Maltipoo: Feeding and Diet Guide

Feed your Maltipoo a high-quality, small-breed formula kibble, with portioned meals twice daily. Adjust amounts based on age, weight, and activity level. Avoid free-feeding to prevent obesity.

Portion Sizes and Feeding Schedule

Maltipoos are small dogs (typically 5-20 pounds) with fast metabolisms, but prone to obesity. Adult Maltipoos need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry food per day, split into two meals. Puppies (under 6 months) need three meals daily of a small-breed puppy formula. Transition to adult food at 12 months. Always measure food using a standard measuring cup, not a scoop. Divide daily portion into morning and evening meals. Consult your vet for specific calorie needs based on your dog’s activity and body condition.

Best Food Types for Maltipoos

Choose a food that meets AAFCO standards for your dog’s life stage. Here are the main types:

Dry Kibble: Look for small-breed formulas with high-quality protein (chicken, salmon, lamb) as first ingredient. Kibble size should be tiny for easy chewing. Avoid excessive fillers like corn, wheat, or soy.
Wet Food: Good for picky eaters or adding moisture. Can be mixed with kibble. Ensure it’s nutritionally complete and balanced.
Raw Food: Freeze-dried or frozen raw diets can work but require careful handling to avoid bacteria. Use a commercially prepared raw diet to ensure balanced nutrition. Not recommended for puppies or immunocompromised dogs without vet guidance.
Freeze-Dried: Convenient alternative to raw. Rehydrate before serving. Choose a brand that lists whole meats and organs.

Avoid grain-free diets unless recommended by your vet due to potential links to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some dogs.

Tips for Treats and Weight Management

Maltipoos love treats, but limit to 10% of daily calories. Use small, low-calorie treats like freeze-dried liver or green beans. Avoid rawhide and high-fat treats. For weight control, reduce portion slightly and increase exercise (short walks, indoor play). Weigh your Maltipoo monthly and adjust food as needed. If your dog gains weight, cut back by 10-15% and see the vet to rule out thyroid issues.

Common Feeding Issues

Picky Eating: Try a different protein source or mix a small amount of wet food with kibble. Warm the food slightly to enhance aroma. Offer food for 15 minutes, then remove until next meal.
Food Allergies: Symptoms include itchy skin, ear infections, or loose stool. If suspected, switch to a novel protein diet (e.g., duck, venison) or hydrolyzed protein diet under vet supervision.
Dental Health: Dry kibble can help scrape teeth, but regular brushing is essential. Consider dental chews or water additives approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.

Always provide fresh, clean water. Avoid feeding table scraps, especially grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, and xylitol. For any health concerns, consult your veterinarian.

Key Takeaway

Feed your Maltipoo a measured portion of high-quality small-breed kibble twice daily, adjust based on age and activity, and limit treats to maintain a healthy weight.

Sources

AKC
ASPCA

Frequently asked questions

How much should I feed my Maltipoo puppy?

Maltipoo puppies under 6 months need around 1/4 to 1/3 cup of small-breed puppy food per day, split into three meals. Follow the feeding guide on the food bag and adjust based on your puppy's body condition. Consult your vet for exact amounts.

Can Maltipoos eat raw food?

Yes, but with caution. Commercially prepared raw diets that are nutritionally balanced can be safe. Avoid homemade raw diets without vet guidance due to risk of bacteria or nutritional imbalances. Not recommended for puppies or immunocompromised dogs without vet approval.

What human foods are safe for Maltipoos?

Safe options include plain cooked chicken, carrots, green beans, apples (no seeds), and plain yogurt. Avoid toxic foods like grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, xylitol, and high-fat items. Always introduce new foods slowly.

My Maltipoo is a picky eater, what should I do?

Try warming the food slightly to enhance aroma, add a small amount of low-sodium broth or wet food, or switch to a different protein source. Offer meals for 15 minutes and remove uneaten food until next feeding. If pickiness persists or weight loss occurs, see your vet.