Introduction to F1 Maltipoos
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.

