K.A.S. Breed Guide · 2026

Maltipoo — the complete breed, health & care guide

Maltese × Toy Poodle. Gentle, low-shedding, intelligent. This page is the official Kennel Association Slovensko reference for Maltipoo temperament, health standards and certified breeding in Slovakia (maltipoo predaj).

Size
20–35 cm · 2.5–7 kg
Lifespan
12–16 years
Coat
Wavy / curly · low-shed
Temperament
Affectionate · alert · trainable

Origin & character

The Maltipoo is a first-generation hybrid between the Maltese and the Toy or Miniature Poodle. Bred deliberately since the late 1990s for companion families, the Maltipoo combines the Maltese's affectionate, people-oriented disposition with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat.

In Slovakia and across Central Europe, the Maltipoo (slovensky často označovaný ako maltipoo pes) is one of the fastest-growing companion breeds. Because it is not yet recognised by the FCI as an independent breed, traditional registries don't issue pedigrees — which is exactly the gap K.A.S. addresses with a dedicated certification track for ethically-bred hybrid lines.

— Health first —

Maltipoo health standards required by K.A.S.

Both parents of every K.A.S.-certified Maltipoo litter must clear the full screening panel below. Results are signed by a licensed veterinarian and published on the puppy's K.A.S. certificate — buyers can verify them at any time.

PRA-prcd DNA test (progressive retinal atrophy) — both parents clear or carrier × clear
Patellar luxation — orthopaedic grading 0/1 maximum
Cardiac auscultation — annual, no murmur grade ≥ II
BAER hearing test where coat/colour indicates risk
Hip & elbow check on Miniature Poodle parents over 6 kg
Full veterinary fitness-to-breed exam within 60 days of mating

Genetic diversity

F1 crosses benefit from heterosis — a wider gene pool reduces the risk of inherited disease versus tightly line-bred toy breeds.

Lifelong wellness

Annual dental checks, joint-friendly nutrition and routine cardiac screening keep Maltipoos healthy well into their teens.

Ethical guarantee

K.A.S. contracts include a lifetime take-back clause and forbid breeding females before 18 months or after their 4th litter.

— K.A.S. process —

How a Maltipoo litter gets certified

Four transparent steps from breeder registration to the puppy's final K.A.S. certificate.

1 · Breeder onboarding

Kennel inspection, ethics contract, cap on litters per year.

2 · Parental screening

DNA + orthopaedic + cardiac panel for both parents, results uploaded to K.A.S.

3 · Litter follow-up

Veterinary check at 6 and 8 weeks: weight, microchip, vaccines, deworming.

4 · Certificate issued

Each puppy receives a K.A.S. certificate with full parental health record.

Buying a Maltipoo in Slovakia (maltipoo predaj)

Average price for a K.A.S.-certified Maltipoo puppy in Slovakia is €1,200 – €2,200, depending on size, coat colour and parental health clearances. Below €600 the puppy almost always comes from unscreened parents or a commercial multi-breed operation.

Use the checklist on the right when contacting a breeder. A K.A.S. certified kennel will answer every point in writing without hesitation.

Buyer checklist
  • Visit the puppy at the breeder's home with the mother present.
  • Ask for both parents' DNA, cardiac and patellar reports.
  • Confirm microchip, EU passport and 1st vaccination.
  • Request the K.A.S. certificate number — verifiable online.
  • Read the lifetime take-back clause in the contract.
Report unethical Maltipoo breeders to K.A.S. via the contact page — we publish a verified breeder list and a watch-list.

Maltipoo — frequently asked questions

Is the Maltipoo a recognised breed?+

The Maltipoo is a deliberate Maltese × Toy/Miniature Poodle cross. It is not currently recognised by the FCI as a standalone breed, but K.A.S. certifies Maltipoo litters under its Responsible Cynology programme.

Does a Maltipoo shed?+

Very little — the Poodle genetics deliver a low-shedding wavy or curly coat. It still needs daily brushing and a professional groom every 6–8 weeks.

How long does a Maltipoo live?+

With ethical breeding and routine veterinary care, 12 to 16 years is typical.

Are Maltipoos good with children?+

Yes, when raised with respectful handling. Because they are small (2.5–7 kg) supervise interactions with toddlers to prevent accidental injury.

How much exercise does a Maltipoo need?+

Two 20–30 minute walks per day plus interactive play. They thrive on mental stimulation — short training sessions are ideal.

Looking for a K.A.S.-certified Maltipoo?

Contact us to be put in touch with vetted Slovak Maltipoo breeders currently expecting K.A.S.-certified litters.

Contact K.A.S.