Are you considering getting a small dog, but can’t decide between a Yorkie or a Maltipoo? Both breeds are popular choices for those looking for a furry companion, but they have distinct differences that may make one a better fit for you than the other. In this article, we will compare the Yorkie and Maltipoo to help you make an informed decision.
Yorkies, also known as Yorkshire Terriers, are a small breed that originated in England. They are known for their long, silky coats and spunky personalities.
Maltipoos are a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Poodle, resulting in a cute and cuddly companion. They have a curly coat that is easier to maintain than a Yorkie’s long coat.
Both breeds have their own unique characteristics, so let’s dive into the details to help you determine which one is the best fit for you.
Table of Contents
Appearance
When it comes to the appearance of Yorkies and Maltipoos, there are some key differences to note. Let’s take a closer look at their coat and grooming needs, as well as their size.
Coat and Grooming
Both Yorkies and Maltipoos have hair that grows continuously, rather than shedding like fur. However, there are some differences in their coat types. Yorkies have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Maltipoos, on the other hand, have a curly or wavy coat that is easier to maintain and may not require as much upkeep.
In terms of grooming frequency, both breeds will benefit from regular brushing to keep their coats healthy and shiny. Yorkies may need to be bathed more frequently than Maltipoos due to their long hair, but both breeds should be bathed as needed to keep them clean and smelling fresh.
Size
When it comes to size, Yorkies and Maltipoos are both small breeds, but there are some differences to note. Yorkies typically weigh between 5-12 pounds and stand around 8-9 inches tall at the shoulder. Maltipoos, on the other hand, can range in size from 5-20 pounds and stand between 10-14 inches tall.
While both breeds are small and make great lap dogs, Maltipoos may be a better choice for those who want a slightly larger dog. However, if you’re looking for a truly tiny pup, a Yorkie may be the way to go.
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Temperament and Personality
Activity Level
Both Yorkies and Maltipoos are active and energetic dogs. They enjoy playing and going for walks. Yorkies are known to be more active and energetic than Maltipoos, who tend to be more laid-back.
Trainability
Yorkies are highly intelligent and easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new things. Maltipoos are also intelligent but may be a bit more stubborn and difficult to train.
Behavior
Yorkies have courageous and alert personalities. They are loyal and affectionate with their owners but can be wary of strangers. Maltipoos are social dogs who love to be around people. They are known for their affectionate and playful nature.
Both breeds can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Yorkies may be more prone to barking and guarding behavior, while Maltipoos are generally more laid-back and less likely to bark excessively.
It’s important to note that both breeds can be prone to patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap dislocates. Additionally, both breeds are considered hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for those with allergies.
Sources:
- https://petkeen.com/maltipoo-vs-yorkie/
- https://www.hepper.com/maltipoo-vs-yorkie/
- https://www.mydogbreeds.com/maltipoo-vs-yorkshire-terrier
- https://doodledoods.com/maltipoo-temperament/
Health
Lifespan
When it comes to lifespan, both Yorkies and Maltipoos have a similar life expectancy of around 12-15 years. However, it’s important to note that a dog’s lifespan can be affected by various factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise.
Common Health Issues
Like all breeds, Yorkies and Maltipoos are susceptible to certain health issues. Yorkies are prone to dental problems, hypoglycemia, and tracheal collapse. On the other hand, Maltipoos may be prone to allergies, ear infections, and dental issues. It’s important to note that both breeds can also be affected by genetic health issues such as epilepsy.
To ensure your dog stays healthy, it’s important to provide them with regular check-ups, vaccinations, and a healthy diet. It’s also important to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings on their breeding dogs.
In terms of shedding, both breeds are considered low-shedding and may be a good option for those with allergies. However, regular grooming is still necessary to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.
Sources:
- PetMD
- American Kennel Club
Living Conditions
Apartment Living
When it comes to apartment living, both Yorkies and Maltipoos are great choices. They are small in size and do not require a lot of space. Yorkies are slightly smaller, with an average height of 8-9 inches and weight of 4-7 pounds, while Maltipoos are slightly larger, with an average height of 10-14 inches and weight of 5-20 pounds.
It’s important to note that both breeds are active and require daily exercise, so make sure you have enough room for them to play and run around. If you live in an apartment, you may need to take them out for walks more frequently.
Suitable For
Both Yorkies and Maltipoos are family-friendly dogs and are suitable for families with children. However, it’s important to supervise young children around them as they are small and delicate.
Yorkies are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, while Maltipoos are known for their playful and friendly nature. Both breeds are easy to train and make great companions.
If you have other pets, both breeds can get along with them if they are socialized properly. However, it’s important to introduce them slowly and supervise their interactions to avoid any conflicts.
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Training
Training your Yorkie or Maltipoo is essential to ensure they are well-behaved and obedient pets. Here are some things to consider when training your pet.
Trainability
Both Yorkies and Maltipoos are intelligent breeds that are highly trainable. However, Maltipoos tend to be a little bit easier to train than Yorkies, thanks to their Poodle genes. This means you may see results faster when training your Maltipoo than when training your Yorkie.
