Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Comparing Temperament, Size, & Maintenance

If you’re on the hunt for a small, fluffy companion and can’t decide between a Cavapoo or a Maltipoo, you’re in the right place. We get it, it’s a tough choice! Both breeds are adorably cute and full of love. In this guide, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details of both breeds, from their size and temperament to their health and grooming needs. So, if you find yourself torn between the playful charm of a Cavapoo and the gentle appeal of a Maltipoo, continue reading for an in-depth comparison of the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo that can help you make this important decision.

About Cavapoos: History And Key Characteristics

The Cavapoo is a hybrid mix between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle. Although Cavapoos became more popular in the 1990s, they were actually first created in the 1950s. This adorable Dood has a relatively long history!

The Cavapoo combines the best traits from both parent pups. They’re loving, calm, and affectionate just like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent. On the other hand, they’ve inherited their smarts and low-shedding coats from the Poodle’s side of the lineage.

Usually, Cavapoos are created by mixing a Mini or Toy Poodle with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. As a result, we get the most adorable tiny little Doodle. 

About Maltipoos: History And Key Characteristics

Maltipoos are a mix between the Maltese and Poodle. Like other Doodles, the Maltipoo was created to combine the intelligence of the Poodle with the sweet, playful nature of the Maltese. 

In addition to that, hybrid breeds like the Maltipoo benefit from hybrid vigor, which means that they’re less likely to inherit any breed-specific health conditions compared to their purebred parents.

Similarly to Cavapoos, Maltipoos have become more popular in recent years, especially in the last decade. However, Maltipoos might not be as readily available compared to Cavapoos, but we can expect to see more and more breeders specializing in this charming Dood in the near future. 

As the Maltese breed is also on the smaller end of the scale, they are almost always crossed with Toy or Miniature Poodles. Just like Cavapoos, Maltipoos are quite small in size, but pack a lot of personality in that small package!

Cavapoo Vs Maltipoo At A Glance

While sharing many similarities, Cavapoos and Maltipoos also have some key differences that could sway you one way or another. Cavapoos are slightly heavier and taller than Maltipoos, and Cavapoos usually have shorter snouts and longer ears than Maltipoos. Cavapoos also tend to be a bit more laid back, whereas Maltipoos can be a bit more vocal, even yappy as some would say. Another key difference between Cavapoos and Maltipoos is that Maltipoos are always single-coated dogs, whereas some Cavapoos may inherit a lightly shedding undercoat from their purebred Cavalier parents. 

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Size

When looking at the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo size, both of these Doodles are pocket-sized pups that come in the Toy and Mini size range. Although Cavaliers are a fair bit larger than Malteses, the Maltipoo and Cavapoo tend to come in similar sizes.

In fact, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels usually weigh between 13 and 18 pounds and have a typical height of 12 to 13 inches. Maltese, on the other hand, is just 7 to 9 inches tall with an average weight below 7 pounds. Additionally, it’s not uncommon to come across larger Malteses as well – they can weigh up to 11 pounds once fully grown. 

Let’s take a closer look at the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo size comparison:

	Cavapoo	Maltipoo
Toy	Weight: 7-15 pounds Height: 9-12 inches	Weight: 5-15 pounds Height: 6-11 inches
Mini	Weight: 15-25 pounds Height: 12-16 inches	Weight: 15-20 pounds Height: 11-14 inches

As we can see, both Toy and Mini Cavapoos are in a similar weight range as Toy and Mini Maltipoos. However, Maltipoos are often a few inches shorter and also weigh less compared to Cavapoos. Maltipoos can even weigh as little as 5 pounds, sometimes even less.

The size of both Doodles is determined by the size of the parents used in the mix. By using smaller parent dogs, it’s very likely that the puppies will be smaller in size as well. 

For instance, when mixing a really tiny Maltese with a smaller Toy Poodle, we’ll get miniscule Toy Maltipoos. In contrast, when mixing a larger Maltese with a Miniature Poodle, we can expect the puppies to be on the higher end of the scale. The same logic applies to Cavapoos. 

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Temperament

When it comes to Cavapoo vs Maltipoo personality and temperament, both of these hybrid breeds are quite similar. They’re both intelligent, outgoing, gentle, and loving Doods who enjoy spending time with humans. They don’t shy away from new people and they love to cuddle up with you after a long day. 

Nevertheless, regardless of their breed, all dogs have their own unique personalities – some are naturally more social while others are more independent by nature. Of course, early socialization is key to raising a healthy, well-rounded pup who enjoys human company and meeting new people, dogs, and other animals. 

As both Cavapoos and Maltipoos are very people oriented and tend to get attached to their families easily, they are both prone to separation anxiety. Neither of these Doods do well when left home alone for long periods of time, so that’s something you should consider. 

Although Cavapoos and Maltipoos are very similar in many aspects, Maltipoos are known to be more vocal – even ‘yappy’ – compared to the more laid back Cavapoo. Maltipoos tend to bark more and they might start showing you how displeased they are if you don’t give them enough attention, which they crave so badly. 

