## Quick Facts

- Distinctive blue coat that changes color as the dog matures  
- Originally bred in Ireland as an all‑purpose farm and hunting dog  
- Lively, intelligent terrier that thrives on close contact with its family  
- Low‑shedding, curly coat that requires regular grooming to avoid matting  
- Bold, spirited character that combines clown‑like charm with serious determination  


## Appearance & Coat

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium‑sized, strongly built terrier with a proud, almost aristocratic outline. At first glance you notice the elegant head, the distinctive beard and furnishings, and of course the famous blue coat. Adult males usually stand around 45 to 49 cm at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. The body is compact and muscular, with a straight back and a deep chest that hints at the breed’s working background. Despite the sturdy build, a good Kerry should never look heavy or clumsy. The overall impression is of a balanced, athletic dog that could work all day in the fields.

The head is long and clean, without exaggeration. A neatly trimmed beard and eyebrows give the Kerry Blue its expressive look, somewhere between serious thinker and mischievous comedian. Dark, oval eyes are set fairly close together and should look keen and intelligent, never harsh. The ears fold forward in a V shape, adding to the terrier expression. The tail is usually carried high and straight, giving a lively, alert appearance.

The coat is one of the breed’s most famous features. Puppies are usually born black or very dark, and the blue color develops gradually over the first few years of life. Many Kerries pass through “in between” shades such as steel grey, slate, or a mix of blue and black before settling into their adult color. The ideal coat is soft, dense, and wavy, not harsh or wiry. It should form gentle curls rather than tight ringlets.

The Kerry Blue Terrier has a single coat with very little shedding, which can be a benefit for people who dislike dog hair around the home. However, this low‑shedding coat comes with a commitment to regular grooming. Without attention, the soft hair will mat and tangle, especially behind the ears, under the collar, in the beard, and between the legs.

For practical coat care:

- Brush or comb thoroughly at least two to three times a week, working right down to the skin to remove tangles. A pin brush and a metal comb are very useful.  
- Check common trouble spots such as armpits, groin, beard, and behind the ears where small mats can form quickly.  
- Bathe your Kerry Blue Terrier every four to six weeks, or as needed, using a mild dog shampoo that does not strip the coat. Thorough rinsing and drying help keep the coat healthy.  
- Professional trimming or clipping is usually required about every six to eight weeks to maintain the typical terrier silhouette. Many owners learn to trim at home with guidance from breeders or grooming clubs.  

The beard and moustache need special care, as food and water can quickly make them messy. Wiping the beard after meals and checking for trapped debris will keep your Kerry more comfortable and prevent unpleasant odors. With consistent grooming, the coat feels soft and luxurious and becomes one of the greatest pleasures of living with this unique terrier.


## Temperament & Personality

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a dog with a big personality, often described as “a terrier with a sense of humor.” Intelligent, lively, and full of character, this is not a dull or passive breed. Kerries tend to bond very closely to their families. They enjoy being involved in everything that happens at home, whether it is gardening, watching television, or going for a drive. Many owners report that their Kerry follows them from room to room, always ready to join in or offer “help” in its own enthusiastic way.

With people, the Kerry Blue Terrier is usually affectionate and devoted. A well‑raised Kerry is typically good with children, particularly those who are respectful and understand how to behave around dogs. The breed enjoys play and can be a tireless companion for active youngsters who like to throw balls, learn tricks, or practice dog sports. Supervision is important with smaller children, both to protect the child from accidental knocks and to make sure the dog is treated gently. Like most terriers, Kerries do not appreciate rough handling and may object if teased or pulled.

The Kerry Blue is known for its confident and sometimes bold nature. This can be very appealing, because it gives the dog plenty of charm and presence, but it also means clear rules are important from an early age. Many Kerries are naturally watchful and will bark to alert their family to visitors or unusual sounds. While they are not typically aggressive guard dogs, they can be protective of their home and people if they feel there is a threat.

