Maltipoo vs Cockapoo: Which Poodle Mix Fits Your Family?

Maltipoos and Cockapoos are popular poodle mixes known for their friendly personalities and low-shedding coats. These designer dog breeds make great family pets and come in a range of sizes. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between these two breeds.

Maltipoo Overview

Maltipoos are a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle. They’re small dogs typically weighing 5-20 pounds and standing 8-14 inches tall. Their coats are soft and fluffy, often white or cream-colored.

Maltipoos are known for being:

• Affectionate
• Gentle
• Good with children
• Intelligent
• Easy to train

These pups need regular grooming to keep their coats tangle-free. They’re a good choice if you want a smaller companion dog that’s adaptable to apartment living.

Cockapoo Overview

Cockapoos result from breeding a Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle. They’re usually larger than Maltipoos, weighing 20-60 pounds and standing 10-16 inches tall. Their coats can be various colors and textures.

Key traits of Cockapoos include:

• Friendly nature
• High energy levels
• Intelligence
• Adaptability
• Good with families

Cockapoos need regular exercise and mental stimulation. They’re a great choice if you want an active family dog that’s still relatively low-shedding. Their larger size makes them sturdier for households with young children.

Comparing Characteristics and Temperament

Maltipoos and Cockapoos share many positive traits as Poodle mixes. Both breeds are known for being loving, smart, and great with families. Let’s look at their key differences in personality and behavior.

Personality Traits

• Maltipoos are sweet and gentle dogs. They love to cuddle and be close to their owners. These little pups have a cheerful nature that can brighten anyone’s day.
• Cockapoos tend to be a bit more outgoing. They’re friendly and sociable with both people and other pets. Their confidence makes them adaptable to new situations.
• Both breeds are smart and eager to please. This makes them easy to train, especially when you use positive methods. Cockapoos may pick up commands slightly faster due to their Cocker Spaniel heritage.

Behavior and Social Needs

• Maltipoos and Cockapoos are great family pets. They get along well with kids and other pets when socialized early.
• Maltipoos can be a bit clingy. They might follow you from room to room and don’t like being left alone for long. Cockapoos are usually more independent but still enjoy being near their family.
• Both breeds can bark to alert you of visitors. Maltipoos might be more prone to yappy behavior if not trained early. Cockapoos are generally quieter but will still let you know if someone’s at the door.

Activity Level and Playfulness

• Maltipoos are lively and playful, especially as puppies. They have bursts of energy but tire out quickly due to their small size. Short walks and indoor play sessions are usually enough to keep them happy.
• Cockapoos have more stamina and need more exercise. They enjoy longer walks, fetch games, and even swimming. Their higher energy makes them great for active families.
• Both breeds love to play with toys and learn new tricks. Interactive games that challenge their minds are perfect for keeping them entertained. Remember to adjust playtime based on your dog’s age and size.

Physical Attributes

Maltipoos and Cockapoos have distinct physical traits that set them apart. Their size, appearance, and grooming needs differ in important ways.

Size: Height and Weight

• Cockapoos are generally larger than Maltipoos. A full-grown Cockapoo typically stands 9 to 18 inches tall and weighs 12 to 24 pounds.
• Maltipoos are smaller, usually 8 to 14 inches in height and 5 to 20 pounds in weight. This size difference affects their suitability for different living spaces and families.
• Keep in mind that size can vary based on the Poodle parent‘s size (Toy or Miniature) and individual genetics.

Appearance: Coat Colors and Grooming Needs

Both breeds have soft, curly coats that come in various colors. Cockapoos often have coats in shades of:

• Brown
• Black
• Cream
• Red
• Apricot

Maltipoos typically come in:

• White
• Cream
• Silver
• Apricot

Both breeds are low-shedding and considered hypoallergenic, making them good choices for allergy sufferers. They need regular grooming to prevent matting. Brush their coats 2-3 times a week and plan for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.

Cockapoos may have slightly wavier coats due to their Cocker Spaniel heritage. Maltipoos often have silkier fur from their Maltese parent.

Health and Lifespan

Maltipoos and Cockapoos share some health concerns, but also have unique issues to watch for. Their lifespans can vary based on several factors.

Common Health Issues

• Both Maltipoos and Cockapoos may face certain health problems. You should be aware of eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma. These can affect vision over time.
• Patellar luxation is another issue to watch for. This affects the kneecap and can cause lameness. Regular vet check-ups can help catch it early.
• Ear infections are common in both breeds due to their floppy ears. Clean your dog’s ears regularly to prevent problems.
• Some Maltipoos may develop shaker syndrome, which causes full-body tremors. Cockapoos can be prone to hip dysplasia, especially larger ones.

Life Expectancy and Health Problems

• You can expect a Cockapoo to live 13-15 years on average. 
• Maltipoos usually live 12-14 years.
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease can affect the hip joint in small breeds like these. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent some problems.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for Maltipoos and Cockapoos takes effort. You’ll need to groom them often and give them plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Their diet and training are also key parts of keeping them happy and healthy.

Grooming and Allergies

• Both Maltipoos and Cockapoos need regular grooming. You should brush their coats daily to prevent mats and tangles. Maltipoos tend to be more hypoallergenic than Cockapoos, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers.
• Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks. Trim their nails monthly and clean their ears weekly. Don’t forget to brush their teeth daily to prevent dental issues.
• Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain their coat. This includes trimming their fur and checking for any skin problems.

Exercise Needs and Diet

Maltipoos and Cockapoos are active dogs that need daily exercise. Aim for 30-60 minutes of activity per day. This can include:

• Walks
• Playtime in a fenced yard
• Indoor games like fetch or tug-of-war

Feed your dog high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and age. Cockapoos may need more food due to their larger size. Split their daily portion into two meals. Watch their weight closely. These breeds can gain weight easily, which can lead to health issues.

Balanced Meals for Active Dogs

Both these dog breeds are known for their active lifestyle, making a proper diet essential to sustain their energy and health. Fresh, human-grade dog food provides the nutrients necessary to support their compact build and maintain a shiny coat. Customized meal plans also help address any breed-specific sensitivities, ensuring your breeds stay healthy and active.

Training and Intelligence

Both breeds are smart and eager to please, making them easy to train. Use positive reinforcement methods like treats and praise. Start training early and be consistent.

Focus on:

• Basic obedience commands
• Socialization with people and other animals
• Potty training
• Leash manners

Mental stimulation is crucial. Provide puzzle toys and teach new tricks regularly to keep their minds sharp.

Common Behavioral Issues

Maltipoos and Cockapoos can develop behavioral problems if not properly trained and exercised. Common issues include:

1. Separation anxiety: These dogs bond closely with their owners and may become anxious when left alone.
2. Excessive barking: Both breeds can be vocal, especially if bored or anxious.
3. Chewing: Provide appropriate chew toys to prevent destructive chewing.

To prevent these issues, ensure your dog get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. Consistent training and early socialization are key to raising a well-behaved pup.

Bottom Line

Maltipoos and Cockapoos both make wonderful companions with distinct personalities and care needs. If you’re interested in bringing one of these lovable breeds into your home, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder to ensure a healthy start. Trusted sources connect you with breeders who prioritize health and socialization, making it easier to find a happy, well-adjusted puppy. PuppySpot, for example, offers a $250 discount and matches you with carefully vetted breeders, helping you welcome the perfect Maltipoo or Cockapoo into your family with confidence.