Maltipoo vs Portuguese Water Dog

Miscellaneous · Toy vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 5–20 lbs for the Maltipoo.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Portuguese Water Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMaltipooPortuguese Water Dog
Group
MiscellaneousWorking
Size
ToyMedium
Origin
USAPortugal
Height (male)
8–14"20–23"
Height (female)
8–14"17–21"
Weight (male)
5–20 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
5–20 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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.

About the Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.

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Maltipoo health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • White shaker syndrome
  • Eye disorders

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases