Temperament: Calm, placid, affectionate
Maintenance level: Moderate
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Ideal for: Individuals, couples, families with children, people with allergies
The Moodle, also called Maltipoo, is a cross breed created by mixing that results from mixing miniature poodles and Maltese dogs. This toy breed is best known for its fluffy, curly coat that feels like wool. The Moodle makes an ideal pet for people with allergies, as it sheds little to no hair.
Moodles have thick coats that require daily brushing and professional grooming every six weeks or so. Moodles are typically cream, silver, white, or a mix of all three colors. They are small dogs, only growing to 8 inches long and weighing anywhere from 5 to 19 pounds. As with many small dog breeds, the Moodle has a relatively long life span; the average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years.
Moodle History
The Moodle was bred to be a non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog, although it has been reported that this breed does shed some fur on occasion. While not officially considered a “true breed”, the popularity of the Moodle breed has led to the formation of the North American Maltipoo/Maltepoo Club & Registry. Genetically speaking, the Moodle breed does not have a long history, but its lineage can be traced through the Maltese and poodle breeds.
Moodle Temperament
Moodles are known for calm and placid temperament, so if you’re looking for a “lap dog,” this is definitely the breed for you. Don’t let their laid-back nature fool you, though; these dogs are intelligent, highly sociable, and love playing and going for walks with their owners. The laid-back nature of Moodles makes them a great companion to other animals in the home. Moodles also getalong well with children, but care must be taken to ensure children do not play too roughly with this small and fragile breed.
Common Moodle Conditions and Diseases
Epilepsy – This neurological disorder can cause dizziness, fainting spells, and rigidity. While these behaviors can be frightening to witness, treatment for epilepsy is available and the prognosis for affected dogs is frequently good.
Patellar Luxation – If the bones of the patella are not properly aligned, they can slip in and out of place. This is called patellar luxation. Mild cases do not usually require treatment and do not diminish a dog’s quality of life. Severe cases may cause pain and an abnormal gait that require surgical treatment.
Portosystemic Shunt (PSS) – A portosystemic shunt, also called a shunt of the liver, is a birth defect that occurs when an abnormal connection is formed between the portal vein of the liver and one of its offshoots and another Bevin. This causes blood to bypass, or “shunt,” the liver. Surgery is often required to correct PSS.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – This eye condition can lead to the deterioration of the retina, causing night blindness and, eventually, full blindness. There is no cure for Progressive retinal atrophy, but many dogs adapt to the loss of eyesight and can continue to lead mostly normal lives – especially if their environment is not changed too drastically.
Interesting Facts About Moodles
- Moodles are sometimes referred to as “designer dogs.”
- Moodles are often called the “cutest breed of dog” due to their small size and adorable features.
- Moodles tend to bond more easily with teenagers and adults than with small children, who often do not know how to handle the delicate nature of this breed.
