Have you ever met a dog that’s so friendly and adorable you just can’t help but fall in love? That’s exactly what happens when you meet a Maltipoo. These little pups are full of personality, energy, and love, making them one of the most popular mixed breeds out there. If you’ve ever seen one in person or even just come across a picture, you probably get why people are obsessed with them.
So, what is a Maltipoo, exactly? It’s a mix between a Maltese and a Poodle, designed to bring together the best qualities of both breeds. They’re small, super smart, affectionate, and have soft, fluffy coats that don’t shed much. Because of all these great traits, they’re a top choice for people looking for a fun and loving companion that fits well into almost any home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Maltipoos, from their size and care to their training and personality. By the end, you’ll have a good idea of whether a Maltipoo is the perfect dog for you.
What Is a Maltipoo? Understand the Breed
Maltipoos are a relatively new breed, but their parent breeds arethe Maltese and the Poodle, have long histories as beloved companion dogs. This mix was carefully bred to create a small, intelligent, affectionate, and hypoallergenic dog that suits a variety of households.
What is a Maltipoo mixed with?
As the name suggests, a Maltipoo is a mix between a Maltese and a Poodle. The Poodle parent can be either a Toy Poodle or a Miniature Poodle, which affects the size of the Maltipoo puppy. This mix brings together the best qualities of both breeds:
- From the Maltese: Maltipoos inherit their loving, people-oriented nature. Maltese dogs are known for their devotion to their owners, making them perfect lap dogs.
- From the Poodle: Maltipoos get their intelligence and hypoallergenic coat. Poodles are among the smartest dog breeds, making Maltipoos highly trainable and adaptable.
Because they are a crossbreed, no two Maltipoos are exactly alike. Their coats can range from curly to wavy, and their colors can vary from white to cream, apricot, or even light brown. Their personalities, while generally affectionate and friendly, can also vary depending on which parent breed they take after more.
Why Were Maltipoos Bred?
Maltipoos were specifically bred for several reasons:
- Hypoallergenic Qualities: One of the main reasons Maltipoos were bred was to create a dog that is suitable for allergy sufferers. While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Maltipoos shed very little and produce less dander, making them a great option for people with allergies.
- Affectionate and Loving Nature: Maltese dogs are known for their strong attachment to their owners, and Poodles are equally affectionate. The result? A breed that thrives on human companionship and loves to cuddle.
- Adaptability: Maltipoos are well-suited for apartment living and family homes alike. Their small size makes them easy to manage, and their friendly personality means they get along well with children, seniors, and even other pets.
Temperament of Maltipoos
One of the best things about Maltipoos is their temperament. They are known for being:
- Friendly and Social: Maltipoos love people. They enjoy meeting new friends, whether they are humans or other animals.
- Affectionate and Loyal: These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and love to be by their side. If you’re looking for a loyal companion, a Maltipoo won’t disappoint.
- Playful and Energetic: Despite their small size, Maltipoos have a lot of energy. They enjoy playtime, walks, and interactive toys.
- Intelligent and Easy to Train: Thanks to their Poodle genes, Maltipoos are highly intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze.
However, Maltipoos do have a strong attachment to their owners, which means they don’t like being left alone for long periods. If left alone too often, they can develop separation anxiety, which may lead to excessive barking or destructive behavior. But with proper training and socialization, they grow into well-adjusted, loving companions.
Size and Growth of Maltipoo
Maltipoos may be small, but they come in slightly different sizes depending on their Poodle parent. If you’re wondering, How big does a Maltipoo get?, the answer depends on whether they have a Toy Poodle or Miniature Poodle parent.
- Toy Poodle Maltipoos: These Maltipoos are the smallest, typically weighing between 5 to 10 pounds and standing around 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Miniature Poodle Maltipoos: These are slightly larger, ranging between 10 to 20 pounds and reaching 11 to 14 inches in height.
Since Maltipoos are a mix, their size can vary even within the same litter. Most reach their full-grown size by the time they are 10 to 12 months old. During their first few months, they grow rapidly, gaining weight and fluff as they develop their signature soft coats.
How Much Should a Maltipoo Weigh at Different Life Stages?
Just like humans, Maltipoos go through different growth stages. Here’s a rough guide to what you can expect:
- At 8 Weeks Old: Most Maltipoo puppies weigh around 1.5 to 4 pounds, depending on their expected adult size.
- At 4-6 Months Old: This is a rapid growth phase. By this time, they usually weigh about 50-75% of their adult weight.
