Tiny dog, huge commitment: here’s what you actually need to know before bringing home a teacup maltipoo.
If you’re considering a teacup maltipoo, you’re probably picturing a little cloud of fluff that fits in your arms, barely sheds, and lives happily in a condo while you sip your oat latte. And honestly? That dream isn’t wrong.
But here’s the part most first-time owners don’t hear enough: a teacup maltipoo isn’t just “a smaller dog.” It’s a delicate, higher-care companion with specific grooming needs, health considerations, and costs that can surprise people. They’re adorable, yes. They’re also fragile enough that a bad jump off the couch can become a vet visit.
Key Takeaways
✔ Teacup maltipoos are tiny (often under 7 lbs), but “teacup” isn’t a standardized category, so sizes vary.
✔ They’re affectionate and smart, but can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.
✔ Grooming is not optional. You’ll need regular brushing plus professional grooming every 4–6 weeks, depending on the haircut style.
✔ Health risks can include dental issues, luxating patella, and low blood sugar in tiny pups, so preventative care matters.
✔ The true cost isn’t just the puppy, it’s ongoing grooming, vet care, and emergency funds, especially for extra-small dogs.
Table of Contents
Teacup Maltipoo Size & Full-Grown Weight (With Realistic Expectations)
Teacup Maltipoo Care: Daily Needs for a Healthy, Happy Pup
Teacup Maltipoo Colours: Black Maltipoo, Brown Maltipoo & More
Is a Teacup Maltipoo Right for You? (Honest Checklist)
Ready for a Teacup Maltipoo? Meet Foufou Puppies
What Is a Teacup Maltipoo?
A teacup maltipoo is a Maltese–Poodle mix bred to be smaller than the typical maltipoo. Most maltipoos are already a small breed, but teacup varieties are intentionally bred from smaller parent dogs (usually Maltese and Toy Poodles) to keep the puppy compact.
Maltipoos are known for being affectionate, friendly, intelligent, and people-focused. They’re also often described as low-shedding (though no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic).
Teacup Maltipoo vs Mini Maltipoo: What’s the Difference?
Here’s where the internet gets messy, because “teacup” isn’t a formal breed classification. It’s a size label, and different breeders may use it differently.
That said, you can think of the difference like this:
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Teacup Maltipoo: typically the smallest size tier, sometimes under 5 lbs (but not always)
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Mini Maltipoo: larger, sturdier, and often easier for first-time owners who want the maltipoo personality without the fragility
One major takeaway: if you want a dog that can handle more active lifestyles, kids, or frequent travel, a mini maltipoo is often the safer choice.
Teacup Maltipoo Temperament: What They’re Actually Like at Home
A teacup maltipoo is a classic companion dog:
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Cuddly, loyal, and happiest near you
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Playful and social
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Highly trainable (with the right approach)
The downside? Their strong attachment can turn into separation anxiety if they’re left alone for long stretches. It’s not “bad behaviour.” It’s the dog doing what it was bred to do: bond intensely with humans.
Teacup Maltipoo Size & Full-Grown Weight (With Realistic Expectations)
If you’re Googling “teacup maltipoo full grown,” you’re not alone. Size is one of the biggest deciding factors for first-time owners, especially for condo living or travel.
Teacup Maltipoo Full Grown Size
Because there’s no standardized “teacup” definition across all breeders, size can vary. But many teacup maltipoos land around:
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3 to 7 lbs
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6 to 10 inches tall
Some sources list teacup maltipoos as around 3–5 lbs at 11 months, though genetics and breeding lines can shift those numbers. For comparison, standard maltipoos (including toy and mini varieties) can range anywhere from 5 to 25 lbs, depending on parent size.
Growth Timeline: Puppy to Adult
Most maltipoos reach adult size around 12 months, although some may continue filling out until 14–16 months, especially larger varieties. Smaller pups usually mature faster.
Why Size Matters More Than You Think
Small isn’t just “cute.” It changes everything:
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Higher risk of injury
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Stricter feeding routines (especially for tiny puppies)
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More expensive vet care when something goes wrong
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More lifestyle adjustments (stairs, furniture, travel safety)
A teacup maltipoo might be tiny, but it’ll still demand a full-sized commitment.
Teacup Maltipoo Care: Daily Needs for a Healthy, Happy Pup
Teacup maltipoos do best with routine, gentle handling, and consistent daily care.
Feeding (Small Stomach, Big Needs)
Teacup pups can be prone to low blood sugar, especially when young.
Best practices:-
Feed smaller, more frequent meals
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Choose high-quality food
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Avoid long gaps between meals
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Ask your vet for an ideal schedule
Exercise Needs
They don’t need intense workouts, but they do need daily movement.
Aim for: ~30 minutes daily in short sessions
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Short walks
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Indoor play
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Training games
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Puzzle toys
Avoid overexertion and extreme heat or cold. Cold weather protection is a must in much of Canada.
Training Tips
They’re smart, but small dogs can pick up bad habits fast if training is inconsistent.
Focus on:-
Positive reinforcement
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Consistent potty routines
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Crate training
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Early socialization to reduce barking and anxiety
Grooming a Teacup Maltipoo
Teacup maltipoos aren’t low maintenance. Their coat mats easily without consistent grooming.
What Their Coat Is Like
Both types mat easily, which can cause irritation and skin issues.
Coats can be:-
Wavy and silky
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Curly and dense
How Often to Groom
Longer styles may need touch-ups more often to prevent mats.
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Brush: daily if keeping longer hair
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Professional grooming: every 4–6 weeks
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Quick trims: eyes, paws, and sanitary areas between appointments
Maltipoo Haircuts: Best Styles
Teddy Bear Cut-
Rounded face + fluffy look
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Medium-high maintenance
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Simple, even trim
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Medium maintenance and beginner-friendly
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Lowest maintenance
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Can expose sensitive skin
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Non-negotiable for hygiene and comfort.
Grooming Costs to Plan For
Matting often costs extra to remove.
Budget for:-
Grooming every 4–6 weeks
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Brushes, combs, detangler
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Nail trims
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Ear cleaning
Teacup Maltipoo Colours: Black Maltipoo, Brown Maltipoo & More
Colour doesn’t affect temperament, but it can affect availability and price.
Common Colours
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Cream/white/apricot
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Black
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Brown/chocolate
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Mixed shades and fades
Black Maltipoo
Black coats can fade or shift in tone over time due to genetics.
Brown Maltipoo
Brown coats may lighten as they mature, sometimes into a softer cocoa shade.
Should Colour Affect Price?
Some breeders charge more for rarer colours. If colour is the main selling point and health info is vague, walk away.
Colour should never come before:-
Health screening
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Ethical breeding
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Socialization
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Vet records
Is a Teacup Maltipoo Right for You? (Honest Checklist)
Tiny dogs thrive in calm, consistent homes, not chaos. A teacup maltipoo is ideal if you want a companion dog and can commit to daily care and grooming.
Best Fit Lifestyle
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Condo/apartment living
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Someone home often
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Owners who want a cuddly, people-focused dog
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Willing to handle grooming and vet care
Not the Best Fit If…
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You have very young children
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You want low maintenance
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You’re away all day
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You want a dog that can roughhouse
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do teacup Maltipoos get?
A teacup maltipoo usually grows to 3–7 lbs and about 6–10 inches tall. Size can vary since “teacup” isn’t a standardized category.
How much is a teacup Maltipoo?
A teacup maltipoo often costs more than standard sizes due to demand and breeding difficulty. Exact pricing varies by breeder, health screening, and location. Ongoing costs include grooming and vet care.
What is the lifespan of a teacup Maltipoo?
Most teacup maltipoos live around 12–15 years, sometimes longer with proper care, good breeding, and regular vet + dental maintenance.
Is there a difference between Maltipoo and teacup Maltipoo?
Yes. A teacup maltipoo is simply a smaller-sized maltipoo, bred from smaller parents. They’re typically more fragile and require gentler handling.
What is a common problem with Maltipoo?
Common issues include dental problems, luxating patella (knee issues), tear staining, and separation anxiety, especially in smaller sizes.
Ready for a Teacup Maltipoo? Meet Foufou Puppies
A teacup maltipoo can be an amazing first dog if you go in with clear expectations: they’re affectionate, smart, adorable, and deeply bonded to their people. They also need consistent grooming, gentle handling, and proactive health care.
If you’re ready for a puppy that fits your lifestyle and you want guidance throughout the process, Foufou Puppies can help you find the right match. Explore available puppies, ask questions, and get support on choosing the best fit for your home and routine.
Because the best teacup maltipoo experience is the one where you’re prepared, not surprised.
