Maltipoo Pros & Cons: What to Know Before You Fall in Love

Maltipoos—Maltese × Poodle mixes—are tiny charmers with big personalities. They’re cuddly, clever, and famously photogenic, but they also come with real needs that first-time owners sometimes underestimate. Here’s a balanced, breed-specific look at the five biggest pros and five honest cons so you can decide if a Maltipoo fits your life.

Mawoo Breeder Note: “hypoallergenic”: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Some shed or carry less dander, which can help, but allergies vary by person. Read more about this at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, and get guidance on the best dog breeds for allergy sufferers by checking out the American Kennel Club.

5 Pros of the Maltipoo

1) Low-shedding, often allergy-friendly coat

Thanks to the Poodle side, many Maltipoos shed very little. For people with mild sensitivities, this can make home life easier—less hair on furniture and, for some, fewer symptoms. Still, individual dogs vary, and regular grooming is essential. 

2) Big-time companionship in a small package

Maltipoos tend to be people-oriented “velcro” dogs, a trait you see in both parent breeds. The Maltese was developed as a devoted companion, while Poodles bring biddability and focus—together, that often equals a pup that thrives on being by your side.

3) Clever and rewarding to train

Poodles are among the most trainable breeds, and Maltese are eager to please. Many Maltipoos learn quickly with positive reinforcement—great for house manners, tricks, and polite leash skills. 

4) Apartment-friendly and adaptable

Most Maltipoos are toy-to-small size, making them well-suited to condos or city life. A couple of brisk walks and daily play usually cover their needs; then they’re happy to curl up next to you. 

5) Often sociable with other pets (with proper introductions)

With early, positive socialization, many Maltipoos do well with other dogs and even cats. Their friendly nature and manageable size make multi-pet households easier—just introduce slowly and supervise. Check out the ASPCA Guide on Common Behavioral Issues and Best Practices for Correction

5 Cons of the Maltipoo

1) Real grooming commitment (not optional)

That fluffy, low-shedding coat mats—especially behind ears, under the collar, and in friction areas. Plan on brushing several times a week, detangling spray, and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Maltese lines can bring tear staining; keep eyes clean and talk to your vet about safe management. 

2) Prone to separation anxiety and “shadow dog” habits

That fantastic devotion can tip into distress when left alone. Without training, Maltipoos may vocalize, scratch doors, or house-soil. Build independence with gradual departures, enrichment, and crate training. 

3) Small-dog dental risks

Toy and small breeds are statistically more prone to periodontal disease. Daily (or near-daily) brushing plus professional cleanings go a long way toward preventing pain, infection, and costly extractions. 

4) Health screening still matters (mixed breed ≠ immunity)

Ask breeders about parent testing and vet clearances. Concerns to discuss include patellar luxation (loose kneecaps common in toy breeds) and inherited eye issues from Poodle lines (e.g., PRA). Ethical programs screen and share results. 

5) Delicate size + kid dynamics

Maltipoos are small and can be injured by rough play or accidental drops. They can be wonderful with children who understand “gentle hands.” Supervise interactions and teach kids how to pick up and hold a small dog safely. 

What’s Unique to Maltipoos (Beyond “Doodle” Stereotypes)

• Coat roulette: One litter can produce wavy, curly, or straighter coats with different grooming needs. Don’t assume your pup’s adult coat will be identical to a sibling’s.

• Tear-prone faces: Maltese influence can mean tear staining—keep the muzzle clean and discuss vet-approved options; avoid unregulated supplements. 

• “Off switch” with training: Unlike some high-octane small breeds, many Maltipoos will happily nap at your feet after a play burst—if their brain and body get daily enrichment.

Maltipoo Care Snapshot (at a glance)

• Exercise: ~30–60 minutes/day (walks + playful training).

• Grooming: Brush 3–5×/week; pro groom every 6–8 weeks; clean eyes daily.

• Training: Short, upbeat sessions; reinforce quiet, settle, and alone-time skills early.

• Health: Teeth brushing daily; discuss patella checks and eye screenings with your vet.

• Home fit: Apartments/condos fine; best with gentle kids and supervised play.

FAQ: Maltipoos, Answered

Are Maltipoos truly hypoallergenic?
No breed is allergy-proof. Many Maltipoos shed minimally and some allergy-sufferers do better with them, but reactions are individual. Meet the dog first and keep up with grooming and HEPA filtration at home. 

How big do Maltipoos get?
Most fall into toy-to-small size. Because they’re mixes, adult size and coat can vary—even within a litter. Ethical breeders give honest estimates based on parents, but it’s never a guarantee. 

How much exercise do they need?
Generally 30–60 minutes daily split between walks, training games, and indoor play. Brain work (sniff mats, food puzzles, trick training) tires them out kindly. 

How often do Maltipoos need grooming?
Plan on frequent brushing plus professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to prevent mats and keep the coat comfortable. Keep the eye area and paws tidy between visits. 

What health tests should I ask a breeder about?
Discuss patella evaluations, eye exams, and any DNA testing relevant to the Poodle side (e.g., PRA variants). Ask to see vet records and any OFA/eye certificates. 

Are Maltipoos good with kids and other pets?
Often yes—with socialization and supervision. Teach children to sit on the floor when holding the dog and to avoid rough play. Introduce other pets gradually and reward calm behavior. 

Bottom Line (Should You Get a Maltipoo?)

If you want a cuddly, clever companion who’ll thrive in close contact with their people—and you’re ready for real grooming, gentle handling, and alone-time training—a Maltipoo can be a wonderful match. If you’re away long hours, prefer a wash-and-go coat, or have very young kids who love rough-and-tumble play, consider pausing or choosing a sturdier, lower-maintenance breed. We would recommend the Cavapoo as it is slightly more robust with a similar temperament. 

When you’re ready to meet ethical breeders and available pups, browse Maltipoo puppies on Mawoo Pets and chat with our team—we’re happy to help you find the right fit for your household.