Maltese and Pomeranian Mix: The Maltipom Breed Profile & Care Guide

What Is a Maltese and Pomeranian Mix?

The Maltese and Pomeranian mix — commonly called the Maltipom or sometimes the Pomtese — is a designer crossbreed produced by mating a purebred Maltese with a purebred Pomeranian. Both parent breeds belong to the American Kennel Club's Toy Group, which means this mix stays compact, typically weighing between 4 and 10 pounds (1.8–4.5 kg) at maturity.

Unlike established purebreds, the Maltipom is not recognized by the AKC or the American Kennel Club as a distinct breed. Registries such as the Designer Breed Registry (DBR) and the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) do list it, but these organizations track lineage rather than enforce a written breed standard. That distinction matters: without a standard, individual Maltipoms can look and behave quite differently from one another, even within the same litter.

If you're researching this cross, you've probably noticed conflicting information online — some sources describe a calm lap dog, others a bold, vocal companion. Both can be true. The variability is the point of understanding designer mixes. This guide breaks down what you can reasonably expect, what you can't predict, and how to decide whether a Maltipom fits your household.

Parent Breed Breakdown: Maltese vs. Pomeranian

Every trait in a Maltipom traces back to one parent or the other (or lands somewhere in between). Understanding each breed individually is the best way to anticipate what your dog might be like.

Parent Breed Comparison

Trait	Maltese	Pomeranian
AKC Group	Toy	Toy
Weight	Under 7 lb (3.2 kg)	3–7 lb (1.4–3.2 kg)
Height	7–9 in (18–23 cm)	6–7 in (15–18 cm)
Coat	Long, straight, silky single coat	Dense double coat with harsh outer and soft undercoat
Shedding	Very low	Moderate; seasonal blows
Energy Level	Moderate; playful but content to lounge	High for a toy breed; alert, busy, inquisitive
Barking	Moderate	High — vocal watchdog tendency
Trainability	Moderate; responds well but can be stubborn	Moderate to high; intelligent but independent
Lifespan	12–15 years	12–16 years
Origin	Central Mediterranean (ancient breed)	Pomerania region (Germany/Poland); descended from larger Spitz-type dogs

The Maltese brings a gentler disposition and a low-shedding single coat. The Pomeranian contributes boldness, a thicker double coat, and stronger watchdog instincts. Where each individual Maltipom falls on these spectrums depends on genetics, generation, and early socialization.

Generations Explained: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen Maltipoms

Most Maltipoms available from breeders are F1 crosses, since both parent breeds are readily available and popular. F1B backcrosses to the Maltese are occasionally produced by breeders targeting a more predictable low-shedding coat. Multigen Maltipoms are relatively uncommon compared to multigen doodle breeds, so you'll encounter them less often.

Why does generation matter? An F1 Maltipom gives you roughly a 50/50 genetic split, meaning coat type, size, and temperament can swing widely between littermates. An F1B backcrossed to a Maltese will more likely inherit the silky single coat, but you sacrifice some of the Pomeranian's sturdier bone structure. There is no "best" generation — only the generation whose likely traits match your preferences.

Size, Coat, and Appearance: What to Expect

Because both parents are toy breeds, Maltipom size variation is narrower than in crosses between large and small breeds. Still, a range exists.

Maltipom Size Range (Adult Estimates)

Measurement	Low End	High End
Weight	4 lb (1.8 kg)	10 lb (4.5 kg)
Height at Shoulder	6 in (15 cm)	10 in (25 cm)

Puppies from a smaller Pomeranian parent and a petite Maltese may stay under 5 lb (2.3 kg), while those from a larger-framed Pomeranian (some lines produce dogs closer to 8–9 lb) paired with a 7-lb Maltese can approach 10 lb. Ask the breeder for the exact weights of both parents — this is the single best predictor of adult size.

Coat Type Possibilities

The Maltipom's coat is one of its most variable traits and depends heavily on which parent's genes dominate:

• Maltese-dominant coat: Long, straight or slightly wavy, single-layered, silky texture. Low shedding. Requires daily brushing to prevent mats.
• Pomeranian-dominant coat: Shorter to medium length, dense double coat with a softer undercoat and coarser guard hairs. Moderate shedding with seasonal increases. Needs brushing 3–4 times per week.
• Blended coat: Medium-length, slightly wavy with some undercoat density. Moderate shedding. Most common in F1 puppies.

