Maltipoo vs Norwegian Elkhound

Which dog breed is right for you?

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

Norwegian Elkhound

Size
48–55 lbs, 20–21 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Bold Hardy Loyal Friendly

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.

About the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the oldest European breeds, with archaeological evidence dating its partnership with humans back over 6,000 years in Scandinavia. These medium-sized spitz-type dogs stand 19.5 to 20.5 inches tall and weigh 48 to 55 pounds, built for endurance in rugged terrain. Their dense, silver-gray double coat with black-tipped guard hairs and lighter undercoat provided vital insulation against harsh Nordic winters.

Temperament & Personality

Norwegian Elkhounds are bold, independent, and deeply loyal — bred to track moose and hold them at bay while alerting hunters with their distinctive bark. They are affectionate and playful with family members, including children, and possess a dignified confidence around strangers. Their independent nature means they think for themselves, which can be both endearing and challenging during training.

Pros

  • Hardy constitution with excellent stamina for hiking and outdoor adventures
  • Loyal and protective family companion with natural watchdog instincts
  • Adapts well to cold climates and enjoys winter activities
  • Relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years

Cons

  • Heavy seasonal shedding — blows coat twice yearly in massive amounts
  • Independent and stubborn, requiring patient and consistent training
  • High barking tendency — bred to bark while tracking game
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and Fanconi syndrome

If you love the outdoors and want a steadfast Nordic companion, explore Norwegian Elkhound listings on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Maltipoo and a Norwegian Elkhound?
The Maltipoo is 5–20 lbs, 8–14 in sized while the Norwegian Elkhound is 48–55 lbs, 20–21 in sized. They differ in size (5–20 lbs, 8–14 in vs 48–55 lbs, 20–21 in), lifespan (10–13 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Maltipoo or Norwegian Elkhound?
Maltipoo is generally good with kids. Norwegian Elkhound is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Maltipoo or Norwegian Elkhound?
The Maltipoo has a lifespan of 10–13 years while the Norwegian Elkhound has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

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