Cavapoo vs Maltipoo Breed Comparison [Photos]
Both the Cavapoo and Maltipoo Poodle Mix dogs have grown extreme popularity over the last couple of decades, and have become a go-to option for a lot of small families across the world.
Though both breeds are extremely similar in terms of size, weight, and stature, there are actually a variety of differences between these two friendly pups.
Before we get into the primary similarities (and differences), we should first look to understand some of the common characteristics of the two breeds.
Cavapoo Vs Maltipoo Similarities
Size
One of the primary features that these two crossbreeds have in common is there general size, in terms of height, weight, and overall stature (though Cavapoo’s may tend to have a slightly greater height/weight on average).
Friendliness
Both of these cute, cuddly dogs are EXTREMELY friendly, affectionate, and sociable. Either dog is great around other dogs, and people, however Cavapoo’s are known to be a little better with children, and are more common as therapy dogs.
Coat
Due to the fact that both of these breeds have Poodle in their DNA, they are likely to have a very soft, and curly coat. Both are medium-long in terms of length, and are known to be low shedding dogs. Though because the Maltipoo is 50% Maltese, the coat is either going to be straight like a Maltese, or curly like a Poodle.
Also, there is a notable difference between the two in terms of the colour of their coats, as Cavapoo’s usually have a similar colour-pattern as the Cavalier spaniel, and Maltipoo’s tend to be the colour of whichever parent had the dominant Poodle traits.
Intelligence/Trainability
Both breeds are very intelligent, and not only love people, but they love to learn. The Poodle breed is one of the more intelligent, and easy-to-train dogs in the world, and luckily both the Cavapoo, and the Maltipoo, have been able to adapt these traits as well. It is worth mentioning however, that Cavapoo’s can be a little bit harder to potty train, so just be patient with them, they will pick it up eventually!
Separation anxiety
Likely due to the fact that both of these dogs are very friendly towards people, they are more prone to become dependent on them as well. This can become a problem as they generally don’t like to be left at home for extended periods of time (though Cavapoos are slightly more independent).
Key Differences Between Cavapoo and Maltipoo
Barking
Maltipoos certainly have a bit more of a “yappy” tendency, as they are more likely to bark when they get excited. Whereas Cavapoos generally have no aggressive, or “prey-like” drive at all, part of the reason why they are so great for families.
With that being said, this does give the Maltipoo the slight advantage in terms of security, as they are definitely louder, and more aggressive than the Cavapoo (though I’m sure neither is particularly ideal as a guard dog).
Fragility
Though they offer very similar features in terms of height, and weight, Maltipoos typically are more fragile than a Cavapoo. Likely because they are not as sturdy, and more emotionally sensitive, Malitpoos are often scared easily by a lot of movement, generally causing them to become aggressive, or overly protective.
They also are more prone to being dropped, and therefore potentially getting injured, as they may not have the strength to embrace the fall. This could become problematic with families with small children, as Maltipoos are often hurt by bigger dogs or animals, having small children handling them a lot could be an issue if they are not careful.
Shedding
Although both of these breeds are allergy friendly, the Maltipoo is completely hypoallergenic, as both the Maltese, and the Poodle are non-shedding, and hypoallergenic. Cavapoos only have one parent that is hypoallergenic (Poodle), so there is no guarantee that they will not shed, but they will certainly shed less than a purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Health issues
Because each one of these breeds are crossed with another, the potential health risks of both breeds need to be considered. So, for the Cavapoo, they are bred from a Poodle, and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and because these two dogs have very different genetic makeups, the history of both breeds need to be taken into account.
As such, Cavapoos are more prone to things like Mitral Valve Disease, or Syringomyelia with the combination of the two breeds. Whereas Maltipoos don’t carry as much risk, and are (in general) a very healthy breed.
Some Maltese dogs can develop glaucoma, and other retinal issues, dental problems, or knee, liver, or joint issues as well, but in general they are much healthier than most dogs in these departments. Although, due to their Maltese background, they are more susceptible to certain allergies, and food sensitivities.
Life expectancy
Though slight, there is a small difference here as far as life expectancy is concerned. Generally speaking, most crossbreed (or hybrid) dogs are much healthier than purebred dogs because they are able to take the health benefits from both species, rather than just one.
When it comes to life expectancy, this will entirely depend on the medical history of the two parents which (because it is a hybrid dog) would be next to impossible to find out. So, it is hard to say for sure what the life expectancy will be for any crossbreed, but it is know that Maltipoos have a slightly greater life expectancy than Cavapoos.
Cavapoo Traits
Cavapoos were first bred back in the 1950’s, but became especially popular later on in the 1990’s (specifically in Australia where they were bred extensively at the time).
Cavapoo dogs are extremely friendly, furry, and smart animals, making them perfect as a companion, or as family pet. They are ideal dealing with other animals, and even for families with small children.
