“Maltese Bichon Frise Mix”
| Weight | 9-13 |
| Height | 8-11 |
| Lifespan | 12-15 |
| Coat Colors | White |
| Coat Traits | Long length, Wavy, Silky, Hypoallergenic |
| Temperament | Affectionate, Playful, Clingy, Loyal, Feerless, Gentle |
The Maltichon is an adorable combination of a Maltese and Bichon Frise that makes a wonderful pet for any family. With its charming personality, it is no wonder that the Maltichon has become increasingly popular as a companion animal.
Standing at 8-11 inches tall and weighing 9-13 pounds, this cuddly breed boasts a white, long, and wavy coat that is both hypoallergenic and silky to the touch.
Despite its relatively small size, Maltichon dogs can live up to 15 years (a long time for a dog) with proper nutrition and exercise! If you’re looking for a loyal friend who has plenty of love to give, the Maltichon might just be the perfect match for you.
Maltichon Generations
The Maltichon generations are all unique in their own way and come with their own set of characteristics and abilities.
F1 Generation
The F1 generation is the first generation of crossbreed dogs, resulting from a purebred parent of each breed. These puppies are often healthier than their purebred counterparts due to their hybrid vigor.
They usually have a longer life expectancy and fewer genetic health issues than their purebred parents.
F1B Generation
The F1B generation is the result of breeding an F1 hybrid back to one of its original purebred parents. This type of breeding reduces the amount of shedding and increases the chances that puppies will take after one particular parent more than the other.
It also helps to reduce potential health problems associated with inbreeding.
F2 Generation
The F2 generation is produced by breeding two F1 hybrids together, resulting in puppies that are more likely to have consistent traits throughout their litter. While this type of breeding can help to reduce potential health problems, it also increases the risk for inherited diseases due to increased inbreeding within the same gene pool.
Maltichon History
The Maltichon is a popular, sought-after dog breed, a deliberate cross between two extremely old companion breeds developed in the Mediterranean. The parent breeds of the Maltichon are the Maltese and Bichon Frise, both of which have a royal, aristocratic, and long history.
The Maltese is an ancient breed that has been around since at least the 16th century, while the smart Bichon Frise has been around since at least the 14th century. Both breeds were beloved by their owners for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature.
The Roman Empire is believed to be the originator of both the Bichon Frise and Maltese dog breeds. During its time, these canines were kept as companions for nobility and aristocracy alike.
The Maltese terrier was particularly favored among royalty due to their luxurious white coat, energy level, and intelligence.
In more modern times, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that breeders began creating new hybrid dog breeds. This is when the Maltichon first emerged onto the scene as an effort to combine all of the best traits from both parent breeds into one pup!
Since then, this hybrid breed has gained popularity amongst pet owners who are looking for an energetic yet loyal companion. However, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Maltichon Appearance
The Maltichon is a small, fluffy breed of dog that is a cross between a Maltese and a Bichon Frise. The average adult Maltichon is typically 9-13 inches tall and 8-11 inches long, with a long, wavy coat that is silky to the touch.
The coat is usually white in color and hypoallergenic, making them perfect for those with allergies. The body of the Maltichon is compact and muscular, with a short muzzle and black nose.
Their ears are large and floppy, their eyes are dark brown or black, and their tail is long and curved. All in all, the Maltese Frise mix has an adorable appearance that will make your heart melt!
Maltichon Lifespan
The good news for pet parents is the lifespan of this breed is on the higher side, with about 12 to 15 years on average when given proper care and attention. Feed them quality food and wholesome treats, take them for regular check-ups to the vet, socialize them well with other companions – both human and canine – and they’ll be your furry friends for many long years!
Maltichon Ideal Environment
This small, fluffy pup is an affectionate, loving companion who loves to be around their family. They are low-maintenance dogs that are extremely intelligent and highly trainable. The Maltichon is fearless yet gentle with their family, making them a good watchdog and great companions for those looking for an active and loyal pet.
When it comes to living conditions, the Maltichon does best in an environment where they can receive plenty of attention from their owners. They thrive when given regular exercise and playtime, as well as plenty of love and cuddles.
As they are small dogs, they do not require much space but should have access to a secure yard or garden area where they can explore safely. However, small apartments are fine, too, as long as there is access to a secure place outdoors. It’s important to provide the Maltichon with mental stimulation, such as interactive toys or puzzle games, to keep them entertained throughout the day.
Maltichon Temperament
This small, fluffy pup is known for being affectionate, playful, having a clingy nature, and loyal to their family. They are a smart dog and highly trainable, making them the perfect addition to any household.
The temperament of the Maltichon is what truly sets them apart from other breeds. This mixed breed is fearless yet gentle, energetic yet calm. They make great playmates for children as well as adults, and they get along well with other pets in the home.
