The Maltipoo has fast become one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds, and it’s easy to see why. This adorable cross between a Maltese and a Poodle combines the best qualities of both pure breeds.

Let’s explore some fun facts you may not know about these cute and lovable Maltipoo dogs:

1. Maltipoos Are a Designer Dog Breed First Developed in the 1990s

While the exact origins are unknown, the Maltipoo is believed to have been intentionally bred starting in the 1990s or early 2000s in the United States. Breeders wanted to create a low-shedding companion dog with an affectionate temperament.

The American Kennel Club and other major kennel clubs do not formally recognize the Maltipoo as an official breed due to their relatively short history. The Maltipoo is instead classified as a hybrid or designer dog breed. They continue to rise rapidly in popularity as family pets.

2. Maltipoos Were Likely First Bred in Wisconsin or New York

Although the origins are murky, respected sources suggest the first purposeful Maltipoo breeding likely occurred in either Wisconsin or New York in the 1990s. The exact founding breeders remain unknown.

Once Maltipoos began being bred intentionally, the hybrid caught on quickly. Demand for these cute crossbreeds as family pets drove breeders across the United States and beyond to start producing more of the puppies. Their popularity expanded rapidly.

3. The Most Common Maltipoo Coat Colors Are White, Black, Silver, or Apricot

While coat colors can vary widely depending on the Poodle and Maltese parents’ genetics, the most common Maltipoo fur colors are:

• White

• Black

• Silver or gray

• Apricot or cream

Multicolored or “merle” Maltipoo coats also occur when breeding dogs carry the merle gene variant. Since merle is linked to health issues, reputable breeders avoid breeding for this trendy color.

4. A Maltipoo's Fluffy Coat Needs Regular Brushing and Trimming

The Maltipoo has a high-maintenance coat that is prone to tangles and matting without proper care. Their fur consists of a blend of the Maltese’s long, silky hair and the Poodle’s thick, tight curls.

To prevent painful mats and keep their coat fluffy, Maltipoos require:

• Daily brushing and combing

• Monthly bathing

• Professional trimming every 4-6 weeks

Many owners opt to keep their Maltipoo puppy clipped short in a low-maintenance puppy cut. Their coat texture can change as they mature.

5. Maltipoos Have an Average Lifespan of 10-15 Years

With proper exercise, a high-quality diet, routine vet care, and attentive ownership, the average healthy Maltipoo lives 10-15 years. Some can even exceed 15 years and reach up to 18!

This gives owners over a decade of companionship with their beloved Maltipoo. The breed is not predisposed to many serious genetic issues that shorten lifespan. Providing excellent preventative care helps them thrive into their senior years.

6. Maltipoos Love Attention and Do Not Do Well When Left Alone

One of the biggest downsides of Maltipoos is their susceptibility to severe separation anxiety. This people-focused hybrid bonds intensely with their family and craves near-constant companionship.

Being left alone for more than 2-3 hours at a time often leads to problem behaviors like destructiveness, vocalization, house soiling, depression, and self-harm. Maltipoos do best with owners who can provide ample attention.

7. Maltipoos Were Recently Ranked the 3rd Most Popular Designer Dog Breed

The American Kennel Club releases annual rankings of the most popular dog breeds in the United States based on registration data. While not yet recognized, designer breeds get ranked separately.

In 2020, the intelligent, affectionate Maltipoo was ranked the 3rd most popular designer breed, trailing only the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle. The Maltipoo's cute looks and fun personality make them a hit.

8. Maltipoos Have Moderate Daily Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, Maltipoos are lively indoor dogs with moderate activity requirements. They generally need 30-60 minutes of exercise per day.

This is easily achievable through a few brisk leashed walks around the neighborhood and active play sessions inside. Maltipoos enjoy learning tricks, chasing games of fetch, and puzzle toys that provide mental stimulation too.

9. Maltipoos Are Prone to Several Health Issues Including Luxating Patellas

Like all breeds, Maltipoos are prone to certain health conditions. Reputable breeders screen their breeding stock for issues including:

• Luxating patellas (dislocating kneecaps)

• Progressive retinal atrophy (eye disease)

• Portosystemic shunt (liver defect)

• Legg-Calve-Perthes (hip joint deformity)

• Hypothyroidism

• White shaker dog syndrome

Catching any emerging conditions early through vet visits improves outcomes. See our Maltipoo health section to learn more.

10. Finding a Maltipoo Puppy May Require Getting on a Waitlist

Due to high demand, reputable Maltipoo breeders often have long waitlists for their puppies. It is not unusual to wait 6 months to a year to bring home a health-tested pup.

Working with breeders directly instead of pet stores allows you to ask many questions to ensure the puppies come from an ethical, responsible source. Avoid sellers who have constant litters available.

Let us know if you need any help locating a quality Maltipoo breeder or have questions about these fun facts! Our experts are always happy to chat dogs.

We hope you enjoyed these fascinating tidbits about the popular Maltipoo hybrid dog breed. Let us know if you need any assistance finding your perfect hypoallergenic companion. And be sure to check out our Maltipoo care guides for everything you need to know about owning this special breed!