Published Friday, October 25, 2024 by Elena R. in Popular Dogs
If you’re looking for an adorable, friendly, and hypoallergenic dog, you’ve probably come across the F1 Maltipoo. This little bundle of joy is a cross between a purebred Maltese and a purebred Poodle. This combination gives you the best of both worlds—intelligence, affection, and that oh-so-cute look!
F1 Maltipoos are great for families, seniors, and everyone in between, even people living in apartments. They’re known for being loving companions, and their low-shedding coat is a huge plus for people with allergies. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about F1 Maltipoos—from their size and personality to caring for them.
Table of Contents
What Does "F1" Mean in F1 Maltipoo?
AI image of an F1 Maltipoo next to an F1b Maltipoo: generated with ChatGPT.
So, what exactly does "F1" mean? Simply put, an F1 Maltipoo is the first generation of a cross between two purebred parents: a Maltese and a Poodle. This means they’re a perfect 50/50 mix of both breeds, which gives them a pretty balanced blend of traits from each parent.
These first-generation puppies tend to have soft, wavy coats that are mostly hypoallergenic, which is a big reason why they’re so popular. They also inherit the intelligence of the Poodle and the sweet, affectionate personality of the Maltese.
F1, F1B, and F2 Maltipoos: What’s the Difference?
- F1 Maltipoo: A first-generation mix (50% Maltese, 50% Poodle). Known for a balanced mix of traits from both parents.
- F1B Maltipoo: This one is 75% Poodle and 25% Maltese (an F1 Maltipoo bred with a Poodle). Usually has a curlier coat that’s even more hypoallergenic.
- F2 Maltipoo: A second-generation Maltipoo (both parents are F1 Maltipoos). Their traits can be a little more unpredictable when it comes to coat texture and shedding.
Each version has its own perks, so it’s all about what you’re looking for!
F1 Maltipoo Size, Coat, and Temperament
AI image of an F1 Maltipoo puppy: generated with ChatGPT.
Size
F1 Maltipoos are on the smaller side. They typically weigh between 5 to 10 pounds, depending on whether their Poodle parent is a Toy or Miniature size. They’re usually 9 to 12 inches tall, the perfect size for both small apartments and larger homes. Their small size also makes them super easy to handle—great for families with kids or even seniors who want a smaller dog that’s easy to manage.
Coat
Let’s talk about one of the biggest selling points: their hypoallergenic coat. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, F1 Maltipoos come pretty close. Thanks to the Poodle genes, they shed very little, which is a lifesaver for people with allergies.
Their coats are usually soft and wavy, sometimes with a slight curl. You’ll find them in a range of colors—everything from white and cream to apricot, black, or even gray.
RELATED: Complete Guide to All Maltipoo Colors
Temperament
If you’re after a sweet, friendly, and playful dog, an F1 Maltipoo has all the boxes checked. They’re social dogs that thrive on attention, and they’re great with kids, other pets, and even strangers. Their Maltese side brings in the gentle, loving personality, while the Poodle side adds smarts and a bit of playfulness.
These pups are also known for being pretty easy to train, thanks to their Poodle genes. But keep in mind, F1 Maltipoos don’t like being left alone for long periods. They’re social butterflies and can get a little anxious if they’re on their own too much.
RELATED: 20 Pros and Cons of Owning a Maltipoo
Caring for an F1 Maltipoo
AI image of an adult F1 Maltipoo dog: generated with ChatGPT.
Taking care of an F1 Maltipoo isn’t hard, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Let’s break down their grooming, exercise, feeding, and overall health needs.
Grooming
Because of their wavy or curly coats, regular grooming is important to keep your Maltipoo looking (and feeling) great. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to do:
- Brush your Maltipoo’s coat at least 3–4 times a week to prevent tangles and mats.
- Schedule a professional grooming session every 6–8 weeks to keep their coat trimmed and clean.
- Keep their ears clean to avoid infections, especially since their floppy ears can trap moisture.
- Brush their teeth 2–3 times a week to prevent dental issues (small dogs like Maltipoos are prone to tooth problems).
- Trim their nails regularly, usually every 3–4 weeks, to keep them comfortable.
RELATED: Maltipoo Grooming Guide for Beginners
Exercise
F1 Maltipoos are active little dogs, but they don’t need a ton of exercise. A daily walk and some playtime around the house will do the trick. Aim for about 30 minutes of exercise a day. They love games and toys that challenge their brains too, so puzzle toys or interactive games are a great way to keep them happy and entertained.
RELATED: Are Maltipoos Smart?