- At 12 Months Old: Your Maltipoo is fully grown! A Toy Poodle mix will stay under 10 pounds, while a Miniature Poodle mix can reach up to 20 pounds.
Maltipoos are known for being small and easy to carry, but their weight should always be in a healthy range. If a Maltipoo is underweight or overweight, it can lead to health issues. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet help keep them at an ideal weight.
Are Maltipoos Hypoallergenic? Shedding & Allergies
One of the biggest reasons people consider getting a Maltipoo is because they are advertised as a “hypoallergenic” breed. But are Maltipoos hypoallergenic? Let’s break it down.
The term “hypoallergenic” means a dog is less likely to trigger allergies. While no breed is completely hypoallergenic, Maltipoos come pretty close. Thanks to their Poodle genetics, they have a low-shedding coat that produces less dander, which is what usually causes allergic reactions in humans.
Does a Maltipoo Shed?
Maltipoos shed very little compared to many other dog breeds. Unlike dogs with fur, Maltipoos have hair, which grows continuously like human hair rather than shedding in seasonal cycles. This means you won’t find clumps of dog hair all over your house.
However, while they don’t shed much, their hair can get tangled and matted without regular brushing. That’s why Maltipoos need consistent grooming to keep their coats soft, clean, and free from knots.
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What Allergy Sufferers Should Know?
If you or someone in your home has pet allergies, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Less Shedding = Less Dander: Maltipoos produce fewer allergens than heavy-shedding breeds, making them a good option for allergy sufferers.
- Regular Grooming Helps: Brushing your Maltipoo daily and bathing them every few weeks reduces allergens in their coat.
- Personal Reactions Vary: Some people may still react to a Maltipoo’s saliva or skin oils, even if they don’t shed much.
If you have severe allergies, it’s a good idea to spend time around a Maltipoo before getting one to see how your body reacts. While many allergy sufferers do well with Maltipoos, it’s always best to be sure before bringing one home.
Caring for a Maltipoo: Grooming, Health & Lifespan
Maltipoos may be low-shedding, but they require regular grooming to keep their coats looking soft and tangle-free. Brushing is essential, ideally every day, to prevent matting and remove any dirt or loose hair. A metal comb or a slicker brush works best for their soft curls or waves.
Bathing should be done every three to four weeks using a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo to keep their skin healthy and free from irritation.
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Trimming
Trimming is another important part of Maltipoo grooming. Their hair grows continuously, so regular haircuts, about every six to eight weeks, help maintain their fluffy appearance and prevent overgrowth that could cause discomfort. Professional grooming is an option, but many owners learn to trim their Maltipoo’s face, paws, and sanitary areas at home.
Their ears should also be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent infections, as their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris. Dental hygiene is often overlooked, but brushing their teeth several times a week helps prevent gum disease and bad breath.
Lifespan of Maltipoo
Maltipoos have a relatively long lifespan compared to other small dog breeds. On average, they live between twelve to fifteen years (12 to 15), with some reaching up to sixteen or seventeen (16 to 17) years with proper care.
Their longevity depends on factors like genetics, diet, exercise, and regular vet checkups. Common health concerns include dental issues, patellar luxation (knee problems), and progressive retinal atrophy (a genetic eye disease). Regular visits to the veterinarian, a high-quality diet, and daily activity contribute to a long, happy life for a Maltipoo.
Training of the Maltipoos
Maltipoos are highly intelligent, thanks to their Poodle lineage, which makes training relatively easy. However, they can also be a bit stubborn at times, especially when it comes to housebreaking. Consistency is key when training a Maltipoo, as they respond best to positive reinforcement. Using treats, praise, and a gentle tone encourages them to learn commands quickly.
Housebreaking a Maltipoo can take some patience, but with a structured routine, they can be fully trained in just a few months. Taking them outside frequently, especially after meals and naps, and rewarding them for going potty in the right spot helps establish good habits. Socialization is just as important as housebreaking. Introducing them to different people, pets, and environments early in life helps prevent fearfulness and anxiety as they grow.
Behavioral training is necessary to prevent common small dog issues like excessive barking and separation anxiety. Teaching basic commands like sit, stay, and come is essential, but it’s also important to work on impulse control to keep them well-behaved in different situations. Short, engaging training sessions are best, as Maltipoos have short attention spans. With patience and the right approach, they can be wonderful, obedient companions.
Maltipoo Personality
Maltipoos have big personalities packed into their small bodies. They are affectionate, playful, and highly attached to their owners, which can sometimes lead to excessive barking. Do Maltipoos bark a lot? The answer depends on the individual dog, but many Maltipoos tend to be vocal, especially if they feel anxious or are left alone for long periods.
