Maltipoo vs Cavapoo: Which Puppy is Right for You?

If you've ever spent some time researching fluffy, adorable dogs, chances are you've come across Maltipoos and Cavapoos more than once. These two doodle mixes are everywhere. They pop up on your Instagram reels, you see them in family homes, and at the top of every "best companion" dogs list out there.

As pet lovers, we completely understand why. These breeds are affectionate, intelligent, and some of the most irresistibly cute fluffy puppies. While Maltipoos and Cavapoos share many similarities, they are not interchangeable. Their personalities, care needs, energy levels and even emotional dependencies can feel very different once you start to live with them.

So how do you know which one fits right into your home? We've compiled an honest and detailed guide to help you understand these dogs and choose one that can be a long-term companion.

What are Maltipoos and Cavapoos? Origin & Breed Backgrounds

Maltipoos and Cavapoos both belong to the growing family of designer dog breeds. These are intentional mixes designed to combine the most desirable traits of two purebred parents, giving pet lovers the best of both worlds. In the case of the Maltipoos and Cavapoos, both breeds share the Poodle parent.

Poodles have always been famous for their intelligence, low-shedding coat and trainability, which makes them a favorite choice for cross breeders. When combined with other dogs, the result is often amazing, giving new breeds that are smart and loving.

Meet the Maltipoo: Maltese + Poodle

The Maltese-Poodle mix, or Maltipoo, combines a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This pairing originated in the 1990s in the U.S and was designed to create a small, affectionate dog with the soft, fluffy coat (of the Poodle) and the amazing personality of the Maltese.

The Maltese is generally very devoted and often forms a strong bond with their humans. The Poodle's parents' genes make it a better companion by contributing intelligence, athleticism, and the signature curly coat that most pet parents love. Overall, when these traits are combined, you get playful, fun, and loving dogs that anyone would want in their homes.

Maltipoos became popular as urban companion dogs, therapy dogs, and pets for people seeking a small dog that thrives on human interaction. Owners adore their affectionate nature as these dogs crave cuddles and would mostly follow you from room to room like your personal sidekick. Over time, they earned the nickname "Velcro dogs" because they love staying close to their owners.

Meet the Cavapoo: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle

The Cavapoos blend the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a toy or miniature Poodle. This breed was created to combine the Cavalier's famous gentle temperament with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat.

Cavaliers are generally known for being calm, affectionate dogs, and they mostly seem to feel what the owner is feeling. When mixed with a Poodle, the result is a dog that's loving, adaptable and exceptionally family-friendly.

Cavapoos are often recommended for households with children, seniors or anyone looking for kindness and emotional support from their dog.

Maltipoos vs Cavapoos: Appearance and Size Comparison

Image by Olavi Anttila on Canva

When most people compare the Maltipoo with the Cavapoo, the first thing they focus on is how cute the puppies look. At a glance, they can seem very similar, but once you look a little closer, the differences become much easier to spot, especially in their size, build, and coat type.

If you're wondering how these little dogs will fit into your home, your arms or when sitting on your lap, this section really matters.

Size and Growth

Both Maltipoos and Cavapoos are classified as small dogs, but they don't grow at the same rate.

Maltipoos are usually the smaller of the two dogs. Most weigh between 5 and 20 pounds and stand about 8-14 inches tall at the shoulder. Many of them stay compact and lightweight, which makes them particularly popular with apartment living or people who want a truly small companion dog

Cavapoos, on the other hand, tend to be a bit sturdier. They typically weigh between 9 and 25 pounds and stand between 9 and 15 inches tall. While they are still small dogs, they often feel more solid and less delicate than the Maltipoo, which is something most families with young children appreciate. For more information on this, read our Cavapoo puppies' size and growth guide.

Coat, Color

Both the Cavapoo and Maltipoo are known for their soft, fluffy coats, but the textures differ.

Maltipoos usually have finer, silkier hair that can range from wavy to curly. Their coats will likely feel lighter and more delicate when you run your hands through them. This gives them this cloud-like feel, but it also means that they can't tangle easily.

