Cockapoos VS Cavapoos VS Maltipoos

You may be wondering what the difference is between a Cockapoo, Cavapoo, and Maltipoo breeds. If you are, look no further. Here is a complete comparison of each breed, down to the fine details, so that when it comes time for you to take your pick, you can make the best possible decision!


Black multicolored Cockapoo

Cockapoo

Cavapoo

Cream maltipoo sitting

Maltipoo


Features Cockapoo Cavapoo Maltipoo
Energy level High Moderate to high Moderate
Size: height/weight 14-16” 12-24lbs 9-14” 8-25lbs 7-14” 4-20lbs
Life span 10-13 years 10-13 years 10-13 years
Grooming frequency Moderate to high Moderate to high High
Intelligence Very High High High
Shedding Low to moderate Low to moderate Low to none
Common Coat texture Silky and straight
Plush and curly
Feathered and wavy
Soft and dense
Plush and curly
Feathered and wavy
Soft and silky
Plush and curly
Feathered and wavy
Soft and silky
Coat color Black, white, cream, red, chocolate, silver, buff, apricot, gold, tan, beige, gray-blue Black, white, cream, apricot, red, chocolate, gold, fawn, gray, tan, ruby White, black, cream, red, chocolate, fawn, apricot, silver, gray, light brown, gray-blue, beige, champagne
Coat patterns Bi-color, tri-color, and merle, sable, phantom, parti Blenheim, tri-color, sable, merle, parti, phantom, and tuxedo Bi-color, tri-color, merle, phantom, sable, and parti
Barking level Low to Medium Low to medium Medium
Potential Health issues PRA, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, ear infections, and allergies PRA, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, ear infections, Syringomyelia, MVD, and sebaceous adenitis PRA, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, Syringomyelia Dental issues, epilepsy, white shaker syndrome, and legg-calve-perthes disease
Health issue prone Low to Moderate Moderate to High Moderate
Estimated Overall Cost $1,800 - $5,200 $2,300 - $5,400 $2,300 - $6,300

Health

Cockapoos, Cavapoos, and Maltipoos all share a Poodle parent; they inherit hypoallergenic fur that has little to no shedding. While their other parentage may influence shedding on a dog-by-dog basis, any of these dogs would be a great choice for someone with allergies. Each of these crossbreeds benefits from hybrid vigor, which comes from combining superior genetic traits. However, Maltipoos may develop issues due to their small size.

up close of tired puppy

The life span for these three breeds is not set in stone. It is said that their life spans range from 10 to 13 years, still they have the capacity to live longer, and some may pass on sooner. This greatly depends on their level of exercise, quality of diet, and consistency of grooming. If these needs are met successfully, your pup is sure to live long. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to ensure they are on track for a long life. Some dogs may be born with defects or illnesses that cannot be fixed even with proper care, for which pet insurance is suggested to help with health costs and care for your dog.

Eating Habits

Each breed needs a balanced diet composed of the right amounts of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Puppies need to eat 4 meals a day, adult dogs usually need only two meals a day. The portion size depends mainly on the height and weight of the dog. Ask your vet about the dietary needs and recommended proportions for your dog.

Basic Care

From a distance, the coats and build of these three dogs may appear the same, but they are not identical. The muzzle for each dog can vary depending on what genes they inherit from their unique parentage. Some Cockapoos have tapered muzzles adorned with a beard and mustache. Cavapoos usually have broader snouts, and Maltipoos have smaller snouts. Much of their grooming needs are the same, though Maltipoos need slightly more frequent brushing.

When it comes to exercise, it depends on the dog, their size, diet, and personality. Typically, Cockapoos are the most energetic, needing the most exercise. Next would be Cavapoos, and then Maltipoos. This is not to say that Maltipoos don’t have much energy; in fact, some Maltipoos may have more energy than some Cockapoos. Most dogs are pretty versatile and can handle a little more or less exercise than suggested. Consider activities you can do at home as a form of exercise. Remember dogs don’t just need exercise, prioritize giving your puppy lots of attention too!

Living Conditions And Adaptability Skills

puppy sitting on owners lap, wearing matching sweaters

Each of these dog types are compatible with different living arrangements. Maltipoos are particularly suitable for apartment living because they tend to need less exercise, making it convenient for someone who lives in an apartment. Regardless of your living situation, any of the three dogs can and will adapt to your environment.

All three breeds are fairly sensitive to the weather, but to different extents. Maltipoos are sensitive to small changes in weather. Cavapoos are slightly less sensitive, as they do well in moderate temperatures. Cockapoos are the most resilient, they can handle hot and cold but need protection in more extreme temperature changes.

Characteristics And Personalities

Just like people, no two dogs have the same personality. However, they do have similar temperaments. Cockapoos, Cavapoos, and Maltipoos alike have extremely loving, friendly, and playful dispositions. Thanks to their Poodle parent, they are all extremely intelligent. Cockapoos generally crave more physical activity and would be a perfect fit for an active family. Cavapoos are generally calmer and do well around families and elders. Maltipoos are great for cuddling, making apartment living easy. Cockapoos and Maltipoos are prone to separation anxiety.

These dogs may be ideal for those situations, but no matter who you are, where you live, or what you do, any of these three breeds would be a great choice! 

Lady holding a puppy in her arms

Popularity

All three breeds are very popular but each breed has their own niche. The Cockapoo breed was created first and has been a classic choice ever since. Cavapoo is often chosen by families and elders because of its gentility. Maltipoos are most likely to be picked by urban dwellers because of their small size. Cavapoos and Cockapoos are in high demand in the USA, UK, and Australia. The Maltipoo is sought after in the USA, UK, and Canada.

While all three of these breeds are fairly similar, it’s the small subtleties that owners feel strongly about. Here at mydoodlepuppy, we try to help our customers find their exact puppy match, so they can find a puppy that fits all their specifications whether Cockapoo, Cavapoo, or Maltipoo.

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