Coat colors span a wide palette: white, cream, black, sable, orange, brown, parti-color (white with patches), and black-and-tan. The Pomeranian parent contributes far more color variety than the Maltese, which is predominantly white. Ear shape also varies — some Maltipoms inherit the Maltese's drop ears, others the Pomeranian's erect ears, and some display semi-prick ears that never fully stand or fully fold.

Is the Maltipom Hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic — the term is a marketing shorthand, not a veterinary one. Allergens come from dander (skin flakes), saliva, and urine, not solely from hair. That said, Maltipoms that inherit the Maltese single coat tend to shed very little and release less dander into the environment, making them better tolerated by some allergy sufferers. Maltipoms with a Pomeranian-dominant double coat will shed more and are less suitable for allergy-sensitive homes. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy before committing, and consult your allergist.

Temperament: Best-Case, Challenging, and Everything Between

Maltipom temperament is where individual variation is most pronounced. The same litter can produce a confident, outgoing puppy and a shy, velcro-clinging littermate. Early socialization between 3 and 14 weeks of age is the single most influential factor you can control.

Best-Case Scenario

A well-socialized Maltipom from stable parent lines is affectionate, alert, playful in short bursts, and content to settle on your lap afterward. They bond closely with their people, greet visitors with curiosity rather than fear, and adapt to apartment living without excessive barking. They enjoy short walks (15–20 minutes) and indoor play sessions, totaling roughly 30–45 minutes of structured activity daily.

Challenging Scenario

A Maltipom that inherits the Pomeranian's watchdog intensity without adequate socialization can become a persistent barker — reacting to doorbells, passing dogs, and hallway noises. Separation anxiety is another risk, especially in dogs that bond intensely with a single person and are left alone for long stretches. Some individuals develop resource guarding (growling or snapping when approached while eating or holding a toy), which requires professional intervention using positive reinforcement and counter-conditioning and desensitization protocols recommended by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Family and Multi-Pet Compatibility

Maltipoms do best in homes with older children (age 8+) who understand how to handle a small dog gently. They can coexist with other pets, especially when raised together, but their tiny size makes them vulnerable to injury from larger, rambunctious dogs. Cat introductions usually go smoothly if the cat is calm and the Maltipom is socialized to felines early.

Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality

Let's address a persistent myth: hybrid vigor does not eliminate health problems. The concept of heterosis (hybrid vigor) suggests that crossbred dogs may have reduced risk for certain recessive genetic diseases that plague inbred purebred lines. This can be true — but only if the parent dogs themselves are genetically healthy. An F1 Maltipom from two untested parents with hereditary conditions is at just as much risk as a purebred from untested parents.

Responsible breeders health-test both parent dogs before breeding. For the Maltese and Pomeranian, recommended screenings according to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and breed-specific CHIC protocols include:

• Patellar luxation evaluation (knee) — both breeds
• Cardiac exam — both breeds (mitral valve disease in Maltese; Pomeranians can carry risk for patent ductus arteriosus)
• Ophthalmologist evaluation — both breeds (progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts)
• Thyroid evaluation — Pomeranian

Conditions to Watch For

Health Risks Inherited From Parent Breeds

Condition	Parent Breed Link	Signs to Watch For	Typical Veterinary Cost Range
Patellar Luxation	Both	Intermittent skipping or holding a hind leg up; may self-correct with a kick	$1,500–$4,000 per knee (surgical)
Tracheal Collapse	Both (especially Pomeranian)	Honking cough, worsened by excitement, heat, or pressure on the neck	$200–$600 (medical management); $3,500–$6,000+ (surgical stents)
Dental Disease	Both (toy breeds)	Bad breath, red gums, loose teeth, difficulty eating	$300–$800 (cleaning); $500–$2,000+ (extractions)
Mitral Valve Disease	Maltese	Heart murmur detected on exam; coughing, exercise intolerance in later stages	$200–$500 (diagnostics); $50–$150/month (medications)
Hypoglycemia (Puppies)	Both (toy breed puppies)	Lethargy, weakness, tremors, collapse in puppies under 4 months	$100–$500 (emergency treatment)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy	Both	Night blindness progressing to total vision loss; no pain	No cure; $200–$400 (diagnostic ERG)
White Dog Shaker Syndrome	Maltese	Full-body tremors, worse with excitement; onset typically 1–5 years	$300–$800 (diagnostics); $50–$100/month (corticosteroids)

Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of any health concern. Establish a relationship with a vet before bringing your Maltipom home, and schedule a wellness exam within the first week. Toy breed puppies are especially susceptible to hypoglycemia — feed small, frequent meals (3–4 times daily for puppies under 4 months) and keep a glucose gel such as Nutri-Cal on hand for emergencies.

Preventive Care Schedule

• Vaccinations: DHPP series at 6–8, 10–12, and 14–16 weeks; rabies at 12–16 weeks. Bordetella recommended if attending group classes or visiting groomers.
• Heartworm prevention: Monthly year-round in most U.S. regions — even indoor toy breeds, since mosquitoes get inside.
• Flea/tick prevention: Monthly topical or oral preventive; ask your vet for a weight-appropriate product (many are dosed for dogs 5 lb and up).
• Dental care: Daily tooth brushing with a dog-safe enzymatic toothpaste. Professional cleanings under anesthesia typically needed by age 3–5 in toy breeds.
• Annual wellness exam: Bloodwork starting at age 7 (senior baseline), then annually.

Grooming: What the Coat Demands

Grooming requirements vary based on which coat type your Maltipom inherits, but plan for a meaningful time commitment either way.

Daily to Weekly Home Grooming

• Brushing: Daily for Maltese-type coats using a slicker brush and metal comb. Every 2–3 days for Pomeranian-type coats, with a pin brush followed by an undercoat rake during shedding seasons.
• Face cleaning: Wipe around the eyes daily with a damp cloth — both parent breeds are prone to tear staining. Products like Angel Eyes or simple warm-water wipes help prevent reddish-brown discoloration.
• Ear care: Check ears weekly. Drop-eared Maltipoms are more prone to ear infections; clean with a vet-recommended ear wash if you notice odor or wax buildup.
• Nail trims: Every 2–3 weeks. Overgrown nails alter a small dog's gait and can contribute to patellar stress.

Professional Grooming

Most Maltipom owners visit a professional groomer every 4–8 weeks. Expect to pay $50–$90 per session depending on your region and coat length. A popular option is the "puppy cut" or "teddy bear cut" — a uniform trim to about 1–2 inches that reduces matting and makes home maintenance easier. If your Maltipom has a Pomeranian-dominant double coat, ask the groomer to avoid shaving the coat short, as double coats may not grow back properly after being clipped down (a condition called post-clipping alopecia).

Cost Breakdown: Buying, Adopting, and Annual Care

Maltipom Cost Estimates (2025–2026 U.S. Averages)

Expense Category	Low	Mid-Range	High
Puppy from a breeder	$800	$1,500	$3,000+
Adoption/rescue fee	$150	$350	$500
First-year veterinary (vaccines, spay/neuter, wellness)	$500	$900	$1,500
Annual vet care (after first year)	$400	$700	$1,200
Grooming (annual, 6–8 sessions)	$300	$480	$720
Food (high-quality small-breed kibble or wet food)	$180	$300	$480
Pet insurance (monthly premium)	$25/mo	$40/mo	$65/mo
Supplies (crate, harness, bed, toys, grooming tools)	$200	$400	$600

Breeder vs. Rescue

Maltipoms are more commonly available from breeders than from rescues, given their popularity as a designer cross. A responsible breeder will provide OFA or equivalent health clearances for both parent dogs, a written health guarantee (minimum 1 year for genetic conditions), a take-back clause (they accept the dog back at any point in its life if you cannot keep it), and evidence of early socialization programs such as Puppy Culture or Avidog.

Rescue availability is less predictable but not impossible. Small-breed rescue organizations and general shelters occasionally take in Maltipoms or similar small mixes. Check platforms like Petfinder and adopt through established 501(c)(3) rescues that provide veterinary records and behavioral assessments. Adoption fees are significantly lower and typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping.

