Maltipoo Temperament: What Are They Really Like?

Warm, people oriented and smart, the typical Maltipoo is a cheerful home companion who thrives on company and routine. They tend to be playful, cuddly and easy to live with when their needs for exercise, training and grooming are met.

Key takeaways

• Sweet natured, people focused and eager to please

• Best with steady routines, short training sessions and gentle handling

• Low shedding coat needs regular brushing to keep tidy

• Small body, big brain, so enrichment matters as much as exercise

• Choose health tested parents and plan for lifelong care and cover
  

The temperament and personality

Expect a friendly, sociable nature that suits busy households. Their size makes them portable, their brain makes them teachable, and their love of people makes them keen to be involved in whatever you are doing. That said, temperament depends on genetics, early socialisation and daily life.

Many owners describe their temperament and personality as bright, loving and people centric.

A Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and Poodle, so they can blend intelligence and lap‑dog calm with playful energy.

Because every dog is unique, we recommend meeting parents and litter to get a feel for the likely temperament and appearance.

For wider context on this cross, see our in‑depth Maltipoo Breed Guide and parent Poodle Breed Guide. If you are comparing options, this side‑by‑side Cavapoo vs Maltipoo Guide is a handy read, and this roundup of Top 10 Poodle Cross Breeds shows where this type of dog fits.

• Many people choose this cross for their low shedding, hypoallergenic coat in a small size package.

• Their energy is moderate, with short, happy bursts that respond well to mental stimulation.

• They are social by nature and usually get along well with other dogs when properly socialised.

A companion first

Their 'people focus' makes them a classic companion dog. They are often very affectionate, adaptable and good around considerate children.

However, that same attachment means some can struggle if left alone too soon or too long, so build confidence gradually. We have more on this below but here's a quick insight:

• Some individuals show separation anxiety if alone for extended periods.

• Gentle, rewards based methods work best. Think short sessions and lots of positive reinforcement.

Trainability

With Poodle smarts, this cross is typically an intelligent dog that enjoys learning.

• Start early with manners, recall and calm settling. Structured games can make training a Maltipoo a more fun experience.

• Keep sessions brief and upbeat. A confident dog grows from predictable routines, clear cues and choice‑based rewards.
  

Exercise and enrichment

Most thrive on one or two daily walks, plus brain games at home. Nosework, puzzle feeders and short training bursts help keep your Maltipoo content. Garden zoomies count, but purposeful outings are still important.

Use food toys that are tailored to their size to slow slow down eating and add interest.

Adjust activity to the right level to maintain optimal health. Taking into account their size and age. (Some teacup types are super small!)

Socially, always encourage polite greets, watch for tiredness and use treats for focus. The result is a friendly pup whose charming personalities win fans on every walk.

Home routines

A steady schedule helps. Create a cosy rest area and practise independence in tiny steps so your Maltipoo pup learns that short absences are safe.

Rotate toys, vary routes and invite calm meet‑ups with well behaved dogs. This helps to show them that every dog is different and new sights are no big deal.

Some Maltipoos cope better in calm homes that have structure, although your Maltipoo may show signs of anxiety if rushed.

You should build their confidence slowly, let them interact with all members of your busy home and when leaving them alone, use enrichment such as treats and praise as you leave, and make sure returns are low key.

• Avoid leaving a small dog alone for too long. Start with seconds, then minutes so they know you will always return.

• Many do best with a dog walker or a friend if the will be alone for extended periods.

• Reward calmness when you return, and try to ignore jumping up, only greeting them when they settle.
  

Health care, grooming, dog food, and training are predictable spend areas for many pet owners. You can easily budget for the best options for your home while also considering dog insurance that suits your needs.

Visit our Maltipoo Pet Insurance page to get a quote and see how much it would cost to insure your pet.

You can also see our Dog Breed Cost Calculator to gauge the likely ownership cost of a Maltipoo in the UK. This can be helpful for budgeting and understanding the likely costs to own each breed.

If you want an outgoing, easy to train housemate who cuddles as hard as they play, the Maltipoo dog breed can be a lovely fit.

If you are rarely home due to work or travel, then reconsider or arrange support, because like any other dog, they need time and care.

Note that:

• They are low shedding but you must brush them often and be sure to have them groomed regularly to keep your Maltipoo comfortable.

• You should prioritise early socialisation and consistent routines
  

Living with a Maltipoo is a bit like having a small shadow who wants to be part of your day. From warm cuddles to silly bursts of energy that make you laugh, they give a lot back. But, they do rely on you for structure.

If you enjoy teaching tricks, getting out for steady walks and having a dog who likes to be close, they can slot into family life with ease.

Just be sure to take your time to meet reputable breeders, plan for the grooming and training they need and think honestly about how much time you can give.

When those pieces line up, a Maltipoo can grow into a loyal, funny and affectionate companion who brings a lot of joy into the home, one tail wag at a time.