They have an innate desire to please their owners, which makes training easy and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Maltichon Grooming
The Maltese Bichon Frise mix requires more effort than most when it comes to grooming, but luckily it doesn’t need that much exercise. To properly groom a Maltichon, you’ll need to brush its coat, bathe it regularly, clean its ears and nails, and brush its teeth.
Brushing
Maltichons have medium-length coats that require regular brushing to keep them looking their best. It’s important to use the right tools for the job. Look for a soft-bristled pin brush or slicker brush specifically designed for dogs with long hair.
Brush your Maltichon’s coat at least once a week to remove any tangles or mats in the fur and distribute natural oils throughout the coat.
Bathing
This designer dog breed should be bathed every three to four weeks using a mild shampoo specifically designed for dogs. Make sure to rinse thoroughly, so no soap residue remains on the skin or fur.
After bathing, gently pat your dog dry with a towel and then use a blow dryer set on low heat to finish drying off your pup.
Ears
It’s important to check your Maltichon’s ears regularly for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or an unpleasant odor. If you notice any of these signs, take your pup to the vet immediately. You can also clean your dog’s ears at home using an ear-cleaning solution made specifically for dogs; just make sure not to insert anything into the ear canal itself!
Nails
Your Maltichon’s nails should be trimmed every few weeks using nail clippers made specifically for dogs. If you’re unsure how much of the nail needs trimming, ask your vet or groomer for advice before proceeding.
Be careful not to cut too close, as this can cause pain and bleeding. If this happens, apply styptic powder or cornstarch directly onto the affected area until it stops bleeding.
Teeth
Brushing your Maltichon’s teeth is essential in order to prevent dental problems such as bad breath and gum disease down the line. Use toothpaste made specifically for dogs and brush gently in circular motions two or three times per week (or daily if possible).
You can also give your pup dental chews or treats that are specially formulated to help reduce plaque buildup on their teeth.
Maltichon Nutrition
Maltichons are small, active dogs that require a balanced diet to stay healthy and happy. To ensure your Maltichon is getting the nutrition it needs, it’s important to understand the basics of its nutritional requirements.
Calories
Maltichons need a diet that is high in calories to support their active lifestyle. The amount of calories they need depends on their size, age, and activity level. Generally speaking, an adult Maltichon should consume around 500-700 calories per day.
Protein
Protein is essential for any dog’s diet, and Maltichons are no exception. Protein helps build and maintain muscle mass as well as provide energy for your pup. Look for a food that contains at least 18% protein from animal sources such as chicken or fish.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide energy for your Maltichon and should make up about 30-50% of their daily caloric intake. Whole grains such as brown rice or oats are good sources of healthy carbs for your pup.
Avoid foods with added sugars or artificial sweeteners, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.
Fats
Fats are an important part of any dog’s diet because they provide essential fatty acids which help keep skin and coat healthy. Look for foods that contain at least 10% fat from animal sources, such as chicken fat or fish oil. Avoid vegetable oils, as these can be difficult for dogs to digest properly.
How Much to Feed Your Maltichon
The amount of food you should feed your Maltichon will depend on its size, age, and activity level, so it’s best to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to its diet.
Generally speaking, an adult Maltichon should consume around ½ cup of food per day, split into two meals, one in the morning and one in the evening. But this may vary depending on individual needs, so always check with your vet first. In addition, make sure the food you are feeding them is made for small breeds.
Maltichon Training
Your Maltichon is a smart Bichon type of dog and is eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, your best bet is to be patient and consistent when training your pup, as this will help ensure that it gets the best results. Also, short training sessions are recommended.
Here are some tips for successful Maltichon training:
Socialization
It’s important to start socializing your Maltichon from a young age so they can get used to different environments, people, and animals. Take your pup out in public as often as possible on short outings; this will help it become more confident around other humans and dogs.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a dog; use treats and verbal praise to reward your pup for good behaviors. This will encourage them to repeat these behaviors in the future, which helps make training easier and more effective.
House Training
House training a Maltichon puppy can be done quickly and at an early age with the right steps. Preparing your home environment, using positive reinforcement when exiting the house, rewarding good behavior, using phrases like “go potty” or “outside” when taking them out, and being consistent with your approach will help you get your pup house-trained in no time. Just make sure to have plenty of puppy pads!
Consistency
Consistency is key when it comes to training a Maltichon; you have to be consistent in what you’re asking from them if you want them to learn new things quickly. Make sure you are using the same words with each command (e.g., always say “sit”) and provide rewards or corrections immediately after the behavior has been completed.
Behavioral Problems
If your Maltichon is exhibiting behavioral problems, it may be due to inconsistent training or lack of socialization as a puppy. It is important to start training early and provide plenty of opportunities for socialization so that your pup grows up happy and well-adjusted.