Feeding
When it comes to feeding, make sure you’re giving your F1 Maltipoo high-quality dog food that’s right for their size and age. Small dogs can gain weight quickly, so be careful not to overfeed them. Treats are fine but try to stick to the 10% rule—no more than 10% of their daily calories should come from treats.
Health
Like all dogs, F1 Maltipoos need regular vet check-ups. Some health issues to watch out for include dental problems, allergies, and ear infections. Regular vet visits and keeping up with vaccinations, flea treatments, and dental care will help keep your pup healthy.
On the bright side, with proper care, an F1 Maltipoo can live a happy, healthy life. They usually have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
How to Find an F1 Maltipoo Breeder
AI image of F1 Maltipoo puppies: generated with ChatGPT.
Finding a reputable breeder is super important when you’re looking for an F1 Maltipoo puppy. Here’s what to look for:
Do Your Research
Check out breeders online, read reviews, and ask for recommendations. A good breeder will have a strong reputation and be happy to answer any questions you have.
Ask About Health Testing
Good breeders will test their breeding dogs for common health issues. Ask for health certificates to make sure the puppies come from healthy parents.
Ask About Health Guarantees
A reputable breeder will offer a health guarantee to match their confidence in the health of their puppies. If they don’t offer one, consider it a red flag.
RELATED: Learn about Premier Pup’s 10 Year Health Guarantee
F1 Maltipoo vs. F1B and F2: Which is Best for You?
When choosing between an F1, F1B, or F2 Maltipoo, it all depends on your needs and lifestyle.
- F1 Maltipoos: Best for people who want a balanced mix of traits from both parents.
- F1B Maltipoos: These are better for people with severe allergies, thanks to their higher percentage of Poodle genes.
- F2 Maltipoos: If you don’t mind a bit of unpredictability in coat type and personality, F2s can be a fun choice!
RELATED: Check out our available F1 Maltipoo puppies for sale
Scroll down to see FAQs about F1 Maltipoos.
Elena R.
About The Author
Elena is a leading expert in the field of dog behavior, care, and training, with over a decade of experience in writing about dogs. As a published writer and lifelong dog enthusiast, Elena currently shares her home with three beloved canine companions. She is dedicated to staying up to date on the latest advancements in dog care and training, ensuring that her articles provide readers with accurate and valuable insights. With her extensive knowledge and passion for all things canine, Elena's contributions to the Premier Pups community offer both expertise and authority on a wide range of dog-related topics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an F1 and F1B Maltipoo? An F1 Maltipoo is a first-generation mix between a Maltese and a Poodle, while an F1B Maltipoo is a backcross—an F1 Maltipoo bred with a Poodle. F1Bs tend to have curlier, more hypoallergenic coats.
How much exercise does an F1 Maltipoo need? F1 Maltipoos need about 30 minutes of exercise a day. This can be a combination of walking, playing, and some indoor fun like games or puzzle toys.
Are F1 Maltipoos hypoallergenic? Yes, F1 Maltipoos are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats, inherited from their Poodle parent. However, no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, and some F1 Maltipoos may shed a little, so it’s best to spend time with one before adopting if allergies are a concern.
How much do F1 Maltipoos cost? F1 Maltipoos typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on factors like breeder reputation, location, and the puppy’s lineage. Be sure to choose a reputable breeder to ensure you’re getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy.
How big do F1 Maltipoos get? F1 Maltipoos usually weigh between 5 to 10 pounds and stand about 9 to 12 inches tall, depending on whether the Poodle parent is a Toy or Miniature Poodle.
Are F1 Maltipoos easy to train? Yes, F1 Maltipoos are generally easy to train due to their intelligence, which they inherit from both parents, especially from the Poodle side of the family.
Do F1 Maltipoos bark a lot? Maltipoos can be moderately vocal, but it depends on the individual dog’s temperament and training. They may bark when excited, bored, or trying to alert you to something, but with proper training, you can manage excessive barking.
What is the lifespan of an F1 Maltipoo? F1 Maltipoos typically live between 12 to 15 years. With proper care, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine vet check-ups, they can live long, happy lives.
Do F1 Maltipoos get along with other pets? Yes, F1 Maltipoos are generally friendly and get along well with other dogs and pets. Early socialization is key to helping them interact positively with other animals, and they’re typically a great fit for homes with multiple pets.
Can F1 Maltipoos be left alone? F1 Maltipoos are social dogs and don’t do well being left alone for long periods. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often. If you work long hours, you might want to consider doggy daycare or a pet sitter to keep your Maltipoo company.
How much grooming does an F1 Maltipoo need? F1 Maltipoos need regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition. Brush them 3-4 times a week to prevent mats and tangles, and schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Don’t forget to clean their ears, brush their teeth, and trim their nails regularly.