Training and Exercise: Practical Daily Life

Maltipoms are intelligent but can inherit the independent streak of the Pomeranian or the sometimes-stubborn streak of the Maltese. Keep training sessions short — 5 to 10 minutes, 2–3 times daily — and use high-value treats (tiny pieces of freeze-dried chicken or cheese) with positive reinforcement methods.

Exercise Needs

• Daily walks: 15–25 minutes, once or twice per day. Use a well-fitted harness (not a collar) to protect the trachea — both parent breeds are prone to tracheal collapse, and collar pressure on the neck accelerates risk.
• Indoor play: 10–15 minutes of fetch, tug, or puzzle toys. Maltipoms burn energy quickly due to their small size.
• Mental stimulation: Food-dispensing toys like the Kong Classic (size XS) or Outward Hound puzzle feeders help prevent boredom-related barking.

Key Training Priorities

1. Housetraining: Toy breeds have tiny bladders. Take your Maltipom out every 1–2 hours during the day, after every meal, and after naps. Crate training (with a crate sized just large enough to stand, turn, and lie down) helps establish a routine. Expect 4–6 months for reliable housetraining — some toy breeds take longer.
2. Bark management: Teach a "quiet" cue early. When the dog barks, say "quiet" calmly, wait for a 2-second pause, then reward. Never yell — the dog interprets yelling as you joining in.
3. Handling desensitization: Gently handle paws, ears, and mouth daily from puppyhood. This makes grooming and vet visits far less stressful.
4. Socialization: Between 8 and 14 weeks, expose your puppy to varied surfaces, sounds, people (hats, beards, children, wheelchairs), and calm vaccinated dogs. Carry your puppy in public spaces before vaccinations are complete — exposure to new sights and sounds from the safety of a sling or your arms still counts.

Who Is the Maltipom Best Suited For?

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up the Maltipom?

A Maltipom is a cross between a purebred Maltese and a purebred Pomeranian. Both are AKC Toy Group breeds originating from different parts of Europe — the Maltese from the Mediterranean and the Pomeranian from the Pomerania region of northern Germany and Poland.

How big will a Maltese and Pomeranian mix get?

Most adult Maltipoms weigh between 4 and 10 pounds (1.8–4.5 kg) and stand 6 to 10 inches (15–25 cm) at the shoulder. The most reliable predictor is the size of the specific parent dogs — ask the breeder for their weights.

What will the Maltipom's temperament be like?

Expect an affectionate, alert companion that bonds closely with its people. Energy level and confidence vary widely — some Maltipoms are bold and outgoing (Pomeranian influence), while others are gentler and more reserved (Maltese influence). Early socialization during the 3–14 week window is the strongest factor you can control.

Is the Maltese and Pomeranian mix low-shedding?

It depends on which coat the dog inherits. Maltese-dominant single coats shed very little. Pomeranian-dominant double coats shed moderately and blow their undercoat seasonally. F1 puppies in the same litter can inherit different coat types, so there's no guarantee until the puppy's coat matures around 6–12 months.

What health issues might a Maltipom inherit?

Key conditions to watch for include patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, dental disease (very common in toy breeds), mitral valve disease, hypoglycemia in puppies, and progressive retinal atrophy. Health-testing both parent dogs significantly reduces — but does not eliminate — these risks. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-appropriate screening and preventive care.

How much does a Maltipom cost?

Expect to pay $800–$3,000+ from a breeder, depending on lineage, health testing, and region. Adoption fees through rescues typically range from $150–$500. First-year total costs (including veterinary care, supplies, grooming, and food) generally fall between $2,000 and $4,500.

Do Maltipoms bark a lot?

Many do, particularly those leaning toward the Pomeranian's watchdog tendencies. Consistent training using positive reinforcement — teaching a "quiet" cue and rewarding calm behavior — can manage barking significantly. Avoid bark collars or punishment-based methods, which can increase anxiety and worsen the problem.

Can Maltipoms be left alone during the day?

Short periods (2–4 hours) are manageable for adult Maltipoms who have been gradually conditioned to alone time. Longer stretches often trigger separation anxiety, destructive behavior, or excessive barking. If you work full-time outside the home, arrange a midday dog walker or consider a breed with lower companionship needs.