Australian Shepherd vs Maltipoo

Which dog breed is right for you?

Australian Shepherd

Size
40–65 lbs, 18–23 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Smart Exuberant Work-oriented Loyal

Maltipoo

Size
5–20 lbs, 8–14 in
Lifespan
10–13 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Affectionate Playful Gentle Adaptable

About the Australian Shepherd

Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was actually developed in the western United States during the 19th century, likely from Basque shepherd dogs that passed through Australia on their way to America. These versatile herding dogs stand 18–23 inches tall and weigh 40–65 pounds, with a medium-length double coat that comes in four recognized colors — black, blue merle, red, and red merle — often with striking copper and white markings. Their coats are weather-resistant and require regular brushing to manage moderate-to-heavy shedding.

Temperament & Personality

Australian Shepherds are brilliant, energetic, and deeply devoted to their families — they thrive when given a purpose and can become anxious or destructive without one. They are excellent with children, often naturally herding and watching over younger family members. Aussies are typically friendly with other dogs but can be reserved with strangers, and their intelligence makes them exceptionally responsive to training.

Pros

  • One of the most intelligent and trainable breeds — excels in agility, flyball, and herding
  • Loyal and affectionate family companion who bonds closely with all household members
  • Versatile working dog adaptable to ranch life, sport, or active suburban living
  • Beautiful, eye-catching coat with striking color variations including heterochromia

Cons

  • Demands extensive daily exercise and mental engagement — easily 1–2 hours minimum
  • Heavy shedding, especially during seasonal coat changes
  • May herd children, cats, and other pets by nipping at heels
  • Prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and the MDR1 gene mutation affecting drug sensitivity

Aussies are incredible partners for active families — discover adoptable Australian Shepherds waiting for you on Puplister.

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Australian Shepherd and a Maltipoo?
The Australian Shepherd is 40–65 lbs, 18–23 in sized while the Maltipoo is 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in sized. They differ in size (40–65 lbs, 18–23 in vs 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 10–13 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Australian Shepherd or Maltipoo?
Australian Shepherd is generally good with kids. Maltipoo is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Australian Shepherd or Maltipoo?
The Australian Shepherd has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Maltipoo has a lifespan of 10–13 years.

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