With other dogs, especially of the same sex, Kerry Blue Terriers can be assertive. The breed was developed in part for hunting and vermin control, so a degree of dog‑to‑dog and prey drive is not surprising. Proper socialization from puppyhood, involving controlled, positive meetings with friendly dogs, helps a great deal. However, some adult Kerries may still prefer not to share space with unfamiliar dogs, and they often do best with confident, experienced owners who can manage interactions calmly. Living with another dog in the same household is very possible, particularly if introductions are done early and personalities are well matched.

When it comes to other pets, such as cats or small animals, the Kerry’s hunting background needs to be taken seriously. Some individuals can live peacefully with a resident cat if raised together and supervised, but many still have a strong chase instinct outdoors. Very small pets like rabbits or rodents are usually best kept safely separate.

The breed’s intelligence and energy can lead to mischief if the dog is bored. A lonely Kerry with little mental stimulation may bark, dig, or invent its own entertainments that do not fit well with human expectations. On the positive side, this same cleverness means the Kerry Blue Terrier often excels in training, problem solving, and interactive games. In the right environment, with structure, affection, and enough activity, the Kerry is a joyful, loyal, and very entertaining companion.


## Training & Exercise

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a bright, capable breed that learns quickly and enjoys having a job to do. At the same time, it has a typical terrier streak of independence and may question why a particular exercise is necessary. This combination means training should be consistent, engaging, and never heavy handed. Positive reinforcement works best, using rewards such as food treats, toys, praise, and play. Kerries respond well to trainers who are calm, confident, and fair.

Early socialization is essential. From a young age, expose your Kerry puppy to a variety of sights, sounds, surfaces, and people. Well managed puppy classes can help build confidence and manners. Focus on:

- Reliable recall, so you can call your Kerry back even when interesting distractions appear.  
- Calm greeting behavior, both with people and other dogs.  
- Basic obedience such as sit, down, stay, and walking on a loose lead.  

Because the Kerry Blue Terrier is energetic and often quite agile, it tends to enjoy dog sports. Many individuals excel in agility, obedience, rally, scent work, or tracking. Short, varied training sessions are usually more successful than long, repetitive drills. If an exercise feels pointless, a Kerry may simply stop cooperating. Turning training into a shared game makes the dog an eager partner rather than a reluctant participant.

In terms of exercise, the Kerry Blue is not a hyperactive breed, but it is certainly not a couch potato. Most adults need at least one to two hours of physical and mental activity each day. This does not have to be in one block. A typical day might include a brisk morning walk, a shorter evening walk, and several play or training sessions scattered throughout the day. Off lead running in safe, enclosed areas is very beneficial, as it allows the dog to stretch out and burn energy.

Activities many Kerries enjoy include:

- Fetch games, especially with balls or soft toys  
- Tug games with clear rules, such as “take it” and “drop”  
- Scent games in the garden, where treats or toys are hidden for the dog to find  
- Structured training sessions that mix obedience, tricks, and problem solving  

Because of their strong prey drive and sometimes selective hearing, many Kerry Blue Terriers should not be allowed off lead near roads or in open areas without reliable recall. A long training line can provide more freedom while you build trust and responsiveness.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical. Puzzle toys, food dispensing toys, and simple household challenges like “find it” searches can tire a Kerry mentally and reduce unwanted behavior. When their minds are engaged, Kerries are generally calmer and happier indoors.

Owners who are willing to train kindly but firmly, provide regular exercise, and share time and attention will find the Kerry Blue Terrier a very rewarding partner. Those who prefer a dog that simply lies quietly for most of the day may find this breed a little too much, as it truly comes alive when given opportunities to learn and move.


## Health

The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally a robust and long‑lived breed, but like all dogs it has some health issues that responsible owners and breeders should be aware of. With good care, many Kerries live into their early to mid teens, often remaining active well into old age.

Some health concerns that can appear in the breed include:

- Hip dysplasia, a developmental condition of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and mobility problems later in life  
- Eye conditions such as entropion, cataracts, or other inherited eye diseases  
- Certain skin problems, which can be linked to allergies or infections  
- Benign skin growths and lumps in older dogs, which should always be checked by a vet  

Good breeders usually carry out recommended health testing before breeding their dogs. While the exact schemes vary by country, typical tests may include:

- Hip scoring or evaluation, to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia in offspring  
- Eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist, repeated regularly to monitor for hereditary issues  
- In some regions, additional genetic tests that become available as research develops  

Prospective puppy buyers should feel comfortable asking breeders about:

- What health tests have been carried out on the parents  
- The results of those tests  
- The typical lifespan and health history of relatives such as grandparents and siblings  

Routine veterinary care plays a big role in keeping a Kerry Blue Terrier healthy. This includes:

- Regular vaccinations and parasite control (fleas, ticks, worms)  
- Dental care, such as tooth brushing or dental chews, to prevent gum disease  
- Weight management to avoid obesity, which can worsen joint and heart problems  

The Kerry’s dense, soft coat can sometimes hide minor skin issues, so owners should make a habit of checking the skin during grooming sessions. Look for redness, hot spots, excessive scratching, or unusual odors, particularly in warm, damp areas like armpits, groin, and between the toes. Early treatment of skin problems is usually easier and more effective.

Like many medium breeds, Kerries can be prone to ear infections if the ears are not kept clean and dry. Regular inspection, gentle cleaning with a vet‑recommended solution, and careful drying after baths or swimming can help prevent trouble.

As Kerries age, they may show typical signs of senior dogs, such as stiffness after rest, reduced hearing, or changes in vision. Adjusting exercise levels, providing comfortable bedding, and offering ramps or steps to help them get into cars or onto favorite sofas can make a big difference to their quality of life. Most Kerries adapt well to the slower pace of old age as long as they are still included in family activities and given mental stimulation.

Overall, choosing a well bred puppy from health tested parents, keeping up with veterinary care, feeding a high quality diet, and maintaining a sensible weight are the best tools an owner has to support a long, healthy life for a Kerry Blue Terrier.


## History & Origins

The Kerry Blue Terrier comes from Ireland, where it has been valued for centuries as a versatile working dog. As the name suggests, the breed is closely associated with County Kerry in the south west of the country, a region known for its rugged landscape and strong farming traditions. While exact origins are difficult to prove, the Kerry Blue likely developed from local terrier types, possibly mixed with other breeds that arrived through trade and travel along the Irish coast.

Historically, the Kerry Blue Terrier was an all round farm dog. It was expected to tackle many tasks, including controlling rats and other vermin in barns, helping to hunt foxes and badgers, and even retrieving from water. There are stories of Kerries working as herding dogs for sheep and cattle, using a mix of determination and intelligence rather than sheer size. This background explains why the modern Kerry combines agility, courage, and a strong prey drive with a good deal of problem solving ability.

By the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the Kerry Blue Terrier began to appear more often in dog shows and breeding programs. Irish patriots at the time saw the breed as a symbol of national identity, and it quickly gained popularity beyond its home region. Carefully planned breeding focused not only on working qualities but also on improving the distinctive blue coat and refining the terrier outline that we recognize today.

The blue color itself is a striking feature that helped set the Kerry apart from other terriers. While many puppies start life black, experienced breeders knew that the right lines would gradually “clear” to blue or slate tones with age. This process of color change remains a characteristic of the breed and can fascinate new owners as they watch their puppy’s coat transform.

As dog showing grew in popularity across Europe and later around the world, the Kerry Blue Terrier spread to Britain, the rest of Europe, and North America. Breed clubs were formed to protect and promote the Kerry, and official standards were drawn up that described the ideal appearance and temperament.

Today, the Kerry Blue Terrier is less commonly used as a multipurpose farm dog, but its working instincts remain. Modern Kerries are often seen in:

- Conformation shows, where their distinctive looks and movement are judged  
- Dog sports such as agility, obedience, and rally  
- Activities that use their natural scenting ability, including tracking and scent work  

Most importantly, the Kerry Blue Terrier has become a cherished companion and family dog. While numbers are not as high as some more fashionable breeds, a devoted group of breeders and owners around the world continue to safeguard its health, working traits, and spirited character. For those who appreciate a dog with deep roots, strong personality, and proud Irish heritage, the Kerry Blue Terrier remains a very special choice.


