Designer Breed Icon
  • Activity Level: moderate
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  • Shedding Level: low
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  • Grooming Level: high
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  • Trainability: high
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  • Good for Novice Owners: high
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  • Adaptability: high
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  • Kid/Pet Friendly: often
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  • Prey Drive: low
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  • Watchdog: very alert
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  • Average Size: Small
  • Average Lifespan: 10-13 years
  • Registered?: other

Maltipoo Dog Breed Information

Overview

Temperament

Adaptability

Health

Owner Experience

Grooming

Activity Level

Size

Life Span

Did You Know?

The Maltipoo is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States and is a cross between some of the most popular dog breeds – a Maltese and a Miniature Poodle. Maltipoos are known for being good companion dogs that are great family pets and can adapt well to almost any living situation.

Because the Maltipoo is a mixed-breed dog, it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but is recognized by other dog registries. The Maltipoo is recognized and can be registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club, North American Maltipoo Club and Registry, and more.

With some of the most affectionate dog breeds as parents, the Maltipoo tends to have an affectionate, gentle nature and fun-loving, charming personality. The Maltipoo is a devoted dog that loves attention and lots of cuddles.

They also tend to be sensitive to people’s needs, which makes them fantastic companions and excellent therapy dogs. They also tend to be open and friendly provided they are well-socialized. Well-socialized, they get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers.

They can be prone to barking, but you can train your dog to stop barking, socialize them early, and redirect that energy towards more positive outlets. This can help keep barking to an alert instead of a constant nuisance as your dog grows.

Maltipoos are highly adaptable little dogs. They do well in any family type, from large families to single owners and everything in between. They get along well with children, but younger children should be closely supervised and taught early on how to interact appropriately with a dog. Your Maltipoo can be injured easily by a falling toddler or accidental rough play.

The Maltipoo can adapt well to any living situation. They are not overwhelmed by large homes and yards and fit right in with apartment living. They crave attention and love being around their humans, so they should not be left alone for long periods of time. They also adapt well to a variety of climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but they can usually handle a wider variety of temperatures than other small dog breeds.

Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Malitpoo can include epilepsy, patellar luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy. Good breeding practices and the health of the parents make a big difference in the health of Maltipoo puppies.

Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Talking to the breeder and asking about health clearances and DNA test results for the parents can help to allay any concerns about health conditions.

With some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners as parents, Maltipoos are a great fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time owners. They are intelligent and highly trainable.

They learn quickly and are eager to please their owners. Because they are sensitive, Maltipoos do not respond well to harsh tones or scolding. They respond best to training that stays positive and uses rewards, praise, and play.

Because both of the parent breeds are considered low or non-shedding, the Maltipoo will often also have a low or non-shedding hypoallergenic coat. Their coat tends to be fluffy and soft. The length can range from medium to long and the type can be slightly wavy or curly. They do need to be brushed daily and bathed monthly to keep their coat healthy, clean, and free of tangles.

Professional grooming or clipping the coat a few times a year can also help keep your Maltipoo cool in the summer and their coat looking good year-round. In addition to coat care, you also need to take care of your Maltipoo’s ears, nails, and teeth. You will also want to check your pup’s ears regularly to ensure they are dry and free of dirt and carefully clean your dog’s ears if needed. This can help prevent ear infections.

Cutting your dog’s nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long and causing issues. It’s also important to take care of your dog’s teeth early and throughout their life. Daily teeth cleaning in addition to cleanings at the vet when needed can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. This is a good foundation for dental for dogs.

As a small dog breed, a Maltipoo is more prone to developing dental disease, like gum disease, which makes good and consistent dental care even more important. Get your puppy used to having their paws, ears, and mouth handled early on to ensure regular grooming and vet exams are much easier when they are older.

The Maltipoo has a moderate activity level. They’ll have bouts of high energy where they race around the room and want to play. These bursts of high energy usually don’t last long as your Maltipoo will tire themselves out and will soon be ready for some cuddles and a nap. Daily exercise with a few walks, some running in the yard, a game of fetch, or a trip to the dog park will ensure your Maltipoo gets plenty of exercise.

A fully-grown Maltipoo usually stands 8-14 inches tall and weighs 5-20 pounds. Looking at the size of the parents will often give you a good idea of the size your Maltipoo puppy might become as they grow.

Maltipoos generally live for 10-13 years on average.

The Maltipoo tends to maintain a puppy-like appearance and behavior throughout their life.