With a Poodle’s smarts and a Maltese’s affectionate nature, Moodles (aka Maltipoos) are a match made in dog heaven.
Their compact size and big personality make them a favourite for families and singles alike. Whether you're welcoming a Moodle puppy into your home or already share your life with this cuddly companion, this guide is your ultimate resource.
From crafting a nutritious diet to supporting their playful and curious side, we explore how to give your Moodle the care they deserve. Learn how small, mindful changes can elevate their wellbeing and keep that signature bounce in their step.
Top breed takeaways
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Moodle temperament: Moodles are gentle and thrive on companionship, making them ideal for families, seniors, and individuals alike. Early socialisation helps them feel at ease with new people and pets—especially on walks or at the park!
What does a Moodle look like? Typically curly or wavy-coated, Moodles come in shades like white, cream, apricot, brown, and sometimes black. Their coats tend to be light, thanks to their Maltese ancestry.
How long does a Moodle live for? A well-cared-for Moodle can live between 12–15 years. Supporting their health with fresh, nutrient-dense food and daily enrichment helps them live a long, happy life.
What is a Moodle mixed with? Moodles are a designer cross between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, bringing out the best qualities of both breeds.
How big does a Moodle grow? Adult Moodles usually grow to a height of 25–30 cm and weigh between 3–8 kg, reaching full size around their first birthday.
Caring for a Moodle puppy
Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or adding to your pack, bringing a Moodle puppy home is an exciting time. Their small size and loving nature make them great first-time pets.
The first years of development are crucial for setting the foundation of your Moodle’s behaviour and routine. Consistent training tailored to their playful yet sensitive nature helps them thrive, while a high-quality diet fuels their growing body and sharp mind. Proper nutrition during these formative years sets the stage for a lifetime of good health and vitality.
Here’s how to give your Moodle the best start in life so they can flourish, inside and out:
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Feeding a Moodle puppy
From tiny bundles of fluff to curious explorers, Moodle puppies grow up faster than you think! Each day brings new adventures and learning, and the right nutrition is key to fueling their growth and development while keeping them happy and healthy.
For Moodles, a balanced diet featuring high-quality animal protein and low glycaemic load carbohydrates helps support strong muscles and tissues, while essential vitamins and minerals promote sturdy bones and mental sharpness.
Puppies don’t need special puppy food if they’re getting the right proportion of nutrients to support their development. With Lyka’s custom-portioned, nutrient-dense meals, mealtime is no longer a guessing game – it’s an easy step toward a happier, healthier Moodle.
Read more: Puppy vs adult food: do you really need to make the transition? →
How to train a Moodle
Moodles are intelligent, but they can have a stubborn streak. With the right nutrition to fuel their clever minds, you’ll find your Moodle picking up on cues and commands with ease. Lyka’s real food meals help maintain energy, mood, and memory for training success.
Training a Moodle puppy
When you first bring home a puppy, toilet training is usually top of the agenda. Puppies can hold their bladder for one hour for every month of age, so they’ll need bathroom breaks throughout the day and night. There are bound to be a few accidents along the way, but with patience and consistency, they’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Moodles are quick learners and with positive reinforcement, you’ll see how eager they are to please. Enrichment activities and early socialisation build your puppy’s cognitive skills and confidence. Obedience classes are also a fun way to bond with your pup and keep them mentally sharp.
The gold standard of training is force-free training, focusing on building a strong and respectful relationship.
How much exercise does a Moodle need?
Moodles have moderate energy levels and enjoy a mix of play and exercise. Aim for 30–60 minutes a day, with short walks, indoor play, or mental puzzles to keep them happy and prevent restlessness.
How to groom a Moodle
Moodle coats need regular brushing to avoid matting, and their floppy ears require consistent cleaning to prevent infections. Teeth brushing and nail trimming are essential parts of their grooming routine.
For a fuss-free approach, a professional groomer is always an option. However, if you'd like to take care of grooming yourself, here's what to look out for:
How often should I wash my Moodle?
Bathing every 6–8 weeks should keep their coat fresh and clean, but a muddy adventure might call for an extra dip. Always use a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo to protect their skin.
Why does my Moodle smell?
All clean and healthy dogs have a slight doggie aroma. But if your pup is particularly pungent, it may be caused by one of these issues:
Ear infections. Ear mites leave a malodorous dark brown, waxy discharge. Speak to your vet about treatment.
Oral health. If your dog has bad breath, they may have a dental issue, like gingivitis, requiring further investigation by your vet. Remember to clean their teeth regularly.
Skin infections or allergies. All dogs can suffer from skin allergies. If hives are scratched, they can become infected and smell if left untreated.
Digestive issues. High-wheat, corn, or legume diets can lead to unpleasant gas or anal gland issues. Instead, fuel them with fresh, digestible food like Lyka, which promotes overall digestive health.
Feeding your Moodle
The best diet for a Moodle includes high-quality protein, nutrient-dense ingredients, and healthy fats. Due to their small size and tendency to gain weight, portion control is crucial to help them maintain the right body shape.
Every dog is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why Lyka calculates your pup’s portions based on their age, weight, and activity level.
Moodle health concerns
Moodles are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health issues:
Patellar luxation
A joint condition where the kneecap slips out of place, causing discomfort. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent this.
Read more: Easing dog mobility issues: holistic tips and tricks →
Dental problems
Small breeds, like Moodles, often suffer from dental issues. Regular teeth brushing and annual dental check-ups are essential.
Read more: Protecting your dog’s dental health: how to clean your dog’s teeth →
Skin allergies
Moodles can be prone to allergies, leading to itching and discomfort. Consult your vet if your Moodle shows signs of skin irritation.
Read more: Dog food allergies vs intolerances: our experts explain the difference →
How much does a Moodle cost?
The initial cost of purchasing a Moodle from a reputable breeder can range from $1,500 to $4,500. Along with the initial purchase, ongoing expenses include grooming, food, healthcare, and training. Consider pet insurance to cover unexpected health expenses.
Read more: How much does a dog cost? The real price of dog ownership →
Moodle FAQs
Are Moodles hypoallergenic?
Yes, Moodles are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats.
Do Moodles get along with children?
Yes! They’re gentle and affectionate when properly socialised, making great companions for kids.
Where should my Moodle sleep?
Moodles love a warm, cosy bed. Crate training gives them a safe, secure den space, or they can share your bed if that’s your preference.
Can Moodles be left alone?
Moodles thrive on interaction but can manage short periods alone. Just be sure they have plenty of attention when you’re around.
Do Moodles get along with cats and other pets?
With early socialisation, this friendly breed can get along well with other pets in the home.
When should I desex my Moodle?
Your vet can advise on the right timing based on your pup’s age, size, and health.
For how long is a Moodle pregnant?
The typical pregnancy for a Moodle is 63 days.
Parenting a Moodle comes with many decisions. Lyka exists to make mealtimes easy, with tailored meal plans delivered to your door. We’re proud to be fueling Moodles across Australia — from energetic pups, all the way through to dogs in their golden years.
Join our pack of proud Moodle parents today.
