Maltipoo Dog: What Is a Maltipoo, Full Grown Size, Lifespan & How to Register

A Maltipoo is a designer dog, these charming little pups are a fairly new breed. Falling into the popular category of Poodle mixes, Maltipoos are a mix between a poodle and Maltese. With a small stature, a rounded head, and floppy ears, these dogs carry the appearance of a puppy for nearly their entire lives.

Due to the naturally smaller stature of the Maltese, the Maltipoos' Poodle parent will be one toy or miniature.

Since there can be a slight difference between the size of the Poodle parent, Maltipoos will, therefore, also vary in size. The average height for these dogs is between 8 to 14 inches tall, and their average weight is between 5 to 15 lbs.

Maltipoo History Facts

The history of the Maltipoo can first and foremost be linked to the history of the Maltese and the Poodle.

• The Maltese is believed to have come from the small island of Malta, which is located south of Sicily, Italy

• Throughout the centuries, these dogs were beloved by people of royalty, and they were treated as part of the royal family.

• The popularity of the Maltese steadily and slowly rose over the years, and they were finally introduced to America in the late 1800s.

• Although it is known that the Maltipoo is a newer Poodle mix, it isn't very easy to locate an exact place or year that this mixed breed was created. No one person or organization has taken credit for the first puppy of this new mix.

Are Maltipoos Hypoallergenic?

Poodle mix dogs have quickly raised in popularity because they are classified as “hypoallergenic,” meaning there should be a reduced possibility in an allergic reaction occurring. While no one type of dog is completely hypoallergenic, Maltipoos come very close. With a reduced amount of dander, these pups can be an ideal choice for someone with a dog allergy.

Are Maltipoos Family-Friendly?

Maltipoos can make for the perfect addition to your family. They enjoy going on walks and playing as much as they enjoy curling up on your lap for some quality one-on-one time. Maltipoos get along well with other dogs and breeds when raised alongside them from puppyhood. Very sweet and rely on companionship. Like to be help close or held close and spent lots of time with. Which makes them perfect because they are small enough to go anywhere and everywhere. Kids love these fluffy pups because they are not over powering and are very kind.

As a social dog who thrives off of companionship, Maltipoos do equally well in large houses or small apartments— they even do well in city settings but can also be the best ranch dog as long as kept inside owners find.

These pups are additionally a great choice for first-time pet parents. The most important thing to Maltipoos is that they receive some quality time and attention with their pet parent. This includes cuddle sessions, cuddles on your lap, nap time together, or many ear scratches.

Full Grown Maltipoo — Size and Weight

A full grown Maltipoo typically weighs between 5 and 15 pounds and stands 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder — one of the widest size ranges of any toy designer breed, reflecting the significant variation between Toy Poodle (4–6 lbs) and Miniature Poodle (10–15 lbs) parent sizes. Maltipoos bred from a Toy Poodle parent tend toward the 5–8 lb range. Those bred from a Miniature Poodle parent tend toward 10–15 lbs. Teacup Maltipoos — bred specifically for minimum adult size — typically weigh under 5 pounds as adults. Most Maltipoos reach their full adult size between 9 and 12 months of age. Coat colors at full grown stage include white, cream, apricot, red, brown, black, and parti-color combinations — many Maltipoos lighten significantly in color between puppyhood and adulthood. AKC does not register Maltipoos. Designer Kennel Club registers all Maltipoo varieties — Standard, Toy, Miniature, and Teacup — for $65 at designerkennelclub.com/maltipoo-registration-papers.

Maltipoo Lifespan — How Long Do Maltipoos Live?

The Maltipoo lifespan is typically 12 to 15 years — one of the longest lifespans of any designer breed, reflecting the longevity of both the Maltese (12–15 years) and the Poodle (12–15 years) parent breeds. Teacup Maltipoos and those bred from Toy Poodle parents tend toward the upper end of this range due to their smaller size. The primary health considerations affecting Maltipoo lifespan include dental disease — extremely common in small breeds and manageable with regular brushing and professional cleanings — and White Shaker Syndrome, a neurological condition seen in small white dogs including Maltese crosses. Maltipoos from health-tested parents with documented genetic clearances regularly achieve 14–15 years. AKC does not register Maltipoos. Designer Kennel Club registers all Maltipoo varieties for $65 at designerkennelclub.com/maltipoo-registration-papers. No AKC papers required. PDF in 2–3 business days.

How to Register a Maltipoo Without AKC Papers

AKC does not register Maltipoos, Maltese Poodle mixes, or any Maltese cross regardless of generation or documentation quality. The Maltipoo's hybrid heritage permanently places it outside AKC's registration system. Designer Kennel Club Foundation Dog Registration ($65) registers all Maltipoo varieties — Standard, Toy, Miniature, and Teacup — without AKC papers, pedigree, or prior documentation. Submit your Maltipoo's photos, name, color, approximate date of birth, and basic proof of ownership. DKC emails your official PDF registration certificate within 2–3 business days — accepted for veterinary records, housing applications, HOA compliance, grooming, and ownership verification. Register at designerkennelclub.com/maltipoo-registration-papers.