Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

18 Vet-Verified Facts About Maltipoos: Appearance, Origin & More

maltipoo-puppy-walking-in-the-park

The Maltipoo is an incredible designer dog breed that many people enjoy having around the home, and if you are a new owner, you probably want to know everything there is to know about them. Keep reading as we present you with 24 incredible facts that will help you understand your pet better.

divider dog faces oct 2024

The 18 Fun Facts About Maltipoos

1. The Maltipoo Is a Designer Breed

The Maltipoo is becoming so popular that many might not realize that they’re not a registered breed per se, but an intentional mixing of two different purebred dogs. To create a Maltipoo, you have to mix a purebred toy Poodle with a purebred Maltese.


2. The Maltipoo Has Many Names

Though many people have settled on the Maltipoo name, depending on where you live, you still might hear them called other names, such as a Moodle, Multapoo, Maltipoodle, or something else.

Adorable-Maltese-and-Poodle-mix-Puppy
Image Credit: OlgaOvcharenko, Shutterstock

3. The Maltipoo Name Has Different Spellings

The Designer Dogs Kennel Club1 spells the dog’s name as “Maltipoo”, the most commonly used form. However, the North American Maltipoo club also accepts “Maltepoo” and you may even find breeders who use “Malt-a-poo”.


4. The Maltipoo Is a Light Shedder

While the Maltipoo still sheds dander, as any other dog does, they don’t shed as much fur as many other dogs. Dander consists of dead skin cells that are constantly shed by pets and is the main allergy trigger in people. Maltipoos do need regular brushing, and they may need professional grooming on occasion.


5. A Full-Grown Maltipoo Can Weigh as Little as 5 Pounds

The size of your dog will depend on which parent they take after. For example, taking after the Poodle will produce a slightly larger dog while taking after the Maltese will make a smaller puppy. An adult Maltipoo can weigh 5–20 pounds.


6. Maltipoo Puppies Change From the First Generation to the Second

First-generation Maltipoo puppies are different from second-generation puppies because the first generation is the result of mixing a Poodle with a Maltese. The second generation is the result of combining a Maltipoo with a Maltipoo.

person holding two teacup maltipoo dogs
Image Credit: OlgaOvcharenko, Shutterstock

7. Different Poodles Affect Final Size

Most breeders create a Maltipoo from either a Miniature Poodle or a Toy Poodle. Miniature Poodles produce large Maltipoos, while Toy Poodles produce smaller ones.


8. The Maltipoo Is a Great Pet for Children

The Maltipoo likes attention, so it’s great to pair them with a child with plenty of energy and time. However, as with any other dog, the child must be old enough to understand how to handle them because their small size makes them vulnerable to injury during rough play.


9. You Can Purchase the Maltipoo in a Variety of Colors

One of the things that have helped the Maltipoo become so popular is that they’re available in many colors. White is the most popular, but you can also find black, cream, silver, red, gray, and even apricot.


10. The Maltipoo Is Not Considered a Mutt

Many people refer to the Maltipoo as a mutt because they’re a hybrid or mixed breed. However, the mutt title typically applies to dogs whose parents’ breeds are unknown. Since the Maltipoo is intentionally bred, they are instead considered a designer breed.

Cute Maltipoo isolated on white background
Image Credit: Anton Vierietin, Shutterstock

11. The Maltipoo Is Available in Different Coats

Besides the many color options available for Maltipoos, they can have different coat types and lengths. You can find them with thick and curly, soft and silky, wiry and wavy coats, and medium to long-length coats.


12. The Maltipoo Is a Social Dog

The Maltipoo breed is quite friendly and will often get along with other house pets, especially if you socialize them with other animals while they’re young.


13. The Maltipoo Has a Long Lifespan

The Maltipoo will usually live 12 to 15 years, and with careful maintenance and a bit of luck, you can extend it to 16 years, which is longer than many other dog breeds.


14. There Is No Proper Weight Range for a Full-Grown Maltipoo

Unlike many other dog breeds that have an average size and weight, the size of the Maltipoo can vary greatly depending on which parent they take after more. Therefore, there is no set acceptable weight range to follow. The only guideline is an unofficial weight of 5–20 pounds.

Maltipoo dog near feeding bowl with dry food on floor in kitchen
Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

15. The Maltipoo Can Learn Many Tricks

Due to their Poodle parent, the Maltipoo is an intelligent dog that can learn many tricks. They also like attention and enjoy pleasing their owner, so they will work hard to understand what you are trying to teach them. Starting your sessions early, when they’re still a puppy, will help get them into a routine that will produce the best results.


16. The Maltipoo Enjoys Company

The Maltipoo can spend time alone, but they won’t enjoy it if you have long work days. Separation anxiety is a complex behavioral disease that should be addressed early in time, therefore if you notice any abnormal behavior when you leave your home speak to your vet or dog behaviorist as soon as possible.