Maltipoo vs Cavapoo: Appearance

In terms of the Maltipoo vs Cavapoo appearance, they are quite similar. Although Cavapoos may be slightly taller and heavier than Maltipoos, many people actually confuse these two Doodles. Both of them can come in a variety of coat colors, are both similar in size, and they also have similar coat types at glance.

For example, like many other Doodles, both Cavapoos and Maltipoos can come in three coat types. Some inherit the curly, more Poodle-like coat, while others inherit the straight coat from the other purebred parent. And, of course, some pups come with wavy coats that sit right between the two. All of it is determined by a dog’s genetic makeup. 

Then there are all the possible colors that these pups can flaunt. Let’s take a closer look… 

Cavapoos can come in a variety of colors and coat patterns, such as:

• Blenheim
• Black
• Black and white
• Red or ruby 
• Tan or cream
• Apricot
• Golden 
• Chocolate
• White
• Bi-colors and tri-colors
• And more rare patterns like phantom, sable, or merle

Maltipoos also sport a wide range of colors. These include:

• White
• Cream
• Apricot
• Red
• Black
• Black and white
• Brown
• Gray
• Parti
• Phantom

Finally, Maltipoos come with a longer snout compared to Cavapoos, which is also seen in Malteses and Cavaliers. Additionally, Cavapoos inherit longer ears from their Cavalier parents, whereas Maltipoos tend to have shorter ears.  

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Grooming & Maintenance

One of the biggest differences between the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo is that although both Doods benefit from the hypoallergenic Poodle genes, Maltipoos do have a greater advantage in this area. 

Both Cavapoos and Maltipoos can come in three main coat types – straight, wavy, and curly. If typically straight coat Doodles tend to shed most out of the three then that’s not the case for Maltipoos. In fact, the Maltese doesn’t come with an undercoat, which means that regardless of a Maltipoo’s coat type, they shed very minimally.

In contrast, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels come with a double coat, meaning that these pups usually shed. Of course, Cavapoos greatly benefit from the low-shedding Poodle genes, as most Cavapoos also shed very little. However, straight-coated Cavapoos might not be so lucky, as they can inherit the Cavalier’s shedding undercoat. 

Let’s talk a little bit about grooming the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo and what you should be prepared for with each coat type.

Curly Coat

Although oftentimes the most desired coat type, curly coat Maltipoos and Cavapoos are usually the highest maintenance of them all, as their hair is usually very textured. As a result, curly coat Doodles often struggle with knots and tangles, and they’re also more prone to matting. For this reason, both curly haired Cavapoos and Maltipoos should be brushed on a daily basis to keep the knots and tangles at bay. 

On the other hand, curly coat Doodles are the best choice for people who have dog dander allergy. Hence the popularity and demand! But as we mentioned earlier, Cavapoos benefit the most from the Poodle-like hair, since Maltipoos usually don’t shed, regardless of their coat type. 

Wavy Coat

The wavy coat combines the best of both worlds. This coat type is usually the easiest to maintain in both Cavapoos and Maltipoos, as it’s not as prone to matting compared to the curly coat. 

What you should keep in mind with the wavy coat type is that the Maltipoo’s hair can grow very quickly. This means that you definitely have to stay on top of your pup’s grooming routine.

In contrast, Cavapoos with wavy coats may come with an undercoat. So, it’s not uncommon for these pups to shed a little bit of hair, although not as much as straight coat Cavapoos. 

Straight Coat

Lastly, we have the straight coat, which often implies that a Doodle pup might shed hair. For Maltipoos, that’s not the case, as they always come single-layered. However, their hair might grow very quickly, so don’t forget to trim your pup’s hair to keep it at a decent, healthy length.

Straight coat Cavapoos, on the other hand, tend to shed the most out of all the possible coat types. Although they don’t shed nearly as much as their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent, it’s likely that you’ll still find dead, loose hair around the house and on your furniture. Regular brushing will help you remove any loose hair from the depths of the fur, so this is a great way to minimize the shedding in straight coat Cavapoos. 

Maltipoo vs Cavapoo: Health & Wellness

All Doodle breeds are often considered healthier than their purebred parents. This is thanks to hybrid vigor, which means that crossbreeds are less likely to inherit common hereditary conditions found in their parent breeds. Nevertheless, when comparing the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo, there are certain health issues that both of these pups may be at a risk of. 

The most common health issues in both Cavapoos and Maltipoos include joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. They’re also at a risk of certain eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Other common health issues in these Doods include allergies and sensitivities, digestive issues, and ear infections. 

Additionally, Maltipoos are at a higher risk of White Shaker Syndrome, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and epilepsy. Meanwhile, Cavapoos are more prone to heart mitral valve disease (MVD), which is usually inherited from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel lineage. 

Above all, if you’ve decided to adopt your puppy from a breeder, make sure you do thorough research and only adopt your puppy from a breeder that follows ethical breeding practices. This includes extensive health and genetic testing on the parent dogs to minimize the risk of puppies inheriting any genetic conditions. 

