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Maltipoo

"The charming Maltipoo blends the gentleness of the Maltese with the Poodle's wit, creating a perfect, low-shedding companion for city dwellers and families alike."

Your Height:

180 cm

Shoulder Height: 28 cm

Age12-15 years

Average life expectancy with species-appropriate husbandry and good health.

Height

Shoulder Height: 20-35cmHead Height: ~38cm (est.)

The standard size measured from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder (withers).

Weight2-7 kg

Ideal body weight for a healthy, adult breed.

Cost/Month€40+

The sum of food, insurance, and basic care per month.

Character Profile

Activity Level

A measure of the daily urge to move and the necessary mental stimulation.

Maltipoos are playful and have moderate energy levels; they need regular exercise but no extreme athletic performance.

Trainability

The willingness of the breed to cooperate with humans and learn commands quickly.

Due to the Poodle's intelligence, they learn quickly but require consistent and gentle training.

Family Friendliness

Describes patience and adaptability when dealing with children and family bustle.

They are exceptionally affectionate, patient, and people-oriented, making them ideal family companions.

Sociability

Behavior towards strangers and other dogs/pets.

Maltipoos are generally very compatible with other dogs and pets and are friendly towards strangers.

Beginner Friendly

Indicates how well the breed is suited for first-time owners without much experience.

Their friendly and uncomplicated temperament makes them one of the best choices for first-time owners.

Apartment Friendly

Considers barking behavior, space requirements, and the general need for rest indoors.

Their small size and adaptable nature make them perfect residents for city apartments.

Grooming Effort

Time required for brushing, bathing, and nail care. Long-haired breeds often need daily care.

Their fine, curly coat is highly prone to matting and requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

Shedding

How much loose hair the breed loses in the house. Important for allergy sufferers and cleaning effort.

Because they shed very little, they are considered very clean and are often suitable for people with mild pet allergies.

Did you know?

Keeping a pet of this size costs over 80€ per month on average. Plan your finances wisely.

Character & Training

Known for its sunny disposition, the Maltipoo is an exceptionally bright and eager learner. This crossbreed inherits the Poodle’s sharp intellect, making training a rewarding experience even for first-time owners. They are deeply devoted to their human companions, often following them from room to room. While their playful nature is infectious, they do require consistent mental stimulation and affection to stay happy and well-behaved.

Living & Exercise

The Maltipoo is a quintessential apartment dog, adapting effortlessly to urban living. While they don't demand intense athletic feats, they thrive on daily walks and interactive play sessions. Their highly social nature means they prefer being part of the family action rather than being left alone for long periods. They generally get along famously with children and other pets, provided they are introduced gently and treated with kindness.

Health & Grooming

Their signature coat is soft and low-shedding but high-maintenance, requiring daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks to prevent painful mats. Owners should prioritize dental hygiene, as small breeds are susceptible to gum disease and tartar. Common genetic concerns include luxating patella and certain eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a high-quality diet are essential to maintain their health and characteristic puppy-like vitality.

History

Emerging in the United States during the 1990s, the Maltipoo was one of the first popular 'designer dogs.' The intention was to create a small, hypoallergenic companion with a stable, friendly temperament. By crossing the Maltese and the Poodle, breeders successfully produced a versatile pet that fits modern lifestyles perfectly. Today, they are beloved worldwide as affectionate household companions and sensitive therapy dogs.

Similar Breeds

Based on character, activity level, and grooming needs – not by appearance.