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Maltipoo vs Goldendoodle: How Do They Compare? (With Pictures)

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By Nicole Cosgrove

Maltipoo vs Goldendoodle

One of the classic designer dog breed debates is between the Maltipoo and Goldendoodle, both intelligent and charming in their own ways. But how do these delightful pups compare to one another? Maltipoos and Goldendoodles are both popular breeds of small to medium-sized dogs that are known for their playful personalities and low-shedding coats. Both dogs are a mix of two other breeds: the Maltipoo is a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle; the Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle.

While technically, a Maltipoo or Goldendoodle can be bred from a Poodle dog of any size, it is more usual for breeders to select Miniature Poodles to create these hybrids. This is because reduced size is a trait that many owners prize in these designer dogs.

To better understand the differences and similarities between the Maltipoo and the Goldendoodle, we will examine their physical characteristics, personalities, and care requirements. Let’s delve into the world of the Maltipoo and the Goldendoodle to help you decide which one might best fit you and your family.

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Visual Differences

maltipoo vs goldendoodle - Visual Differences
Image Credit: (L) Maltipoo – Heidi Bollich, Shutterstock | (R) Goldendoodle – anetapics, Shutterstock

At a Glance

Maltipoo
  • Average height (adult): 8–14 inches
  • Average weight (adult): 5–20 pounds
  • Lifespan: 12–15 years
  • Exercise: 30–60 minutes a day
  • Grooming needs: Regular
  • Family-friendly: Yes
  • Other pet-friendly: Yes
  • Trainability: Intelligent, loyal, eager to please

Goldendoodle
  • Average height (adult): 14–24 inches
  • Average weight (adult): 10–70 pounds
  • Lifespan: 10–15 years
  • Exercise: 1+ hours a day
  • Grooming needs: Regular
  • Family-friendly: Yes
  • Other pet-friendly: Yes
  • Trainability: Smart, devoted, enthusiastic

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Maltipoo Overview

maltipoo dog walking at the park
Image Credit: Irsan Ianushis, Shutterstock

There are several color options available for the Maltipoo, but they are commonly white, cream, apricot, or black in color. In general, their coat is soft and wavy or curly, depending on how much of their Poodle genetics they inherit. Maltipoos have round, bright, dark eyes and black noses. Their ears are floppy, and they have long, fluffy, plumed tails that they often drape over their back. These dogs have compact, well-proportioned bodies and friendly, playful expressions.

Personality & Character

As intelligent, friendly, and playful dogs, Maltipoos are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They are typically very good with children and other pets but may be reserved or shy around strangers.  Their adaptability makes them well-suited to a wide range of living situations, including apartments and smaller houses. Maltipoos are loyal and loving dogs that form strong bonds with their owners and can be very protective of their families.

Overall, Maltipoos are charming, playful, and loving dogs that are well-suited to families who want a small, intelligent, and affectionate companion.

Exercise

Small, energetic Maltipoo dogs need frequent exercise to remain healthy and happy. As a result of their intelligence and love for learning, Maltipoos also enjoy training sessions and agility courses. They are well-suited for short walks, runs, and games of fetch, among other activities. It is vital that you keep your Maltipoo on a leash whenever you exercise them since they may chase small animals or get lost if they are allowed to roam off-leash.

In addition to providing your Maltipoo with regular exercise, it is also essential to give them plenty of mental stimulation and playtime to keep them engaged and entertained. This can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

maltipoo in the beach
Image Credit: Trevor Fairbank, Shutterstock

Training

This breed is often easy to train and responds well to positive reinforcement and consistency. When working with your Maltipoo, it is wise to be patient, firm, and consistent and to use rewards and praise to encourage good behavior. Maltipoos can be sensitive to loud voices and harsh punishments, so it is kindest to avoid using these methods when training your dog. Some basic training commands that your Maltipoo should know include sit, stay, come, and heel.

It is also important to socialize your Maltipoo from a young age to help them become comfortable and confident in a variety of situations and environments. Your dog will be less likely to be nervous and combative if you do this.

Health & Care

The great thing about all hybrid dogs is that recessive disease-causing genes aren’t expressed as frequently when two breeds are mixed. However, while Maltipoos are generally healthy dogs, they can suffer from specific health issues like any other breed. In order to keep your Maltipoo healthy and happy, you must provide them with regular exercise, quality nutrition, and regular vet visits.

There are several common health issues that Maltipoos may suffer from, including dental problems, ear infections, and eye disorders. For optimum tangle-free results, keep your Maltipoo’s soft curls clean and well-groomed. It is likely that this dog will require regular brushing and grooming to keep their coat healthy and looking its best despite inheriting low-shedding genetics from their Poodle parent.

In addition to regular exercise and grooming, you should also ensure that your Maltipoo is up to date on their vaccinations and receiving regular preventative care, such as flea and tick control.

person carrying adorable maltipoo puppies
Image Credit: OlgaOvcharenko, Shutterstock

Suitable For:

Maltipoos are suitable for a variety of homes and lifestyles. This breed is well-suited to families with children, as they are generally gentle, playful, and affectionate. They are also good with other pets, making them a good choice for households with multiple dogs or other animals. Because of their small size, Maltipoos are well-suited to apartment living and do not require a large yard to be happy and healthy.

They are also intelligent and easy to train, making them suitable for first-time dog owners and families who want a well-behaved companion—but you must be willing to put in some time and effort to train and care for them. Overall, Maltipoos are charming, playful, and affectionate dogs that are well-suited to a variety of homes and lifestyles.

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Goldendoodle Overview

goldendoodle walking
Image Credit: Jennifer McCallum, Shutterstock

A Goldendoodle’s coat is soft, curly, or wavy and can come in various colors, including cream, apricot, gold, red, or black. Again, the degree of bounce in their fur is contingent on the level of inheritance from their Poodle parent. There are several distinguishing characteristics of Goldendoodles, including their square-shaped heads, long ears, and generous, thick tails. With a friendly, intelligent expression and a well-proportioned, athletic body, this breed is well-suited for an active lifestyle. Generally speaking, Goldendoodles are attractive and charming dogs that can fit into a wide range of homes and environments.

Personality & Character

Friendly, social, and intelligent, Goldendoodles are well known for their lovable personalities. They tend to be happy, playful, and energetic dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners and other people. In addition to being intelligent and easy to train, Goldendoodles are also flexible and adaptable to a wide range of living situations. There are generally no problems with this breed around children and other pets, but they may be timid or cautious around unfamiliar people.

They form strong bonds with their owners and are very protective of them—Goldendoodles are loyal, loving, and protective dogs. Overall, Goldendoodles are charming, playful, and loving dogs that are well-suited to owners who want a medium to large-sized, intelligent, and affectionate companion.

Training

Training a Goldendoodle can be a rewarding experience, as these intelligent and eager-to-please pups are quick to learn and thrive on the praise and rewards of their human masters. By implementing firm, consistent instruction and employing positive reinforcement, you can quickly instill in your Goldendoodle the basic commands of obedience and good behavior. Socialization from a young age is also of great importance, as it will minimize anxiety and aggressive behavior in your beloved pooch.

With patience, dedication, and a loving hand, your Goldendoodle will become a well-behaved and cherished member of your household.

F1B mini goldendoodle female dog in a winter setting with snow
Image Credit: Marcello Sgarlato, Shutterstock

Health & Care

As with Maltipoos, as hybrid dogs, Goldendoodles have the advantage of not expressing recessive disease-causing genes as often because of their mixed parentage. However, Goldendoodles need proper care and attention in order to remain healthy and happy. Regular exercise, quality nutrition, and regular veterinarian visits are all part of this process. Keeping an eye on your Goldendoodle’s health and speaking with your veterinarian if there are any concerns is important because Goldendoodles are prone to certain health issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia.

Goldendoodles’ thick, curly coats can become matted and tangled if left to their own devices, so it is worth the effort to keep them clean and well-groomed.

Exercise

Exercise is an essential component of the well-being of a Goldendoodle. For these energetic pups to stay healthy and happy, they must engage in regular physical activity. Whether it be a leisurely walk, a rousing game of fetch, or a more strenuous obstacle course, your Goldendoodle will delight in the opportunity to stretch their legs and engage their mind. They are also good swimmers and can be trained to participate in dog sports such as agility and obedience.

When they are in an unfenced area, keep them on a leash, as their hunting instincts may lead them astray. And above all, provide them with the interaction and attention they crave because a well-exercised Goldendoodle is a contented and devoted companion.

Training Goldendoodle_shutterstock_W.H. Photography
Image Credit by: W.H. Photography, shutterstock

Suitable For:

The Goldendoodle makes an excellent companion for a wide array of households and personalities. Their friendly, social nature is well-suited to families with children, while their intelligence and trainability make them ideal dogs for first-timers. They make a delightful addition to any home because of their adaptability and affectionate disposition. Whether you reside in a bustling city apartment or a sprawling country estate, a Goldendoodle will bring joy and companionship to your life.

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Which Breed is Right for You?

Now that we have explored the characteristics, personalities, and care requirements of the Maltipoo and the Goldendoodle, you may be wondering which breed is right for you. The decision ultimately lies with you and your family and will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.

If you inhabit a smaller space and require a compact companion, the Maltipoo may be the breed for you. Their small size and low-shedding coat make them well-suited to apartment living, and their friendly, affectionate nature will provide you with endless hours of companionship and entertainment.

On the other hand, if you have a larger home with access to a yard and desire a larger companion to join you on your outdoor adventures, the Goldendoodle may be a good choice. Their medium to large size, athletic build, and physical endurance make them well-suited to hiking and other outdoor activities, and their friendly, social nature will make them a welcome addition to virtually any household.

Remember, in the end, it’s not just about the breed—it’s about the affection and attention you provide for your furry friend. Whichever dog you choose, be sure to do your research and thoroughly consider your own circumstances and preferences before making a decision. And above all, lavish your new furry friend with love, care, and time, and they will return the gift tenfold!

See also:


Featured Image Credit: (L) marketlan, Shutterstock | (R) everydoghasastory, Shutterstock

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