Malti-Poo
The Malti-Poo is a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Malti-Poo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Maltese
The Maltese is a diminutive toy breed that typically weighs between 4 and 7 pounds and stands 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Despite their small stature, they possess a compact, well-proportioned body that moves with a smooth, flowing gait. Their overall build is refined and elegant, with a level topline and a chest of moderate depth. The head is proportionate to the body with a slightly rounded skull, and the muzzle tapers to a fine point while maintaining good breadth. Their black button nose contrasts beautifully against their white coat, though the nose may fade to pink with insufficient sun exposure or during hormonal changes in females. The breed's most distinctive feature is their stunning coat, which consists of long, silky, straight white hair that can reach floor length if left unclipped. Unlike many breeds, Maltese possess only a single coat layer without an undercoat, which contributes to their reputation as a low-shedding breed often suitable for allergy sufferers. The hair has a distinctive silky texture that parts naturally down the center of the back. When properly maintained, the coat hangs evenly on both sides of the body, creating an elegant curtain of white. Many owners opt for a shorter puppy cut for easier maintenance, which gives the dog an endearing, youthful appearance. The Maltese's expressive face features large, dark, round eyes set fairly close together, conveying an alert and gentle expression. Black eye rims and lips provide striking contrast against the white coat, creating the breed's characteristic sweet facial appearance. The ears are set low and hang close to the head, heavily feathered with long hair that blends into the body coat. Their tail is plumed with long, flowing hair and curves gracefully over the back, adding to their aristocratic appearance. The overall impression is one of refinement and gentle elegance.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The breed is highly intelligent and responds well to positive reinforcement training methods, though they can exhibit a stubborn streak if they sense their owner is not confident or consistent. Maltese are generally gentle and playful, maintaining their puppy-like enthusiasm throughout their lives. They typically get along well with other pets when properly introduced and socialized. While they can be wonderful companions for children, their small size makes them better suited for families with older, more considerate children who understand how to handle them gently. Their sensitive nature means they respond poorly to harsh training methods or turbulent household environments.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations White Dog Shaker Syndrome, also known as idiopathic steroid-responsive shaker syndrome, is a condition seen predominantly in small white dogs including Maltese, causing full-body tremors that typically appear in young adulthood. While not painful, this autoimmune condition requires veterinary treatment with corticosteroids. Progressive retinal atrophy, an inherited degenerative eye condition that can lead to blindness, occurs in some Maltese lines. Regular veterinary examinations, maintaining proper dental hygiene, and purchasing from breeders who perform health testing can help ensure the best possible health outcomes for Maltese dogs. Their delicate size also makes them susceptible to hypoglycemia, particularly as puppies, requiring attention to regular feeding schedules.
Poodle
The Poodle is an elegant, athletic breed that comes in three size varieties, each sharing the same breed standard proportions. Standard Poodles stand over 15 inches at the shoulder and can weigh 40 to 70 pounds, while Miniature Poodles measure between 10 and 15 inches tall, and Toy Poodles stand 10 inches and under. Regardless of size, all Poodles possess a squarely built body with a proud carriage and an air of distinction that reflects their noble heritage. Their overall structure is well-proportioned with a moderately rounded skull, a long straight muzzle, and dark oval eyes that convey an intelligent, alert expression full of spirit and personality. The breed's most recognizable feature is their distinctive coat, which consists of dense, tightly curled hair that grows continuously rather than shedding seasonally. This single-layer coat is often considered hypoallergenic as it produces less dander than many breeds and traps loose hair within the curls rather than releasing it into the environment. Poodles come in a wide variety of solid colors including black, white, brown, silver, gray, apricot, red, cream, and cafe au lait. The coat can be styled in various traditional clips such as the Continental, English Saddle, or the practical Sporting clip, though many pet owners prefer a simple uniform trim for easier everyday maintenance. Poodles possess an elegant, athletic build with a long neck gracefully arched and strong, smoothly muscled shoulders that enable powerful movement. Their legs are straight with small, oval-shaped feet and well-cushioned pads designed for water work. The ears are long, set at or slightly below eye level, hanging close to the head with thick, wavy hair. The tail is set high, carried up, and traditionally docked in some countries, though this practice is declining. Their movement is light, springy, and effortless, reflecting their heritage as water retrievers bred for working in challenging aquatic environments. The overall impression is one of intelligence, elegance, and proud dignity.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Poodles generally get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized, though they can be reserved with strangers initially. Their alert nature makes them good watchdogs who will announce visitors, though they are not typically aggressive. Like many intelligent breeds, Poodles can exhibit stubborn tendencies if they sense inconsistent leadership, making confident, patient training essential. They are prone to separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to their owners and do not thrive when left alone for extended periods. Toy Poodles in particular may display more anxiety-driven behaviors without proper socialization and training from an early age.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus, represents a serious concern primarily for Standard Poodles, occurring when the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists on itself. This life-threatening emergency requires immediate veterinary intervention and can be prevented through careful feeding practices. Epilepsy, manifesting as recurring seizures, affects some Poodles and can usually be managed with medication. Smaller Poodle varieties are prone to patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates, and von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder. Regular veterinary care, genetic testing of breeding dogs, and maintaining appropriate weight can help ensure Poodles live long, healthy lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Malti-Poo may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Maltese and Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.