Maltipoos are an increasingly popular designer breed known for their adorable teddy bear-like appearance and friendly personalities. They’ve become a firm favorite among many dog lovers. Many factors are driving their popularity—they’re especially suited to living in urban areas because they’re small, non-shedding, sweet-natured, and easy to care for.
Apartment dwellers—or anyone with neighbors close by—are going to be concerned about the likelihood of their dog barking. If you’re worried about their propensity to vocalize, you’ve come to the right place! And we’ve got great news.
Although all dogs vocalize, Maltipoos are not likely to be loud or persistent barkers. If your particular fluff bundle is the exception that proves the rule—don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
Maltipoo Genetics
Maltipoos are an adorable, cuddly, hybrid breed, and they’re a mix of two breeds of dogs: the Poodle and the Maltese. When it comes to vocalization, both the Poodle and Maltese breeds are on the quieter end of the scale for dog breeds. Poodles, valued for their intelligence and trainability, are typically well-behaved and not usually given to excessive barking. While they may bark to alert their owners to strangers or danger, they are generally quiet dogs.
Maltese, on the other hand, are known for being energetic and playful, which can sometimes lead to a bit more yappiness. However, they, too, are not known to be excessive barkers. In terms of the Maltipoo hybrid—as with all hybrid dogs—it can be difficult to predict just how much they will bark. This will vary depending on which parent they take after more. However, it’s safe to say that Maltipoos, on average, do not bark excessively.
Learned Behaviors & Environment
First off, it’s important that we emphasize that all dogs bark. Barking is a natural form of communication for canines and serves various purposes, such as alerting their owners of strangers or potential danger, expressing excitement or boredom, or seeking attention. Maltipoos, being a small breed, may not have the same deep, intimidating bark as a larger dog, but they can certainly make their presence known.
When it comes to barking, some individuals tend to be more vocal than others, regardless of how they’re trained or raised. Much of whether or not a Maltipoo barks depends on their owner’s training methods and their environment.
Feeling Bored
One of the Maltipoo’s parent breeds—the Poodle—is known for its high intelligence. They need regular mental stimulation to keep them entertained. Boredom is one of the main reasons why a Maltipoo may bark a lot. As a result of its Poodle roots, your Maltipoo may also require a great deal of mental stimulation. If a Maltipoo is cooped up inside for prolonged periods with few toys and no one to engage with, they will eventually become frustrated. Bored Maltipoos will bark excessively. Getting attention and expressing frustration is a priority, especially if they have been lonely all day and missing their best friends.
Fear of People & Other Dogs
Malitipoos will do their best to seem scary and threatening when they feel in danger or scared. One of the most common reasons why a Maltipoo barks is fear of people or other dogs. If your pet is particularly timid around new people or animals, they may be more prone to barking out of fear. They may also become territorial if they sense strangers approaching their home. Even the bravest of dogs can have moments of anxiety—and from such a low and non-threatening vantage point, the world must sometimes be a scary place for Maltipoos. Barking is a natural response for dogs.
That’s why it’s important to address the underlying fear or anxiety to help reduce excessive barking.
Separation Anxiety
Potential owners should be aware that these intelligent, loving little dogs can suffer from separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is the excessive worry or distress caused by the absence of an owner or companion. Symptoms can include destruction of furniture, pacing or circling doors before being left alone, defecation in inappropriate places due to stress, and—you guessed it—barking and howling. If not treated, separation anxiety can become quite intense; it is, therefore, important for potential Maltipoo owners to be aware of it and make sure to research preventative measures beforehand if they plan on leaving their pet for extended periods throughout the day. You don’t want to inadvertently break your lil’ Maltipoo’s heart whenever you walk out the door.
How to Put a Stop to It
In order to reduce unwanted vocalization in Maltipoos, or any canine for that matter for that matter, the key is to address the underlying causes of excessive barking.
Exercise & Mental Stimulation Are Essential
Owners need to make sure that their Maltipoos get enough exercise because it helps keep them from becoming bored and potentially resorting to excessive barking as a result. Exercise can help reduce stress levels. Taking your Maltipoo for regular walks or playing games with them outdoors is an ideal way to provide your pup with the physical activity they need so they can bark less and remain healthy and active throughout their lives. In addition, providing mental stimulation activities can help prevent boredom-related behaviors—so provide ample toys to keep them entertained.
Address Separation Anxiety Head On
While it may seem like a nuisance, there are ways to address this behavior and help your pup become more comfortable with being apart from you. The first step is to provide your pup with a crate or designated space where they can relax while you’re away. Having a small, separate area specifically designed for them will make them feel like they have their own special place to call home, which can help ease their distress when left alone. You may also want to gradually increase the amount of time you spend away from your Maltipoo—so their tolerance for being alone can also gradually increase at the same pace.
Summary
In conclusion, Maltipoos are relatively quiet dogs compared to other breeds, but that does not mean they are silent. Some individual Maltipoos may bark more than others, so it is important to recognize the signs of excessive barking and act accordingly. Providing your Maltipoo with plenty of exercise, engaging them in mental stimulation activities, and dealing with their separation anxiety can help reduce their barking tendencies. Remember to speak to your veterinarian about finding a trainer if your home-based solutions don’t effectively address your pet’s excessive barking.
Featured Image Credit: Rob Hainer, Shutterstock