Maltipoo vs Cavapoo: Lifespan

Like many small-sized breeds, both Cavapoos and Maltipoos tend to live long lives, especially compared to some larger Doodles. Naturally, you should do everything in your power to support your pup’s health and wellbeing. As long as you provide your Dood a healthy and balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and all the love and care, your furry companion is likely going to live a very healthy and fulfilled life for years to come.

Both Cavapoos and Maltipoos have a similar life expectancy of around 12 to 15 years on average. However, some lucky pups may live up to 18 years old! 

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Training & Environment

When it comes to the Maltipoo vs Cavapoo trainability debate, both of these Doods are easy to train thanks to the high intelligence levels inherited from the Poodle’s side of the lineage. Above all, you should start training and socializing your puppy from a young age, as it’s the best way for good manners to take root. 

In fact, many breeders already start socializing and training the puppies before adoption. So, all you have to do is continue with potty training, crate training, obedience training, and socialization as soon as you bring your new puppy home. 

Training is also crucial for your dog’s mental development. Not only will you have to make sure that your pup gets to walk and run around, you’ll also want to provide your Dood plenty of mental stimulation throughout the day. Otherwise, your pup might become bored and start exhibiting bad and even destructive behaviors. 

In terms of their environment, both Maltipoos and Cavapoos don’t require much space and can easily live even in apartments. Nonetheless, make sure you have set time aside each day to take your pup out for walkies and playtime. 

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Cost

Designer breeds like Cavapoo and Maltipoo come with a hefty price tag, oftentimes between $1500 and $4000. The price is determined by a variety of factors like the breeder’s reputation, breeding standards, health testing protocols, but also your location and the demand in your area. What’s more, some breeders also charge more for certain generations of Doodles, coat types, or even size. 

Of course, due to the growing demand of small Doodles like the Maltipoo or Cavapoo, many backyard breeders and puppy mills also want their piece of the pie. Oftentimes, their prices are much lower, which in turn attracts many unknowing customers. 

What’s worrying about those unethical breeders is that they rarely do extensive health and genetic screening on their breeding dogs, nor are they as committed to providing the pups the best start. Unfortunately, puppies adopted from unethical breeders tend to come with serious health conditions that are much harder and more expensive to treat and manage. 

Needless to say, the cost of adoption isn’t the only expense you’ll have to be prepared for. Your new puppy will require high quality food, regular trips to the groomer (or you can learn how to groom your Dood at home!), vet visits, food and water bowls, toys, dog beds, and other necessities. 

Having said that, the ongoing costs for a Maltipoo vs Cavapoo are pretty much the same. However, you can expect to spend more money on food for larger pups compared to smaller ones. For example, Toy Maltipoos require less calories daily than Mini Maltipoos. The same goes for Cavapoos or any other Doodle breed.

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Are they Family Friendly?

The most important question for family people is which one is more family-friendly: the Cavapoo or Maltipoo?

Both pups are great family pets and get along well with children. They love being around humans and crave all the attention they can get from the family.

However, Maltipoos might be a better choice for families with slightly older kids. Maltipoos might get a bit vocal, which can disturb the quiet time that babies need.

In addition to that, as Maltipoos are slightly smaller than Cavapoos, very young children may accidentally hurt them. Then again, this also applies to very small Cavapoos. 

All in all, both Doods are regarded as very family friendly dogs who don’t shy away even from strangers. But the key here is proper socialization. This ensures that your pup gets used to people of all ages and all sorts of regular household sights, sounds, and situations.

Cavapoo vs Maltipoo: Which is the Puppy for You?

To sum it all up, here’s a quick comparison of both the Cavapoo and Maltipoo breeds:

Cavapoo	Maltipoo
Toy/small-sized breed, slightly larger than the Maltipoo	Toy/small-sized breed, slightly smaller than the Cavapoo
Friendly and outgoing by nature, more laid back than the Maltipoo	Loving and gentle, but can be quite vocal at times
Shorter snout and longer in comparison to the Maltipoo	Longer snout and shorter ears than the Cavapoo
Requires regular grooming	Requires regular grooming
May or may not come with a shedding undercoat	Always single-coated
Intelligent and easy to train	Likewise, Maltipoos have high levels of intelligence
Can thrive in smaller apartments as well as bigger houses	Thanks to their small size, Maltipoos won’t need a very spacious home, either
Expensive to adopt from a breeder	Expensive to adopt from a breeder.

To help you decide between the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo, here are a few key things to consider:

Opt for a Cavapoo if you:

• Are looking for a calmer and quieter pup
• Have smaller children in your family
• Don’t have severe allergies

The Maltipoo might be more suitable for you if you:

• Have dog dander allergy
• Don’t mind a vocal pup
• Have older children or teenagers

In conclusion, choosing between the Cavapoo vs Maltipoo is difficult – they’re both equally adorable, affectionate Doodles who love their humans above all else. They’re both small breeds, which makes them great even for apartment living. However, there are some key differences that you should consider before committing to your new pup for the next 15 years to come. Hopefully this guide has managed to answer all of your questions about these two crossbreeds, so you can be one step closer to making your decision.