Chihuahua vs Maltipoo

Which dog breed is right for you?

Chihuahua

Size
3–6 lbs, 5–8 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Bold Charming Alert Devoted

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 Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed, originating from the Mexican state of Chihuahua where ancestors of the breed were kept by the ancient Toltec civilization. Standing just 5–8 inches tall and weighing a mere 2–6 pounds, these tiny dogs come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties with virtually every color and pattern combination imaginable. Despite their diminutive size, Chihuahuas carry themselves with a bold, terrier-like confidence that belies their fragile frame.

Temperament & Personality

Chihuahuas are fiercely devoted to one person — often forming an almost obsessive bond with their chosen human. They are alert, spirited, and surprisingly courageous, frequently standing up to dogs many times their size without hesitation. While they can be wonderful companions for older children who handle them gently, their small size and tendency toward snappiness make them a poor match for households with toddlers.

Pros

  • Perfect apartment dogs — minimal space and exercise requirements
  • Exceptionally long lifespan of 14–18 years, among the longest of any breed
  • Portable size makes them easy travel companions for on-the-go owners
  • Low food costs and minimal grooming needs — especially the smooth-coat variety

Cons

  • Prone to patellar luxation, heart murmurs, hydrocephalus, and dental overcrowding
  • Fragile bones — easily injured by falls, rough play, or being stepped on
  • Notoriously difficult to housebreak due to tiny bladders and stubborn temperament
  • Tendency toward excessive barking and aggression toward strangers if not properly socialized

Discover your perfect pint-sized companion — explore Chihuahuas looking for forever homes right here 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 Chihuahua and a Maltipoo?
The Chihuahua is 3–6 lbs, 5–8 in sized while the Maltipoo is 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in sized. They differ in size (3–6 lbs, 5–8 in vs 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in), lifespan (14–16 years vs 10–13 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Chihuahua or Maltipoo?
Chihuahua is not typically good with kids. Maltipoo is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Chihuahua or Maltipoo?
The Chihuahua has a lifespan of 14–16 years while the Maltipoo has a lifespan of 10–13 years.

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