If you find yourself struggling with behavioral issues, it may be helpful to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist for advice on how to best address them.
Maltichon Exercise
The Maltichon is a small, adaptable breed that does well in either an apartment setting or a larger home. Unlike larger dogs, this canine doesn’t need much exercise, making them an ideal pet for those with busy lifestyles.
Outdoor Playtime
Though not necessary, outdoor playtime can be beneficial for the Maltichon as it provides mental stimulation and physical activity. It’s important to note that due to their small size, these dogs won’t require much exercise – thirty minutes each day should suffice.
During this time, owners can take their pup on leisurely walks, go to the dog park, or engage in fun activities such as fetch or agility training.
Indoor Activities
For those who don’t have access to outdoor spaces, there are still plenty of ways to keep the Maltichon active indoors. For example, interactive toys such as puzzle feeders can help keep their minds sharp while providing them with some physical exercise.
Additionally, teaching your new best friend basic commands such as sit and stay will help keep them engaged and entertained throughout the day.
Age-Appropriate Exercise
It’s important to remember that Maltichon puppies need different levels of exercise than adult dogs do. For instance, young Maltichons should only be taken on short walks until they reach maturity (around one year old).
Additionally, puppies should not be allowed off-leash until they have been trained properly and are able to respond reliably to commands from their owners.
Maltichon Health Issues
While this breed is generally healthy, there are some health conditions that owners should be aware of.
Congenital Heart Defect
Congenital heart defects are one of the most common health issues in the Maltichon breed. These defects can cause a variety of symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and lethargy.
It’s important for Maltichon owners to have their pet examined by a vet regularly to ensure that any potential problems are caught early on.
Cataracts
Cataracts are another common issue in the Maltichon breed. This condition causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy or opaque, leading to vision loss or blindness. If left untreated, cataracts can cause permanent damage to your pet’s eyesight. Fortunately, cataracts can be treated with surgery if caught early enough.
Dental Disease
Dental disease is another health concern for Maltichons. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease and tooth decay, which can cause pain and discomfort for your pet. Regular brushing and dental checkups are essential for keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that affects many breeds of dogs, including the Maltichon. Symptoms include itching, redness, and hair loss in affected areas.
Treatment typically involves anti-inflammatory medications and topical creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and itchiness associated with this condition.
Other Health Issues
Other health issues that may affect the Maltichon include:
- Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain).
- Portosystemic shunt (abnormal blood flow between organs).
- Shaker dog syndrome (tremors caused by nerve damage).
- Corneal dystrophy (thinning of the cornea).
- Bladder stones (hardened deposits in the urinary tract).
- Leg problems such as patellar luxation (dislocation of kneecaps).
Final Thoughts
As long as you have the time and resources needed for grooming, training, exercise, socialization, and attention, owning a Maltichon could be an amazing experience! These pups offer endless amounts of love and loyalty, which makes them great companions for any family or individual looking for an adorable new addition!
With proper care, these little guys make excellent furry friends!
Summary
• The Maltichon is a small, fluffy breed of dog that is a cross between a Maltese and a Bichon Frise, typically standing 9-13 inches tall and weighing 8-11 pounds.
• They have silky white coats that are hypoallergenic, with large floppy ears, dark eyes, and tails that are normally long and curved.
• The lifespan of this breed is 12 to 15 years when given proper care and attention.
• The temperament of the Maltichon is what truly sets them apart from other breeds; they are fearless yet gentle, energetic yet calm, making them a good watchdog and great companions for those looking for an active and loyal pet.
• Grooming needs include brushing the coat regularly, bathing every three to four weeks using a mild shampoo specifically designed for dogs, cleaning their ears and nails, and brushing their teeth.
• They require high calories in their diet with at least 18% protein from animal sources such as chicken or fish; carbohydrates should make up about 30-50% of their daily caloric intake with 10% fat from animal sources such as chicken fat or fish oil; feed an adult Maltichon around ½ cup of food per day split into two meals.
• Start socializing your Maltichon from a young age to get used to different environments and people/animals.
• Use treats and praise to reward your pup for good behavior.
• Prepare the environment and use positive reinforcement, rewards, phrases, and consistency for quicker house training.
• Use the same words with each command and provide immediate rewards or corrections for effective training.
• Inconsistent training and lack of socialization can lead to behavioral issues; consider consulting a professional if needed.
• The Maltichon is adaptable and doesn’t require lots of exercise; play outdoors (30 min/day) or indoors with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, etc.
• Puppies should only be taken on short walks until they reach maturity (around one year old). Don’t allow off-leash until trained properly & able to respond to commands.
• Congenital heart defects, cataracts, dental disease, atopic dermatitis & other health issues may affect the Maltichon breed; regular vet exams & preventive care are recommended.