Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) vs Maltipoo

Herding · Large vs Miscellaneous · Toy

Quick take
  • Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) is the larger breed at 55–75 lbs (males) vs 5–20 lbs for the Maltipoo.
  • The Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Maltipoo sheds less.
  • The Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)Maltipoo
Group
HerdingMiscellaneous
Size
LargeToy
Origin
BelgiumUSA
Height (male)
24–26"8–14"
Height (female)
22–24"8–14"
Weight (male)
55–75 lbs5–20 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs5–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)

The Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) is a bright, watchful, serious-minded Belgian shepherd — black long-haired version, all energy and brain. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 55–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, watchful, serious-minded.

About the Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is a gentle, affectionate, lively Maltese × Poodle hybrid — popular small hypoallergenic apartment companion. Originally from USA, this toy miscellaneous breed typically weighs 5–20 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, affectionate, lively.

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Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Maltipoo health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • White shaker syndrome
  • Eye disorders