For many pet owners, watching a Maltipoo puppy grow into a healthy adult dog is one of life’s great joys. But the question that lingers is often, “When will my Maltipoo stop growing?”
When considering a Maltipoo’s growth, the timeline varies based on the lineage. If your dog friend’s parents are a Toy Poodle and a Maltese, you can expect your adorable pup to reach their full size between 6 to 10 months.
However, if the lineage consists of a Mini Poodle and a Maltese, your Maltipoo will likely achieve their full size around the age of 12 months.
We’ll take you through the key factors affecting growth, the milestones to look out for, and how to know when your Maltipoo has reached its full size.
Factors Affecting Maltipoo Growth
A Maltipoo’s growth is influenced by several key factors. To understand when your furry friend will reach adulthood, it’s essential to consider these elements.
Genetics and Breed Characteristics
Maltipoos, a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Poodle, inherit genetic traits from both parent breeds.
While they tend to have a predictable weight range as adults, each dog is unique. The genetics they carry dictate not only the size they will grow to be but also the pace and duration of their growth.
Nutrition and Diet Impact
From the moment a Maltipoo puppy is weaned, nutrition plays a crucial role in their growth trajectory.
The right balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, is vital for healthy development.
Overfeeding can lead to excessive weight gain and potential health issues, while underfeeding can inhibit growth.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Regular physical activity supports healthy bone and muscle development. Proper exercise, tailored to a Maltipoo’s size and age, can ensure they reach their full potential without putting undue stress on their developing bodies.
Milestone Growth Stages
A Maltipoo’s growth can be broken down into distinct stages. Each stage has its own developments and needs.
Puppyhood Growth Spurts
The first year is an intense period of growth for Maltipoos. Like all puppies, they experience rapid growth spurts, particularly during the first six months.
Newborns typically double their birth weight within the first week of life and then continue growing quickly to reach a significant portion of their adult size by the time they’re a year old.
Adolescence Development
After the initial rapid growth, Maltipoos experience a less noticeable but still significant increase in size and weight as they approach their first birthday.
During this period, their bodies continue to fill out as they develop muscle mass and coordination.
Adult Size and Maturity
Most Maltipoos will reach their adult height and weight by the time they turn one year old, though growth may continue at a slower pace for another few months.
At this point, they have usually matured physically but may still exhibit puppy-like behavior.
Signs of Growth Completion
How do you know when your Maltipoo has reached its full size? There are several signs to look for to gauge their physical and emotional maturity.
Physical Indicators
When a Maltipoo’s growth plates close, usually by the time they’re 18 months to 2 years old, their body stops growing taller.
You can assess this closure by the shape of their skull, which becomes more rounded, and by their body proportions, which should be similar to those of an adult dog.
Behavioral Changes
Mature Maltipoos often have a more consistent temperament and energy level compared to puppies. Behavioral shifts, such as a reduction in hyperactive play and an increase in sleeping, may indicate that growth is complete.
Veterinary Guidance
Your veterinarian can provide invaluable insight into your Maltipoo’s growth. Regular check-ups allow your vet to monitor size and weight changes and provide advice on adjusting diet, exercise, and care routines for the best outcomes.
FAQs About Maltipoo Growth
How Big Will My Maltipoo Get? The size of a Maltipoo can vary based on the size of the Poodle parent, but they usually weigh between 5 to 20 pounds and stand 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.
When Do Maltipoos Stop Teething? Maltipoos typically finish teething between six and eight months, at the same time as most other breeds.
Are Maltipoos Hyper-Allergenic? They are a popular choice for those with allergies, but ‘hypoallergenic’ doesn’t mean non-allergenic. Still, their coat type typically causes fewer reactions in people with dog allergies.
Conclusion
Understanding when your Maltipoo will stop growing is about more than just knowing when to switch to adult dog food.
It’s about ensuring their health and happiness as they mature. Keep a watchful eye on the development of your pet, provide the requisite nutrition and exercise, and consult with your vet regularly.
By being an attentive and informed owner, you’ll help your Maltipoo grow into a vibrant and healthy adult companion.
