Maltipoos have an awful lot going for them—they’re intelligent, trainable, affectionate, and have an infectious cheerful disposition. A cross between the Toy or Miniature Poodle and a Maltese, Maltipoos are small, sprightly dogs that come in a variety of colors including white, cream, black, apricot, red, and brown.
Brown Maltipoo: Pictures, Facts & History
Though you can often find Maltipoos in various shades similar to brown, like beige and tan, truly brown Maltipoos are a deep chocolate color and are pretty rare due to their genetic makeup.
Brown Maltipoo: Facts, Origin & Pictures
To understand the brown Maltipoo (and Maltipoos in all colors and shades) better, we need to first look into the history of its parent breeds—the Poodle and the Maltese, so let’s get started.
What Is a Brown Maltipoo?
The Maltipoo is a modern “designer” breed that originated in the United States in the 1990s, but its two parent breeds—the Poodle and the Maltese—go back much longer. Standard Poodles first started to be developed in medieval Germany as water retrievers.
Water retrievers are dogs that were bred to fetch waterfowl from bodies of water. Because of this, Poodles are excellent swimmers. The breed’s name comes from the word “pudel” or “pudelin”, a German word that means “to splash in the water.”
Though the Maltese’s exact origins aren’t quite as clear, it is possible that the Phoenicians were responsible for bringing their ancestors to Malta several thousands of years ago.
Their ancestors were popular lapdogs (and fashion statements) for wealthy women and were a source of intrigue for the Greeks in the fourth and fifth centuries B.C. As a result of this intrigue, the Maltese’s image was immortalized in ancient Greek art. These dogs have also been the subjects of Roman myths and legends.
Later, post-Roman Empire, it was Chinese breeders who were responsible for preventing the breed’s extinction.
Are Brown Maltipoos Rare?
Yes, all-brown Maltipoos are rare, but that doesn’t mean they are impossible to acquire.
In fact, these unique dogs are as adorable as their other colored counterparts, which makes them loved by many breeders and pet owners.
In reality, the rarity of a brown Maltipoo is only due to its unusual gene pool and not because of a lack of breeders or demand.
However, compared to other more popular Maltipoo colors, brown Maltipoos are more scarce.
Brown Maltipoo: Facts, Traits, Genetics & FAQs
Another reason why you do not see many pooches with brown fur is that most aspiring dog owners go for the more well-known colors — black, cream, white, apricot, and two-toned Maltipoos.
But despite their rarity in the canine world, some enthusiasts still choose the brown Maltipoo variety over others. Keep in mind, however, that their price tag is usually higher as they are harder to come by.
Brown Maltipoo Appearance
When it comes to the appearance of the brown Maltipoo breed, you can expect a small, compact dog with a round head, teddy bear-like eyes, and a short brown muzzle.
Moreover, their coats can be either smooth, wiry, or wavy in texture and come in many shades of brown, ranging from light beige to dark chocolate.
Unlike its Maltese parent’s size and weight, a fully-grown brown Maltipoo mix will weigh between 5 and 20 pounds and stand anywhere from 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.
However, it is worth noting that because of their small size, they are prone to obesity and may require strict feeding guidelines.
An adult brown Maltipoo’s appearance will also be influenced by other factors, including gender, environment, and overall health.
Brown Maltipoo Color Genetics
Understanding the coat color genetics of a brown Maltipoo can be challenging, as several different genes contribute to the color of this crossbreed — each with its own range of outcomes.
To begin with, the genotype that determines whether a dog will exhibit a chocolate, brown, or red-colored coat is called the B locus. The possible gene pairings at this locus are BB, Bb, and bb.
For instance, if a Maltipoo inherits one B allele from each parent (BB or Bb), it will have an undiluted black coat color.
Meanwhile, if both parents pass on their b alleles (bb), you will end up with a chocolate-colored puppy. You will also notice that their nose, eye rims, and paw pads are brown instead of black.
It should be noted, though, that if you own a brown Maltipoo puppy, there is a high chance that its coloration will fade over time.
Thus, this explains why brown Maltipoos are not as common as other color varieties of this breed.
Do Brown Maltipoos Change Color as They Grow?
Yes, brown Maltipoos do change color as they grow. However, the transformation is not as dramatic as you might expect.
Because of their Poodle parent’s progressive graying gene, a brown Maltipoo puppy may become a lighter shade of brown in adulthood. In other words, their brown fur will turn into a Café Au Lait or coffee-like hue.
Other reasons for coat color changes in brown Maltipoos include skin irritation, dietary changes, physical injuries, sunlight exposure, vitiligo, hormonal changes, medications, and even stress.
If your dog’s coat suddenly starts to look lighter or darker than usual, and you’re concerned about what might have caused this to happen, take it to the vet for a checkup right away to rule out any underlying medical issues.
Brown Maltipoo Temperament and Personality
In general, brown Maltipoos make good family pets. They are highly affectionate, outgoing, and gentle. They are also great with children and other animals like their Maltese lineage.
Furthermore, they are intelligent canines that can learn quickly. Whether it be basic commands or potty training, these dogs will never fail to impress you with their fast learning abilities.
But because their Poodle parent is normally attached to one person only, a brown Maltipoo can be a little aloof with strangers. Thus, early socialization is vital so they can get used to meeting new people more often.
Brown-colored Maltipoos are suitable for apartment dwellers as well. They tend to bark less than other dog breeds and do not require a lot of space.
Brown Maltipoo Lifespan and Health Issues
Based on the longevity of their Poodle and Maltese parents, the average lifespan of a brown Maltipoo is between 12 and 14 years.
However, as with any breed, some health issues can affect and shorten their life expectancy.
So if you are interested in purchasing or adopting a brown Maltipoo puppy, it is important to become familiar with the following health conditions:
Orthopedic Disorders: Because the brown Maltipoo is small and predisposed to obesity, they are prone to develop orthopedic disorders, including elbow and hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and osteoarthritis.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that causes vision loss in brown-colored Maltipoos. Moreover, this health issue is usually inherited, so you should purchase from a reputable breeder who tests their dogs against these genetic conditions.
Mitral Valve Disease (MDV): Brown Maltipoos with MDV have hearts that work harder and faster than usual, making them more susceptible to heart attacks. In severe cases, though, they may develop congestive heart failure, which can be fatal if not detected early.
Hypoglycemia: When a brown Maltese Poodle mix has low blood sugar levels, it can result in hypoglycemia. The symptoms of this condition are similar to those of diabetes, including seizures, weakness, chronic vomiting, and lack of appetite.
While most of these health issues are manageable, they can be costly in terms of veterinary care. In some situations, the cost of treatment may even exceed your brown Maltipoo’s purchase price.
Therefore, investing in pet insurance makes sense for those who want to protect their furry friends and avoid financial strain.
How Much Does a Brown Maltipoo Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The average cost of a brown Maltipoo from a reputable breeder is between $400 and $4,000, but these figures are just the starting point.
Some Maltipoo puppies cost more than $8,000, depending on their lineage and quality.
For those on a tight budget, on the other hand, consider adopting a canine from a shelter or rescue organization. Adoption fees range from $100 to $800.
However, the cost of owning a brown Maltipoo puppy is not limited to the initial purchase price. You will also need to factor in health care fees, food and treats, and other necessary supplies.
To get an idea of how much it costs to own a brown Maltipoo puppy, refer to the table below:
Type of Expense
Cost
Food and Treats
$50 – $80
Food and Water Bowls
$10 – $25
Bed
$30 – $150
Crate
$30 – $200
Leashes and Collars
$15 – $50
Toys
$20 – $30
Grooming Essentials
$30 – $150
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications
$50 – $200
Initial Vet Visits
$100 – $300
Initial Vaccine Shots
$75 – $200
Neutering or Spaying
$50 – $500
Dog License
$10 – $20
Microchip
$40 – $60
Miscellaneous Supplies
$15 – $30
Total Initial Cost
$525 – $1,995
For further information, consider reading our articles on how much their Maltese and Poodle parents cost.
These will also give you a better sense of the expenses involved in owning and maintaining a brown Maltipoo.
Places to Find Brown Maltipoo Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Due to the rarity of brown Maltipoo puppies, finding one for sale or adoption can be a bit tricky.
In fact, prospective fur parents may have to visit various shelters or breeders before they find the right puppy for their family.
Despite this, remember that puppy mills and questionable breeders should be avoided at all costs. These places often sell mistreated and malnourished pups with genetic defects and diseases.
For your convenience, the following are some of the best brown Maltipoo breeders in the United States:
Emily’s Pups – Located in Missouri, Emily’s Pups is another family-owned business that specializes in breeding brown Maltipoos. Their puppies are always up-to-date on their shots and come with all the necessary paperwork. They also offer a one-year guarantee on their pooches’ health.
Aria’s Friends – With more than 30 years of experience and a reputation for quality, Aria’s Friends is a kennel that produces brown Maltese Poodle mix puppies with excellent temperaments and health. Additionally, their brown Maltipoo puppy comes with a pup starter kit, health guarantee, veterinary health certificate, and lifetime support.
My Doodle Puppy (MDP) – MDP is a family-run kennel that offers brown Maltipoo puppies with a 10-year health guarantee, temperament report, initial vaccinations, deworming, microchip, and more. They also have other mixed breeds, such as Cavapoos and Cockapoos, available for sale.
It is also strongly recommended that you read our puppy-buying guide to learn more about how to choose a reputable breeder.
However, if you are interested in adopting an older brown-colored Maltipoo, here are some rescues and shelters for you to consider:
Arizona Small Dog Rescue (ASDR) – Nestled in Phoenix, Arizona, ASDR has been helping brown Maltipoos find their forever homes. Their adoption fees start at $200 and go up depending on the dog’s age, condition, or any medical issues it may have. If interested, you need to fill out an application form so they can match you with the dog that suits your lifestyle.
Mid-Atlantic Poodle Rescue (MAPR) – MAPR is a non-profit organization that does not have a physical site but operates through foster homes. Before being placed up for adoption, all their brown Maltipoos are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and dewormed. Note that they have a long waiting list, so it’s best to contact them as soon as possible.
Florida Poodle Rescue, Inc. (FPR) – Since its founding in 1994, FPR has saved more than 10,000 Poodles of all sizes and mixes, including brown Maltipoos. They typically charge between $150 and $800 for their dogs and require adopters to be at least 21 years old. Be prepared for a home visit, reference checks, and an adoption contract.
You can also refer to our list of the best Maltese and Poodle rescues to find more resources. If you are unfamiliar with the adoption process, you can also read our ultimate adoption guide to walk you through it.
In addition to the sources above, there are other ways to get your hands on a brown Maltipoo puppy, including joining different Facebook groups and online forums dedicated to the Maltipoo hybrid.
Finally, be sure to read our guide on ways to find free puppies in your area for adoption. This will help you locate a brown-colored Maltipoo pup without committing to a contract or spending any money upfront.
Dog Name Ideas for Brown Maltipoo Puppies
When picking a name for your brown Maltipoo puppy, it is important to select one that is fun, creative, and easy to pronounce.
However, if you have several options to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your list.
To make it easier for you, the following are some of the most famous names for male brown Maltipoo puppies:
Toast
Teddy
Fudge
Choco
Brownie
Woody
Chewbacca
Walnut
Copper
Scooby
Oakly
Simba
Braun
Coffee
Moose
Dusty
Bacon
On the other hand, here are some good names for a brown Maltipoo female puppy:
Hazel
Summer
Chewie
Chai
Bailey
Cocoa
Tootsie
Pretzel
Winnie
Mocha
Sierra
Nugget
Honey
Latte
Hershey
Sandy
Cookie
Twix
Henna
Amber
Muffin
Foxy
Cinnamon
Gracie
Donut
With the help of the listed male and female names above, you should now be able to find the perfect moniker for your brown Maltipoo puppy.
If you want something a little more unique, feel free to create one yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Brown Maltipoos Turn White?
No, brown Maltipoos do not turn white. However, some dogs with brown coats may lose their coloration over time due to the progressive graying gene or G locus carried by their Poodle lineage.
As with solid black Maltipoos, this gene causes the brown Maltipoo’s coat color to fade into a lighter shade, ranging from a coffee-like hue to a light sandy-brown or apricot pigmentation.
Note that this process can take anywhere from one to two years, but it is totally normal and should not be a cause for concern.
What Is the Rarest Maltipoo Color?
While the solid brown Maltipoo is considered uncommon, other colors such as all-black, sable, phantom, and tri-colored Maltipoos are also among the rarest of this designer breed.
In fact, there are only a few hundred Maltipoos in the world with these unique color coats, making them highly sought after by people who love one-of-a-kind canines.
Are Brown Maltipoos Hypoallergenic?
Yes, brown Maltipoos are known for being hypoallergenic. They have a low-shedding coat that produces less dander than other dog breeds.
As a result, you can expect that these designer canines are less likely to trigger allergies in aspiring fur parents who have sensitive skin or asthma.
Do Brown Maltipoos Shed a Lot?
Because the Maltese and Poodle are both low-shedding dogs, you can expect that brown Maltipoos will not shed a lot. However, they do have a tendency to shed when they are not properly groomed.
Hence, keep in mind that your brown Maltipoo should be brushed daily with a slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
In addition, frequent baths and grooming sessions are also necessary for this breed.
Final Thoughts
To recap, a Maltipoo is a blend of the Toy or Miniature Poodle and the Maltese and has inherited plenty of wonderful traits from both parent breeds. As such, they often make excellent family dogs, but one of the major drawbacks is how expensive they are. Adoption is a great alternative to buying from a breeder, so that’s an option well worth considering.
