
Maltipoo
2.5-9 kg
20-35 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
United States
About the Maltipoo
The Maltipoo is a popular designer crossbreed, resulting from the breeding of a Maltese with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. Created in the United States during the 1990s, the goal was to produce a companion dog that combined the Poodle's high intelligence and low-shedding coat with the Maltese's gentle and affectionate nature. While not a recognized purebred by the ANKC, they have become one of the most sought-after companion dogs in Australia due to their adaptable size and 'teddy bear' appearance. These dogs are renowned for their social butterfly personalities, often getting along famously with strangers and other pets alike. They are quintessential lap dogs but retain a playful spark that makes them entertaining family members. Because they are a crossbreed, individuals can vary significantly in appearance and coat texture depending on which parent's genetics are dominant, necessitating a flexible approach to their care and grooming.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
As a designer breed, the Maltipoo does not compete in traditional ANKC conformation shows; however, they are judged in specialty 'Oodle' categories on their balanced proportions and 'teddy bear' facial expressions. The ideal specimen moves with a light, springy gait and carries a well-groomed, voluminous coat that feels like soft wool or silk. Their presence is defined by a bright, dark-eyed gaze that radiates joy and a perpetual puppy-like charm that persists well into their senior years.
Bred For
Companion dog and low-shedding family pet
Temperament
Gentle, playful, affectionate, and highly social
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, (), , White Shaker Syndrome, and dental overcrowding.
Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity consisting of 30-45 minutes of walks and interactive play.
Grooming Needs
High; requires daily brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting.
Living Suitability
Highly suited to apartment living and small dwellings; they thrive indoors near their owners.
Good with Kids
Good with older, respectful children; may be too fragile for very young toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Generally excellent with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, though they can be sensitive to harsh corrections.
Coat & Colours
Variable; can be curly like a Poodle, silky like a Maltese, or a wavy combination.. White, cream, apricot, grey, silver, and occasionally black or multi-colored.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Maltipoos are more likely to experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, as they are deeply bonded to their humans—providing interactive toys and gradual alone-time training can help them feel secure. They are predisposed to dental disease and overcrowding due to their small mouths; this doesn't mean every dog will suffer, but daily dental care and raw bones are excellent proactive measures. You may notice tear staining under their eyes, which is common in light-colored small breeds and can be managed with daily cleaning and a high-quality fresh diet. Their coats are prone to matting, especially behind the ears and in the 'armpits,' so daily brushing is a wonderful way to bond while keeping them comfortable. Like many small breeds, they can be vocal and may bark at passersby, but they respond very well to consistent, positive reinforcement training. They are also prone to patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps), so maintaining a lean weight and avoiding high-impact jumping from tall furniture is a smart way to protect their joints. Many Maltipoos can be sensitive to standard commercial kibble and may develop skin irritations or digestive upset; they often thrive on a grain-free, fresh-food diet tailored to their specific needs.
Feeding Guide for Your Maltipoo
Healthy Weight
3-7 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
90-210 grams
For a Maltipoo, a fresh or raw diet should focus on high-quality proteins and healthy fats. For an adult dog, feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a 5kg dog, this equates to 100-150g per day, split into two meals. Appropriately selected raw meaty bones may provide chewing enrichment, but they do not replace veterinary dental care and can present choking, tooth-fracture or gastrointestinal risks.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense fresh or raw diet to support high metabolism and dental health.
An ideal raw diet for a Maltipoo includes lean proteins such as Majestik's Kangaroo or Chicken to maintain a healthy weight. Small amounts of pureed green vegetables provide essential fiber. Appropriately selected raw meaty bones may provide chewing enrichment, but they do not replace veterinary dental care and can present choking, tooth-fracture or gastrointestinal risks. Avoid high-carb fillers which can lead to weight gain in small frames.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Maltipoo Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Maltipoo? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
Subscribe & Save on Maltipoo Meals
Get your Maltipoo's fresh and raw meals delivered every two or four weeks. Small subscriptions are combined into a four-week box. Pause, skip or cancel anytime.
Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
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Other Small Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.


