Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Comparison - Dog breed selector: Maltese lion dog or Chrysanthemum Dog or Barboncino Miniatura? Find the right dog for you

"Find similarities and differences between Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle" Compare Maltese and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle?

Size and Weight Price and Availability Trainability and Intelligence Personality and Temperament Activity and Playfulness Adaptability and Independence Bite Characteristics Health and Lifespan Energy and Activity Diet and Weight Management Allergies and Grooming Good With As a Working Dog Reproducibility Recognition Show differences only

Name	Maltese	Shih Tzu	Miniature Poodle
Origins	Italy	China	Germany France
All Dog Breeds By Country Of Origin
Group	Companion Dogs	Companion Dogs	Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank	33	20	435
Reviews	3	19	3
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases Compare alternative names and nicknames used for Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle breeds.	Maltese lion dog Maltese Dog	Chrysanthemum Dog Chinese Lion Dog	Barboncino Miniatura Barbone Carniche Moyen Pudle Zwergpudel
Breed Classification How do breed classifications differ between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle? Compare their breeding categories.	Purebred	Purebred	Purebred

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification Compare size differences between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is the largest?	Small	Small	Small
Weight Statistics How do weights compare between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle? Compare adult weight ranges.	6.5-9 pounds (3-4 kg)	9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)	15-17 pounds (7-8 kg)
Average Weight Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?	6.7 pounds (3.5 kg)	9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)	16 pounds (7.5 kg)
Height Which is taller, Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle? Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle height comparison:	Male: 8-10 inches (21-25 cm), Female: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm)	8-11 inches (20-28 cm)	11-15 inches (28-38 cm)
Average Height Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?	Male: 9 inches (23 cm), Female: 8.5 inches (21.5 cm)	9.5 inches (24 cm)	13 inches (33 cm)

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range Compare puppy costs for Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Find price differences between these breeds.	$600-$800	$800-$1200	$1000-$1500
Availability Which is easier to get, Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle?	Very frequent: The Maltese is quite easy to get.	Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.	Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating Compare intelligence levels between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed ranks highest?	Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. See more.	Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence. See more.	Outstanding: Miniature Poodle is one of the brightest dog breeds. See more.
Smartest Dog Breeds
Training Difficulty Compare training difficulty levels between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is easiest to train?	Maltese dogs are quite easy to train. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs are very easy to train. See more.
Least Obedient Dog Breeds		Dog Breeds That Easy To Train
Watchdog Rating Compare watchdog abilities of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is most alert?	Maltese dogs are average watchdogs. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs are good watchdogs. See more.
Territorial Protection Compare territorial instincts between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is most protective?	Maltese dogs strongly protect their territory. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs are average defenders. See more.
Guard Dog Breeds List

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits How do personalities differ between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle? Compare temperaments.	Active Playful Intelligent Responsive Docile Gentle Tempered Sweet Easygoing	Active Playful Happy Courageous Intelligent Friendly Outgoing Lively Gentle	Active Alert Intelligent Trainable Faithful Instinctual
Sensitivity Level Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference?	They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. See more.	They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. See more.
Most Sensitive Dog Breeds		Less Sensitive Dog Breeds
Affection Level Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle?	High: Maltese dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.	High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.	High: Miniature Poodle dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.
Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
Social Needs Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle social needs comparison:	Maltese dogs need a lot of social interaction. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs need a lot of social interaction. See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam Which dog has a greater roaming instinct?	Maltese dogs are not the biggest explorers. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. See more.
Prey Drive Which dog has a higher prey drive? Which can be better for hunting?	Maltese dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals. See more.
Dog Breeds With Low Prey Drive		Dog Breeds With High Prey Drive

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency Compare barking frequencies of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is most vocal?	A lot: Maltese is a particularly loud breed. See more.	A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed. See more.	Average to High: The Miniature Poodle is a vocal breed. See more.
Quiet Dog Breeds That Don't Bark		Dog Breeds That Bark The Most
Playful Nature Compare playfulness levels between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is most playful?	Average: Malteses, like any other dog breed, like playing. See more.	Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed. See more.	The Miniature Poodle is a playful breed. See more.
Most Playful Dog Breeds
Apartment Adaptability Compare apartment suitability of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which adapts best to small spaces?	Very house-friendly dog the Maltese breed.	Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.	Very house-friendly dog the Miniature Poodle breed.
The Worst Dog Breeds for Apartment Living		Apartment Friendly Dogs List

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability Compare adaptability between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is most flexible?	Maltese dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.	Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.	Miniature Poodle dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Alone Time Tolerance Which dog can be left alone: Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle?	Maltese dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.	Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.	Miniature Poodle dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment Compare biting potential between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has lowest bite risk?	Low 🔽 The Maltese has a low chance of biting somebody.	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.	Low 🔽 The Miniature Poodle has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency Compare mouthing tendencies between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which uses mouth most during play?	Maltese dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. See more.
Bite Strength Rating Compare bite forces between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has the strongest bite?	Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽 Maltese bite force: Weak.	Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽 Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.	Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽 Miniature Poodle bite force: Weak.
Dog Breeds With The Lowest Bite Force		Dog Breeds With the Strongest Bite Force

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan Compare life expectancies of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed lives longest?	14-18 years The average lifespan of Maltese: 16 years	10-16 years The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years	14-16 years The average lifespan of Miniature Poodle: 15 years
Calculate dog years to human years by breed here
Climate Tolerance Compare weather adaptability between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which handles climate changes best?	Prefers warm weather Dogs that prefer warm weather conditions are typically breeds that were originally bred in warmer climates. See more.	Tolerates warm and cold weather Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. See more.	Prefers average to warm weather conditions Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. See more.
Health Concerns Compare health problems common in Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has fewer health issues?	The Maltese is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.	The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.	The Miniature Poodle is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Healthiest Dog Breeds
Vet Care Frequency Which one may need more or less veterinary visits?	Average The Maltese should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.	Average The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.	Average The Miniature Poodle should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Longest Living Dog Breeds
Health Problems Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle health problems comparison:	Collapsed Trachea Patellar Luxation Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) Portosystemic Liver Shunt Reverse Sneezing Hypoglycemia White Dog Shaker Syndrome	Hip Dysplasia Patellar Luxation Allergies Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) Umbilical Hernias Ear Infections Distichiasis Portosystemic Liver Shunt Bladder Stones Ectopic Cilia Reverse Sneezing Dry Eye Proptosis Juvenile Renal Dysplasia Keratitis Retained Baby Teeth Snuffles	Hip Dysplasia Bloat Epilepsy Addison's Disease

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating Compare energy levels between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which breed is most active?	Maltese dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.	Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.	Miniature Poodle dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.
Low-Energy Dog Breeds		High-Energy Dog Breeds
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?	Maltese dogs exercise need is very minimal.	Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.	Miniature Poodle dogs need quite a lot of exercise.
Sleeping Need Which one sleeps the least/most: Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle?	Maltese dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.	Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.	Miniature Poodle dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.
Dog Breeds That Sleep A Lot

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency Compare weight gain tendencies between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is most prone to obesity?	Average: The Maltese has an average risk for obesity. See more.	Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight. See more.	Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Miniature Poodle's weight, he can easily gain weight. See more.
Dog Breeds Prone To Obesity
Food Consumption Compare food requirements between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which needs most food?	Recommended daily amount: 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.	Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.	0.5 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Dog Breeds That Eat A Lot

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness Compare hypoallergenic qualities of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is best for allergy sufferers?	Yes See more.	Yes See more.	Yes See more.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Coat Colors Compare color variations between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. What colors are available?	White	Black Red Blue Silver Brindle Liver Gold	Black Gray Red Blue Cream White Silver Brown Fawn Beige Apricot
Grooming Requirements Compare grooming needs between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which requires most maintenance?	Average: The Maltese requires average grooming effort. See more.	Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. See more.	Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. See more.
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds		High-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Drooling Tendency Compare drooling tendencies between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which drools least?	The Maltese is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.	The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.	The Miniature Poodle is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.
Stinkiness Rating Compare odor levels between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has least natural smell?	Medium ⏺ The Maltese has an average chance of bad smell.	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.	Low 🔽 The Miniature Poodle has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics Compare coat types between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. How do their fur characteristics differ?	Feathered	Dense	Dense Curly Thick
Bathing Needs Compare bathing needs between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which requires most frequent baths?	6-8 weeks Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. See more.	4-6 weeks Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. See more.	3-4 weeks More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. See more.
Shedding Level Who sheds more Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle? Maltese or Shih Tzu or {name3 shedding:	Maltese dogs shed none to minimal. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal. See more.	Miniature Poodle dogs shed none to minimal. See more.
Low-Shedding Dog Breeds		Dog Breeds That Shed The Most

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility Compare child-friendliness between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is best with kids?	Maltese dogs are kid-friendly dogs.	Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.	Miniature Poodle dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Kid-Friendly Dog Breeds
Pet Compatibility Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?	Maltese dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.	Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.	Miniature Poodle dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly Which dog is more stranger friendly Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle? Which dog is more friendly?	Maltese dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.	Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.	Miniature Poodle dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Dog Breeds That Are Aloof With Strangers		Dog Breeds That Are Friendly To Strangers
Cat Friendly Which dog is more cat friendly Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle?	Maltese dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.	Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.	Miniature Poodle dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Cats
Dog Friendly Which dog is more dog friendly Maltese or Shih Tzu or Miniature Poodle?	Maltese dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.	Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.	Miniature Poodle dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners Which dog is good for the first-time owners: Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle?	Yes Maltese dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.	Yes Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.	Yes Miniature Poodle dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly Which one fits better in the office?	No Maltese is not the best dog breed for office environment.	No Shih Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.	No Miniature Poodle is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly Which dog is good for elderly people?	Malteses are usually recommended for elderly people.	Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.	Miniature Poodles are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability Compare service dog potential between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is best suited for service work?	Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. See more.	Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. See more.	Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. See more.
Most Popular Service Dog Breeds
Therapy Work Suitability Compare therapy dog potential between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which excels in therapy work?	Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. See more.	Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. See more.	Yes This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. See more.
Therapy Dog Breeds
Scent Detection Ability Compare detection capabilities between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has best nose work ability?	Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.	Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.	Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential Compare search and rescue potential between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is best for SAR work?	Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.	Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.	Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Maritime Work Ability Compare boating aptitude between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is best suited for water work?	Not really Maltese breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.	Not really Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.	Not really Miniature Poodle breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.
Draft Work Capability Compare cart pulling abilities between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which is best for draft work?	Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. See more.	Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. See more.	Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. See more.
Military Service Background Compare military service history of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has most military use?	Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.	Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.	Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size Compare typical litter sizes of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has most puppies?	3-5 puppies	2-5 puppies	2-8 puppies, average 5
Dog Name Generator – Find A Perfect Name For Your Puppy
Pregnancy Duration Compare gestation periods of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Any breeding differences?	60-64 days See more.	60-64 days See more.	60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency Compare breeding intervals between Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. What's recommended?	Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. See more.	Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. See more.	Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. See more.

Maltese vs Shih Tzu vs Miniature Poodle Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification Compare AKC groups for Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. How are they classified?	Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a Toy breed.	Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.	Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification Compare FCI groups for Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. How are they classified internationally?	Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Bichons and related breeds section.	Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.	Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition Compare breed recognition status of Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Miniature Poodle. Which has most recognition?	American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club New Zealand Kennel Club United Kennel Club	American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club New Zealand Kennel Club United Kennel Club Canadian Canine Registry	American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club New Zealand Kennel Club United Kennel Club Canadian Canine Registry

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