Maltipoo vs Shiba Inu

Miscellaneous · Toy vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Shiba Inu is the larger breed at 23 lbs (males) vs 5–20 lbs for the Maltipoo.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Shiba Inu has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Maltipoo sheds less.
  • The Maltipoo is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMaltipooShiba Inu
Group
MiscellaneousNon-Sporting
Size
ToySmall
Origin
USAJapan
Height (male)
8–14"14.5–16.5"
Height (female)
8–14"13.5–15.5"
Weight (male)
5–20 lbs23 lbs
Weight (female)
5–20 lbs17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years13–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an alert, active, attentive small Spitz — Japan's most popular national dog and the original 'doge' meme. Originally from Japan, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 23 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, active, attentive.

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Maltipoo health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • White shaker syndrome
  • Eye disorders

Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies