We’ll Take A Look At Maltipoo Temperament And Appearance, Coat Care And Behavior. Helping You To Decide Whether This Charming Little Pup Is The Right Dog For You.
It doesn’t get much cuter than a Maltipoo—the dog that’s a Maltese Poodle mix.
The Maltipoo dog is a very popular cross breed, and one look at an adorable Maltipoo puppy is enough to melt anyone’s heart.
It’s easy to be smitten with the Matipoo, but before you get one, there are some important things you should know about Maltipoos.
Or any gorgeous designer dog like the Maltese and Poodle mix.
Let’s take a closer look at all things Maltipoo!
Welcome To Our Complete Guide To The Maltipoo. The Beautiful, Adorable Maltese Poodle Mix.
What is a Malitpoo?
A Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle. Usually a Toy or Miniature Poodle and not the larger Standard Poodle.
The Maltese is a toy breed known for its silky white coat, black button eyes, and loving, perky personality.
An ancient breed originally from the island of Malta, the Maltese has been a pampered lap dog for many centuries.
The Poodle has been a popular choice for many cross-breed dogs like the Maltipoo, Labradoodle, and Cockapoo.
Poodles are known for their intelligent, active nature. They also have a hypoallergenic coat.
Like the Maltese, the Poodle is an old, established breed that has been around for a very long time.
What is the history of the Maltipoo? Let’s take a look.
Maltipoo history
Designer mixed breeds like the Maltese Poodle cross are a fairly recent development in canine history.
Breeders often choose Poodles to cross with other breeds, with the goal of combining the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat with the other breed’s looks and personality.
In the case of the Maltipoo, the Maltese crossed with a Toy or Miniature Poodle aims to create a charming, teddy bear-like little dog with a happy and affectionate personality.
However, as with any cross breed the outcome is not predictable. You could have a pup that looks like a Poodle, but has a Maltese temperament. Or a dog with a Maltese appearance and a Poodle personality. Or any range in between.
So you need to be certain that you love both Poodle and Maltese temperaments and looks before you choose a Maltipoo puppy.
How big do Maltipoos get?
Maltipoo adults are generally small dogs, like their founding breeds.
The Maltese is a toy breed, ranging from 6-8 pounds and 8-10 inches in height.
Toy Poodles weigh between 4-6 pounds and measure 10 inches high. Miniature Poodles are a bit bigger at 10-15 pounds and 10-15 inches.
Because either toy or miniature Poodles are used in the Maltipoo, the size of a full grown Maltipoo can range from 5-20 pounds and 8-14 inches tall.
This variation means that your puppy can grow to be a true toy Maltipoo, but could also be a bit larger too.
You won’t be able to predict your Maltipoo’s adult size, but you can guess that it will be somewhere between the maximum and minimum heights of their parents.
Maltipoo temperament
Both Poodles and Maltese dogs are known for their engaging and charming personalities. With the Poodle getting high marks for smarts and the Maltese for affection.
Being a mix, your Maltipoo puppy could grow up to be more like her Poodle ancestors, or more like her Maltese ones. Whichever turns out to the be case, a good temperament should always a high priority for Maltipoo breeders.
The Maltipoo is well known as a sweet and loving companion animal.
Like all dogs, the Maltipoo needs good training and socialization from puppyhood on.
New owners should be aware that they can bark more than other dogs, and their devotion to their humans can lead to separation anxiety.
Is the Maltipoo hypoallergenic?
Are Maltipoos hypoallergenic? One of the main goals of crossing Poodles with other breeds is to create a dog that’s good for people with allergies.
Is this true for the Maltipoo?
First the bad news…there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. Most pet allergies are due to dander—dead skin flakes—not any particular kind of fur.
Certain breeds like Poodles have less dander and shed less than other breeds, which can be good for people with allergies.
The Maltese, like the Poodle, also does not shed much and is frequently listed as one of the more hypoallergenic dog breeds. This is all good news for Maltipoo lovers!
Your Maltipoo will not shed fur and dander as much as other dog breeds, and could be a good choice if you have allergies. But this is by no means a certainty.
Be sure to spend time with Maltipoos in their home environments to see how you react before bringing a new Maltipoo puppy into your home.
Meet both the Poodle and Maltese parents, and make sure they both have temperaments you would be happy to share your life with.
Maltipoo shedding
Poodles and Maltese are both low-shedding breeds, which is good for allergies as we’ve seen. However, minimal shedding doesn’t necessarily mean that their coats are low maintenance.
