Maltipoos are adorable and affectionate small dogs that are a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle. These pups are full of energy and need regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. But how much exercise does a Maltipoo actually need? In this article, we’ll explore how much exercise Maltipoos need at different stages of their lives and some ideas for exercising with your furry friend.
Related: Maltipoo Temperament Guide: Maltese Poodle Mix | Maltipoo Size and Weight Guide
How Much Exercise Does a Maltipoo Need?
Maltipoos need between 15 minutes to 45 minutes of exercise a day. Puppies will generally start with around 15 minutes at three months of age while adult Maltipoos can be exercised for 30-45 minutes a day. Senior Maltipoos need daily exercise though this should be adjusted based on their individual needs and energy levels.
Now that you have a rough idea of how much you may have to devote to exercising your Maltipoo, let’s dive into the specifics a little bit more.
Maltipoo Puppy Exercise Requirements
Maltipoo puppies are full of energy and need exercise to burn off that energy and limit destruction to your property! However, their exercise should be limited to short bursts of playtime, as their bones are still developing.
During the first few months, just playing around your house will be enough to tire your Maltipoo puppy out until they are a little bit older. Two to three play sessions a day will help them develop their coordination and muscle strength.
Consider their age and when you notice your Maltipoo puppy is starting to get restless and may need additional exercise. As a general rule, every month that they have been alive means, you can exercise them for five minutes.
Most people get their puppies around the two-month mark, so they should get no more than 10 minutes daily of structured exercise. At three months, you can walk your Maltipoo puppy for 15 minutes, and so on.
Adult Maltipoo Exercise Requirements
Maltipoos are generally considered adults somewhere between nine months and a year, depending on their size with an average being 10 months. Adults should definitely be given additional exercise, even if they do not show signs of being restless.
In general, you should try to devote around 30 to 45 minutes to your Maltipoo if you are doing lighter exercise, like taking them on a walk.
However, if you are pressed for time, give them at least 15 minutes of exercise. Try to compensate for the smaller amount of time by increasing the intensity of the exercise. Keep in mind that Maltipoos are a small breed dog, and they don’t need as much exercise as a large breed dog.
Senior Maltipoo Exercise Requirements
Maltipoo seniors still need regular exercise to keep them strong and healthy. Each Maltipoo senior is very different, though. The amount of exercise required will depend on the lifestyle that the dog had in previous years and any injuries or health issues.
Most healthy seniors should manage short walks of no more than 15 to 30 minutes every day. Particularly youthful seniors will need more than that. Always make sure you stay away from intense exercise, particularly the kind that would put pressure on their joints.
The Youngest You Should Start Exercising Your Maltipoo
12 to 14 Weeks
In order to make sure you are not injuring your young Maltipoo’s joints, it’s best not to give them any exercise outside of their general play until they are around 12 to 14 weeks old.
Also, ensure that you do not take them outside of your home before they have had their vaccinations, as this puts them at risk of potentially life-threatening diseases such as Canine Parvovirus.
This does not, however, mean that you cannot do anything with your Maltipoo during that time.
Use Mental Stimulation Instead
Mental stimulation can be used instead of an exercise to tire your Maltipoo out. Mental stimulation can be achieved in a variety of ways, including toys and puzzles or even just basic obedience training.
Overall, mental stimulation can deal with a lot of issues that come up, such as boredom and frustration. But keep in mind that as your Maltipoo grows, it can’t be used to replace exercise permanently.
Best Time To Exercise Your Maltipoo
A lot of people like to exercise their dogs in the morning, while others like to exercise them in the evenings. Is there such a thing as the best time to exercise your Maltipoo?
In short, not really. Whenever is most convenient for you tends to be the best. This is because you will not rush and will end up giving your Maltipoo a longer walk or spending more time on whatever you are doing.
However, if you can develop a routine, it can be quite beneficial to your Maltipoo. Additionally, exercising your dog later in the day can help them sleep better if you are struggling with them at night. Just make sure it’s not too late, this will get them too excited to sleep.
Importance of Exercising Your Maltipoo
Improve Behavior by Reducing Energy
In many cases, dogs develop certain behavioral issues because they are frustrated or bored. Exercising them tires them out, which means they may be less inclined to eat your furniture or bark at everyone passing too close to your home.
As the owner, a tired dog is also easier for you to control. Training becomes easier because you don’t have to deal with a bundle of energy all the time.
Improves Overall Health
Just like in people, exercise is good for your Maltipoo’s physical and mental well-being. Stress reduction in overly anxious dogs, improved muscle strength, and weight management are only a few positive side effects of giving your Maltipoo enough exercise.
It’s also a good preventative measure against certain diseases they may be more prone to as they age.
Outdoor Exercise Ideas for Maltipoos
Now that you know just how much exercise your Maltipoo might need and why it’s important, let’s look at some things you can do to make sure they are getting their exercise. I’ve noticed certain dogs prefer certain activities over others. Try a couple to see if your Maltipoo has a favorite, or keep mixing it up to make sure that you don’t get bored.
Walks
Maltipoos are not really big enough to be jogging companions. But, a leisurely stroll is very good for them. Just make sure you keep their safety in mind by keeping an eye on the weather, making sure they won’t cut or burn their paws, and so on.
Swimming
Most Poodle-hybrids love swimming. If your Maltipoo learns to love water, swimming is a great way to tire them out without putting too much pressure on their joints. This makes it one of my favorite activities to do with senior dogs of any shape and size.
It also helps to control their temperature if you live in hot climates.
Just make sure that you always watch your Maltipoo, even if they are very familiar with the water source.
Fetch
Even though Maltipoos are very small, they can still play fetch as a larger dog would. But make sure you adjust your expectations accordingly. Use smaller balls that they can easily grab. And don’t throw as far as you would for a larger dog.
Indoor Exercise Ideas for Maltipoos
Sometimes you’re just not able to get outside. Whether it’s because of extreme weather or another reason, your Maltipoo will still need exercise.
Fetch
Maltipoos are small enough that you should be able to play fetch indoors. Make sure to avoid slippery floors, as these can cause damage to your Maltipoo’s joints if their limbs move uncontrollably. There are even soft indoor balls available if you’re worried about knocking things over.
Puzzles
Mental stimulation can be a suitable substitute for exercise in some cases. It is easiest to include these in your Maltipoo’s meal times as many of them involve food.
You may have to help your Maltipoo first to keep them from getting frustrated. However, eventually, you should be able to leave them to figure it out on their own. This is also very convenient if you don’t have much time.
Training
Training can be anything from basic obedience training to active tricks. These can tire your dog out physically and mentally and stimulate them at the same time.
If you feel a little bit overwhelmed, start with the basics, like sitting. You won’t be sorry for any additional time spent training your Maltipoo.
Related Reading:
- 14 Maltipoo Health Problems To Know Before Buying
- Is a Male or Female Maltipoo Better? Differences Explained
- Maltipoo Coat Types and How to Care for Them
- Maltipoo Generations Explained: F1, F1b, F1bb, F2, F3, Multigenerational
- Are Maltipoos Hypoallergenic?
- Maltipoo Price Guide: How Much Does a Maltipoo Cost?
- Maltipoo Lifespan Guide: How Long Do Maltipoos Live?
