Who this breed is NOT for
People wanting a rugged outdoor dog, anyone who can't commit to grooming, or homes with very rough young children.
Bred to do
A designer cross of Maltese and Poodle, bred purely as an affectionate, low-shedding companion lapdog.
Exercise needs
Modest — a daily walk and indoor play are plenty. Thrives on companionship more than mileage.
Temperament
Sweet, gentle, people-focused, and playful. Bonds hard and loves to be a lap dog.
Trainability
Smart and eager, but small-dog stubbornness and housetraining can test you. Keep sessions short, positive, and consistent.
With kids & pets
Great with gentle older kids and other pets; too fragile for rough toddlers who may injure them.
Living situation
An ideal apartment and first-home dog — small, adaptable, and happiest wherever you are.
Grooming & shedding
Low shedding but high maintenance — the soft coat mats fast; brush often and budget for grooming every 6–8 weeks.
Health & costs
Generally long-lived; watch dental disease, luxating patella, and eye/tear staining. A reputable breeder matters — 'designer' is not a health guarantee.
Best fit
Companion-first homes, apartment dwellers, seniors, and first-time owners who want a small, affectionate, low-shedding dog and don't mind grooming.
Free guide
Get the free Maltipoo owner guide
The honest first-90-days checklist, plus the questions to answer before you bring one home.
No spam, and you can leave any time.
A note from Kerri
The Maltipoo is the definition of a velcro dog, and that's the whole point — but 'low-shedding' is not 'low-effort.' That coat is a commitment. Sign up for the grooming routine and you'll have a wonderful little shadow for years.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Casfuy 2-Speed Electric Rechargeable Dog Nail Grinder
A quiet, rechargeable nail grinder that provides a gentle alternative to clippers for at-home nail maintenance.
Shop this
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
Shop this
Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
Shop this
H&H Pets Dog Finger Toothbrush
These soft finger brushes are ideal for following the content's advice to 'go slow' when starting a new brushing habit with your dog.
Shop this
Virbac C.E.T. Dual-Ended Dog Toothbrush
A soft-bristled brush with a small head is ideal for the final stage of the week-by-week plan to reach the outer surfaces of the teeth.
Shop this
WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.