Cavapoo puppies usually have thicker, plusher coats with loose curls and waves. They give more of that teddy bear-like look, especially around their face.

When it comes to colors, both breeds come in a wide variety, such as white, cream, apricot, black and mixes of these shades.

Regarding allergies, neither breed is fully hypoallergenic, but Maltipoos are often considered slightly more allergy-friendly, especially if they inherit more of the Poodle coat. That said, individual reactions may vary, and regular grooming makes a whole difference for both breeds. You can read our detailed article on “Are Cavapoos hypoallergenic?” for a better understanding.

Daily Care and Grooming Needs

Caring for both the Cavapoo and Maltipoo is straightforward and fits well into busy schedules. With moderate routines focusing on mental stimulation and coat upkeep, you'll be living with a happy and healthy trained dog.

Maltipoo Grooming Needs

• ●Frequent brushing (or 3-5 times weekly) with quick coat comb
• ●Monthly baths (using hypoallergenic shampoo) with nail trims
• ●30-60 minutes of daily walks
• ●Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
• ●Regular (weekly) eye and ear cleaning to avoid ear infections

Cavapoo Grooming Needs

• ●Brushing 3-5 times a week and quick daily coat combs
• ●Monthly baths using hypoallergenic shampoo
• ●Grooming every 6-8 weeks
• ●Routine ear care

Maltipoo vs Cavapoo: Temperament and Personality

Image by Olavi Anttila on Canva

Personality and temperament are some of the major factors that matter the most to a lot of pet parents, because this generally determines how enjoyable the company of the dogs will be. Most people want a pet that they can come home to after a long day of work and immediately feel their mood lighten.

Which of these two are you likely to get this experience with? Let's discuss that below:

What Does Living With a Maltipoo Feel Like?

Maltipoos are affectionate, energetic dogs that are very people-focused. They love interaction and want to feel included in everything. Think of them as a jealous girlfriend who wants to be a part of your everyday life.

If we're told to paint a picture of this interaction, it'd most likely look like this:

• ●A playful dog that follows you around the house
• ●Loads of playtime and bursts of energy
• ●A strong emotional bond
• ●A fluffy furry pet that thrives on attention

They are joyful little dogs, but being left alone for extended periods can be distressing for them. So, if you're out all day and your home is quiet most of the time, a Maltipoo may struggle with loneliness or separation anxiety.

Therefore, we'd tell you that these pets are better suited to people who are home often and genuinely enjoy spending time interacting with their dogs.

What Does Living With a Cavapoo Feel Like?

In terms of temperament and training, Cavapoos are gentle, calm, and emotionally in tune. They also love attention, but what differentiates them from the Maltipoo is that they don't demand it constantly. With a Cavapoo, you'll most likely notice:

• ●A calmer but noticeable presence around the house
• ●Easygoing behavior with guests
• ●Patience with children and other pets
• ●A dog that's genuinely happy to sit quietly beside you

Cavapoos tend to handle alone time better than Maltipoos (though no dog loves being ignored all day). If you want a companion that doesn't need constant attention, Cavapoos often feel like a perfect fit.

Training and Intelligence

Thanks to their Poodle genes, both the Cavapoo and Maltipoo are highly intelligent dogs, so they'd pick up your commands quickly, notice patterns in your routines and generally make it easier for you to live with them. Sometimes, they can even seem one step ahead of you, already knowing what you intend to do once you take the first step. It's one of those traits that makes them highly sought after among pet parents.

However, while they share intelligence, factors such as how they learn and what motivates them can differ in everyday training.

Training a Maltipoo

Maltipoos are quick, curious learners with a playful streak. They mostly understand new commands fast, especially when the training feels more like a game than a chore. They respond well to tricks, short obedience sessions and interactive activities.

Because of their playful nature, these breeds can become bored easily. If you plan to have long, repetitive training with them, it likely won't work for them. They start to lose interest and get a bit stubborn if they're not mentally engaged.