A Cavapoo puppy is a mix between a Poodle (mini), and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, though it tends to look a lot more like a Cavalier (due to the fur texture), and is quite a bit larger than a toy Poodle.
Cavapoos have only been around for a few decades, but they have already become one of the more popular choices for many pet owners.
Due to the fact that they are a crossbreed, their fur can vary between the Spaniel’s silky texture, and the fluffiness of the Poodle, though they are considered to be a low-shedding dog breed.
Aside from the inevitable cuteness factor, these dogs are VERY intelligent, and absolutely LOVE to learn. Most likely due to their Poodle heritage, Cavapoos are very quick to learn, and they are very obedient, making them tremendous for training, and companionship.
A Cavapoo dog has a very sweet demeanor, and are one of the friendliest dog breeds, making them ideal companions for any pet owner. They are also extremely friendly to other dogs (which as we all know can be rare to find), and are widely known to be tremendous therapy dogs as well.
They are also well known to be very loyal, affectionate, friendly, and loving. They thrive on human companionship, and being social with other dogs. With that being said, they are a bit more independent than Maltipoos, as they do not ALWAYS have to be with their owner. They are generally able to occupy their time in other ways.
A specific advantage the Cavapoo has is that they generally inherit more of a Poodle coat, meaning that they are less likely to shed. Though it is not technically hypoallergenic like the Maltipoo (which we will get into later). Doodle breeds are typically low shedding and many are hypoallergenic.
Cavapoo’s can reach a height of 9-14 inches (23-35cm), and their weight is typically anywhere from 6-14 inches (5-11kg).
Life span for a Cavapoo ranges from 13-15 years – specific Cavapoo breeder advice varies depending on size. A small dog will live longer than a large dog.
Maltipoo Specific Traits
Though the Maltese dog breed has been bred since the 1850’s, Maltipoos are a relatively new companion dog, having only gained recent popularity over the last 20-30 years. They were initially bred in order to create a dog that was playful, and intelligent, yet one that also didn’t shed a whole lot.
Maltipoo dog’s are a very popular designer dog, and are one of the cutest, most lively, and active little pups you will ever find. They are a mix between a Maltese, and a Poodle, essentially taking the cute, friendly demeanor of a Maltese, and mixing it with the intelligence, and obedience of a Poodle. They are well known for being very fun-loving, and affectionate towards those around them.
Although, an important note for Maltipoos is that they are sensitive in nature, and so sometimes raising your voice, or using negative reinforcement can stimulate more stress for the dog. Training that utilizes positive reinforcement typically works better with this breed, but in general they love to learn, and are very easy to train (as long as you do it the right way).
Much like the Cavapoo, the coat of the Multipoo is medium-long in length, soft, and fluffy in texture, with a wavy or curly style (depending on the parents). If you compare a Cockapoo vs either of these two breeds you will find similar coats. (See our Cavapoo Vs Cockapoo guide)
Maltipoos are sweet, active, and loving dogs that do require a lot of attention, and a lot of walks. They are very sensitive in nature, and therefore need a lot of attention, but in return they are one of the most adorable, lovable dogs you could ever own.
They are very dependant on their owners however, as Cavapoos are more likely to go off and do their own thing, Maltipoos tend to cling to their owners side, and follow them around all the time.
Warm, affectionate, and sociable temperament, Maltipoos make for great companions. Although, likely due to their sensitive nature, and small stature, Maltipoos are not as friendly towards younger children as Cavapoos are, and they are more prone to barking a lot.
One interesting point about Maltipoo’s, is that they are hypoallergenic, whereas cavapoo’s are not. The reason for this is the heritage of the two dogs, since Maltipoos come from two breeds that are both hypoallergenic (Poodle, and Maltese), and Cavapoos only have one (Poodle).
Maltipoo’s can range in size anywhere between just 3 pounds (3.1kg), to a whopping 20 pounds (5.8kg)! Because this weight range is relatively vast, the height will typically range as well, anywhere from 8-12 inches (20.32-30.48cm).
Life span – 10-15 years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes down to deciding between these two tremendous dogs, there really is no way you can go wrong. They are both very loving, friendly, cute, cuddly, and intelligent dogs that are an excellent option whether you are simply looking for a companion, or a family pet.
However, many people still get them mixed up a lot of the time, and rightly so, as they share a variety of very common characteristics. Before embarking on the remarkably rewarding journey of becoming a Cavapoo and/or Maltipoo owner, it is paramount that you understand the differences in temperament, and personality.
Though they have a lot in common, they do also have significant differences which we have referenced throughout this article.
At the end of the day, no matter which pup you end up choosing, the most important thing is that you become aware of their specific wants, and needs, and that you show immense love to them every day. (and don’t forget you can rescue a Cavapoo or Maltipoo).
