10 Things To Know Before Adopting a Maltipoo Puppy

Nov 17, 2025

Welcoming a Maltipoo puppy into your home brings incredible joy and companionship. These adorable dogs, a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, are known for their sweet nature and intelligence. Before you bring home your new furry family member, it’s important to understand their unique needs to make sure they live a happy, healthy life with you.

As experts in connecting families with their perfect companions, we want to share our knowledge to help you prepare. Understanding a Maltipoo’s unique temperament, grooming requirements, and energy levels will help you create a loving and supportive environment from day one. Here are our top 10 things to know before adopting a Maltipoo puppy.

1. Maltipoos Thrive on Companionship

Maltipoos form incredibly strong bonds with their families and are true companion dogs. They crave human interaction and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods. A Maltipoo left by itself for many hours can develop separation anxiety, leading to behaviors like excessive barking or chewing.

If your household is empty for most of the day, this may not be the right breed for you. They are happiest when they’re part of the family’s daily activities, whether that means cuddling on the couch or following you from room to room.

2. Their Coats Require Regular Grooming

One of the Maltipoo’s most defining features is its soft, low-shedding coat, which they inherit from their Poodle parentage. While this makes them a popular choice for people with allergies, it also means their hair requires consistent care.

Their coat can easily become matted if you don’t brush it daily. In addition to daily brushing, you should plan for professional grooming every four to six weeks to keep their hair trimmed and tidy. Starting a grooming routine when they’re young will help your puppy become comfortable with the process.

3. Early Socialization Is Essential

Like all puppies, Maltipoos benefit greatly from early socialization. Exposing your puppy to a variety of people, sounds, sights, and other animals in a positive way helps them grow into well-adjusted, confident adult dogs.

Puppy training classes are a fantastic way to socialize your Maltipoo in a structured environment. These experiences teach them how to interact politely with others and reduce the chances of them developing fear or shyness. A well-socialized Maltipoo is friendly, outgoing, and comfortable in different situations.

A close-up of someone holding four Maltipoo puppies. Each puppy is light tan in color and ready for a home.

4. They Are Intelligent and Eager To Please

Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Maltipoos are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. This combination makes them relatively easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and toys.

Keep training sessions short, fun, and engaging to hold their attention. Consistency matters. Teaching them basic commands like sit, stay, and come will make them a well-behaved companion and strengthen the bond between you.

5. Maltipoos Have Moderate Energy Levels

Maltipoos are not high-energy dogs, but they do require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A short walk each day, combined with indoor playtime, is usually sufficient to meet their needs. They love interactive games like fetch or playing with puzzle toys that stimulate their minds.

Regular activity prevents boredom, maintains a healthy weight, and provides an excellent outlet for their energy. Because of their small size, they adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they get their daily dose of exercise.

6. A Consistent Diet Is Important

Providing your Maltipoo with a high-quality diet is important for their overall health. Choose a dog food formulated specifically for small breeds, as it will have the right balance of nutrients for their size and energy level.

It’s also important to establish a regular feeding schedule and avoid overfeeding, as small dogs are prone to weight gain. Always provide fresh, clean water. If you have any questions about the best food for your puppy, your veterinarian can offer excellent recommendations tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

7. House Training Can Take Patience

House training a small puppy requires consistency and patience. Establish a routine by taking your Maltipoo outside frequently, especially after waking up, after eating, and after playtime.

Crate training is a valuable tool in the house-training process, as it gives your puppy a safe space and prevents accidents when you cannot supervise them. Remember to use positive reinforcement and praise them enthusiastically every time they successfully go to the bathroom outside.

8. They Are Generally Healthy, but Learn Common Issues

Maltipoos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Some common issues in small breeds include dental problems, patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap), and allergies. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth at home and professional cleanings, is vital.

Reputable breeders screen their dogs for genetic conditions to make sure they’re producing healthy litters. Scheduling regular check-ups with your veterinarian will help you stay on top of your Maltipoo’s health and catch any potential problems early.

A light tan Maltipoo puppy sits alone outside on a bench. The bench is near a bush with some red flowers.

9. Maltipoos Make Excellent Family Pets

With their gentle and affectionate nature, Maltipoos are wonderful companions for families with children. They are typically good with children who are taught how to interact respectfully with a small dog. Because of their small size, you should always supervise interactions with very young children to ensure the puppy’s safety.

Maltipoo’s can also get along well with other pets, especially when introduced properly and socialized from a young age. Their loving disposition makes them a cherished member of any family.

10. Find a Reputable Source for Your Puppy

When you decide to add a Maltipoo to your family, it’s vital to find a reputable source. A responsible breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of their puppies above all else. They will provide a clean, nurturing environment and ensure their puppies are well-socialized from birth.

When searching for toy puppies for sale in Georgia, take the time to research breeders and ask plenty of questions. A good breeder is happy to show you where they raise the puppies and introduce you to the puppy’s parents. This commitment ensures you are bringing home a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted companion.

Your New Best Friend Awaits
Bringing a Maltipoo into your life is a rewarding experience filled with love, laughter, and companionship. By avoiding these adoption mistakes and preparing your home, you set the stage for a wonderful journey together. These little dogs have huge hearts and will bring immense joy to your family for years to come.

If you are ready to find the perfect furry addition to your home, Precious Petite Puppies is here to help. We are passionate about connecting loving families with happy, healthy puppies and supporting you every step of the way. You’ll find the perfect family companion from our selection of carefully curated and chosen puppies.