What do you get when you mix cute with cuter? A Maltese pug mix, also known as the Malti-pug. While pugs have a more clownish tendency and Maltese have a more playful personality, their favorite habitat is your company. Combine these traits, and you get a boutique dog that is a great family pet that loves to play, has low exercise needs, and wants nothing more than to be by your side.
What Does The Pug Maltese Mix Look Like?
A small dog, the Malti-pug mix weighs between 10 and 20 pounds and stands at 12-14 inches tall. Because this canine is a mix, no two are exactly alike. With the Maltese, you have long silky hair, and with the pug, you have a much shorter coat. Combined, this coat will generally take on a medium-length wiry yet soft fur.
Generally, the color of Maltese pug mix will present with a light tan and a darkened muzzle. Since this is a crossbreed of two purebred dogs, the variety is vast. Some will have nearly all-white or black coats.
Due to the size of both sides of this dog’s lineage, the Maltese pug is a compact pup. If the pug side is more present, this may have more of an angular jaw. This cross will usually reduce the prominent pug face folds, which will help with care.
The tail almost always presents with the quintessential pug curl.
Average Lifespan Of The Pug Maltese Mix
The average lifespan for this dog is between 10-15 years. Diet, exercise, and health conditions will ultimately determine the lifespan and quality of life for your new best friend.
What Does A Maltese Pug Puppy Cost ?
From a reputable breeder, the cost will be $1200 to $1500. Lower priced puppies from less than reputable breeders may seem tempting, but this comes with a higher risk of health concerns.
Temperament
Part of what makes this unique breed so popular is its friendliness with all family members. If you are looking for a small dog that does well with children, this is their future canine companion.
This dog also does well with other friendly breeds and pets since it lacks a prey drive. While Maltese pugs can be friendly towards people they trust, they can be wary of well-intentioned strangers.
The best home for the Maltese pug is a family home. Due to its playful and social temperament, the dog is great for inexperienced dog owners. Be wary of its stubborn streak that it will more than likely inherit from its pug side.
There are independent natured dogs, semi-dependent dogs, and “velcro dogs.” Guess which category the Maltese pug falls into. When bringing this dog into your life, you are essentially taking on another shadow.
Due to its clingy nature, leaving this dog alone for a long time is not the best idea. If you are in a home with other sociable animals and have to be gone for a while, the Maltese pug would be a good fit for you.
Taking Care of Your Maltese Pug Mix Dog
While this dog is mostly easygoing, some care requirements need to be considered.
Coat
What the Maltese pug lacks in size, they more than make up for in shedding. This is a breed that will need to be brushed practically every day, and it’s best to do this outside.
Exercise
This dog doesn’t need much in the way of exercise. A light 30-minute walk and some playtime meet the needs of the Maltese pug. A great dog for both the house and apartment living.
As with all dogs, but especially this dog, avoid walking them when the temperature is past the high 80s.
Mental stimulation
Some light playtime and attention will meet this breed’s mental stimulation needs. Part of why they are so good with children!
Diet
Due to the Malti-pug’s small size and low exercise needs, it is imperative to watch its food intake. Keeping them on a regular, carefully maintained feeding schedule will go far in preventing obesity. If you have a busy schedule and use good dry food, an automatic feeder might be best for you.
Sticking to high-quality foods is the best approach. Like with all dogs, puppy nutrition is vastly different from adult dog nutritional needs.
Training
So I have good news and bad news. The good news is that the Maltese pug mix is an intelligent dog that has an affinity for picking up commands and tricks. The bad news is there is also a stubborn streak. This just means a little more patience and consistent pacing with the training. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with getting this dog to respond to your instruction.
Socialization
The sooner, the better. While this dog does have a natural affinity for friendliness and playfulness, earlier socialization will make interactions with well-intentioned strangers smoother.
Common Health Problems
It is no secret that the pug has a host of health issues, and the Maltese have their concerns as well. When put together, there are many things to watch for. The major one is Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), which is essentially a heart condition that develops in the fetal stage.
Some minor issues to watch for are pug Dog Encephalitis, a condition affecting the nervous system, and Ectropion, an ocular disease that causes the eyelids to roll outwards.
Other minor conditions to be mindful of
- Dental health
- Hypoglycemia
When exercising your Maltese pug, do not push them too hard since this can exacerbate potentially genetic joint and hip issues.
The manifestation of these conditions will ultimately depend on which side is more prominent in the mix, the pug of the Maltese, exercise, and diet.
Finding a reputable breeder that has paid close attention to these health concerns will command a higher price tag upfront but will ultimately pay for itself with future vet visits.
If you would like to learn more about Malti-pug’s health concerns, you can talk to a vet here.
In Summary – Is The Pug Maltese Mix Right For You?
Now that you have all the information needed for considering a Maltese pug mix, I know you’ll make an informed decision. An extremely loyal and loving dog, this breed will be a great fit in multiple environments and socializes well with other good-natured pets and children.
About the author
Rachael is the co-founder and editor at Pug Facts. Owner of one elderly Pug, she’s dedicated to helping other Pug owners create healthy, happy, lives with their furry best friends.