The trick to training a Maltpoo is to include:

• ●Keeping things short and upbeat in the grooming session
• ●Using reward-based methods
• ●Varying the method to keep their attention span engaged

These breeds also respond well to positive reinforcement, so a cheerful tone and plenty of praise can significantly accelerate progress. Because they're also very sensitive, harsh corrections can make them anxious or shut down emotionally. Knowing these things can help you build a more intentional relationship with these furry pets.

Training a Cavapoo

Most people say Cavapoos are "eager to please", and you'll begin to understand what this means during training. They're emotionally attuned to their owners and tend to seek approval, making them naturally cooperative learners.

Training a Cavapoo is a much smoother experience because you don't have to worry about the over-sensitivity of some other breed. They are more patient with repetition and less likely to lose focus quickly. These qualities make them the ideal pet for first-time dog owners.

With calm instruction, consistency and gentle guidance, they're good to go!

Cavapoos thrive when:

• ●Training is consistent and predictable
• ●Praise is given generously
• ●Sessions are calm rather than intens

Cavapoos are also highly emotionally aware, so they might sense your frustration if you're not happy with them, and this can sometimes discourage them. Learn to use a soft, reassuring touch to build their confidence and trust in you.

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Health Issues and Life Span

Image by Jay Brand on Canva

It's easy to get carried away with how good these cute, furry pets look, and you might forget to take into account the most important things. How often are they likely to get sick? What's the average life span?

It’s easy for people to become too emotionally attached to their dogs, so ignoring health issues is never a good idea and often ends in heartbreak. If you're looking for a companion that will be a part of your family and life for years to come, this section is for you.

The good news is that both Maltipoos and Cavapoos are generally healthy dogs with long life spans. With proper care, Maltipoos typically live 12 to 15 years, Cavapoos, 13 to 17 years, and many go on to enjoy even longer, happy lives.

Like all mixed breeds, they may be prone to certain health concerns, largely influenced by their parent breeds.

Maltipoo Breeds Health Considerations

Although Maltipoos are usually sturdy little dogs, their small size comes with a few common concerns.

Dental Health

One of the most frequent issues is dental health. Small breeds often have crowded teeth, which can lead to plaque buildup and gum disease if dental care is neglected. Regular brushing and routine dental checkups are especially important for Maltipoos.

Tear Staining

Tear staining is another common issue. That dark staining beneath the eyes isn't usually harmful, but it can signal sensitivities, blocked tear ducts, or other unfavorable reactions. Keeping the eye area clean and addressing underlying causes can help you better manage this.

Emotional Support and Sensitivity

Maltipoos are also emotionally sensitive dogs, as we've highlighted repeatedly in this segment. This means anxiety, particularly separation anxiety, can sometimes develop. They form strong bonds with their owners, and long periods alone or inconsistent routines may affect their emotional well-being.

Cavapoo Breeds Health Considerations

When it comes to Cavapoos' health considerations, they are generally healthy, but they inherit some concerns from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel side

Heart Heath

The most notable is heart health. Cavapoos sometimes inherit a notable risk for heart conditions, particularly mitral valve disease (MVD), from the Cavalier King Charles parent, which affects most purebred dogs and can emerge later in life. While not every Cavapoo will experience this, responsible breeding and regular veterinary monitoring are crucial.

Ear Health

Cavapoos often have floppy ears that can trap moisture and reduce airflow, creating an environment that can easily promote infection. Routine ear cleaning and regular checks go a long way in preventing such problems.

Overall, Cavapoos tend to age gracefully when their health is monitored consistently. You can also play it safe by adopting from breeders or platforms that offer a premium health guarantee for your dogs.

Lifestyle Considerations: Which Puppy Fits You Best?

Before you fall completely in love with a fluffy face, it's worth pausing to think about how a dog will actually fit into your everyday life.

Apartment Living

The good news is that both Maltipoos and Cavapoos can thrive in apartments. They're tiny dogs that don't need huge yards to be happy. That said, there are a few minor differences you should note.

Maltipoos tend to be more alert and vocal lap dogs, so they may bark when they hear noises in the hallway or notice activity outside the door. With proper training and enough mental stimulation, this is manageable. However, it's something apartment dwellers need to be aware of.

