Moodle Dog breed’s name sounds very much like noodles! Who will not be sparked with curiosity about this breed?
Not only is its name really interesting, but the dog itself is also oozing with so much appeal! In fact, it looks so cuddly and huggable like a teddy bear!
Indeed, they are too adorable to ignore! So let’s learn more about these small cutie pies.
What is a Moodle Dog?
Yes, it sounds like the smart, active and proud Poodle. And it is rightly so because the 7th most popular breed of the American Kennel Club is the other half of Moodle.
The other dog parent is the 37th most popular breed, the gentle, playful and charming toy dog, Maltese.
Apart from calling this Doodle as Moodle, it also goes by so many other quirky names such as Maltipoo, Maltepoo, Maltapoo, Malti-Doodle, Malta-Doodle, Malte-Doodle, Maltoodle, Malta Poo, Multa Poo, Malti-Poodle, Maltese Poo, Maltese Poodle and Maltese Doodle!
Yes, it is one and the same breed with Maltipoo or Maltepoo!
History of Moodle Dog
Many designer breed dogs have vague histories but Moodles became really popular some 20 or 30 years ago and was said to originate in the USA.
Both Poodles and Maltese are known to be hypoallergenic so this dog was bred entirely to produce one little cute teddy bear dog with the positive attributes of both parents.
While not much is known about Moodle’s history, both its parents are really famous:
- Maltese- this breed originated in the island of Malta, 60 miles south of Sicily, Italy in 3500 BC. Back in the days, Greeks admired Maltese’s “perfectly proportioned bodies” that was why it was called Melitaie Dog inspired by the Golden Age ceramics. During the Roman empire, Maltese were also a status symbol of the aristocrats as Roman ladies should be seen with this dog peeking at their sleeve or bosom. In the modern days, Maltese were recognized by the AKC in 1888 as its 42nd breed.
- Poodle- this pompous breed, while touted as France’s national dog, is of German descent. Far from its flamboyant symbol nowadays, they used to be duck hunters and retrievers. The standard size was recognized by the AKC in 1886 while toy versions were first bred in the US in the 20th century.
Since Moodles are cross-bred, it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club but it is included in American Canine Hybrid Club, International Designer Canine Registry, Designer Breed Registry and last but not least, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club.
Moodle Dog Appearance and Size
With both good looking and adorable parents, it only follows that this breed is a puff of cuteness with black beady nose partnered with blue or brown eyes. Moodles can either have short or medium muzzles depending on their dominant parent.
Along the same lines, its coat can either be thick, fine, wavy or frizzy. Colors of a Moodle can be varied from white, silver, blue, cream, brown, gray and black.
In terms of size, Maltese are small and Poodles cross-bred with it are the toy or miniature version. With this, Moodles are cute, small dogs that can grow at a range of 6 to 15 inches (15-38 cm) at the shoulders and weigh 5 to 15 pounds (2-7 kg).
Grooming the Moodle Dog
Thanks to both hypoallergenic parents, people with allergies can tolerate a Moodle.
Just a warning though, no breed can claim being 100% hypoallergenic since all dogs produce dander and saliva that attaches to their fur and both these triggers the allergy. Moodles produce less dander and shed very little making them perfect for allergy sufferers.
Taking care of a Moodle’s shiny coat needs everyday brushing to prevent matting and tangling of hair. While grooming is recommended every 8 to 10 weeks to keep their coats at tip-top shape.
Extra care is needed for their eyes since tear stains are common for both parents. Moodle’s tears have iron and magnesium that when oxidizes, turns into brownish red tears that stain their light coats. To minimize the stains, regular cleaning using organic and alcohol-free wipes is a must.
Ears must also be given attention as it can trap dirt that can cause infection. They also need regular brushing since their teeth are prone to build plaque and tartar. Apart from gingivitis, periodontal diseases can also cause a toll in their kidneys and liver.
Since they are always on their human’s lap, clipping of nails when it gets too long or when it is already clicking on the floor is recommended.
The Temperament of Moodle Dog
If a Moodle will behave more like a Poodle or a Maltese, no one can really tell. It will probably be a mixture of both shaped by their upbringing and environment but here are some of the common traits of the Moodle:
Laid-back but Lively
They might be seen often comfortably sitting at their owners lap, but Moodles loves to play! In fact, they are bursting with high energy! Even if that is the case, they can still perfectly fit apartment-living. Just make sure they get to work those energies off.
Affectionate and Cuddly
With Moodles, get unlimited hugs and cuddles because they are like teddy bears! They love to be soaked with endless attention and they love to spend time with their owners.
But remember not to treat these little dogs as a baby or they will boss around the house!
Family and Kid Friendly
Moodles are not aggressive dogs and they have high compatibility with other animals. This means that they are great for kids and even a perfect fit in a household with other pets.
