Beagle Maltese Mix: Malteagle Facts, Traits & More

The Malteagle is a designer breed that is a cross between the Beagle and the Maltese. This unique blend of characteristics from both breeds results in a small, affectionate, and energetic dog that is perfect for families and individuals who are looking for a companion animal.

Parent Breeds

Beagle

The Beagle is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in England. They are known for their exceptional sense of smell, which makes them highly valued as hunting dogs. They have cheerful and energetic personalities and are popular as household pets. The Beagle has a compact build, a smooth, short coat in various colors, and adorable floppy ears.

They are playful and friendly, get along well with children and other pets, and require regular exercise to maintain their health. Despite their independence and a stubborn streak, they can be trained with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. The Beagle is a loving and affectionate breed that makes a great addition to most households.

Maltese

The Maltese is a small toy dog breed originating in the central Mediterranean. They are known for their long, silky white coats and playful, affectionate personalities. With their delicate features and graceful movements, Maltese dogs are often referred to as the most gentle of the toy breeds. They are highly adaptable and make great apartment dogs, but they also enjoy playtime and outdoor activities.

Despite their small size, Maltese dogs have a big personality and love to be the center of attention. They are loyal and devoted to their owners and are great for families with children. Maltese are also known for being intelligent and easy to train, although they can sometimes be stubborn. Overall, the Maltese is a charming and lovable dog that will bring joy to anyone who brings them into their home.

Appearance & Size

A Beagle Maltese Mix typically weighs between 8 and 18 pounds and stands at a height of 8 to 10 inches. They have short, soft, and fluffy coats that can come in various colors, including white, black, brown, and tan. Their eyes are round and expressive, and their ears are floppy. They have short and compact bodies, which gives them a charming and distinct look.

Personality

Malteagles are known for being friendly, sociable, and playful. They are very affectionate with their owners and enjoy being around people. They make great family pets and are especially good with children. They are an active breed and need regular exercise, walks, and playtime. They are also very intelligent and trainable, so they are well-suited to living in various environments, from small apartments to larger homes.

Costs

The cost of a Beagle Maltese Cross Breed can vary based on several factors, such as the breeder’s location, the dog’s lineage and individual characteristics, and the demand for the breed. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for a Malteagle puppy. However, prices can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances. Remember that purchasing a pet from a reputable breeder is usually more expensive than adopting one from a shelter or rescue organization, but it may also be hard to find this mix in a local shelter. Additionally, it’s important to factor in the costs of veterinary care, food, supplies, pet insurance, and training when considering the cost of a new pet.

Training

A Maltese Beagle mix breed should be very trainable and responds well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and play. However, the Beagle traits can lead to some stubbornness during training, but they are quick learners and enjoy working with their owners. They have a strong desire to please, so training them is usually a fun and rewarding experience. Basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” should be mastered early on in their development, along with house and leash training.

Health & Care

Malteagles are generally healthy and robust but prone to some health issues. Regular veterinary checkups are recommended to keep an eye on their health and ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations. They require regular grooming, including regular brushing, to maintain the coat in a good condition and prevent matting. They also require regular dental care to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

A Beagle Maltese mix can have a lifespan of 12-15 years. As with any mixed breed, it’s difficult to predict the exact health concerns that may arise, as it depends on the genetics of both parents. However, some common health issues may affect Beagle Maltese mixes:

1. Dental problems – Both Beagles and Maltese are prone to dental issues, so it’s important to brush their teeth regularly and schedule regular dental cleanings.
2. Eye problems – Maltese are known for developing eye issues such as cataracts, and Beagles are prone to glaucoma. Regular eye exams with a veterinarian can help catch these issues early.
3. Ear infections – Both breeds have long ears that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to ear infections. Cleaning their ears regularly can help prevent this.
4. Obesity – Beagles tend to overeat, and Maltese can be prone to weight gain. It’s important to monitor their diet and provide regular exercise to prevent obesity.
5. Hip dysplasia – This is a common issue in many dog breeds and can lead to mobility issues and arthritis. It’s important to get regular check-ups with a veterinarian and provide appropriate exercise to help prevent this issue.

Overall, with proper care and attention to their health needs, a Beagle Maltese mix can lead a healthy and happy life. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and preventative care can help catch and treat any potential health issues early on.

Nutrition

A Beagle Maltese Mix may have different dietary requirements depending on their age, weight, and activity level. It’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best food and feeding schedule for your specific dog. In general, a high quality dog food that is rich in protein and nutrients is recommended. Avoid feeding your dog human food, especially those that are high in fat, salt, and sugar, as they can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.

Grooming

The Beagle Maltese Mix has a coat that is typically short to medium in length and may be straight or slightly wavy. They may require brushing once or twice a week to prevent matting and to remove loose hair. Beagles shed a lot, so you will definitely want to stay on top of your regular grooming regimen. You should also check their ears regularly to ensure they are clean and free of infection. Bathing should only be done as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo.

Breeders & Puppy Costs

If you’re interested in getting a Beagle Maltese Mix puppy from a breeder, make sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. The cost of a Beagle Maltese Mix puppy can vary depending on factors such as the breeder’s location, reputation, and the puppy’s pedigree. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for a Beagle Maltese Mix puppy.

Rescues & Shelters

Adopting a Beagle Maltese Mix from a rescue or shelter is a great way to give a dog in need a second chance at a happy life. You can start by searching online for rescue organizations and shelters in your area that specialize in small dogs or the parent breeds. The adoption fee for a Beagle Maltese Mix from a rescue or shelter can vary, but it’s typically much lower than the cost of purchasing a puppy from a breeder if you can find one in a shelter.

As Family Pets

The Beagle Maltese Mix can make a wonderful family pet. They are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, as well as their playful and energetic nature. Most are good with children and other pets, but early socialization is important to ensure they develop good manners and behavior. They may be prone to barking and howling, which can often be addressed with proper training and exercise. With love, patience, and consistent training, the Beagle Maltese Mix can be a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Malteagles good with kids?

They are known for being friendly, sociable, and playful. They are great with kids and make wonderful family pets.

How much exercise do Malteagles need?

They are an active breed, so they require daily exercise, walks, and playtime to keep them physically and mentally fit. The Beagle part of this dog may make him more likely to follow his nose and desire to use his hunting instincts more regularly as well.

Are Malteagles easy to train?

Yes, a Beagle Maltese crossbreed is a fast and enthusiastic learner, especially when it doubles as bonding time with their owner and incorporates positive reinforcement.

Final Thoughts

The crossbreeding of a Maltese and a Beagle creates a fantastic breed that makes a great companion animal for families and individuals. They are friendly, sociable, active, and playful and have great personalities. They are also trainable and easy to take care of. If you are considering getting a Malteagle, be prepared to provide them with a lot of love, attention, and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.