Although the Poodle has curly fur and the Maltese has straight fur, both Poodles and Maltese have long coats that require weekly grooming, as well as regular baths and trimmings.
The Maltipoo’s coat is medium to long in length, with a soft, fluffy texture and some degree of wave or curl.
Your Maltipoo will need regular grooming and baths. Many Maltipoo owners also clip their dog’s fur, especially on the face.
Maltipoo health
Are there any Maltipoo health conditions new owners should know about? If you are considering a teacup Maltipoo, it’s important to understand the health problems of so-called “teacup” varieties.
Dogs bred for extremely small size can suffer from serious health conditions like fragile bones and improper bone development. Many teacup dogs will have soft spots on their skulls even when they are full grown.
A normal size Maltipoo has the genetic advantage of being a cross breed. Because pure bred dogs can suffer from inherited diseases, mixing breeds can lead to a more diversified gene pool and more robust health.
What are some of the genetic conditions common to the Maltese and Poodle?
A heart condition called mitral valve prolapse has been identified in some Maltese. A serious brain disease called necrotizing meningoencephalitis is also found in the Maltese.
Standard Poodles can be prone to a variety of autoimmune conditions. However, they are not usually used to breed the Maltipoo. More common issues in miniature Poodles are orthopedic and eye problems, as well as epilepsy.
Will a Maltipoo inherit the genetic diseases of Maltese and Poodles? A Maltipoo can get certain health conditions from its founding breeds. Every dog is an individual, but there are a few problems new Maltipoo owners should be aware of.
Maltipoos can suffer from the neurological conditions “white dog shaker syndrome” and epilepsy.
Maltipoos can also be prone to joint and orthopedic problems that are common to small dogs. An eye disease called progressive retinal atrophy can also occur.
Maltipoo lifespan
What is the Maltipoo life expectancy? Of course, all dogs are individuals, but in general the founding breeds of the Maltipoo have relatively long lifespans.
The average life expectancy of a Maltese is 12 years. For miniature Poodles, the average lifespan is 14 years and for toy Poodles it’s 13 years.
Maltipoos are generally given a range of between 10 and 15 years, with 12-13 years often listed as the average lifespan of a Maltipoo.
Like other small breeds, they tend to have longer lifespans than large breed dogs.
Maltipoo puppies
Interested in a Maltipoo puppy? Few puppies are as adorable as the cuddy, teddy bear-like Maltipoo! Here are a few facts about Maltipoo puppies.
Maltese-Poodle puppies are the result of directly breeding a toy or miniature Poodle with a Maltese. Less common are puppies that come from two Maltipoo parents. A reputable breeder will be able to provide details on your puppy’s parentage.
Because Maltipoos are known to have some of the genetic health conditions common to both Maltese and Poodles, it’s important to have your new puppy health tested for issues that affect both parent breeds.
Your Maltipoo puppy’s parents should have certification from both the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and the Canine Eye Registry. Progressive retinal atrophy can be ruled out with a DNA test.
A Maltipoo’s puppyhood lasts until he is one year old. Start housetraining your Maltipoo puppy right away. Other forms of socialization and training can start early too.
The most common behavioral problems you will want to focus on are barking, separation anxiety, and jumping.
Maltipoo breeders
Like other designer cross breed dogs, Maltipoos are not recognized by the American Kennel Club or other similar organizations. But you can still find reputable breeders if you’re looking for a Maltipoo puppy.
It is always a good idea to search for Maltipoo breeders in your area that welcome a home visit from potential buyers.
That way you can check out the home environment where your puppy is raised. A good breeder will also like to meet you to make sure their puppy is going to a good home.
Cute, small dogs like Maltipoos are always popular. You will see online ads for Maltipoo puppies, and it is common to find Maltipoo puppies for sale in pet stores. It is possible that these puppies come from large-scale puppy mill breeding operations.
The Perfect Companion For Life With A New Puppy
To avoid buying from a puppy mill, make sure you choose a small-scale local breeder who raises the puppies in a loving home environment.
Visiting a breeder in person and talking to other customers is a good way to make sure you are getting a quality dog.
Maltipoo price
How much will you pay for a Maltipoo puppy?
The cost of a Maltipoo puppy purchased from a breeder can vary.
Maltipoo prices range from around $400 to as much as $2,000. Expect to pay around $700-$800 for a dog from a good breeder.
Remember that Maltipoo puppies for sale online and in pet stores can come from puppy mills. Very low prices could be a red flag, and you may find that you will be spending the money you save on vet bills instead.
A quality puppy from a good breeder is worth the extra cost. Breeder prices will vary, depending on things like their reputation, geographic location, the lineage of their dogs, and the demand for their puppies.
Maltipoo rescue
Interested in Maltipoo adoption instead? Maltipoo rescue is a great option for fans of the breed who would rather adopt, not shop.
Because Maltipoos are so cute and popular, many Maltipoo puppy purchases can be impulse buys by inexperienced owners. This means that some of these Maltipoos will end up at animal shelters or rescue organizations.
There are established rescue organizations devoted to Maltipoos, other Poodle mixes, and small dogs in general. Many Maltese breed rescue groups will also have available Maltipoos. Most major metropolitan areas will have a rescue group that focuses on dogs like the Maltipoo.
You can search these specific breed-type rescue organizations for adoptable dogs, but most animal shelters and nationwide rescue clearinghouses will identify Maltipoos and allow you to specify “Maltipoo” as a breed in your search criteria.
Is a Maltipoo right for me?
Would a Maltipoo fit in well with your family?
These chasmatic, intelligent little dogs will thrive in an environment where someone is around for much of the day. With owners who are commited to training, socialization and regular exercise. As well as a whole lots of love.
You will need to make sure you find a good breeder, that health tests there stock. And would be advised to go for a Miniature rather than Toy mix, as they are less likely to be so small and fragile.
Maltipoo personality can be as gorgeous as their appearance, and these lovely little dogs can make wonderful pets.
References
- Farrell, L.L., Schoenebeck, J.J., Wiener, P., et al. “The Challenges of Pedigree Dog Health: Approaches to Combating Inherited Disease.” Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, 2015.
- Oberbauer, A.M., Belanger, J.M., Bellumori, T., et al. “Ten Inherited Disorders in Purebred Dogs by Functional Breed Groupings.” Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, 2015.
- Suh, S.I., Choi, R., Hyun, C. “Familial Mitral Valve Prolapse in a Maltese Dog Family.” Journal of Biomedical Research, 2015.
- Schrauwen, I., Barber, R.M., Schatzberg, S., et al. “Identification of Novel Genetic Risk Loci in Maltese Dogs with Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis and Evidence of a Shared Genetic Risk across Toy Dog Breeds.” PLoS ONE, 2014.
- Pedersen, N.C., Brucker, L., Green Tessier, N., et al. “The Effect of Genetic Bottlenecks and Inbreeding on the Incidence of Two Major Autoimmune Diseases in Standard Poodles, Sebaceous Adenitis and Addison’s Disease.” Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, 2015.
- American Kennel Club
BETH WICKES says
Hi, I live in Illinois, Quad Cities area. Am looking for a Maltipoo breeder.
Marla VanPelt says
I’m looking for a female maltipoo puppy 8 to 12 weeks old in Houston, Tx area. Preferably black and white,
Debbie Arky says
I lost my very special Maltese, Lizzie, 8wks ago to CHF. The say before she wanted to go out for her walks, the next day I was taking her to the ER. I had her 9 1/2yrs.she was my ESA. I brought her with me to visit my daughter & grandson in Baltimore & now I’ll be going home with her ashes. It has been a very hard road. I’ve been thinking of a Maltipoo or another Maltese, but do a Rescue this time in South OC, CA. Any suggestions?
MaryAnn says
IAm interested in adopting a miniature maltipoo. I would prefer a rescue one but have been unsuccessful. I would be willing to buy. Are there any reputable breeders in the NJ/NY/CT area?
Lisa says
I’m in the same situation. Would love to find a Maltipoo to adopt. We have an 8 year old cockapoo. He could use some company. I work from home so can handle a pup or older.
Maurine Clark says
Any Maltepoo in MN?
Travis says
I’m also looking for Maltipoo puppy or even a toy poodle are there any breeders in south east idaho thanks
Karen says
I am looking for a multi-Poo I had one for 9 1/2 years and he passed away they are such a loving wonderful dogs but I can’t seem to find one. If anybody knows one from the shelter someone giving one away or breeder I would appreciate it somewhere Around the Cincinnati Dayton area
CAROL says
I HAVE A 4 MONTH MALTIPOO MALE. HE IS ADORABLE. HE NEEDS A FRIEND. WHERE IS THERE A REPUTABLE BREEDER IN THE MASS OR NH AREA? EVEN MAINE?
THANK YOU.
Eli says
How can I know if my dog is really a maltipoo. Is there any kind of tests to know exactly the breed she is? Is it expensive?
Katy says
Do a dna test. That’s what I did. I got the test from Groupon. Cost $49. My maltipoo came out of a shelter.
Sean says
I am looking for a reputable Maltipoo breeder in Los Angeles. I am interested in purchasing a Small Maltipoo for my 14 year old daughter.
Priya says
So glad to have seen this post. I am a newbie to dog world. I am looking for a maltipoo pup for myself and my son. I am a full time working mom and spend 12 hours out of the house. I would love advice about things to consider with either purchasing a pup or adopting one.
I live in Northern NJ and would love advice on good breeders in the nearby area.
Dog lover says
Don’t purchase a dog that you can’t commit time to, what the hell is it going to do the 12 hours your not there ? You silly woman
Christina Bennett says
A maltipoo is def not for they require and thruve well when someone is home majority of the day. But I feel like that the case with most animals. Maybe get a fish.
Carleen Burgess says
I would love a female Maltepoo. I live inCovington, LA
Melissa says
I am looking for a female maltipoo weighing between 4 to 6 lbs. I live in Lexington, Ky and am willing to travel a little bit to find my forever fur baby
Gloria Campbell says
Is your puppy still available?
Gloria Campbell says
Please disregard earlier post..I misread…
Gail says
Looking for a maltipoo
Michigan please email Thank you
Nancy Kasabali says
Yes I am looking for a multiple less than 10 lbs……I would prefer an older puppy but open to age!
Virginoa Gañindo says
I want a multipoo puppies. Male and female
Daphne says
are there any reputable maltipoo
breeders in New Jersey or Pennsylvania?
Landen Hitchcock says
“Because Maltipoos are so cute and popular, many Maltipoo puppy purchases can be impulse buys by inexperienced owners. This means that some of these Maltipoos will end up at animal shelters or rescue organizations.”
This is exactly what happened to my mom when she saw a maltipoo at a flea market. My mom saw it and had the immediate impulse to buy it. We still have Bear, he’s a sweet little dog, but mom is VERY inexperienced with taking care and training animals, so now he’s 6 years old and he still barks a lot, does his “business” in the house, and jumps on people and tables alike. I started doing research so late into buying him because she keeps saying she’s going to get rid of him and now I’m sad because I’m the only person in the house that actually likes the dog, and I can’t train him now because of how old he is.
Harper says
He may be six yrs old but you can still train him. In order to do that you need to get him out of your mom’s house. Take him home with you and spend lots of time with him. Also take him to training classes or look online as to how to train him with love and plenty of PATIENCE. You will be rewarded with a loving loyal companion.
Phil Doherty says
These are very smart and want to please. They really respond to the miniature “treats” as rewards, they soon learn how to get these “treats” by always keeping a small baggie in your pocket it provides instant positive feedback. They truly love to please and are super loving…
Gertha says
I am looking to adopt a male adult maltipoo. For myself and my elderly mother
Brenda Helbert says
My rescued Maltipoo is 3 years old. I have had him for almost 2 years. I have worked with him and he is a lot better than he was. He snaps at you if you come up behind him or put your foot at the door to keep him from running outside. He also runs off from me when I take him out if I don’t put him on a leash and he won’t come back to me when I call him. He eventually comes back when he gets ready to. He is so sweet and I love him very much, but he is very independent.
Lisa says
I’m looking for a maltipoo. I want a girl, either white or apricot in color and small in size. I just lost my baby girl and I’m heartbroken. I’m from Kentucky and would love to find a baby close to my home. Thank you
Teresa Griffitts says
I have a friend with Maltese/Maltipoo mix puppies. She is selling them for $800-$1000. Are these mixes a valuable as Maltese/Poodle mixes? Do you think she is asking too much?
Julie Coon says
I got a Maltipoo as a puppy through a rescue and paid 250.00 which included the spaying, a few free shots, and a free vet exam. I definitely would never pay even 800. oo dollars for one.
Karen Madrigal says
I rescued my Maltipoo and only paid $100. I would never pay that much for a mixed breed puppy. There are just to many wonderful little dogs needing forever homes. My $100 paid for the spay and her shots. They didn’t make any money off of her.
Lynne LeBlanc says
where did you rescue the dog from? very Curious I think it will be more than that.
Kellie says
I am looking for a small male puppy as our vet states our 3 yr. old 4lb. Maltese Pappilon mix needs to be introduced to a small breed male puppy if we want another dog.
Do you have any info. regarding these puppies?
Sandy Whinery says
I am interested in a Maltipoo puppy or young adult for sale or adoption. My kids are grown and gone and I think this is the perfect breed that I am looking for. How do I find a reputable breeder in Oklahoma?
Charles Lipschitz says
Did you receive a response to your advert—-
Do you have names of people wanting to give up their maltipoo for adoption
Teresa Miles-Burnham says
I adopted a maltipoo from a breeder in the Tulsa area and we are very happy to have her.
Chris says
Do you know of a breeder in eastern NC or eastern VA?
Carleen says
I am interested in a 6 week old female multipoo. I live in Springfield, OH. Would like to buy one close to my home. Please help me fine a white puppy.
Lucy says
Hi Carleen, Puppies shouldn’t leave their mothers until 8 weeks old. Please take a look at this article for more information: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/when-can-puppies-leave-their-mother/
Debbie says
Interested in Maltipoo in central Florida. Do you recommend a good breeder in that area?
Jane Belvin says
Interested in adopting, acquring a maltipoo puppy or dog. I can visit, purchase dog anywhere in Florida. Love the maltipoo breed.
Patty says
Can you recommend responsible multi-poo breeders in Northern California (Bay Area)?
Orlanda says
Did you find one? I’m looking for one too? I live in the Central Valley
Simply Goreous says
Did you find one I’m in the Bay looking for a Maltipoo for an Xmas gift for my daughter
Gabriel McKay says
I am interested in purchasing a maltipoo puppy as a companion dog for my husband who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, I live in Brisbane Australia, if you could give me a contact here I would be greatly appreciative. Gay McKay.
Debbie Hernandez says
I am interested very much in a Maltese poodle!❤️ Mine was stolen!
Sharon says
Mine was stolen also. I’m looking to rescue one. I know how you felt when your baby was stolen. I have been crying day and night since July 3. I miss him so much.
Steve & Janice Hickerson says
We live in S Orange County, CA in Laguna Woods and have owned three toy poodles that lived about 13 years and now we are looking for a new companion dog. So our first choice is a toy Maltipoo from a reputable breeder. Can you recommend one?
Desiree says
Janice, I live in Pasadena. I got my Maltipoo from DOGzHOUSE based in Glendale, Ca.. Yoko is wonderful and she has a website and a non-profit tax number. I paid $250 for mine & included all shots, spaying, worming. She does check out the home and also brought food, collar, leash. “Hathor” does bark at the right times, but unfortunately also on walks at other dogs. but very smart, as said before, mind of her own, but listens. 3 1/2 years old. Loving. Anxiety problem. Might have to get another dog. My 5th dog. Never needed a trainer, but at this age, problem re the walks which she LOVES. Clearly not abused, but also not trained. Does not know how to bring a ball back. Needs lots of affection and people/dogs around, but this is the breed, so don’t get one unless you are ready for all of it.
Becky says
I’m looking for a toy female maltipoo I’m located near Phoenix, AX
Suzie Getman says
I live Iin San Leandro, California and got lucky. I found my Abby Rose on Craigslist. I tried going the adoption route with no luck. Abby came from a private home, one of two puppy litter. She does require a lot of attention, a lot of grooming if you keep their hair long. Yes, my Abby has separation anxiety issues, even when I take a shower. She’s been potty trained to go on potty pads. She might miss the pad now & again. She is just 5 months, still a baby. She is very smart. We have her in Puppy Play Time class and other classes offered by Petco. I love my little Abby & wouldn’t trade her for anything. Good luck in your search.
Gail Holloway says
I have a 5 month old maltipoo. Do you have a homemade puppy and also adult dog food recipe for their breed?
Brooksie says
Looking for a Maltipoo fo companion ship. Love this breed!!!
Sandy Waldman says
We just lost our precious Westie she was 17 1/2 the best dog we’ve ever had. We are
looking to adopt a Maltese/poodle female dog, not a puppy but has to be housebroken, and
not shed.
We would love to find one near our home so we can see it before we adopt.
Norah Roadman says
I just lost my beloved Shammah, a malti-poo I rescued 5 years ago…he was almost 10….had COPD and he died in my arms when his heart gave out….my life has been altered. Never have I had a dog like him.
Sheri Schooler says
We purchased what we were told was a poodle, but quickly recognized our fur baby was a mix of some kind. We believe he is a malti poodle mix. He is completely black except for his tuxedo markings. He is a delight, loving, friendly, and oh so smart!
Marie Edwards says
I am intrested in the Maltese poodle mix
Robert inman says
What’s its geographic location
Barbara. Hansen says
I really enjoyed your article. We just lost our precious YorkiePoo and think our next dog will be a MaltiPoo. Can you recommend a breeder near San Diego? Do you think this breed would be calm and not happy?