Maltipoo Health Care Guide — Tear, Joint, and Skin Care

JointBreed HealthMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

We’ve compiled the causes and management strategies for tear staining, patellar luxation, and skin conditions—issues to which Maltipoos are particularly susceptible—based on veterinary textbooks.

Three Essentials Every Maltipoo Owner Must Know

A healthy Maltipoo looking at the camera

Maltipoos are a small mixed breed prone to tear staining, patellar luxation, and atopic dermatitis. They are a cross between Maltese and Poodles. Since both parent breeds carry health vulnerabilities common to small dogs, Maltipoos can inherit health issues from either side. In particular, their tendency for excessive tearing and weak joints makes consistent care from an early age essential. This guide outlines the key health concerns and care tips every Maltipoo owner should know.

Three Common Conditions to Watch for in Maltipoos

Tear Stains (Epiphora): This condition occurs when excessive tearing causes the fur beneath the eyes to turn brown. It is particularly noticeable in Maltese, whose white coats contrast sharply with the discoloration, and in Poodles, whose abundant facial fur makes the stains stand out. Patellar Luxation: This is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of its normal position. It is highly prevalent in both Maltese and Poodles. Common signs include limping on the hind legs or suddenly lifting a rear leg while walking. Atopic Dermatitis: This is a skin condition with a strong genetic predisposition. In Poodles, skin issues may be hidden beneath their curly coats. If your dog repeatedly scratches or licks its skin, this condition should be suspected.

Tear Stains — More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue

Tear stains on a Maltipoo are more than just a cosmetic concern; they can also signal your pet’s health status. Excessive tearing (epiphora) is often caused by a combination of factors rather than a single issue.

Abnormalities in the tear ducts: Small breeds like Maltipoos are prone to narrow or blocked tear ducts (nasolacrimal ducts). If tears cannot drain properly into the nose, they may overflow onto the face.

Irritation from facial hair: Long hair around the eyes can irritate the ocular surface, leading to increased tear production. Regularly trimming the hair around the eyes can help alleviate this.

Dietary and other factors: Various elements, including the ingredients in food and treats, as well as overall eye health, can influence tear volume. If tearing is severe, it is best to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis rather than attempting to self-diagnose.

Wiping away tear stains around a Maltipoo's eyes

Patellar Luxation — Both Parent Breeds Are Susceptible

Patellar luxation is one of the most common concerns for Maltipoo owners. Both parent breeds, the Maltese and the Poodle, have a high incidence of patellar luxation, making Maltipoos genetically predisposed to the condition. According to veterinary orthopedic textbooks, patellar luxation is classified into four grades. In grades 1 and 2, the dog may intermittently limp but then return to normal gait. In grades 3 and 4, surgery is often necessary. Weight management is the most important preventive measure. Keep your Maltipoo within its ideal weight range and place mats on slippery floors to provide traction. If you’d like to learn more about the symptoms at each stage, please refer to our Patellar Luxation Symptom Guide.

Suspect Patellar Luxation If You Notice These Signs

Does your dog suddenly lift a hind leg while walking or repeatedly stretch it backward? Frequently stopping during walks or seeking to be carried can also be signs of patellar luxation. Because patellar luxation often doesn't cause obvious pain when touched, it's easy for owners to miss early symptoms. If you notice these recurring signs, have your pet examined at a veterinary clinic equipped for orthopedic care.

Skin Conditions — Hidden Problems Beneath Curly Coats

Maltipoos inherit curly coats from their Poodle lineage, which can make it easy to overlook skin issues. According to veterinary dermatology textbooks, atopic dermatitis is more common in breeds with a genetic predisposition. Itching may manifest not only as scratching but also as licking, rubbing, or scooting their hindquarters on the floor.

Between the toes: Atopic dermatitis often appears between the toes (interdigital spaces), so if your dog is constantly licking or chewing its paws, suspect this condition.

Inside the ears: Maltipoos have folded ears that trap moisture, making them prone to otitis externa.

Belly and armpits: Redness or rashes on the belly, armpits, groin, or around the eyes may be early warning signs.

Regular grooming is essential, as it allows you to part the fur and directly inspect the skin’s condition.

Checking the skin condition of a Maltipoo during grooming

Never Apply Human Ointments

If your pet is constantly scratching, repeatedly licking a specific area, or experiencing hair loss, it’s important to have them examined by a veterinarian. Applying human creams or ointments without professional guidance can worsen the condition. In particular, products containing steroids should only be used under veterinary prescription.

How to Properly Care for Your Maltipoo’s Health

Eye area care: Gently wipe away tears with clean gauze once or twice daily. It’s also important to regularly trim the hair around the eyes to prevent it from getting into them.

Weight management: The ideal weight for a Maltipoo varies by individual, but typically falls between 2.5 and 5 kg. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate weight for your pet.

Joint support care: The effectiveness of joint supplements can vary depending on their ingredients and formulation. It’s important to consult thoroughly with your veterinarian before selecting the right product and dosage. For more details, please refer to the Glucosamine Guide.

Regular check-ups: Schedule a health check-up once or twice a year to monitor the condition of the patella, eyes, and skin.

Also Review Health Information by Parent Breed

Since Maltipoos are a cross between Maltese and Poodles, understanding the health traits of both parent breeds can help you manage their care more effectively. Common health issues inherited from the Maltese side include tear staining, patellar luxation, and dental tartar. On the Poodle side, they are genetically predisposed to atopic dermatitis and eye conditions such as tear staining (epiphora). If you’d like to learn more about breed-specific health care, check out the Maltese Health Guide and the Poodle Health Guide.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my Maltipoo’s food help reduce tear staining?

While switching to a different food can sometimes reduce tear production, it doesn’t work for every Maltipoo. Other factors, such as the structure of the tear ducts or irritation from hair around the eyes, may also be contributing. We recommend consulting with your veterinarian before trying any dietary changes.

Can Maltipoos also require patellar surgery?

Yes, if patellar luxation progresses to stages 3 or 4, surgery is often necessary. For stages 1 and 2, you can help prevent worsening through weight management and improving your pet’s living environment, so regular check-ups are important to monitor their condition.

Are Maltipoos prone to sensitive skin?

Poodles may be predisposed to atopic dermatitis due to their genetic traits. Because their curly coats can make it difficult to spot skin issues with the naked eye, make it a habit to closely examine their skin during grooming sessions.

How often should a Maltipoo have a health checkup?

We recommend that healthy adult dogs have a checkup once or twice a year, while senior dogs aged seven and older should be examined every six months. It’s also a good idea to include patellar palpation, an eye exam, and a skin assessment during these visits.

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References

[ref-1] Clinical Atlas of Canine and Feline Ophthalmic Disease, 2nd Ed — Epiphora, Nasolacrimal System, Trichiasis

[ref-2] Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology, 7th Ed — Canine Atopic Dermatitis

[ref-3] Textbook of Veterinary Orthopaedic Surgery — Patellar Luxation

[ref-4] Clinical Medicine of the Dog and Cat, 4th Ed — Chapter 15: Musculoskeletal Disorders

[ref-5] Applied Veterinary Clinical Nutrition, 2nd Ed — Dietary Factors in Tear Staining