Maltipoo
Updated December 2, 2025
The Maltipoo is a popular crossbreed dog created by mixing a Maltese with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. They are cherished for their affectionate temperament, intelligence, and low-shedding coat, making them excellent companion dogs for a variety of households, including those with allergy sufferers.
Affectionate, Intelligent, Playful, Gentle, Outgoing
5-20 pounds
8-14 inches
10-15 years
White, Cream, Apricot, Black, Silver, Brown, Grey
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Maltipoo
The Maltipoo is a popular crossbreed dog created by mixing a Maltese with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. They are cherished for their affectionate temperament, intelligence, and low-shedding coat, making them excellent companion dogs for a variety of households, including those with allergy sufferers.
What Makes Maltipoos Special
The Maltipoo is the epitome of a 'designer dog' that captures hearts with its teddy bear looks and charming personality. They are perpetual puppies at heart, combining playfulness with a deep love for cuddling.
This breed is highly people-oriented and thrives on being an integral part of the family, eager to please and quick to learn.
Maltipoo History & Origin
The Maltipoo is a relatively new 'designer' crossbreed that originated in the United States. Breeders sought to combine the gentle and playful nature of the Maltese with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. The goal was to create an ideal companion dog, and their popularity over the past few decades proves the success of this endeavor.
The Maltipoo was developed in the U.S. within the last 20-30 years as a companion animal.
They are a cross between a purebred Maltese and a purebred Toy or Miniature Poodle.
Because they are a crossbreed, they are not recognized by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The cost for a Maltipoo puppy from a breeder can range significantly, often from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the breeder, location, and parentage.
Adoption from rescue organizations is also a wonderful option, with many mixed-breed rescues having Maltipoo-type dogs in need of homes.
Maltipoo Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Maltipoo Appearance
Maltipoos are small dogs with a compact body and a fluffy coat that can range from slightly wavy to curly.
Their expressive, dark eyes and button nose give them a sweet, endearing expression. The overall look can vary depending on whether the Maltese or Poodle genes are more dominant.
Physical Features
Ears
The Maltipoo has medium-length, floppy ears that are well-covered with hair.
Eyes
Their eyes are typically large, round, and dark brown, giving them a sweet and gentle appearance.
Nose
The nose is usually black and small.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is of medium to long length and does not have an undercoat.
Coat Color
Maltipoos come in a wide array of colors, with the most common being white, cream, and apricot. They can also be black, silver, brown, or multi-colored.
Tail
Their tail is often feathered and carried cheerfully over their back.
Maltipoo Temperament
The Maltipoo is a delightful mix of the Maltese's gentle spirit and the Poodle's sharp intelligence.
They are fun-loving and thrive on human companionship, forming strong bonds with their families.
This breed is known for being incredibly affectionate and enjoys being a lap dog, but also has a playful and energetic side.
Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, but they can sometimes have a stubborn streak. They are generally good-natured and friendly towards strangers, children, and other pets, especially with early socialization.
Maltipoos can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, as they deeply crave being part of the family's daily activities.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Maltipoos have a lifespan of 10-15 years. While generally healthy, they can inherit health issues from both their Maltese and Poodle parents. Awareness of these conditions can help in early detection and management.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, dental care, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy weight are key to a long, healthy life.
How to Care for a Maltipoo
Maltipoos are adaptable companions suitable for many homes, but their grooming needs are high-maintenance. They require consistent training, daily exercise, and plenty of social interaction to be happy and well-behaved.
Grooming
Maltipoos are considered low-shedding dogs, making them a popular choice for people with allergies. However, their coat is high-maintenance.
Daily brushing is essential to prevent their soft, fine hair from tangling and matting.
Professional grooming is typically required every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat trimmed and healthy.
Regular ear cleaning is crucial, as their floppy ears can trap moisture and lead to infections.
Pay attention to tear stains, which can be common in this breed; gentle cleaning around the eyes is recommended.
Training
Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Maltipoos are intelligent and generally easy to train.
They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise. Consistency and patience are key.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults.
House training can sometimes be challenging, so a consistent routine is vital from a young age.
Diet
A high-quality commercial dog food formulated for small breeds is the best choice for a Maltipoo. Their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years.
Portion control is important, as their small size makes them susceptible to weight gain. Typically, 1/2 to 1.5 cups of food per day, divided into two or three meals, is sufficient.
Due to their predisposition to dental problems, incorporating dental chews or daily teeth brushing is highly recommended.
Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.
Exercise
Maltipoos have a moderate energy level and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
About 30-40 minutes of activity per day, such as a daily walk or vigorous indoor/outdoor playtime, is usually sufficient.
They enjoy activities like fetch, short walks, and playing with puzzle toys that provide mental stimulation.
While they have bursts of energy, they are also happy to cuddle on the couch, making them a balanced companion.
Environment
Maltipoos are highly adaptable and are an excellent choice for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs.
They thrive in homes where they can be close to their human companions and do not do well when left alone for long hours.
A home with a small, secure yard for playtime is a bonus, but not a necessity as long as their exercise needs are met.
They are sensitive to extreme temperatures and should be protected from both excessive heat and cold.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Well-suited for apartment living and smaller homes
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable but prefers moderate climates; sensitive to extreme temperatures
Apartment Living
Ideal for apartment dwellers due to their small size and indoor adaptability
Best Suited For
Perfect for first-time owners, seniors, singles, and families with older children.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maltipoos hypoallergenic?
While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Maltipoos are considered a good option for allergy sufferers because they have a low-shedding coat that produces less dander.
How big do Maltipoos get?
A full-grown Maltipoo typically stands 8-14 inches tall and weighs between 5 and 20 pounds, depending on whether the Poodle parent was a Toy or Miniature.
How much exercise do Maltipoos need?
Maltipoos require about 30-40 minutes of exercise per day, which can include walks and playtime.
Are Maltipoos good with children?
Yes, Maltipoos are generally gentle and good with children, but due to their small size, interactions with very young children should always be supervised to prevent injury to the dog.
Do Maltipoos bark a lot?
Maltipoos can be prone to barking, either to alert their owners or when they are excited or seeking attention. Early training can help manage this behavior.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Focus on early socialization, consistent potty training, and gentle handling.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their mobility, monitor for joint and dental issues, and provide comfortable bedding.
First-Time Owner Tips
An excellent choice for novice owners due to their manageable size, trainability, and affectionate nature.
Looking for a Maltipoo?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.