How Much Does a Maltipoo Cost?

Last Updated on February 29, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

The cute and cuddly Maltipoo has become an increasingly popular hybrid dog breed in recent years. With their fun-loving personalities and adorable looks, it’s easy to see why.

However, while owning a Maltipoo can bring immense joy and companionship, there are notable financial costs involved. From the initial puppy price to ongoing care and maintenance, it’s important to understand the price range and budget for a Maltipoo dog.

This guide will provide an overview of Maltipoo costs, helping potential owners make an informed decision. We’ll cover everything from purchase expenses and adoption fees to lifetime care budgets. Read on for advice on affording this charming canine without breaking the bank!

How Much Does a Maltipoo Cost?

The upfront cost to buy a Maltipoo puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $1,000-$3,000. Several key factors influence price:

• Breeder reputation – More experienced breeders or those with show dog lineages tend to charge higher prices. Expect to pay $2,000-$3,000 from top breeders.
• Location – Puppies from breeders in high-demand areas like California or New York often cost more than in rural areas.
• Puppy’s age – Younger pups around 8-12 weeks old cost less than older, trained dogs.
• Color and size – Rare colors like phantom or Merle can add $500+ to the price. Teacup or miniature sizes may also cost more.
• Pedigree and health testing – Well-bred dogs from health-tested, pedigree parents range from $2,000-$3,000.

According to Maltipoos.org, the purchase price of a Maltipoo puppy is $1,000.00 – $5,000.00 depending on the breeder.

A-Z Animals writes that the Maltipoo puppy cost ranges from $400 to $3,000 on average.

My Doodle Puppy notes that the cost of a Maltipoo from a puppy classifieds is $1,000 – $4,000. According to them, recurring costs of a Maltipoo are approximately $1,000 per year for supplies, food, toys, and healthcare.

Rescue or Adoption Costs

Adopting a Maltipoo from a shelter or rescue is typically cheaper, ranging from $50-$500. The adoption fee helps cover veterinary care, spay/neuter, and operating costs. The process may also be quicker than breeder waitlists. However, the dog’s health and background are less predictable.

Initial Cost Comparison: Breeder vs. Adoption

Breeder

• Cost: $1,000 – $3,000
• More predictable temperament and health
• Can meet puppy ahead of time
• Waitlist fees and deposit common

Adoption

• Cost: $50 – $500
• Background may be unknown
• Saves a dog needing a home
• Usually no waitlist or deposit

While adopted dogs cost less upfront, both have ongoing expenses. Do your research to find an ethical, responsible source for your Maltipoo.

An Overview of the Maltipoo Breed

Now that you know the typical price range, here’s a quick look at what makes the Maltipoo such a popular hybrid dog:

• Small size – Usually 5-20 lbs fully grown
• Hypoallergenic coat – Low shedding for allergy sufferers
• Fun, friendly temperament – Affectionate, lively, and playful
• Minimal barking – Less vocal than some small breeds
• Low exercise needs – Only 30-60 minutes per day
• Long lifespan – Typically 12-15 years

These factors contribute to the Maltipoo’s appeal. Next, let’s break down the recurring expenses of owning this companion dog.

Also check out other breeds like the Yorkie Poo, the Goldendoodle, and the Norwich terrier.

The Ongoing Costs of Caring for a Maltipoo

While the initial purchase price may seem high, it’s only a fraction of what you’ll invest in your Maltipoo over its lifetime. Proper preventative care and maintenance ensures your pup stays happy and healthy for years to come.

Veterinary Expenses

From routine checkups to emergency visits, veterinary costs are a significant part of dog ownership.

• Initial vet visits – 2-3 visits for exams, vaccinations, and deworming will likely total $300-$500.
• Spaying or neutering – This one-time cost of $100-$500 helps avoid health issues and unwanted litters.
• Annual checkups – Yearly exams, tests, and vaccines average $200-$400.
• Emergency vet care – Accidents or illnesses may require emergency treatment costing $500-$5,000+.

Regular veterinary care provides essential preventative medicine and catches problems early. Budgeting $500-$1,000 yearly provides for routine needs and cushions emergency costs.

High-Quality Food and Nutrition

Providing complete and balanced meals tailored for a small breed puppy or adult dog has ongoing costs:

• Dog food – Premium dry kibble costs $30-$60 per 15-30 lb bag, purchased monthly or bimonthly.
• Treats – $50-$150 annually for healthy training treats.
• Supplements – Joint, skin, or dental supplements add $100-$300 yearly.
• Prescription food – Diets for allergies or medical issues may cost 2-3 times more per month.

Investing in proper Maltipoo nutrition gives them vital nutrition for their long-term health. Budget around $500-$1,000 annually for quality food.

Grooming Requirements

The Maltipoo’s fluffy, low-shedding fur requires frequent brushing and professional grooming:

• Brushes and combs – A slicker brush and metal comb cost $20-$40 upfront.
• Shampoos and conditioners – Quality cleansing products designed for dogs run $15-$25 monthly.
• Professional grooming – Salon visits every 4-8 weeks cost around $40-$80 each, or $500-$1,000+ yearly.
• DIY grooming – For owners doing at-home trims, clippers and scissors cost around $50 initially.

