When it comes to choosing a designer dog breed in Australia, two names consistently top the list: Cavoodles and Maltipoos. These adorable, intelligent crossbreeds have captured the hearts of Australian families nationwide, but deciding between them can feel overwhelming.
Both the Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle) and Maltipoo (Maltese x Poodle) share the desirable traits of being low-shedding, family-friendly, and adaptable to various living situations. However, each breed brings its own unique characteristics that might make one more suitable for your lifestyle than the other.
In this comprehensive comparison, we'll examine everything from temperament and size to grooming needs and costs, helping you make an informed decision about which of these beloved designer breeds is the right fit for your Australian home.
At a Glance Comparison
CharacteristicCavoodleMaltipooSizeSmall to MediumSmallWeight5-12kg2-7kgLifespan12-15 years12-16 yearsExercise NeedsModerateLow to ModerateGroomingHighHighPurchase Cost (AUD)$2,000-$5,000$1,500-$4,000Good with KidsExcellentGood (better with older children)TrainabilityHighHighOrigin & History
Cavoodle History
The Cavoodle originated in Australia during the 1990s as part of the designer dog movement. Breeders sought to combine the gentle, friendly nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. This cross quickly gained popularity among Australian families, making it one of the country's most sought-after designer breeds.
Maltipoo History
The Maltipoo has a slightly longer history, emerging in the United States during the 1990s before gaining popularity in Australia. This cross combines the elegant, affectionate Maltese with the clever, hypoallergenic Poodle. While newer to the Australian market compared to Cavoodles, Maltipoos have rapidly gained recognition for their charming personalities and compact size.
Temperament & Personality
Cavoodle Temperament
Cavoodles are renowned for their exceptionally balanced temperament. They inherit the Cavalier's gentle, patient nature combined with the Poodle's intelligence and eagerness to please. These dogs are typically:
- Extremely social and people-oriented
- Patient and tolerant with children of all ages
- Adaptable to various living situations
- Generally calm but playful when appropriate
- Excellent therapy and companion dogs
- Good with other pets when socialised early
Maltipoo Temperament
Maltipoos showcase a more spirited personality, often displaying the confidence of their Maltese heritage alongside Poodle intelligence. They tend to be:
- Affectionate and devoted to their owners
- Alert and excellent watchdogs despite their size
- Slightly more independent than Cavoodles
- Energetic and playful
- Sometimes wary of strangers initially
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone frequently
Key Personality Differences
When comparing maltipoo vs cavoodle temperaments, the main differences lie in their social approaches. Cavoodles typically display more consistent gentleness and patience, making them ideal for families with young children. Maltipoos, while equally loving, may show more personality quirks and can be slightly more protective of their family.
Size & Appearance
Cavoodle Size & Appearance
Cavoodles come in two size varieties depending on the Poodle parent used:
- Toy Cavoodle: 5-7kg, bred with Toy Poodles
- Miniature Cavoodle: 8-12kg, bred with Miniature Poodles
Their appearance typically features:
- Soft, wavy to curly coat
- Round, expressive eyes
- Floppy ears inherited from both parents
- Compact, well-proportioned body
- Coat colours: gold, cream, chocolate, red, black, or parti-colour combinations
Maltipoo Size & Appearance
Maltipoos are generally smaller and more consistent in size:
- Weight range: 2-7kg
- Height: 20-35cm
Their distinctive features include:
- Fine, silky coat that can be wavy or curly
- Dark, button eyes
- Small, delicate bone structure
- Coat colours: white, cream, apricot, red, chocolate, black, or combinations
- Often retains the elegant appearance of their Maltese heritage
Size Considerations
The size difference between cavoodle vs maltipoo is significant for Australian families. Cavoodles offer more size flexibility and are generally sturdier for active families, while Maltipoos are better suited to apartment living and owners seeking a more portable companion.
Exercise & Training
Cavoodle Exercise & Training
Cavoodles require moderate exercise and are highly trainable:
- Daily exercise: 30-60 minutes including walks and play
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games
- Training characteristics: Eager to please, responds well to positive reinforcement
- Ideal activities: Beach walks, dog parks, agility training, swimming
Maltipoo Exercise & Training
Maltipoos have slightly lower exercise requirements but equal intelligence:
- Daily exercise: 20-40 minutes of walks and indoor play
- Mental stimulation: Essential due to high intelligence
- Training characteristics: Quick learners but can be slightly stubborn
- Ideal activities: Short walks, indoor games, socialisation outings
Training Comparison
Both breeds excel in training, but Cavoodles typically show more consistent willingness to please. Maltipoos may require slightly more patience due to occasional independent streaks inherited from their Maltese lineage.
Health & Lifespan
Cavoodle Health
Cavoodles benefit from hybrid vigour but may inherit conditions from parent breeds:
- Common concerns: Heart conditions (inherited from Cavaliers), hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Health testing: Heart clearances, eye testing, DNA testing recommended
Maltipoo Health
Maltipoos are generally robust but have their own health considerations:
- Common concerns: Luxating patella, tracheal collapse, dental issues
- Lifespan: 12-16 years (often on the longer side)
- Health advantages: Less prone to heart conditions than Cavoodles
Overall Health Comparison
Both breeds are relatively healthy, but Maltipoos may have a slight edge due to fewer inherited heart conditions. However, responsible breeding and health testing are crucial for both breeds.
Grooming & Maintenance
Cavoodle Grooming Requirements
Cavoodles require significant grooming commitment:
- Brushing: Daily to prevent matting
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Bathing: Monthly or as needed
- Ear cleaning: Weekly (prone to ear infections)
- Annual grooming cost: $800-$1,200
Maltipoo Grooming Requirements
Maltipoos have similarly high grooming needs:
- Brushing: Daily, with extra attention to prevent tangles
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Bathing: Every 3-4 weeks (finer coat shows dirt more easily)
- Dental care: More critical due to smaller mouth
- Annual grooming cost: $700-$1,000
Grooming Comparison
Both breeds require similar grooming commitments, though Maltipoos may need slightly more frequent bathing due to their finer coat texture.
Cost Comparison in Australia
Initial Purchase Costs
- Cavoodle: $2,000-$5,000 (higher end for well-bred, health-tested lines)
- Maltipoo: $1,500-$4,000 (slightly lower due to less market demand)
Ongoing Annual Costs
Expense CategoryCavoodle (AUD)Maltipoo (AUD)Food$400-600$300-500Veterinary Care$800-1,200$600-1,000Grooming$800-1,200$700-1,000Insurance$600-900$500-800Total Annual$2,600-3,900$2,100-3,300Maltipoos generally cost slightly less to maintain due to their smaller size requiring less food and potentially lower veterinary costs.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Cavoodle if:
- You have young children or want the gentlest temperament
- You prefer a slightly larger, sturdier dog
- You want maximum adaptability to various situations
- You're looking for a potential therapy or assistance dog
- You have an active lifestyle and want a companion for longer walks
- You don't mind paying slightly more for initial purchase and ongoing costs
Choose a Maltipoo if:
- You live in an apartment or have limited space
- You prefer a smaller, more portable companion
- You want a dog with a bit more personality and spunk
- You have older children (8+) rather than toddlers
- You're looking for a loyal, devoted companion who bonds closely with one person
- You prefer slightly lower ongoing costs
Both breeds are excellent choices if:
- You want a low-shedding, hypoallergenic companion
- You're committed to regular grooming and maintenance
- You value intelligence and trainability
- You want a loving, family-friendly dog
- You're prepared for the financial commitment of a designer breed
Before making your final decision, consider reading our guide on 5 things to consider when buying a puppy to ensure you're fully prepared for either breed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better with children, Cavoodle or Maltipoo?
Cavoodles are generally better with young children due to their more patient and gentle temperament. Maltipoos can be excellent with older children (8+) but may be less tolerant of rough handling from toddlers.
Do Cavoodles or Maltipoos shed more?
Both breeds are considered low-shedding, but individual dogs may vary depending on which parent they take after more strongly. Neither breed is completely non-shedding, but both are suitable for most people with mild allergies.
Which breed is easier to train?
Both breeds are highly intelligent and trainable. Cavoodles may be slightly easier for first-time owners due to their eagerness to please, while Maltipoos can occasionally show independence that requires more patience.
Are Maltipoos more expensive than Cavoodles in Australia?
Generally, Cavoodles command higher prices both for initial purchase ($2,000-5,000 vs $1,500-4,000) and ongoing costs due to their larger size and higher market demand in Australia.
Which breed lives longer?
Both breeds have similar lifespans, with Maltipoos potentially having a slight edge (12-16 years vs 12-15 years for Cavoodles). However, individual health, genetics, and care play larger roles than breed averages.
Can both breeds live in apartments?
Yes, both breeds can adapt to apartment living. Maltipoos may be slightly better suited due to their smaller size and lower exercise requirements, but Cavoodles also adapt well with adequate daily exercise.
Both Cavoodles and Maltipoos represent excellent choices among Australia's best designer breeds. Your decision should ultimately come down to your lifestyle, living situation, and personal preferences regarding size and temperament.
The Cavoodle offers the perfect balance of gentleness and intelligence, making it ideal for families with children and those wanting a versatile, medium-sized companion. The Maltipoo provides all the charm of a smaller dog with a spirited personality that's perfect for those seeking a devoted, portable companion.
Regardless of which breed captures your heart, the most important factor is finding a reputable breeder who prioritises health testing and ethical breeding practices. At Doggo, we connect you with verified breeders of both Cavoodles and Maltipoos across Australia, ensuring you find not just the right breed, but the right puppy from a responsible source.
Ready to find your perfect companion? Browse our listings of quality Cavoodle and Maltipoo breeders today and take the first step towards welcoming one of these wonderful designer breeds into your Australian home.