## Living with the Breed

Living with a Kerry Blue Terrier is both rewarding and demanding. This is a breed that wants to be part of your life, not just a dog you see briefly on walks. Before bringing a Kerry into your home, it is important to understand the level of commitment involved.

First, consider time. Kerries thrive on daily interaction. They need regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation, as well as grooming sessions every week. A typical Kerry owner will spend:

- At least one to two hours each day on walks, training, and active engagement  
- Additional time each week brushing, combing, and trimming the coat or visiting a professional groomer  

If you are away from home for long stretches and cannot arrange dog walkers, day care, or family support, a Kerry Blue Terrier may become frustrated or bored. This can lead to barking, chewing, or digging. These behaviors are not signs of a “bad” dog, but rather a dog whose needs are not being fully met.

Financially, owning a Kerry Blue Terrier involves normal dog costs such as food, vaccinations, and vet checks, along with higher grooming expenses compared to many short coated breeds. Annual costs can vary widely between countries, but you should budget for:

- Quality dog food suitable for a medium, active breed  
- Routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite control  
- Pet insurance or a savings plan for unexpected health issues  
- Regular professional grooming if you do not trim the coat yourself  

Useful equipment for a Kerry household includes:

- A sturdy, comfortable collar and well fitting harness  
- A strong lead of suitable length, and possibly a long training line for recall work  
- A crate or safe resting area where the dog can relax undisturbed  
- Several chew toys and interactive toys to keep the mind occupied  
- Grooming tools such as a pin brush, slicker brush, metal comb, nail clippers, and ear cleaning solution  

Kerries generally adapt well to different living environments as long as their exercise needs are met. They can live happily in a house with a garden or in an apartment with good access to outdoor spaces. A secure, fenced garden is extremely helpful, as it allows free play and safe exploration. Fencing must be solid and high enough, since a determined Kerry can be quite inventive about finding escapes.

Inside the home, Kerries like to be where the family is. Many enjoy curling up on the sofa or lying at their owner’s feet. They are not typically outdoor kennel dogs and do not do well if isolated in the yard for long periods. Early training about household rules is important, whether that means teaching the dog which furniture is allowed or where its bed is located.

When considering other pets, it is wise to plan carefully. Some Kerries live peacefully with a resident dog or cat, especially if introduced correctly and supervised. Others prefer to be the only dog. Honest discussion with breeders, who know their lines and individual puppies, can help match the right personality to your household.

For families with children, teaching both the dog and the children appropriate behavior is crucial. Kerries enjoy lively play but should be able to retreat to a quiet safe space when they need a break. Children should learn not to disturb the dog while it is eating or resting, and rough games like pulling the beard or climbing on the dog should be avoided.

If you enjoy training, outdoor activities, and spending real time with your dog, living with a Kerry Blue Terrier can bring enormous joy. You will have a loyal, entertaining companion that makes you laugh, keeps you moving, and shares your daily life with enthusiasm. If you prefer a low maintenance, very easygoing dog, another breed might suit you better. For the right owner, however, the Kerry’s bold spirit and affectionate heart make it a truly unforgettable partner.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The United Kingdom Kerry Blue Terrier Association

The Kennel Club (UK) - Kerry Blue Terrier

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) - Kerry Blue Terrier

Dansk Terrier Klub (Denmark)

Svenska Terrierklubben (Sweden)

Medium, athletic Irish terrier with a proud outline and curly blue coat that matures from black. Lively, intelligent, and strongly bonded to family, it needs daily mental and physical exercise. Low‑shedding but high‑grooming, with bold, watchful, sometimes dog‑assertive temperament.

## 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

The Kennel Club (UK)

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.

Kerry Blue Terrier vs Maltipoo

Characteristics

Summary

Similar breeds