Cockapoo vs Maltipoo – Key Differences, Temperament, Size & Care Guide
Choosing between a Cockapoo and a Maltipoo can be challenging because both are adorable, smart, and affectionate designer dog breeds. When comparing Cockapoo vs Maltipoo, each mix brings a different combination of personality, size, grooming needs, and lifestyle fit. This guide compares them in detail—covering their temperament, training, health, and adaptability—to help you find the perfect companion for your family.
Cockapoo Overview
The Cockapoo is a cross between a Poodle and an American or English Cocker Spaniel. One of the earliest designer breeds, it first appeared in the United States in the 1950s, bred to combine the Spaniel’s gentle personality with the Poodle’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat.
Cockapoos are outgoing, loyal, and full of energy. They love being part of family life, playing outdoors, and spending time with their people. Their affectionate and adaptable nature makes them excellent for families, singles, and seniors alike.
Breed Traits
- Friendly and energetic
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Medium-sized, sturdy body
- Loves companionship and family activities
- Excellent with kids and other pets
Cockapoos weigh 20–60 pounds and stand 10–16 inches tall, depending on whether they’re bred from a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle. Their cheerful spirit and people-pleasing personality make them one of the most loved family dogs worldwide.
Maltipoo Overview
The Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, first bred in Australia during the 1980s. Small, charming, and affectionate, the Maltipoo is loved for its sweet nature and adaptability to various lifestyles.
Maltipoos are gentle, playful, and intelligent, thriving in apartments and smaller homes. They bond deeply with their owners and are happiest when close to them, making them excellent companions for people of all ages.
Breed Traits
- Gentle and affectionate temperament
- Great for apartment living
- Soft, fluffy coat that’s low-shedding
- Quick to learn and eager to please
- Loves cuddles and calm environments
Weighing 5–20 pounds and standing 8–14 inches tall, Maltipoos are smaller than Cockapoos but just as loving. Their calm personality makes them perfect for quieter homes or first-time pet owners.
Size and Physical Differences
When comparing Cockapoo vs Maltipoo, the difference in size is one of the most noticeable traits.
Cockapoo Size & Appearance
Cockapoos are typically larger, standing 9–18 inches tall and weighing 15–30 pounds (Miniature) or up to 55–80 pounds (Standard). Their coats are soft and curly, often seen in colors such as brown, black, cream, red, or apricot. Their expressive eyes and longer ears give them a charming and playful appearance.
Maltipoo Size & Appearance
Maltipoos are smaller and lighter, standing 8–14 inches tall and weighing 4–6 pounds. Their fluffy, teddy-bear-like coats come in white, cream, silver, or apricot, giving them a delicate and adorable look.
Both breeds are low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy-sensitive families. Cockapoos are sturdier, while Maltipoos are daintier and require gentler handling.
Temperament and Personality
Cockapoo Temperament
Cockapoos are happy, outgoing, and social dogs that thrive in busy homes filled with love and activity. They inherit a mix of Spaniel warmth and Poodle intelligence, making them friendly, affectionate, and eager to learn.
They enjoy spending time outdoors, meeting new people, and playing with children. Because of their high intelligence, they need mental stimulation and exercise to stay well-behaved.
Maltipoo Temperament
Maltipoos are calmer and more sensitive compared to Cockapoos. They prefer peaceful environments and close companionship with their families. They love attention, affection, and cuddles, making them perfect lapdogs.
While they’re social, they can be shy around strangers at first. Their small size makes them better suited to homes with older children or gentle handling.
Training and Exercise Needs
Cockapoo Training & Exercise
Cockapoos are smart and motivated by praise and treats. They enjoy learning new tricks and games, making training both easy and fun.
Exercise Routine:
- 45–60 minutes daily of walks, fetch, or active play
- Interactive games and mental challenges like puzzle toys
- Short, engaging training sessions (10–15 minutes)
They love agility, obedience work, and family activities. A bored Cockapoo may bark or chew, so regular playtime is important.
Maltipoo Training & Exercise
Maltipoos are quick learners but more sensitive, so they respond best to gentle encouragement and reward-based methods.