They must not be left alone unsupervised with kids, though. Since Moodles are very small dogs, the tendency of them to get hurt from rash play is high.
For a household new to dogs, Moodles is a great fit!
Moodles are also friendly to strangers if they are well-trained around new people and the environment.
Good Guard Dog
Moodles are somewhat territorial and protective of their family. Plus, they bark excessively! With these, they make great guard dogs. They just need to be trained so as not to bark when unnecessary or neighbors will really complain!
Warning: Prone to Separation Anxiety
Since Moodles love to be around their owners, they do not like to be left alone for a long time. If they should be left, they are prone to experiencing separation anxiety. In the event that they need to be left, entrust them to a friend or at least a dog walker.
Exercising The Moodle Dog
No matter if the dog is a couch potato or like an energizer bunny, they all need certain amounts of exercise. For a Moodle, daily walk for about 10 to 15 minutes will be beneficial to their health. Play and extra activities like chase or fetch are also very much welcome.
Since they are intelligent dogs, they also need to be mentally stimulated so make sure to come up with activities that will sharpen their minds.
Remember that a bored dog can exhibit destructive behavior! So exercise them; it will also make them happy!
Training a Moodle Dog
The Maltese side of the family has fair working intelligence and ranks 59 on the list of smart dogs. This means that Maltese can understand commands after patiently giving them the instruction for 40 to 80 times.
On the other hand, Poodles are very smart in the second spot! Poodles can understand and follow a command after just 5 or fewer repetitions!
With clever parents, Moodles can be easily trained! The best way to ensure that they will pick up lessons fast is through positive reinforcement techniques. Give them praise when they do a job well done. Do not also underestimate the power of treats. Although, remember to give treats in moderation only!
It is also important to start training as early as puppyhood. Do not forget to potty train and socialize them to different people, animals and experiences. Since they bark excessively, it is also a good area to start.
Health and Lifespan of Moodle Dog
All dogs need the full commitment of their owners to ensure that they will live a long and healthy life.
Moodle Dog Diet
Moodles must be fed high-quality dog food appropriate for their size, age, metabolism and activity level. For this small little pooch, 1.5 cups of dog food broken down into two meals is optimal.
Apart from high-grade foods, when giving treats to them, make sure it is healthy and beneficial for their health. Choose non-toxic fruits and vegetables for them and make sure that it will not exceed 10% of their total diet.
Stay away from empty-calorie treats especially those high in sugar or salt as these are not good for their small bodies.
The Health of Moodle Dog
The aim of cross-breeding is to eliminate genetic diseases plaguing purebred dogs. With this, designer breeds are said to have hybrid vigor. However, that does not mean that they are not prone to any health issues at all. Below are some of the common ailments of a Moodle:
Luxating Patellas – or simply dislocating kneecaps. Because the bones of the patella are not aligned, it results in slip. Dogs with luxating patellas have an abnormal gait. This is a painful condition and to correct it, it may require surgery.
Epilepsy – this is a neurological disorder manifested through dizziness, rigidity and fainting. While it is heart-wrenching to watch, treatment for epilepsy is available.
Portosystemic Shunt of the Liver (PSS) – this is when blood bypass or “shunts” the liver and surgery is required to correct this.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – an eye condition that phases from gradual deterioration of the retina to total blindness. Unfortunately, PRA does not have a cure.
White Shaker Syndrome – common in small dogs, symptoms are head and body tremors; it can be diagnosed in the first six months of a dog’s life and can manifest as late as three years old.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease – because blood flow is disrupted in the femur, dogs may suffer from limp or lose movement in the leg.
Always deal with a reputable breeder since they will ensure that parents are healthy and have clearances from Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for their knees and Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) and DNA tests for the eyes.
Moodle Dog’s Lifespan
When properly taken care of, including feeding a good diet, a regular visit to the vet and good grooming, Moodles can live from 10 to 15 years.
How Much Is a Moodle Dog?
Get cute little Moodles at $700 up to $2,000 from a reputable breeder. Remember that if the price is too low, it might be a cause of alarm. Do not deal with puppy mills.
Some Moodles can also be found at rescue centers and adopting from these is a good option. Find a local shelter taking in Poodles or Maltese as they also take in mixed-breeds:
- Poo Mix Rescue- poomixrescue.com
- Maltipoo Club- maltipooclub-ivil.tripod.com/id11.html
- American Maltese Association Rescue- americanmalteserescue.org
- Carolina Poodle Rescue- carolinapoodlerescue.org
Conclusion: Is A Moodle The Perfect Dog For You?
What is not to like with a cute, intelligent and affectionate little pooch as the Moodle? If an excessive barker is not an issue, go for a Moodle and they will sure fill any home with love and laughter.
As with any dogs, a lifelong commitment is important. They should be treated as part of the family already, forever.
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