Maltipoo vs Shih Tzu
Miscellaneous · Toy vs Toy · Small
MaltipooToy
A gentle, affectionate, lively Maltese × Poodle hybrid — popular small hypoallergenic apartment companion.
Weight: 5–20 lbsLifespan: 10–13 years
Shih TzuSmall
An affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you.
Weight: 9–16 lbsLifespan: 10–18 years
Quick take
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Maltipoo has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Maltipoo is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Maltipoo | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Miscellaneous | Toy |
Size | Toy | Small |
Origin | USA | Tibet |
Height (male) | 8–14" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 8–14" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 5–20 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 5–20 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–13 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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 Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you. Originally from Tibet, this small toy breed typically weighs 9–16 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing.
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Maltipoo health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • White shaker syndrome
- • Eye disorders
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues