## Quick Facts

- Largest of all terriers, often called the “King of Terriers” for both size and character  
- Bright, independent thinker that thrives on training, games, and varied activities  
- Harsh, wiry coat that sheds little but needs regular trimming or hand stripping  
- Versatile all‑rounder historically used for hunting, guarding, police and military work  
- Loyal family companion that bonds strongly with its people and often keeps a playful puppy attitude for years  

## Appearance & Coat

The Airedale Terrier is an impressive, athletic dog with a strong, square outline. Among terriers it occupies a unique place in terms of size. Adult males usually stand around 58 to 61 centimeters at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. Weight will vary depending on build and fitness, but many healthy adults fall in the 20 to 30 kilogram range. The body should look balanced and slightly rectangular, with a level topline, deep chest, and strong, straight legs that hint at the breed’s working background.

The head is one of the Airedale’s signatures. It is long and clean, with a flat skull and only a slight stop. The muzzle is powerful without being coarse, and framed by the characteristic beard and moustache. Dark, small eyes give a keen, intelligent and sometimes mischievous expression. Ears are V‑shaped and fold forward, carried neatly to the side of the head, which enhances the alert look that many people fall in love with.

The coat is another key feature of the Airedale Terrier. It has a dense, hard, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat close to the skin. This texture helps the dog stay protected from rain, thorns and rough ground. The most typical color is a black or grizzle saddle over the back and sides, with tan on the head, legs, chest and lower body. Some may have a darker or lighter shade of tan, but the pattern stays fairly consistent.

While the Airedale sheds relatively little compared with many other breeds, the coat does require regular attention. For pet owners, a sensible routine might include:

- Thorough brushing at least twice weekly to remove dead hair and prevent matting around the beard, armpits and rear legs  
- Tidying the beard after meals and drinking to avoid staining and unpleasant smells  
- Professional trimming or hand stripping every 8 to 12 weeks, depending on how crisp you want the coat to look  

Show dogs are usually hand stripped, which means removing the dead outer coat by hand or with a stripping knife. This keeps the texture hard and the color rich. Many pet Airedales are clipped instead, which is easier for some owners but can make the coat softer and sometimes lighter over time. Whichever you choose, regular grooming is important. Without it, the coat can become dense and uncomfortable, and the dog may start to itch.

Nails should be kept short, as long nails can affect posture and comfort. Because Airedales often love mud, puddles and rolling about, it is wise to have a mild dog shampoo at home. Frequent full baths are not usually necessary, but an occasional wash followed by careful drying can help keep the coat fresh, especially for active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

## Temperament & Personality

Living with an Airedale Terrier is rarely boring. This is a bright, curious and often comical dog that enjoys being in the middle of family life. Owners often describe Airedales as having a sense of humour. They quickly learn what gets a reaction, whether that is proudly parading around with a stolen sock or inventing their own games in the garden. This playful streak usually lasts well into adulthood, so potential owners should be prepared for a dog that may behave like a youngster longer than some other breeds.

As a family companion, the Airedale is typically affectionate and loyal. Many love to cuddle with “their” people once the day’s adventures are over. They usually form a close bond with the family and like to be included in daily routines. When properly socialised from a young age, Airedales can be very good with children, especially if the children are taught how to interact respectfully. Their sturdy build means they can cope better than many small breeds with the enthusiastic hugs and games of older kids, although they can also be quite bouncy. Supervision is important around small children, mainly to make sure excitability does not lead to accidental knocks.

With strangers, Airedale Terriers often combine a friendly nature with a natural watchful instinct. Many will announce visitors with a bark but then welcome them calmly once the owner has greeted them. They are not usually aggressive by nature, but they do have a protective streak and will stand their ground if they feel truly threatened. Clear guidance and early training help them learn when to relax and when to be alert.

Like many terriers, Airedales can be strong‑minded. They like to make their own decisions and may test boundaries, especially during adolescence. They are not generally suited to owners who want a very placid or highly obedient dog that simply follows every command without question. Instead, they tend to flourish with people who enjoy a bit of character and who are comfortable setting consistent rules in a calm, fair way.

With other dogs, the Airedale Terrier varies by individual. Many live happily with canine companions, particularly if raised together from a young age. However, the terrier heritage can mean a certain level of confidence or assertiveness, especially with dogs of the same sex. Early socialisation with a wide variety of dogs, plus careful management during adolescence, will help encourage polite behavior. Some Airedales get along well with cats and smaller pets if introduced early, but the breed does have a hunting background, so chasing can be a temptation. Owners of rabbits, guinea pigs or outdoor cats should be cautious and introduce the dog gradually and safely.

Common challenges for the breed include boredom, destructive chewing and excessive barking if left alone too long or without enough mental stimulation. An under‑exercised Airedale may invent its own “work” such as rearranging the garden, digging impressive holes, or turning household items into toys. With the right balance of exercise, training and companionship, however, the Airedale Terrier is generally a cheerful, lively friend that brings a lot of personality to a home.

## Training & Exercise

Training an Airedale Terrier can be deeply rewarding, provided you understand how this breed thinks. Airedales are intelligent and quick to learn, but also independent. They are not robotic followers. Instead, they respond best when they see a reason to cooperate. If training feels like a creative, fun partnership rather than a strict drill, you are more likely to see their full potential.

Positive reinforcement methods work particularly well. That means rewarding the dog with food, toys, praise or access to something it wants when it does the right thing. Airedales usually enjoy:

- Short, varied training sessions that keep them guessing  
- Games that use their noses, such as finding hidden treats or toys  
- Learning practical skills, from recall and loose lead walking to tricks  

Harsh corrections or heavy‑handed training can damage trust and make an Airedale more stubborn. Consistency, patience and a sense of humour are far more effective. It is absolutely worth investing early effort in core skills such as recall, settling calmly, and polite greetings, because a full‑size Airedale that pulls or jumps can be challenging to manage in public spaces.

When it comes to exercise, the Airedale Terrier is an active and energetic breed. While each dog is an individual, most healthy adults will need at least 1.5 to 2 hours of physical activity spread across the day, and often more. This should not all be repetitive walking. A combination of free running in safe areas, structured walks, training games and mental work will help keep the dog balanced.

Many Airedales thrive when given a “job.” Today that might mean:

- Agility, with its tunnels, jumps and climbing equipment  
- Obedience or rally obedience, which channel the dog’s brain and body together  
- Tracking or scent work, which make use of their excellent noses and problem solving abilities  
- Canicross or running with an active owner, once the dog is fully grown and joints are mature  

Variety is important. Airedales are smart enough to get bored if you follow the exact same route and routine every day. Changing walking locations, introducing new training tricks, or rotating toys can make a big difference. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats and “search” games around the house or garden are useful for days when the weather is terrible or owners are short on time.

Young Airedale puppies need a careful balance. Their joints are still developing, so long runs or repetitive jumping are not appropriate. Instead, focus on several short walks suitable for their age, combined with free play on soft ground and plenty of mental challenges. By building good habits and self control early, you help prevent an energetic adolescent from becoming over the top.

If the breed’s exercise and training needs are met, most Airedales are calm and content inside the home. Without that outlet, they may dig, bark or invent their own forms of entertainment that people rarely appreciate. Prospective owners should realistically assess how much time and energy they can devote to daily walks, training and play. For an active person or family, the Airedale Terrier can be a fantastic partner that always seems ready for the next adventure.

## Health

The Airedale Terrier is generally a robust and hardy breed, but like all purebred dogs it has some health issues that potential owners should be aware of. Responsible breeding and informed ownership can reduce risks and help these dogs enjoy long, active lives.

One of the most commonly discussed concerns in larger breeds is hip dysplasia. This is a developmental condition where the hip joint does not fit together properly, which can lead to pain and arthritis over time. Many kennel clubs and breed clubs recommend that breeding dogs have their hips scored or evaluated under official schemes. When looking for a puppy, asking about hip scores and selecting parents with good results is an important step.

Other joint related issues, such as elbow dysplasia, may occasionally occur. Again, health testing and careful selection of breeding stock help keep the incidence as low as possible. Some Airedales may be prone to cruciate ligament injuries, particularly if they are extremely active or overweight. Keeping a healthy body condition and avoiding excessive jumping during growth are good preventive measures.

Skin problems can appear in the breed, especially if the coat is not maintained properly. A thick, unkempt coat that stays damp against the skin may encourage irritation or infection. Regular grooming, bathing when necessary, and keeping the dog free from parasites such as fleas and ticks all support healthy skin. If you notice persistent itching, hair loss or a bad odour, a veterinary check is wise.

As with many breeds, Airedales can occasionally be affected by hereditary eye conditions. Breed clubs and kennel clubs in various countries recommend eye testing for breeding animals, often under recognised eye schemes. Asking a breeder whether parents have current eye test certificates is a sensible part of your research.

Other potential concerns include:

- Bloat or gastric torsion in deep chested dogs, which is a serious emergency and needs immediate veterinary care  
- Heart conditions in older age  
- Hypothyroidism or other hormonal issues in some individuals  

A responsible breeder will be willing to discuss what health tests they use and what conditions have appeared in their lines. In many regions, suggested or required tests for breeding Airedales may include hip scoring, elbow evaluation, and eye examinations. Some breeders also carry out additional testing such as heart checks.

The typical lifespan of an Airedale Terrier is often around 10 to 13 years, with many reaching the higher end of this range when well cared for. Diet, exercise, mental well‑being and regular veterinary checks all play a role. Routine health care for an Airedale should include:

- Vaccinations according to your vet’s recommendations  
- Regular worming and external parasite prevention  
- Dental care, either through brushing, chews, or professional cleaning if needed  
- Weight management, which is crucial for joint and heart health  

Pet insurance or a dedicated savings plan is strongly advised. Although many Airedales stay healthy, the cost of treating serious conditions or emergencies can be significant. By combining careful breeder selection, good daily care and prompt veterinary attention when anything seems wrong, owners can give their Airedale Terrier the best chance of a long, comfortable life.

## History & Origins

The Airedale Terrier has its roots in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire in northern England. In the 19th century, local working people needed an all purpose dog that could handle a wide variety of tasks along the riverbanks and farms. They wanted a dog that could hunt and retrieve, guard property, and still be a manageable companion at home. To create this, they crossed various terrier types of the time with larger working breeds, often thought to include the now extinct Black and Tan Terrier and possibly the Otterhound among others.

The result was a taller, stronger terrier with keen scenting ability and the courage typical of terrier breeds. These early Airedales were used for hunting otter, water rat and other small game, as well as for general pest control on farms and in mills. Their versatility quickly became apparent. They could track scent along riverbanks, retrieve from water, and at the same time serve as a watchful guardian of home and property.

As the breed developed, fanciers refined the appearance and character, gradually shaping the dog that we recognise today. The Airedale gained popularity not just in Yorkshire but across Britain and eventually overseas. Its combination of intelligence, trainability and toughness attracted attention from the military and police as well. By the late 19th and early 20th century, Airedale Terriers were being used as police dogs and as part of military forces, particularly during the First World War. They served as messenger dogs, sentry dogs and even ambulance dogs, often working bravely under difficult conditions.

The nickname “King of Terriers” reflects both the Airedale’s size and its reputation. Among the terrier group, it stood out as a breed that could transition from farm to field to war service and still be a devoted companion in the house. This adaptability helped the Airedale spread to many countries, where national kennel clubs eventually recognised and standardised the breed.

Today, the Airedale Terrier is kept mainly as a companion and family dog, although its working heritage remains clear. In different parts of the world, Airedales take part in a wide variety of activities, such as:

- Agility and obedience competitions  
- Tracking and scent work trials  
- Dog sports that use their retrieving and problem solving skills  
- Roles as therapy dogs, thanks to their engaging personalities  

While active hunting use is less common in many areas, some enthusiasts still value the breed’s natural instincts. Modern Airedales often live in suburban or rural homes, where their watchful nature and robust character are appreciated. Throughout all these changes, the essence of the breed has stayed steady. The Airedale Terrier is still a bold, intelligent, versatile dog, shaped by a history of hard work and close partnership with people.

## Living with the Breed

Day to day life with an Airedale Terrier is a blend of joy, challenge and plenty of activity. This is not a breed that thrives on a very quiet, low effort lifestyle. Airedales want to be part of the action. They do best in homes where people enjoy training, walking and spending time outdoors, and where someone is usually around for much of the day.

One of the first things new owners notice is the Airedale’s presence. Their size, confidence and expressive faces make them hard to ignore. They often follow their owners from room to room, “helping” with household tasks by observing closely or carrying items. Many are natural comedians, and families often have long stories about particular antics, from creative toy hiding spots to elaborate games they invent on their own.

Prospective owners should be prepared for:

- Regular grooming appointments or a commitment to learn basic trimming at home  
- Significant daily exercise and mental stimulation  
- Ongoing training throughout the dog’s life, not just in puppyhood  

In terms of housing, Airedales can adapt to many environments as long as their needs are met. A house with a securely fenced garden is ideal, since this allows for safe off lead play and sniffing. Without secure fencing, an Airedale’s curiosity and hunting instinct might lead it to wander if given the chance. Apartment living is possible for a committed owner who provides plenty of outdoor exercise and mental work every day, but it is more demanding.

Financially, owning an Airedale Terrier involves a moderate to high annual cost. Beyond food, vaccinations and routine vet visits, you should budget for:

- Grooming every couple of months if you use a professional  
- Pet insurance or a savings fund for unexpected health issues  
- Quality training classes, particularly in the first two years  
- Replacement of toys and equipment, as many Airedales are enthusiastic chewers and players  

Useful equipment for living with an Airedale includes a sturdy, well fitting harness for walks, a strong lead, and a comfortable bed that supports their joints. Because they enjoy chewing, investing in durable toys is wise. Puzzle feeders, treat balls and tough chew toys help keep them occupied. A crate or indoor pen can also be helpful during puppyhood and adolescence, both for house training and for giving the dog a safe, calm place to rest.

Families considering an Airedale should think honestly about their time. These dogs usually do not cope well if left alone for long working days without company or a dog walker. Some individuals manage better than others, but as a general rule, regular human interaction is important. If you work from home, enjoy walking or running, and like to include your dog in weekend outings, the Airedale often fits beautifully into that lifestyle.

Living with this breed also involves a degree of humour and patience. They can be inventive, sometimes stubborn and full of character. Straightforward, calm boundaries together with consistent rules help them understand what is expected. When the relationship is based on mutual respect and clear communication, the Airedale Terrier tends to flourish into a loyal, versatile and entertaining member of the family.

For people who want a gentle lapdog or a low energy companion, the Airedale will likely feel overwhelming. For those who appreciate an active, intelligent dog with a real sense of personality, the breed can be an exceptional partner. With good care, training and understanding, an Airedale Terrier brings life, warmth and a lot of heart into a home.

Airedale Terrier

The Kennel Club (UK)

Swedish Kennel Club (Svenska Kennelklubben)

Norwegian Kennel Club (Norsk Kennel Klub)

Airedale Terrier Club of the United Kingdom

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The Airedale Terrier is the largest terrier, an athletic, wiry‑coated dog that sheds little but needs regular grooming. Bright, independent and energetic, it needs varied training and 1.5–2 hours of daily exercise. Loyal, playful and watchful, it makes a versatile family and working companion.

## Quick Facts

- Friendly, people focused companion that usually loves both adults and children  
- Small to medium size that works well in flats and houses as long as they get daily walks  
- Low shedding coat that can suit some allergy‑sensitive homes, but still needs regular grooming  
- Often very trainable thanks to the intelligence of the Poodle and the soft nature of the Maltese  
- Popular family dog and first‑time dog choice, but still needs time, structure, and good socialisation  

## Appearance & Coat

The Maltipoo is a small companion dog with a soft, appealing look. Height and weight vary depending on breeding, but most adults stand around 24 to 35 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh between 3 and 8 kilos. Some lines are very tiny, while others are more sturdy. In general, the body is slightly longer than tall, with a light but not fragile build.  

The head is rounded with expressive, dark eyes that give a very “human” and alert expression. Ears are dropped and covered in soft hair. The tail is usually carried happily and can curl over the back when the dog is excited. There is often a clear mix of features from both Maltese and Poodle, and even within a single litter puppies may mature into slightly different types.  

Coats are one of the main reasons people are drawn to the Maltipoo. The coat is usually:  

- Soft and plush, often with a wavy or light curly texture  
- Single coated or with a very light undercoat  
- Medium in length and quite dense  

Colours can include white, cream, apricot, red, black, brown, and many shades in between. Some have patches or a slightly faded or “frosted” tone as they grow. Coat colour and curl pattern often change a bit between puppyhood and adulthood, so new owners should be prepared for some surprises.  

Although Maltipoos are often described as low shedding, no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Hair tends to get caught in the coat instead of falling out on furniture, which is good for cleaning but means tangles can build up quickly.  

For practical coat care:  

- Brush at least 3 to 4 times per week with a soft slicker brush and metal comb  
- Check problem areas such as behind the ears, armpits, around the collar, and inside the hind legs  
- Plan for professional grooming every 6 to 10 weeks to keep the coat manageable  
- Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed short to avoid irritation  
- Clean the ears regularly and keep the hair inside the ear canal under control as advised by your groomer or vet  

Regular grooming is a real commitment with this crossbreed. A simple “teddy bear” trim that follows the body line is popular and easier to maintain than longer show‑style coats.  

<x-quote text="Our experience is that Maltipoo coats vary a lot between lines, so new owners should speak openly with breeders and groomers about what kind of coat care to expect over the dog’s lifetime." from="Get a Pet Editorial" />

## Temperament & Personality

The Maltipoo is usually affectionate, playful, and keen to be close to its people. They are typically very people oriented and often follow their favourite person from room to room. Many owners describe them as “little shadows” that like to be involved in daily life, whether that is watching TV, working at a home office, or joining family games.  

With families, a well socialised Maltipoo is often gentle and cheerful. They tend to enjoy children who understand how to handle small dogs with care. Because of their size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental dropping, so supervision with very young kids is important. Clear rules, such as “no picking up the dog without an adult” and “let the dog walk away when it wants to rest,” help keep everyone safe and relaxed.  

Many Maltipoos get along well with other dogs and cats when introduced slowly and positively. Their confident side can sometimes surprise people, especially if they meet much larger dogs. Socialisation from a young age, including calm meetings with dogs of all sizes, helps to prevent fear or reactive barking later.  

Possible challenges can include:  

- Strong attachment to owners that can lead to separation anxiety  
- Tendency to bark at sounds in the stairwell, outside the window, or at visitors  
- Sensitivity to loud voices or tension in the home  

<x-quote text="Our Maltipoo wants to be where we are all the time. He is happiest when someone is home, so we had to train alone‑time carefully from the beginning." from="Sara, first‑time dog owner" />

Overall, this is a breed mix for people who enjoy company and interaction. They are not usually suited to being alone for long workdays, especially without careful training and good routines. When they feel secure, Maltipoos bring a lot of warmth, humour, and affection into everyday life.  

## Training & Exercise

Most Maltipoos love to learn. The Poodle side brings intelligence and problem‑solving ability, while the Maltese side often adds a friendly, people pleasing nature. Training works best when it feels like a game, with many short, fun sessions rather than long, repetitive drills.  

Positive reinforcement training is essential. This mix tends to respond very well to:  

- Soft voices and clear cues  
- Food rewards, especially small treats that are easy to swallow  
- Play and praise as part of the reward  

Harsh corrections or loud shouting can quickly make them anxious or shut down. Over time, this can increase sensitivity and lead to more barking or clinginess, so a gentle but consistent approach is key.  

Exercise needs are moderate but not minimal. Most adults are happy with:  

- 2 to 3 walks per day, including at least one longer, more active walk  
- Total of about 45 to 90 minutes of activity, adjusted for age, health, and size  
- Regular opportunities to sniff, explore, and meet new environments  

In addition to physical walks, mental stimulation is very important. Ideas include:  

- Nosework games where you hide treats around the home  
- Simple puzzle toys that make the dog work to get food  
- Basic obedience exercises combined into little “tricks” routines  
- Low intensity agility or hoopers for fun, not competition  

This small companion is often athletic enough to enjoy hikes, forest walks, and even jogging once fully grown. At the same time, they are usually content with active play and home enrichment on busy days.  

<x-quote text="Many Maltipoos thrive when owners treat training time as shared playtime. This mindset keeps motivation high and makes daily life skills feel natural instead of like a chore for both dog and human." from="Get a Pet Editorial" />

Consistency is very important in the first two years. A clear daily rhythm for walks, feeding, play, and rest helps prevent problem behaviours, including overexcitement and destructiveness when bored.  

## Health

As a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle, the Maltipoo can inherit health strengths and weaknesses from both sides. Responsible breeding aims to reduce known risks by careful selection and health testing. Still, every owner should be aware of common issues and early warning signs.  

Conditions sometimes seen in this type of dog include:  

- Dental problems such as tartar build‑up and early tooth loss, common in small breeds  
- Luxating patella, where the kneecap can slip out of place and cause lameness  
- Eye issues such as tear staining, dry eye, or cataracts in older dogs  
- Allergies and skin irritation, including itching or recurrent ear infections  
- Heart disease in later life, particularly in very small individuals  

Good breeders typically health test the parent dogs for issues that are known in Maltese and Poodles. This may involve eye examinations, knee checks, and genetic tests for certain hereditary conditions seen in the Poodle lines. When speaking with breeders, ask clearly what tests are done and request to see documentation.  

General health care for a Maltipoo should include:  

- Regular vet checks, ideally once per year for adult dogs and more often for seniors  
- Dental care from puppyhood, including tooth brushing and professional cleaning when needed  
- Weight management, since extra kilos stress the joints and heart  
- Parasite prevention as recommended in your region  

Typical lifespan is often around 12 to 15 years, sometimes longer with good care and a bit of luck. As they age, many Maltipoos stay playful but may need slightly shorter walks, softer bedding, and closer monitoring of teeth, heart, and joints.  

Pet insurance can help manage the cost of unexpected illness or injury over a long life. If you are planning ahead for a puppy, consider comparing options early through a service such as [Pet Insurance](https://getapet.com/en/pet-insurance).  

## History & Origins

The Maltipoo is a relatively modern crossbreed, developed as people began to seek small companion dogs with low shedding coats and friendly, adaptable personalities. Instead of being created for hunting or herding, this mix has always had one clear purpose: to be a loving family companion.  

The parent breeds each bring their own strong history. The Maltese is an ancient toy breed, known for its long, silky white coat and long tradition as a lapdog in Mediterranean societies. Poodles were originally water retrievers and are now recognised worldwide for their intelligence and curly, low shedding coat. Crossing these two was a natural step when interest in “designer” or intentional crosses grew.  

The Maltipoo gained popularity in North America and later in many European countries. Social media and celebrity ownership also helped, as their teddy bear looks photograph beautifully and appeal to many first‑time dog owners. Unlike established pure breeds, there is not yet a single, strict standard for appearance or size. This means there is still quite a lot of variation between lines and breeders.  

Today, the Maltipoo is almost always kept as a companion dog. They rarely have formal working roles, but some individuals visit schools, nursing homes, or hospitals as part of therapy dog programs thanks to their gentle, people focused nature. Others take part in dog sports at a hobby level, especially activities like rally obedience, tricks, and nosework, where their intelligence can shine.  

As with many popular crossbreeds, increasing demand has attracted both dedicated, thoughtful breeders and less responsible sellers. Anyone considering this mix should take time to learn about ethical breeding practices and avoid impulse purchases. Tools such as the [Dog Breed Advisor](https://getapet.com/en/dog-breed-advisor) can help you think through whether a Maltipoo truly suits your lifestyle before you start looking for a puppy.  

## Living with the Breed

Living with a Maltipoo is often a mix of cosy cuddles on the sofa and lively little bursts of energy throughout the day. These dogs tend to fit well into many living situations, from city apartments to country houses, as long as they are treated as part of the family and not left alone for long stretches.  

New owners should be prepared for:  

- Daily grooming and regular professional trims  
- Several walks per day, with time for sniffing and mental activity  
- House training that may take a little longer due to small bladder size  
- Teaching calm behaviour at the door and careful introductions to visitors  

They usually adapt well to car travel and public transport if introduced early. Because of their small size, they often fit comfortably in a secure travel crate or dog bag, which can be helpful for city living and trips.  

Annual costs can vary depending on where you live and what services you use, but many families find that regular expenses include:  

- Quality food suitable for small, often sensitive dogs  
- Grooming every couple of months  
- Vaccinations, check‑ups, and parasite prevention  
- Pet insurance premiums  
- Occasional training classes, toys, beds, and other equipment  

Useful equipment for a Maltipoo often includes:  

- A soft, well fitting harness to protect the neck during walks  
- Light leads suitable for their size, plus a longer line for safe exploring  
- Non‑slip food and water bowls, and perhaps a raised stand for older dogs  
- Comfortable beds in more than one room, since many like to follow you around  
- Interactive toys and slow feeders that offer mental challenges  

<x-quote text="Our Maltipoo feels like a family member who notices every mood in the house. When we are calm and structured, he is too. When things get chaotic, he becomes a bit unsettled, so routines really help him relax." from="Lina, Maltipoo owner" />

For people who enjoy closeness and have time each day for walks, play, and coat care, the Maltipoo can be a rewarding choice. If you are considering adding one to your family, it can be helpful to browse current listings and speak with different breeders before deciding. You can start exploring through [Pets for Sale](https://getapet.com/en/listings) and then narrow your search to Maltipoo puppies that match your expectations for size, coat, and temperament.  

<x-quote text="Choosing a Maltipoo means inviting a very people focused dog into your life. Before you commit, think carefully about your weekly routine, travel plans, and grooming budget, so that the match works well for both of you over many years." from="Get a Pet Editorial" />

Maltipoo

Swedish Kennel Club

Norwegian Kennel Club

British Veterinary Association

Maltipoo: small, people‑oriented companion (3–8 kg, 24–35 cm) with a soft, low‑shedding, high‑maintenance coat. Typically affectionate, trainable, and suited to flats or houses with daily walks. Needs gentle training, regular grooming, company, and routine to avoid anxiety and barking.

Airedale Terrier vs Maltipoo

Characteristics

Summary

Similar breeds