17. The Maltipoo Is Not a Watchdog

Though the Maltipoo is prone to barking in certain situations, they’re not great watchdogs because of their friendly and loving nature. They often make fast friends with strangers and will do little to prevent them from entering the home.


18. The Maltipoo Needs Attention

Unlike many other dog breeds that just like to lie around, the Maltipoo will constantly demand your attention and will go to great lengths to acquire it, often performing wild stunts or hatching elaborate plans.

Woman giving treats to a Maltipoo in the park
Image Credit: sergey kolesnikov, Shutterstock

divider dog paws oct 2024

Conclusion

The Maltipoo is a complex dog breed with many hidden personality facets to discover. This is a friendly dog that makes a great companion. They will also typically get along with your other pets and enjoy playing with the children.

However, they require attention, plenty of playtime, and mental stimulation, and you need to be careful that you don’t leave them alone too long. Meeting these simple requirements means that you and your furry friend can enjoy a great life together.

Related Reads:


Featured Image Credit: Irsan Ianushis, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

2 Responses

  1. My 12 year old female pit bull has developed the most annoying whine. She sounds like she is being murdered and keeps it up for hours. She also has a string of new habits equally annoying. She has been to the vet several times for her usual checkups and the vet could only suggest mental issue as ages on top shape physically.

    We got her as a pup 10 year ago, work from home and nothing in her routine has changed. We are at our whits end. Any advise appropriated.

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Nom Nom Dog Food Subscription Review 2025: Our Expert’s Breakdown

* Nom Nom now offers a free Storage Tub with any subscription purchase It used to be that if you wanted to feed...

How to Teach a Dog to Smile: 10 Tips & Tricks

Do you want to know how to teach a dog to smile? It’s actually not as difficult as you might think! We will...

Pebblebee Bluetooth Tracker Reviews 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

Being a pet owner is no small feat. As much as you love your best bud, they can give you a run for...

Top 4 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Sanibel, FL 2025: Off-Leash & On-Leash Places to Go

Sanibel is a surprisingly dog-friendly area. The island doesn’t allow dogs everywhere, but many dog-friendly attractions exist. Therefore, it is a suitable spot...

More related

Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Malibu in 2025: Off & On Leash Places to Go

With its gorgeous scenery, world-famous restaurants, and mind-blowing real estate prices, Malibu more than earns its glamorous reputation as a celebrity hotspot. Beautiful...

Dognapping: 8 Things to Do if Someone Steals Your Dog

We love our pets, often as our children, so one of the worst experiences a pet parent can have is finding out their...

Yorkie-Apso Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More

The Yorkie Apso is a designer dog that is the result of breeding a Yorkshire Terrier and a Lhasa Apso. Sometimes referred to...

4-Month-Old Puppy: What to Expect (Vet-Approved Guide)

Having a 4-month-old puppy can feel like a whirlwind of chaos. Your dog is developing quickly and going through daily transformations. Just as...

Keep reading

Nom Nom Dog Food Subscription Review 2025: Our Expert’s Breakdown

* Nom Nom now offers a free Storage Tub with any subscription purchase It used to be that if you wanted to feed your dog fresh, real food, you had to put the work in. You had to get the...

DOG_SAPR_Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food

Can Dogs Eat Pine Nuts? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Considerations

There are many pieces of misinformation floating around the web on what is and is not safe for your canine companions. One of these very topics might have to do with pine nuts. Are pine nuts toxic to dogs? No,...

Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Pine Nuts

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary If you’ve got a growing pup, you know how important it is to give them the best fuel possible. Hill’s Science Diet puppy foods are a great choice because of the company’s research-backed approach to nutrition. With over...

Dogster_Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food Review

Can Dogs Eat Enchiladas? Vet Approved Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Enchiladas are a popular and delicious Mexican dish that many people worldwide adore. Most people love this dish and your pets may also want to get a taste. The smell of meat and seasonings may cause your dog to beg...

Can Dogs Eat Enchiladas

Can Dogs Eat Cornmeal? Vet-Verified Facts

Cornmeal is often used in commercial dog food, so it is reasonable to assume that it’s safe for your dog to eat. And this is true; cornmeal isn’t toxic to dogs, it provides nutrients and energy, and it is something...

Can Dogs Eat Cornmeal

Can Dogs Eat Turnips? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Safety Guide

Turnips are hardy root vegetables similar to parsnips and potatoes. Dogs can eat turnips in moderation; they can provide some health benefits and dietary fiber, and they are fine for your dog as long as it doesn’t suffer from thyroid...

Can Dogs Eat_Turnips

Can Dogs Eat Nopales? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

Nopals are large cacti with pads (leaves) that are edible when the plant is young. You might know nopales by their nickname, the prickly pear cactus, and if you live in states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada, you’ve likely...

Can Dogs Eat_nopales

Can Dogs Eat Butternut Squash? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Dogs have no qualms about trying anything that falls off our plate, but you might be wondering what’s healthy for them and what’s not. For instance, you’re eating squash and your dog scarfs down some—is that OK or something to...

Can Dogs Eat_Butternut Squash