How Much Does A Maltipoo Cost? Factors & Ongoing Costs

The adorable Maltipoo has certainly won our hearts, and likely yours too! For anyone planning to adopt a Maltipoo, the next big question would be – how much does a Maltipoo cost to adopt? 

In this guide, we’ll discuss the average Maltipoo cost of adoption and what determines the Maltipoo price, and what expenses you should take into account before committing to this wonderful small companion for many years to come. Let’s get into it!

Maltipoo Price: How Much Does A Maltipoo Cost?

Like other Doodles, the amazing Maltese-Poodle mix has quickly become one of the most coveted breeds out there. They’re friendly, affectionate, and their fun-sized stature makes them suitable even for apartment living. It’s no surprise that they’re so in-demand. 

But how much does a Maltipoo cost to adopt? The Maltipoo price varies, but you can get a Maltipoo puppy for as low as $1500 and up to $4500, even more in some cases. On average, Maltipoo puppies cost at least $2000. However, there are some reputable breeders in the US who do serve their customers slightly below that price range. 

In addition to that, don’t forget that your new puppy is another mouth to feed and another living being to care for. This includes their food, vet bills, training, and other daily supplies and necessities. We’ll cover all that a bit later on in this article. But first, let’s discuss what determines the Maltipoo cost of adoption. 

Factors That Determine Maltipoo Price

Genetic Guarantees

As with any other breed, one of the most influential factors that drive up the Maltipoo price are genetic guarantees. This includes rigorous health screening and additional health guarantees upon adoption.

Firstly, responsible breeders only breed new litters from rigorously health tested parent dogs to detect any genetic conditions that could be passed onto the puppies. Secondly, ethical breeders also offer health guarantees that cover any serious or life threatening genetic conditions. Most breeders offer health guarantees that cover the first one or two years from adoption. 

“Each puppy that comes from Ginger’s Maltese will go home with:

– 1 Year Health guarantee

– First vaccination

– Dewormed

– Health record

– Report from vet examination

– Registration (If available)

– Bag of puppy food 

– Pre-spoiled

– Snuggle Puppy with mom and litter mates scent” – Ginger’s Maltese

Location

Of course, one of the key factors that determines the Maltipoo cost is your geographical location. Typically, breeders in more populated and metropolitan areas charge more for their puppies, some even by a few thousand dollars. The Maltipoo cost is generally tied to the cost of living in your area.

And even though you’ll likely find reputable breeders cheaper in less populated states, it doesn’t guarantee that your overall Maltipoo price will be that much lower. Remember, you’ll also have to factor in the delivery, flight nanny, and airfare expenses. All of which you’d have to pay out of your own pocket. 

Breeder Stock

Next up, we’ll also have to consider the breeding stock, which can very much influence how much a breeder charges for their puppies. Maltipoos can come in various generations – first-generation, first-generation backcross variations, second-generation, and so on. Usually, first-generation Maltipoos cost the least, as they only require a purebred Maltese and a purebred Poodle as parents. 

However, as we’re moving onto the backcross generations and later, a breeder needs to have at least one first-generation Maltipoo as a breeding dog, if not more. This also means that they have to carefully select their breeding dogs to ensure that there’s no inbreeding involved. 

Demand

Needless to say, the high demand for Maltipoos and other Doodles has also driven up the price for these pups. Poodle mixes are extremely sought-after and it seems like everyone wants a little Doodle puppy. Not that it’s a bad thing! 

To keep up with the growing demand while providing the best care for their breeding dogs and puppies, reputable breeders charge premium rates. This is also true for highly populated areas, as the demand there is usually higher. 

On the other hand, this does not mean that breeders can immediately cater everyone. Reputable breeders often have waitlists filled for 6 months in advance, if not longer. 

Size & Coat Type

Another thing you might want to consider is that some Doodle breeders also charge higher prices for certain sizes and coat types. For the Maltipoo, the coat type usually isn’t much of a determining factor, as these pups always come with a low to non-shedding coat thanks to both of its parents being single-coated.

However, it’s not uncommon for breeders to charge more for smaller Maltipoos. Toy Maltipoos, which are the smaller ones, are a bit harder to come across. Therefore, you can expect to pay slightly more for these pups.  

Breeder Reputation

Lastly, as we’ve mentioned a few times by now, ethical and reputable breeders do charge higher prices for their puppies. Not only is the breeder’s reputation determined by their social media followers or local fame, they actually have earned their place as top breeders thanks to their responsible breeding practices. 

Ethical breeders conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing, they provide the breeding dogs and puppies a safe and nurturing environment, and they’re well-versed in all the crucial enrichment activities that will set your new puppy up for success. Of course, they’re also confident in their work, which allows them to offer genetic health guarantees. 

What’s more, many of them are even affiliated with established organizations. These include the American Kennel Club (AKC), Continental Kennel Club (CKC), or the Good Dog’s Responsible Breeding Program. 

