A soft, medium to long coat that may be curly like a Poodle's or straight and silky like a Maltese's, often somewhere in between. It sheds very little.21
A charming, happy little dog that is sweet with people of all ages and friendly with other pets once socialised. Maltipoos are clever, alert and a bit sensitive, and they respond best to kind, gentle handling.21
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Low to moderate: a daily walk plus some play at home or in the garden is plenty.21
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Needs daily brushing and a professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks. Bathe about monthly, check nails monthly and brush teeth at least twice a week.21
Home where they are happiest
Well suited to apartments and small homes; happiest where family members are home for much of the day.2
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete small-breed food with carefully measured portions. Puppies eat up to four times a day, moving to two meals as adults.2
Company who they like around
Bonds strongly with its people and prefers not to be alone often. Gets on well with children, adults, seniors and other pets.2
The story where it all began
The Maltipoo was developed in the United States as a designer crossbreed within the past few decades, pairing the Maltese with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. Breeders wanted a small, affectionate companion with a low-shedding coat, and it quickly became one of the most popular designer dogs.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Most Maltipoos are white or cream, but the coat can come in almost any colour, including bicolour and tricolour.1
2
Even though it is a fairly new cross, it counts among the most popular designer dogs.1
3
Its coat can take after either parent: Poodle curls or Maltese silk.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Maltipoo' is a portmanteau of its parent breeds: the Maltese and the Poodle (often a Toy or Miniature Poodle).2
I start my day with a little dance when I see my human's feet hit the floor. We go for a short walk, and I say hello to all my doggy friends. Back home, I play fetch with my squeaky toy and then snuggle on the couch while my human reads. In the afternoon, we practice tricks, and I get treats for being so clever. At night, I curl up in my bed, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
Major kennel clubs
A crossbreed, not recognised as a breed by the major kennel clubs.1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Maltipoo. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Maltipoo tip
Maltipoos are prone to dental disease, so choose dental-support kibble or vet-recommended oral-care diets. Because they can be sensitive to chicken and beef, novel protein treats like fish or lamb may be kinder to their tummy.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Maltipoo, and at what times?
Feed puppies up to four small meals a day, then two meals as an adult. Consistent times like morning and evening work well. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for portion sizes.23
What should a Maltipoo eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete small-breed dog food with measured portions is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Check with your vet for any dietary concerns.24
How often should I bathe a Maltipoo?
A monthly bath works well, or every 8 weeks as Furry Diary suggests. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.25Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Maltipoo need brushing?
Brush your Maltipoo daily to prevent tangles and mats, as their soft coat can mat easily. Furry Diary suggests at least weekly, but daily is ideal for this coat type.25Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Maltipoo's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about once a month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time and stop before the pink quick to avoid pain.25Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Maltipoo need?
A daily walk and some playtime at home or in the garden is plenty. They have moderate energy and enjoy being active with you.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Maltipoo's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth at least twice a week, daily is even better, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness, and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Never insert anything into the ear canal.25Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Maltipoo live?
A Maltipoo typically lives between 10 and 16 years, bringing many happy years of companionship.21
Is a Maltipoo good with children and other pets?
Yes, Maltipoos are sweet with children and friendly with other pets when properly socialised. They are gentle and adapt well to family life.21
Can a Maltipoo be left alone?
Maltipoos bond closely with their family and dislike being left alone for long periods. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the day.2
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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