Maltipoo vs Maltese: The Designer Mix vs the Original — Which Suits You?
The Maltipoo is half Maltese — so how different can they really be? Surprisingly: quite a lot. Here’s an honest comparison to help you choose between the original and its popular designer offspring.
At a Glance: Maltipoo vs Maltese
| Feature | Maltipoo | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Designer crossbreed (Maltese × Poodle) | Purebred (FCI Group 9) |
| Weight | 2.5–9 kg (varies by Poodle parent) | 3–4 kg (FCI standard) |
| Height | 20–35 cm | 20–25 cm |
| Coat | Wavy to curly, various colours | Long, silky, pure white only |
| Shedding | Very low (especially F1B) | Very low |
| Colours | White, cream, apricot, red, silver, grey | White only |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy | Low–moderate (slightly more than Maltese) | Low |
| Intelligence | High (Poodle influence) | Moderate |
| Trainability | Easier (Poodle brains) | Moderate (can be stubborn) |
| Barking | Moderate–high | Moderate |
| Registration | No (not FCI recognised) | Yes (FCI pedigree) |
| Price (Luxembourg) | €1,500–3,000 | €1,500–2,500 |
Temperament & Trainability
Both breeds are affectionate companion dogs, but the Poodle influence changes the Maltipoo’s personality in noticeable ways:
Maltipoo:
- More playful and energetic than the Maltese
- Quicker to learn commands (Poodle intelligence)
- More adaptable and confident in new situations
- Can be more vocal (alert barking from both parent breeds)
- Slightly better with children due to more robust build and playful nature
Maltese:
- Calmer and more regal in demeanour
- Deeper one-person bond — the ultimate lap dog
- More reserved with strangers initially
- Can be more stubborn during training
- More fragile due to smaller, more consistent size
Both breeds share: Strong attachment to owners, separation anxiety risk, and a preference for being carried rather than walking when given the choice.
Coat & Grooming
This is one of the biggest practical differences:
Maltipoo coat:
- Wavy to curly (varies by individual and generation)
- Multiple colour options (white, cream, apricot, red, silver)
- Slightly lower shedding than Maltese (especially F1B)
- Mats more easily due to texture — daily brushing essential
- Most owners keep a “teddy bear cut” for easy maintenance
Maltese coat:
- Long, silky, straight, flowing — pure white only
- Beautiful but high-maintenance in full coat
- More prone to tear staining (more visible on white)
- Can be kept in a shorter “puppy cut” for easier care
- Tangles easily but mats less than curly Maltipoo coat
Grooming verdict: Both need daily brushing and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. The Maltese in full show coat is more work; in a puppy cut, maintenance is similar. The Maltipoo’s tear staining is less visible on coloured coats.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Maltipoo if:
- You want a slightly more playful, energetic companion
- You prefer colour options beyond white
- Easy trainability is important to you
- You have older children who want an interactive playmate
- You want a slightly sturdier small dog
- Minimal shedding is a priority (choose F1B)
Choose the Maltese if:
- You want a calm, devoted lap dog with ancient breed heritage
- FCI pedigree and breed standards matter to you
- You prefer the classic white, silky coat look
- You want maximum predictability in size and temperament
- You prefer a quieter dog (slightly less barking than Maltipoo)
At Woefkesranch, we breed both Maltese and Maltipoo, so we can help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle best.
→ More comparisons: Maltipoo vs Cavapoo | Maltipoo vs Cockapoo | Complete Maltipoo guide
Ready to welcome a Maltipoo into your home?
Contact Woefkesranch to enquire about current Maltipoo litters or join our waiting list.
Looking for a Maltipoo Puppy in Luxembourg?
Woefkesranch breeds quality Maltipoo puppies — a wonderful Maltese × Poodle cross — with full veterinary documentation and EU pet passport included.