Maltipoo Cost: Different Types Of Maltipoo Breeders And How Price Varies

So, as we mentioned before, reputable breeders tend to charge more for their Maltipoo puppies. But what sets reputable breeders apart and how can you differentiate between ethical and unethical breeders? Let’s take a closer look. 

Professional Maltipoo Breeders

If you’re set on adopting your new puppy from a breeder and not a shelter, a professional breeder should be your top choice. These breeders strive for the highest quality and their financial gain isn’t the only motivation for this job. 

Professional Maltipoo breeders continuously educate themselves on current research and responsible breeding practices. In fact, many of them work closely with mentors, established organizations, and other experienced breeders to share knowledge and produce the healthiest litters.

Naturally, professional breeders conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. They make sure that no dog is overbred and their dogs and puppies are well taken care of. In addition to that, they’re educated on nutrition, training techniques, enrichment methods, socialization, and much more. 

How much does a Maltipoo cost to adopt from a professional breeder? These are the reputable breeders who charge ‘premium’ rates, typically between the $2000 and $4000 range. However, in certain locations, responsible breeders may charge as low as $1500 for a Maltipoo puppy. 

Maltipoo Price In The US From Reputable Breeders: Comparing Responsible Breeding Programs In Different States

Because the Maltipoo’s price can significantly vary even when adopting from a trustworthy, reputable breeder, we decided to take a closer look and see what are the differences between various states. Below you’ll find a list of reputable Maltipoo breeders in states all across the US and how their puppy prices can vary. 

Keep in mind, however, that these are prices for puppies that are sold as pets only. If you’re considering breeding new litters, the pricing will be significantly higher. 

In addition to that, these are just the initial costs of adopting a Maltipoo puppy from a breeder. Transportation and flight nanny services usually come with an additional cost, but not always. And furthermore, don’t forget to factor in the ongoing costs of Maltipoo ownership, which we’ll cover soon after. 

Breeder	State	Cost
Red Poppy Pets	Alabama	$1,000 – $1,800
doodles.puppes	California	$2,000 – $2,500
Puppy Love Palace at HB Farm	Florida	$2,500
Ann’s Designer Poodles, Maltipoos, and Cavapoos	Georgia	$1,700 – $2,300
Mias Bayou Puppies, LLC	Louisiana	$1,200 – $3,500
Emily’s Pups	Missouri	$2,500
Little Toy Poodles	North Carolina	$3,000
X-Designer Breeds	Texas	$1,500 – $1,650
Just For Maltipoo	Virginia	$1,200

Backyard Breeders

Then we have backyard breeders that, as you might guess, aren’t as experienced or educated on responsible breeding practices, health screening, or the overall care of the breeding dogs and puppies. 

Typically, backyard breeders do not conduct any health and genetic testing nor do they offer health guarantees for their puppies. They don’t operate as legal businesses and they rarely provide any documentation or contracts. 

Moreover, when comparing backyard breeders to professional breeders, we see that there’s a huge gap in knowledge when it comes to puppy rearing and enrichment methods. Although it might seem like it doesn’t require much effort to breed two dogs together and then feed the puppies after they’re born, those very first weeks are crucial for the puppies’ proper development. This includes early socialization, various forms of training, household desensitization, grooming, and so forth. 

Of course, there are many backyard breeders who just want to share the joy of Doodle puppies. However, if they don’t have the necessary education nor knowledge required to breed healthy puppies, it just won’t cut it. 

Unfortunately, that’s usually the case with backyard breeders. “Backyard breeders often do not adequately provide for all the special needs of the mother and her offspring. Inadequate nutrition, infectious diseases (e.g., kennel cough, parvovirus), parasite infestations (e.g., fleas and worms), behavioral problems, health issues, and genetic abnormalities are common in these situations, placing the welfare of animals at risk. Backyard breeding contributes to the unwanted companion animal population, and results in more animals in animal shelters.” – RSPCA

How much does a Maltipoo cost to adopt from a backyard breeder? Backyard breeders tend to charge around $1000 for a puppy, give or take. 

Puppy Mills

And finally, there’s a growing number of puppy mills that claim to specialize in breeding Maltipoo puppies. It’s no surprise, as the Maltipoo has become increasingly popular and there are always people looking to adopt a small Doodle puppy. Puppy mills take advantage of people who haven’t done their research and are looking to adopt puppies at a much lower price point.

Puppy mills are unethical facilities through and through. First of all, they keep their breeding mamas on tight schedules, which results in overbreeding. Of course, this is by no means healthy for the dogs’ physical or mental health. 

In addition to that, puppy mills keep their dogs and puppies in unsafe, inhumane conditions. Often in dirty cages without proper nutrition, clean drinking water, or veterinary care. More often than not, their puppies come with severe health conditions either from inbreeding, not providing them proper care, by not conducting health screening, or all of the above. 

How much does a Maltipoo cost to adopt from a puppy mill? You guessed it, puppy mills charge the lowest prices, starting from $500 for a puppy. 

