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Compare Shih Tzu and Maltipoo side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.
Breed traits
Character & behavior
Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone
Lifestyle fit
Apartment-friendly
Yes
Yes
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
Yes
Yes
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs
Physical & general
Life span
10–16 years
12–15 years
Weight
4.5–8.1 kg
2.5–5.5 kg
Height
25–28 cm
25–30 cm
Origin
Tibet
United States
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Shih Tzu and Maltipoo are both small, friendly breeds that make excellent companions, particularly for families and first-time dog owners. The Shih Tzu, originating from Tibet, has a lifespan of 10 to 16 years and typically weighs between 4.5 to 8.1 kg. In contrast, the Maltipoo, a mix of Maltese and Poodle, hails from the United States, has a slightly longer lifespan of 12 to 15 years, and weighs between 2.5 to 5.5 kg. Both breeds are sociable and get along well with children, making them suitable for family life. However, differences in grooming needs, exercise requirements, and health risks may influence potential owners' choices.
Shih Tzu — Advantages
Good with kids
Apartment friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Moderate energy level
Sociable and friendly
Apartment friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Moderate energy level
Sociable and friendly
Disadvantages
Higher grooming difficulty
Moderate shedding level
Can be sensitive to nutrition
Less tolerant to cold climates
Average trainability
Moderate shedding level
Can be sensitive to nutrition
Less tolerant to cold climates
Average trainability
Maltipoo — Advantages
Lower shedding level
Easier grooming requirements
Higher trainability
Good health risk profile
Tolerant to both hot and cold climates
Easier grooming requirements
Higher trainability
Good health risk profile
Tolerant to both hot and cold climates
Disadvantages
Slightly shorter lifespan
Can stay alone moderately
Higher exercise needs than Shih Tzu
Weight range is smaller
Similar energy level to Shih Tzu
Can stay alone moderately
Higher exercise needs than Shih Tzu
Weight range is smaller
Similar energy level to Shih Tzu
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breed is better for apartment living?
Both breeds are apartment friendly.
How much grooming do these breeds require?
Shih Tzus have a higher grooming difficulty compared to Maltipoos.
Are these breeds good with children?
Yes, both the Shih Tzu and Maltipoo are good with kids.
What are the exercise needs for each breed?
Shih Tzus have moderate exercise needs, while Maltipoos have slightly higher needs.
Which breed has a longer lifespan?
The Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10 to 16 years, while the Maltipoo has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
free Shih Tzu adoption listings
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