What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Maltipoo?

The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Maltipoo is 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 10–13 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Maltipoo?

American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Maltipoo is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Maltipoo?

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Maltipoo has a lifespan of 10–13 years.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Maltipoo — Breed Comparison

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is a popular designer crossbreed combining the Maltese and Toy or Miniature Poodle — first intentionally bred in the United States during the 1990s. These charming small dogs typically weigh 5 to 20 pounds and stand 8 to 14 inches tall, depending on the Poodle parent's size. Their coat is soft, wavy to curly, and comes in cream, white, apricot, red, and a range of other colors — often low-shedding thanks to the Poodle influence.

Temperament & Personality

Maltipoos are affectionate, playful, and thrive on human companionship — making them excellent lap dogs and emotional support animals. They tend to be gentle with children and can coexist well with other pets when properly socialized. Their alert nature means they'll bark to announce visitors, though they're far too friendly to serve as guard dogs.

Pros

Low-shedding coat is more suitable for allergy sufferers
Adapts well to apartments and small living spaces
Eager to please and relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement
Long lifespan of 12 to 16 years compared to many breeds

Cons

Prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
Coat requires regular professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks
Can develop patellar luxation and progressive retinal atrophy
Tendency toward excessive barking without consistent training

If a cuddly, low-shedding companion sounds like your perfect match, browse Maltipoo listings on Puplister today.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Maltipoo