They may bark to alert their owners of strangers, express excitement, or demand attention. Proper training and early socialization help control barking by teaching them when it is appropriate to be vocal.
Maltipoos is shaking?
Another common trait people notice in Maltipoos is shaking. Do Maltipoos shake a lot? Some do, and the reasons vary. Excitement, nervousness, or even a slight chill can cause them to tremble. Maltipoos have a small body with a fast metabolism, so they are more sensitive to temperature changes. If they shake frequently and there is no obvious reason, it may be worth consulting a vet, as shaking can sometimes indicate low blood sugar, discomfort, or anxiety.
Despite these tendencies, Maltipoos are incredibly loving and devoted companions. Their affectionate nature, combined with their intelligence and adaptability, makes them one of the most sought-after designer dog breeds. With the right care, training, and attention, a Maltipoo can be the perfect addition to any family.
The Cost of Owning a Maltipoo
Bringing a Maltipoo into your life is exciting, but it’s also a financial commitment. Many potential owners ask, “How much should a Maltipoo cost?” The price of a Maltipoo can vary widely based on several factors, including breeder reputation, location, coat color, and size.
On average, a Maltipoo from a reputable breeder costs between $1,000 to $4,000. Breeders with high standards of care, health testing, and well-socialized puppies typically charge more. Location also plays a role, prices tend to be higher in areas where designer breeds are in high demand.
Coat color can also affect cost, with rare colors like red or phantom being more expensive than common shades like white or cream. Additionally, smaller Maltipoos, especially those bred from Toy Poodles, often come at a higher price.
Beyond the initial cost, owning a Maltipoo comes with additional expenses. Food is a recurring cost, with high-quality dog food averaging around $30 to $60 per month. Grooming is another major expense since Maltipoos require regular trims and coat maintenance, costing $50 to $100 per session if done professionally.
Vet care, including vaccines, checkups, and emergency visits, can add up to several hundred dollars per year. Training, pet insurance, and accessories like beds, toys, and leashes further contribute to the cost of ownership.
While the upfront price might seem steep, the real cost of owning a Maltipoo comes from maintaining their health and well-being over their lifetime. Ensuring that you can financially support a Maltipoo’s needs is essential before making the commitment to bring one home.
Potential Downsides
Maltipoos are undeniably adorable and affectionate, but they are not the perfect breed for everyone. What is a common problem with Maltipoos? One of the biggest challenges Maltipoo owners face is separation anxiety. These dogs form deep bonds with their owners and can become stressed when left alone for long periods. This can lead to excessive barking, destructive behavior, and even depression if not properly managed.
Another common issue is dental health. Due to their small mouths, Maltipoos are prone to plaque buildup and early tooth loss. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are necessary to prevent dental disease. They also have sensitive stomachs, meaning they may require a specialized diet to avoid digestive issues.
What are the cons of having a Maltipoo? Their high grooming needs are one of the biggest downsides. Their non-shedding coat requires frequent brushing, regular trims, and professional grooming sessions, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, their tendency to bark can be a challenge for owners who live in apartments or noise-sensitive areas. The overall cost of ownership, including medical expenses and grooming, is something potential owners should carefully consider before committing to this breed.
Despite these challenges, Maltipoos are loving, loyal companions. Understanding their needs and potential downsides helps future owners make an informed decision about whether they are the right fit for their lifestyle.
In Short
Is a Maltipoo the right dog for you? Maltipoos are affectionate, playful, and intelligent, making them excellent companions for many different types of households. They thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention, love, and proper care. However, their high grooming needs, potential for separation anxiety, and cost of ownership should not be overlooked. If you’re willing to invest the time, effort, and resources needed to care for a Maltipoo, they will reward you with years of unconditional love and companionship.
Thinking about getting a Maltipoo?
- Consider adoption: Many Maltipoos end up in rescues and shelters, looking for loving homes. Checking with breed-specific rescues can be a great way to find a Maltipoo in need.
- Find a reputable breeder: If you choose to go through a breeder, research thoroughly to ensure they follow ethical breeding practices and provide health screenings for their puppies.
- Prepare your home: Make sure you have all the essentials—food, bedding, toys, and grooming supplies—before bringing your new pup home.
Maltipoos make wonderful pets for the right owner. If you’re ready for the responsibility and lifelong commitment, a Maltipoo could be the perfect addition to your family.
