What Is a Maltipoo? Guide to the Maltese Poodle Cross

You might be considering a Maltipoo, the sweet, smart pup that seems perfect for family life. But what is hype, and what is real, day-to-day living with one?

All pet owners want a lovable dog that fits their home, is easy to care for, and feels like a true friend. Here, we translate breeder jargon, explain health and care, and share honest tips so you can make a confident choice.

If you want the essentials in one place, our friendly guide has you covered, but for a deeper dive, this in-depth Maltipoo breed guide (we lovingly made) is a great companion read.

Key takeaways

• The Maltipoo is a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle, often chosen as a low-shedding, friendly family pet.

• They are a small dog with a soft, varied coat and a people-first temperament.

• Expect to groom them often with regular brushing, train them with kindness, and pick the right dog food for energy and skin health.

• As a loyal companion dog, they thrive on time with you and can struggle if left alone too long.

• Choose a responsible breeder or consider a rescue; plan for pet insurance and regular vet care.

• Good routines, play, and gentle guidance help Maltipoo dogs feel calm, secure, and happy.

The Maltipoo is a cross of the Maltese and Poodle, making it a classic designer dog and a popular mixed breed.

While not an official breed, many families love this blend of charm and smarts. In terms of the basic description, they sit in the companion, lower-shedding category and suit a range of homes.

If you like Poodle mixes, you might compare options. This overview sits alongside Waggel’s handy round-up of top Poodle cross-breeds for a wider view.

A brief history

The Maltipoo is a modern mix with a simple story. Breeders in the United States began pairing the Maltese and Poodle in the late 1980s. They hoped for a small, friendly dog that shed less.

Early pups lived with friends, neighbours, and local families who reported that they liked the bright eyes and easy nature.

Word spread quickly and more careful pairing followed, using Toy Poodle or Miniature Poodle lines. The look stayed soft and the temper gentle. Kennel clubs did not set a standard, but homes did. Today, the Maltipoo is known as a cosy companion first, pedigree rules second.

Curious about the Poodle side? Explore the Poodle breed guide to understand qualities that shape this cross, including cleverness, trainability, and grace.

The Poodle breed adds brains and bounce, while the Maltese adds heart and cuddle power. That mix is a big part of the Maltipoo dog breed appeal.

Most Maltipoos are small, thanks to the Maltese's size and especially if crossed with a Poodle line that is toy or miniature. This explains their cute, compact frames that suit city homes, and they can often thrive in flats when needs are met.

in appearance, your pup’s look depends on coat type and the balance of genes from both sides. The Maltipoo coat can be wavy or curly, plush or light, and colours range from cream to apricot and more.

Whatever the look, plan on regular grooming to prevent tangles and keep the skin healthy.

People choose Maltipoos because the Maltipoo temperament is friendly, playful, and people-focused.

Many Maltipoos enjoy being a classic lap dog during quiet time, but they're still intelligent dogs who love games and puzzles.

Maltipoos are known to get along well with other dogs when socialised early. They can bark to alert you, so reward calm behaviour.

A Maltipoo is generally confident if routines are steady. They shine as affectionate dogs for families and singles alike.

Because they bond tightly, they may find being left alone tough. Some develop separation anxiety without practice and structure. Short practice sessions, puzzle feeders, and a cosy den can help.

These are key parts of what Maltipoos need to feel safe and balanced.

Many families look for a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, and Maltipoos are often chosen for that reason. While no dog is totally shed-free, Maltipoos can suit a hypoallergenic dog wish list better than many. If shedding is a concern, see these dogs that don’t shed much and compare care levels.

Brush several times a week, and schedule trims to prevent matting. This helps keep your Maltipoo clean and comfy, and it supports skin health. Professional grooms every 4 to 8 weeks work for most homes.

Short daily walks and indoor play usually meet a Maltipoo's needs. Mix in scent games and soft tug to burn energy. Because they are eager to please, training a Maltipoo is a fun bonding activity with quick wins.

Use rewards, kindness, and short sessions. House training is easier with routine and praise. If you’re comparing similar crosses, this Cavapoo vs Maltipoo guide covers personality and care differences in a handy format.

Many owners ask about lifespan and health conditions. The lifespan of a Maltipoo often sits in the low to mid-teens, with good care and genetics. Because of the Poodle parent, watch for eye issues such as progressive retinal atrophy. Good screening helps reduce potential health risks.

Keep records, watch weight, and build routines that ensure your Maltipoo remains active and engaged.

While Maltipoos can also be prone to dental buildup and tear staining, a steady care plan helps. When in doubt, ask your vet early so you can keep your Maltipoo healthy and your journey keeps moving in the right direction.

Many owners choose pet insurance to cover surprises. See our Pet Insurance for Maltipoos blog post to tailor cover to your lifestyle and budget. It’s a smart way to plan for the long haul.

Choose balanced dog food that suits age, size, and activity level. Many families use a measured portion of dry dog food as a base and add extras like healthy toppers. Aim for high-quality with additional vitamins to support skin, joints, and a shiny coat.

Ask your vet how to feed your Maltipoo by life stage. Puppies eat more often than the average Maltipoo adult. Keep portions steady to prevent tummy upsets and weight gain.

Because of the Poodle influence, many families hope for a hypoallergenic experience. Some Maltipoos shed less than other crosses, but grooming still matters. Honest note on the reasons why Maltipoo fans recommend them: easy size, cuddly nature, and smart minds.

As a reminder, not every coat is the same, and results vary. If you want more pointers, the Poodle’s background explains a lot about coat quality and care demands. That is also why many Maltipoos need steady brushing and trims.

Think in simple routines: meals, walks, play, nap, repeat. Keep training light, fun, and daily. These habits support long-term wellbeing.

Good food, smart grooming, and regular vet checkups go a long way to avoid Maltipoo health issues. That steady plan helps your dog feel safe, confident, and at ease.

Because they are a crossbreed, results vary across litters. Some lines lean Maltese, others lean Poodle. If you love the cross idea, you are not alone - they're a popular designer dog for many families.

Though keep this in mind for expectations, some coats are straighter, some curlier. Some are more active, others are more relaxed.

Match the dog to your day. If you work from home, a cuddly friend fits right in. If you are often out, plan walkers or day care. These pups thrive on routine and time with you.

If you want to compare more Poodle mixes, the top 10 Poodle crossbreeds list is a useful browse. It shows how different crosses suit different homes, energy levels, and grooming goals.

Here is a mini checklist you can start today to support long-term health.

• Choose portioned meals with balanced nutrients and adjust for age and activity.

• Brush 3 to 5 times a week to prevent tangles and protect skin.

• Book trims on a schedule to manage curls and mats.

• Use puzzle feeders and short games to engage bright minds.

• Plan checkups and vaccines on time to catch issues early.

• Use cover like Waggel if you want support with vet bills and peace of mind.

If you're set on adding a Maltipoo to your family, try to set a rhythm that includes easy walks, cosy naps, and playful training.

Want to compare care needs with close cousins? This friendly Cavapoo vs Maltipoo comparison is handy when you are choosing between two sweet options.

And if you like low-shedding pets in general, browse dogs that shed very little for more ideas.