dog can trigger allergies to an individual. It is always advisable for individuals to speak to their local doctors to learn why they may be intolerant to dogs.
One of the main causes of allergy to dogs is dog hair. This is the reason why most dog enthusiasts prefer going for fur pooches that do not shed.
Although dog hair is a contributing factor, dander is the main culprit when it comes to allergies to dogs. According to the American Lung Association, pet dander consists of tiny and even microscopic flecks of skin shed by dogs, birds, rodents, cats, and other animals with feathers and fur. The bits of skin can lead to reactions in someone who is specifically allergic to the triggers.
What Are Some of the Symptoms?
It is usually advisable for one to speak to their local doctor whenever they have concerns about symptoms of dog allergies. You can also consult a vet to get a better understanding of the problem.
As stated earlier, dog allergies are mostly triggered by dog hair or dander exposure. If this happens and you are allergic to felines or canines, here are the common symptoms that you may experience:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
Facial pressure and pain
- Cough
- Postnasal drip
- Frequent awakening
- Frequent upward rubbing of the nose in children
- Swollen and blue-colored skin under the eyes
Are Maltipoo Hypoallergenic?
Maltipoo Doodles are considered a hypoallergenic crossbreed because of Poodle genes which are arguably the most famous hypoallergenic purebred dogs. They have tight curls and do not produce a lot of dander.
Do Maltipoo Shed A Lot?
Since the Maltipoo has two different hypoallergenic parents in the shape of the Poodle and the Maltese, the crossbreed is more likely to be non-shedding or low shedding. Therefore, if you are considering keeping the crossbreed, you will not have to worry about shedding a lot.
Maltipoo Grooming and Care
Although they do not shed, you will still have to groom them in order to maintain their beautiful nature. In fact, the Maltipoo needs a rigorous grooming schedule in order to prevent their coat from becoming tangled or matted. You can remove any debris or dirt trapped in the hair of your Maltipoo by brushing them regularly.
Taking your Maltipoo to a professional pet groomer can be pretty expensive. Therefore, you will have to budget for the service as you also think of other essential things such as vet bills, dog food, and pet insurance.
What To Do To Minimize The Risk of An Allergic Reaction
Here are a few things you can do in order to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction when it comes to keeping Maltipoos
Spend time with a Maltipoo puppy before deciding to own one
This is vital for people thinking of buying a puppy, whether a Maltipoo or any other breed. You can quickly find out if there is an allergic reaction if you spend much time with them and get in contact with their skin and fur. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Make sure your new puppy does not sleep in your bed or get in contact with the furniture.
It is always good to get your little dog used to sleeping in their bed earlier enough. This will help in giving them a sense of routine. In addition, it will curtail any issues of anxiety, separation, and attention-seeking. It will also stop their hair from getting on your bed.
Brush them regularly
Brushing your little companion is important if you want to ensure that their coat is in the best condition. It is good to note that the more often you brush them and deal with their shed hair, the less likely it is for them to get all over your house. You can consider doing this outside the house if your dog is willing for an even better result.
Wash their bedding regularly
Maltipoos do not shed more often as compared to most other dog breeds. However, they still have dander and hair that you will have to deal with. As they sleep and nap, a lot of it will accumulate in their dog bed. Therefore, you should wash it more often before it becomes a problem.
Take them to a groomer for a haircut.
Clipping and trimming the coat of your Maltipoo into shape is vital to keep it manageable. It is understandable if you do not want to do the exercise yourself since it can lead to potential allergy risks. It also involves detailed work that can be challenging for you to handle. Therefore, you should consider taking your little companion to a pet groomer and have them handle everything.
Bathe them properly to stop the skin from drying
Bathing your Maltipoo is a beneficiary routine that will help to keep their hair clean. It will also maintain the quality of their skin and hair. If you use the right products for bathing them, it will allow for better production and oil circulation. This will minimize dry and flaky skin. To reduce the risk of an allergic reaction, you should always consider using natural ingredients.
Can Maltipoos Develop Allergies of Their Own?
Yes, Maltipoos can develop allergies on their own. Both the Maltese and the Poodle can be at risk of developing allergies on their own. Some of them may develop environmental allergies from pollen and dust mites. As a result, issues of hayfever may become common. Besides, food allergies could be risks to triggers like grains and several meat proteins. The allergies can irritate your dog as well as your own.
Conclusion
Although no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, the Maltipoos are very close to being hypoallergenic. The hair of their parent dogs allows for a genetic make-up that produces hair instead of fur. The Maltipoos still have some dander and shed a little, unlike other dogs. There should not be much to worry about as long as careful with dealing with dander and grooming.