What’s extremely unfortunate is that many people aren’t educated enough on this topic and fall for the best ‘bargain’ that puppy mills advertise. Meanwhile, failing to realize that they’ll be spending much more money in the long run on vet bills. In worst cases, the puppies come with such severe health problems that lead to death soon afterwards. 

Costs Of Maltipoo Ownership

Now that we’ve covered the initial Maltipoo cost of adoption, you might also be interested to learn about the ongoing expenses of dog ownership. How much is a Maltipoo going to cost you in the long run? And what are the expenses that you should consider? Let’s take a closer look. 

“Expectations vs Reality – For 39 percent of pet parents, the actual upfront costs of bringing home a dog were not in-line with expectations. In fact, 38 percent expected to spend less than $500, while Rover research found that, on average, upfront costs can range from $1,050 to $4,480.” – Rover

Food – $450+ annually

An essential part of your dog’s everyday life is, of course, their diet. Now, there’s nothing wrong with finding good deals on dog food, as you can save quite a lot of money annually. However, your pup’s diet isn’t a place where you should cut corners.

A high quality and nutritious diet is by far the best and easiest way to support your dog’s health and wellbeing. Look for nutritionally balanced formulas that are made with real, high-quality ingredients, like these pup-approved foods for Maltipoos. On a monthly basis, a quality kibble can set you back around $40 to $50. 

Training – $240+ annually

Training is a crucial element that helps you raise your puppy into a well-rounded and confident adult. The great thing about responsible breeders is that they already introduce their puppies to early socialization, potty training, crate training, basic manners, and utilize various forms of enrichment methods. You’ll just have to keep up with the pace and stay consistent once your new puppy gets home.

Naturally, this doesn’t mean that you’ll get a perfectly well-behaved pup straight from the breeder. So, you might want to opt for physical training classes, hire a dog trainer, or try the Online Puppy School by Baxter & Bella.

The first two will cost you between $50 and $100 per session. In contrast, lifetime membership with Baxter & Bella will set you back around $200 and it covers *literally* everything you’ll need for successful Doodle training (minus the socialization part).  

Vet Visits– $250-$2,000 annually

Veterinary care is one of the most expensive costs that comes with dog ownership. It’s crucial that you carefully consider your financial abilities and have money saved up for those regular vet check-ups and unexpected accidents or illnesses that may require much more money. It would also be wise to subscribe to a pet insurance plan to minimize the costs. 

During your puppy’s first year at home, your puppy should receive all of its age appropriate vaccinations and preventative care for worms, heartworm, and fleas, and a spay or neuter surgery. These expenses can cost you up to a few thousand dollars in that first year. Over the upcoming years, regular vet check-ups will likely set you back around a few hundred dollars annually. 

Grooming – $450+ annually

The high-maintenance Maltipoo also requires regular brushing, bathing, hair trims, nail trims, and much more. First, you’ll have to invest in a good quality brush and a sturdy comb, as these pups are prone to matting and therefore should be brushed daily. 

Regular hair trims at a professional grooming salon will cost you between $50 and $100 for each session. Consider that a Maltipoo’s hair should be trimmed every 4 to 8 weeks – the costs will rack up quickly! 

What many Maltipoo owners do instead is grooming their Doods at home. This will save you a lot of time and money, and it’s another great way to bond with your pup. 

Time Investment

You probably know by now that owning a dog comes with its many joys and responsibilities. Before you adopt a Maltipoo, carefully consider if you have enough time for daily exercise, playtime, training, socialization, and regular grooming. And let’s not forget all the kisses and cuddles. 

As Maltipoos are such affectionate creatures, they are also prone to separation anxiety. For this reason, this breed would not be the best choice if you have to leave your dog alone for long periods of time. 

Other Maltipoo Costs – $300+ annually

In addition to all of the Maltipoo costs above, you’ll also have to factor in all the usual daily supplies. These include food and water bowls, a dog leash and a collar, dog beds and crates, toys and chew toys, treats, and poop bags. 

And if you have to work from an office or have to leave for trips once in a while, you might have to consider hiring a dog walker or a pet sitter. 

Where Can You Buy Maltipoos?

If you’ve carefully considered all the costs that come with owning a Maltipoo, the next question would be – how to find quality Maltipoo breeders? For this very reason, we created our Doodle Breeders Directory where we list ethical facilities that follow responsible breeding practices. 

Nevertheless, before adopting a Maltipoo, we recommend you learn more about this topic from our article on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. And remember, if you cannot adopt from an ethical breeder, opt for a dog rescue or shelter instead. Even so, Doodles like the Maltipoo very rarely end up in shelters – although it’s worth a shot!

Maltipoo Cost: FAQ

Maltipoo Cost: Final Thoughts 

It’s certainly understandable why Maltipoos have become so popular amongst dog lovers all across the globe. But before you take on this huge commitment of adopting a puppy, it’s crucial that you’ve weighed your financial abilities and whether or not you have the time and emotional capacity to care for another living being. After all, your new puppy will be a full-fledged family member and requires just as much love as anyone else. With all of the information provided above, we hope you’re one step closer to making your decision.