How to Breed a Maltipoo

A Maltipoo is a breed of dog known as a designer or hybrid dog, because it is not a purebreed but is bred from two purebred dogs. The Maltipoo is bred through the mating of a Maltese dog and a poodle, or through the breeding of generations of the offspring of the Maltipoo.

  1. Breeding

    • A Maltipoo can be bred through three generations of breeding, according to the North American Maltipoo/Maltepoo Club &Registry. The first generation of breeding takes place by breeding a purebred Maltese and a purebred poodle, the resulting offspring is known as a first generation Maltipoo. A second generation Maltipoo is born following the breeding of two first generation Maltipoos, or through the breeding of a first generation Maltipoo and either a purebred Maltese or poodle. Third generation puppies are created from the breeding of second generation Maltipoos, which have been bred from purebred dogs. Either a poodle or Maltese can be used as both the sire or the dam of Maltipoos.

    Purebred

    • Although a Maltipoo is created from the breeding of various generations of Maltese and poodle breeds, the combination of Maltese and poodle will not necessarily be a 50-50 split. Multi generational crosses can be dominated from either side and can possess recessive genes that maintain genetic problems of either breeds. A hybrid dog, such as the Maltipoo, is created to combine the appearance and temperament of the purebred dogs.

    Temperament

    • The temperament of the Maltipoo combines the qualities of the Maltese and the poodle, according to the Dog Breed Info Center. The Maltese breed is known for its long, silky coat and its gentle and affectionate nature. The Maltese is a small dog weighing up to 7 lbs. and has a lively, playful and fearless nature, the American Kennel Club reports. The poodle is an active, smart dog breed and excels at obedience training, the dog has a hypoallergenic coat. The Maltipoo will combine these temperament traits.

    Registration

    • The American Kennel Club holds a registry of designer dogs, including the Maltipoo to register members of the breed bred from purebred dogs. The registration of purebred dogs is only permitted for animals bred from registered dogs that display the characteristics and temperament of the breed. The difference between a designer dog and a mutt is that the parentage and ancestry of a designer dog, such as a Maltipoo is known, unlike the ancestry of a mutt.