Choosing a puppy

A healthy, well-raised Maltipoo puppy looks a lot like any other adorable puppy in a photo. The difference shows up in the paperwork, the parents, and the answers you get when you ask questions. Here is what actually separates a good puppy from a risky one.

• Health testing on both parents

  Ask for proof of a patella evaluation (checks for luxating patella, common in small breeds), an eye exam for early PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), and a cardiac check. A reputable breeder will hand this over without hesitation.
• Age at homecoming, 8 to 10 weeks

  Maltipoo puppies benefit from time with their mother and littermates before going home. Most reputable breeders release puppies between 8 and 10 weeks, once they're weaned and past their first round of vaccines. Be cautious of anyone offering a puppy younger than 8 weeks.
• Clear parent breed and generation info

  Ask whether the puppy is an F1 (first generation Maltese x Poodle), F1B (Maltipoo bred back to Poodle or Maltese), or multi-generation cross. This affects coat, shedding, and size, and a good breeder should know and explain it.
• A written health guarantee

  This should cover genetic conditions for a defined period, typically one to two years, and spell out what happens if a covered issue shows up. Read it before you pay a deposit, not after.
• A puppy raised in the home

  Puppies raised underfoot in a family living room, exposed to normal household noise and handling, socialize better than puppies raised in an isolated kennel. Ask to video call the puppy in its everyday environment.

• No health testing records, or vague answers about them

  If a breeder cannot produce actual documents, patella, eye, and heart results are not optional extras.
• "Teacup" sizing pushed as a selling point

  Extreme small-for-the-breed puppies are often bred from undersized or unhealthy parents and carry higher health risks. A healthy Maltipoo runs 5 to 20 pounds, be wary of anyone marketing far below that.
• Claims of "100% hypoallergenic"

  No dog is truly allergen-free. A breeder who promises otherwise is either misinformed or overselling, either way it's worth a second look.
• Payment only by wire transfer or gift card, no contract

  A legitimate breeder uses a written sales contract and standard payment methods.
• Refusal to let you video call or visit

  Reasonable biosecurity limits on in-person visits are normal, but a flat refusal to even video call is a warning sign.