Cavapoos are a bit quieter and more laid back, which makes them slightly easier in close-quarter living situations. Both breeds still need daily walks and playtime. A consistent routine goes a long way in keeping the apartment peaceful.

Family Members and Kids

If you have children or plan to have some, then you should prioritize temperament. Maltipoos are playful and affectionate dogs, but they're often smaller and too delicate for a young family. They do best with older, gentle children who understand how to interact respectfully with a dog.

Cavapoos are more family-friendly. They are sturdier, patient, and naturally gentle. This makes them a strong fit for households with younger children. These intelligent dogs are always happy to be a part of the family chaos without feeling overwhelmed.

Allergy and Sensitive Households

Neither Maltipoos nor Cavapoos are 100% hypoallergenic, and, in fact, no dog truly is. However, you can rest assured that both are considered low-shedding breeds, thanks to their Poodle parent genes.

Maltipoos have a slight edge here, especially when they inherit more of the Poodle parent's genes. They shed less, which means fewer allergens are floating around the home. Regular grooming, vacuuming, and air filtration can make a noticeable difference in managing these situations.

Travel and Social Life

If you're always on the move, and you own a Maltipoo, they tend to love being with you. They can handle road trips, visits and new environments with ease. This makes them a solid choice for frequent travellers.

Cavapoos are about the same, and while they might not be as clingy, they also handle road trips and travel well.

Cavapoos and Maltipoos: Cost of Ownership and What to Expect

Bringing home a pet is exciting, but it's a major financial responsibility that you should prepare for upfront.

Puppy Purchase and Adoption Cost

From reputable breeders, both Maltipoos and Cavapoos typically range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on factors such as lineage, location, and breeder practices. Cavapoos may sometimes sit on the higher end due to demand.

Adoption is another option, and it is getting much easier thanks to the many online platforms that make it accessible. You can adopt any of these dogs and have it delivered to you anywhere nationwide.

HonestPet is one of these platforms, and our website offers a large selection of fluffy Cavapoos for sale with coats of soft, defined curls. Our puppies are selected from trusted, ethical breeders. They are vet-checked, vaccinated, and come with 30 days of AKC pet insurance coverage.

Monthly and Annual Costs

Ongoing costs are another investment for you to prioritize. You should budget for:

• ●Quality food
• ●Grooming maintenance fees
• ●Annual vet checks, vaccinations, and preventive meds
• ●Pet insurance

On average, small dogs like Maltipoos and Cavapoos cost hundreds to a few thousand dollars annually, depending on care choices and health needs.

FAQs

Do Maltipoos bark more than Cavapoos?

Yes, Maltipoos bark more than Cavapoos because they are naturally alert and expressive little dogs. They were bred to be companions and would always notice things going on around them.

Is a Cavapoo the Right Dog for Me?

A Cavapoo may be a great fit if you want a gentle, affectionate dog that adapts easily to your lifestyle. They're especially well-suited for families, first-time dog owners and people who value companionship.

What is the Downside of the Maltipoo?

Maltipoos are adorable and affectionate, but they have a few challenges, like being prone to separation anxiety and needing regular mental stimulation and exercise. Their fine, fluffy coat also requires frequent grooming to prevent mats and tangles.

How Long Does Potty Training Take for a Maltipoo and Cavapoo?

Potty training can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Consistency and positive reinforcement matter more, but smaller breeds generally take longer because of their bladder size.

Do These Breeds Get Along With Other Animals?

Most Maltipoos and Cavapoos do well with other dogs and even cats when properly socialized. Cavapoos are naturally more relaxed around other pets, while Maltipoos may need a bit more gradual introduction.

The Right Match Makes All the Difference

It's important to prioritize the factors that are most important to you in this guide before making a choice. While every single one is important, personal preferences also matter and should play a huge role in your decision-making. Go through this guide again and make a checklist of your priorities. When you choose thoughtfully, you're welcoming a companion that can grow with you, comfort you on quiet days and thrive alongside you.