Obedience
Obedience training is crucial for both breeds. Yorkies can be stubborn, so it’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on. Maltipoos, on the other hand, are eager to please their owners, making obedience training a little easier.
Hunting
Yorkies were originally bred as hunting dogs, so they have a natural instinct to chase small animals. This can make it difficult to train them to ignore squirrels, rabbits, and other critters when out on walks. Maltipoos, on the other hand, are not hunting dogs, so they may not have the same instincts to chase small animals.
When training your Yorkie or Maltipoo, it’s important to use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, rather than punishment. Consistency is also key – short, clear, and consistent training sessions with lots of rewards will help your pet learn faster.
History and Popularity
Origins
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in England in the 19th century, where they were bred to catch rats in textile mills. The Maltipoo, on the other hand, is a newer breed that was created by crossing a Maltese and a Poodle in the United States.
Popularity Rank
Both the Yorkshire Terrier and Maltipoo are popular breeds. The Yorkshire Terrier is ranked 9th out of 196 breeds by the American Kennel Club, while the Maltipoo is not recognized by the AKC, but is still a popular crossbreed.
The Yorkshire Terrier has been a popular breed for many years, consistently ranking in the top 10 AKC breeds. The Maltipoo, as a crossbreed, has gained popularity in recent years due to its hypoallergenic coat and adorable appearance.
Other Names
The Yorkshire Terrier is also known as the Yorkie, while the Maltipoo is sometimes referred to as the Moodle or Maltepoo.
Cross Breed
The Maltipoo is a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Poodle. This crossbreed has become popular due to its hypoallergenic coat, friendly personality, and small size.
User Ratings and Reviews
Both breeds are generally well-liked by their owners. The Yorkshire Terrier is known for its spunky personality and loyalty, while the Maltipoo is praised for its friendly nature and intelligence.
Overall, both the Yorkshire Terrier and Maltipoo are popular breeds with their own unique histories and characteristics. If you’re considering adding a new pet to your family, be sure to do your research and choose the breed that best fits your lifestyle and personality.
Price and Availability
When it comes to deciding between a Yorkie and a Maltipoo, price and availability are important factors to consider.
Price
Yorkies are generally more expensive than Maltipoos. The average price for a Yorkie can range from $1,000 to $3,000, while a Maltipoo can cost between $700 to $1,500. However, prices can vary depending on the breeder and location.
Availability
Both Yorkies and Maltipoos are popular breeds, but Yorkies are more widely available. You can find them at most pet stores and breeders. Maltipoos, on the other hand, may be harder to find, as they are a relatively newer breed.
It’s important to note that while pet stores may be a convenient option, they often source their puppies from puppy mills, which prioritize profit over the welfare of the animals. It’s recommended to adopt from a reputable breeder or rescue organization.
When adopting a puppy, make sure to research the breeder or organization and ask for health certifications and records. This can help ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-cared-for puppy.
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FAQ
Which is Bigger?
Although there is standardized sizing for both breeds, their sizes may vary according to their parents.
Yorkies average 8-12” in height and weigh between 5-12 pounds.
Maltipoos are between 10-14” in height and 5-20 pounds in weight.
While both breeds can vary in size, Maltipoos can be slightly heavier and taller than Yorkies.
Which One Sheds More?
Both breeds do not shed much. However, both breeds need to be brushed regularly to remove dead hairs and skin that may irritate them.
Therefore, it is recommended that you can brush them daily with a brush. Yorkies especially really enjoy being brushed. It is a great bonding activity that promotes relaxation.
Maltipoos need to be brushed regularly as they have slightly fluffier coats. You should bathe both breeds at least once a month to keep the coat clean and shiny. In this way, you will have a clean dog whose fur is free from dust build-up.
How Much Do They Require Grooming?
Yorkies and Maltipoos need their coats trimmed at regular intervals. Dog groomers provide this service to dog owners at their convenience and you can shorten their hair as you wish and in any design.
In both breeds, tartar can form on their teeth over time. They should have regular dental cleaning and follow-up with your vet. You should brush your dog’s teeth regularly and take good care of them.
Both breeds should have their nails trimmed once or twice a month. Long nails can hurt you and your family members while they play with you and can also hurt the dog as they scratch themselves.
In addition, as the nails grow, they bend backward, and they can damage their paws by sinking into the skin. This can cause issues with walking if left untreated.
Ear cleaning is also important to get rid of various microbes and dirt. In both breeds, their ears should be cleaned at regular intervals, and you should take care not to let water get into their ears during the cleaning process.
Are They Good with Children?
Both breeds are good with children, however, the Maltipoo is slightly better. Both breeds, who love to spend time with children and want to play with them all the time, are very patient, however, babies and toddlers may not be ideal for the terrier.
thankfully, due to their small size, there is limited injury that can occur. Although your children can see these dogs as their closest friends, they should never be left alone together, as with any dog breed.
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.