Exercise Routine:
- 30 minutes daily of light walks or indoor play
- Short games and puzzle toys for mental stimulation
- Gentle, patient training with positive feedback
Both breeds are intelligent and enjoy pleasing their owners, but Cockapoos need more exercise, while Maltipoos are content with shorter, quieter routines.
Grooming and Coat Care
Both breeds have soft, low-shedding coats but require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles.
Cockapoo Grooming
- Brush 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles
- Bathe every 6 weeks
- Clean ears regularly to avoid infections
- Trim nails every 4–6 weeks
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Their curly coats vary in texture, and consistent grooming keeps them healthy and looking adorable.
Maltipoo Grooming
- Brush 3–5 times per week
- Bathe every 6–8 weeks
- Clean eyes and ears often to prevent tear staining
- Trim nails regularly and check teeth for buildup
Maltipoos’ finer hair tangles more easily, so brushing is key to keeping their coats silky and comfortable.
Health and Lifespan
Both breeds are generally healthy but can inherit conditions from their parent breeds.
Cockapoo Health
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Common issues:
- Ear infections
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye conditions (like PRA)
- Allergies
- Regular vet visits and a balanced diet promote long-term health.
Maltipoo Health
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Common issues:
- Dental problems
- Collapsing trachea
- Tear staining
- Luxating patella (knee issue)
- Regular dental cleaning and proper care extend their lifespan.
Maltipoos may live slightly longer due to their smaller size, while Cockapoos are generally hardier and more athletic.
Living Conditions and Adaptability
Cockapoo Living Needs
Cockapoos are great for active families and can adapt to apartment life if exercised properly. They’re social, playful, and love having company.
Ideal for:
- Families with kids
- Homes with space for play
- Owners who enjoy outdoor walks
Maltipoo Living Needs
Maltipoos are perfect for smaller homes or apartments and do well with seniors or calm households. They love cuddling and being close to their people.
Ideal for:
- Apartment living
- Gentle families or seniors
- Quiet, relaxed homes
Both breeds form strong attachments and don’t like being left alone for long periods, as this can cause separation anxiety.
Cost and Maintenance
Cockapoo Cost
- Price range: $1,500–$3,000
- Ongoing costs: food, vet checkups, grooming, and exercise equipment
- Moderate maintenance but needs frequent play and social time
Maltipoo Cost
- Price range: $1,500–$4,000
- Ongoing costs: grooming supplies, vet visits, and care items
- Slightly higher grooming frequency but lower exercise needs
Always choose reputable breeders who perform genetic testing on parent dogs to ensure a healthy puppy.
Pros and Cons
| Breed | Pros | Cons |
| Cockapoo | Friendly, energetic, easy to train, family-friendly | Needs more exercise, prone to separation anxiety |
| Maltipoo | Cute, gentle, easy to carry, great for apartments | Fragile, sensitive, requires gentle handling |
Cockapoo vs Maltipoo: Which Breed Is Right for You?
Both dogs are affectionate, intelligent, and loyal, but your lifestyle decides which one suits you better.
Choose a Cockapoo if you want:
- A lively, playful dog for family adventures
- An energetic breed that loves being outdoors
- A social companion for active homes
Choose a Maltipoo if you prefer:
- A smaller, calm, affectionate lapdog
- A low-maintenance pet for apartments or seniors
- A gentle, loving companion who enjoys cuddles
Both are incredible choices that bring joy, loyalty, and companionship to any home.
Conclusion
The Cockapoo and Maltipoo share many wonderful qualities—intelligence, affection, and adaptability. The Cockapoo fits active lifestyles and busy families, while the Maltipoo is ideal for quiet households or first-time owners. Both breeds are loving, loyal, and low-shedding, making them fantastic companions.
With proper care, grooming, and love, either of these adorable Poodle mixes will fill your home with happiness and warmth.
FAQs
What is better, Maltipoo or Cavapoo?
A Maltipoo is smaller and calmer, while a Cavapoo is more playful and social—choose based on your activity level.
Do Maltipoos like to cuddle?
Yes! Maltipoos are affectionate lapdogs who love spending time in your arms or beside you.
Do Cockapoos or Maltipoos require more grooming?
Both need routine care, but Maltipoos require slightly more due to their finer, softer fur. Are Cockapoos or Maltipoos easier to train?
Both are smart and responsive, but Cockapoos are often a bit more eager and focused during training.