Regular upkeep helps prevent painful mats in the Maltipoo’s curly coat. Grooming expenses add up to $500-$1,500+ annually.

Training and Socialization Costs

Proper training and socialization improve behavior and create an enjoyable companion.

• Puppy classes – Initial obedience classes help with training and socialization for $150-$350 total.
• Private training – For issues like separation anxiety, private sessions average $50-$150 per hour.
• Group dog classes – Ongoing classes for socialization and manners run $150-$300 for a 6-8 week session.

Though not mandatory, training is highly recommended and costs around $200-$500+ the first year, and $150+ annually thereafter.

Initial and Ongoing Accessory Expenses

Necessities like beds, leashes, and poop bags plus toys, clothing, and travel items add up.

• Initial supplies – A crate, collar and leash, bowls, bed, and basic accessories will likely total $200-$500.
• Toys and treats – $50-$150+ initially for chew toys, balls, and puzzle games. Replace toys periodically.
• Ongoing supplies – Estimate $100-$300 annually for replenishing things like poop bags, medications, storage containers, replacement toys, apparel, travel items, containment gates, doors, etc.
• Beds and furniture – Higher-end orthopedic beds, steps, playpens, and housing furnishings can cost $200-$2,000+ depending on preferences.

Basic essentials plus extras can cost $500-$1,000+ the first year, with $500+ in potential ongoing costs.

Additional Ownership Expenses to Factor In

Beyond routine care, additional costs pop up:

• Pet insurance – For accident or illness coverage, premiums average $300 – $700 annually for Maltipoos, with deductibles and co-pays.
• Boarding and dog walkers – For travel or work hours, daily dog walkers cost $15-$25 per 30-minute visit and boarding ranges $25-$50+ per night.
• Unexpected vet bills – Emergencies or major illnesses may result in $1,000-$10,000+ in treatment costs if uninsured. Budget an emergency fund.

While optional, these services provide peace of mind. They can also prevent destructive behavior in anxious pups left alone.

Estimating Total Lifetime Care Costs

Factoring in all the potential costs, estimates for total lifetime care range:

• Low-end estimate – For the most basic routine care with few complications, $15,000-$20,000 total over the average 12-15 year lifespan.
• Mid-range estimate – With some extra costs like insurance and boarding, $25,000-$30,000 total for an adult dog adopted from a shelter.
• High-end estimate – For purchased puppies with maximum services and expenses, $35,000-$60,000+ over 15 years.

The Maltipoo is a long commitment! Make sure to budget for their lifetime care and have an emergency savings fund.

Final Words

While the cost of a Maltipoo ranges from a few hundred dollars to several thousand over their lifetime, this investment brings an adorable, furry best friend into your family! Setting a realistic budget and choosing a reputable source helps set you both up for success.

Beyond the expenses, a well-cared-for Maltipoo will reward you with years of fun, love, and companionship.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a Maltipoo live?

With proper care, nutrition, exercise, and vet visits, the average lifespan of a Maltipoo is 12-15 years. Some may live longer to 17 years or more! This long life expectancy contributes to the high lifetime costs.

Are Maltipoo dogs good dogs?

Yes, when purchased from responsible breeders and properly trained and socialized, Maltipoos make wonderful family companion dogs! They are typically very friendly, lively, affectionate, intelligent, and low-shedding.

Can a Maltipoo be left alone?

Maltipoos are social dogs who crave human interaction. While properly trained adult Maltipoos can be left alone for moderate periods of 4-6 hours, they do best when someone is often home. Puppies should not be left over 2-3 hours. Consider dog walkers or daycare if away long hours.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Breeder – A professional dog breeder, ideally focused on responsible, health-tested breeding for temperament and health.
• Adoption – The process of taking in a shelter or rescue dog and providing them a forever home. Adoption fees help cover the pet’s care.
• Veterinary care – Health services provided by licensed veterinarians, including exams, vaccines, treatments, spay/neuter procedures, emergency care, etc.
• Preventative care – Proactive health steps like exams, vaccines, dental cleanings, flea/tick/heartworm medication aimed at preventing disease.
• Nutrition – The proper diet and food needed to keep a dog healthy, typically high-quality commercial dog food formulated for the dog’s age and size.
• Grooming – Coat care activities like brushing, bathing, trimming, cleaning eyes/ears to keep a dog clean and free of mats. Done both at home and professionally at groomers.
• Training – Teaching a dog proper manners and obedience, typically through puppy classes, private lessons, YouTube videos, books, etc.
• Socialization – Safely exposing a dog to a variety of environments, people, and animals to improve behavior, prevent fearfulness or aggression.
• Supplies – The assortment of gear and accessories needed for dog ownership including collars, beds, leashes, bowls, toys, crates, gates, etc.