Maltipoo
Also known as Moodle · Maltepoo
United States, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Toy
- Height
- 20–35 cm
- Weight
- 2–9 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- Loving
- Lively
- Vocal
- Sensitive
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Maltipoo
The Maltipoo is a little dog bred from a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. It is designed purely as a companion and usually has a soft, white or pale coat, though apricot, cream and other colours appear. Adults from Toy Poodle parents can be tiny, while Miniature crosses are noticeably sturdier.
Temperament
Lively, loving and often quite vocal, Maltipoos like to be wherever their owner is. They can be sensitive and may become nervous if handled roughly, so they tend to suit homes with older, gentle children.
Exercise
Short walks and indoor games meet most of their needs, though they still benefit from a daily outing for sniffing and social contact. Their small size means they tire and chill quickly.
Grooming
The coat needs daily or near-daily brushing and regular trims to stay comfortable, and the face benefits from gentle cleaning to reduce tear stains. Many shed very little, yet none can be guaranteed hypoallergenic.
Care & wellbeing
Brush teeth regularly, as small mouths are prone to dental disease, and use a harness rather than a collar to protect the windpipe. Barking can become a habit if not managed early. Very young or tiny puppies can suffer low blood sugar; weakness, wobbliness or trembling in a puppy needs an urgent vet visit.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5.5 kg adult- Water
- 220 ml–330 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 400 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Maltipoo
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Maltese and Poodle crosses became popular in the United States in the 1990s and 2000s, alongside other small poodle crosses. Breeders were aiming for a small, affectionate, low-shedding pet. There is no breed standard, and both first crosses and multigenerational dogs are sold under the same name.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Dental disease
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Tracheal collapse
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella check
- Eye examination
- PRA-prcd DNA test
Not every Maltipoo is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Maltipoo right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Maltipoo get?
Adult Maltipoos typically stand about 20–35 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 2–9 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Maltipoos live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Maltipoo need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Maltipoo need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Maltipoos easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Maltipoos shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Maltipoos good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Maltipoo live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Maltipoos have?
The breed can be prone to dental disease, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Maltipoo is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs