Maltipoo vs Chihuahua: Comparing Temperaments & Care Needs

Dog Info

March 3, 2025

Maltipoo vs Chihuahua: I was at the dog park the other day, sipping my coffee and watching the chaos unfold—tiny dogs zipping around like furry race cars, owners calling out names like “Lulu!” and “Peanut!” with varying degrees of success. Right next to me, a woman was trying to convince her teacup Chihuahua to come out of her designer tote bag, while another lady was attempting to snap a picture of her bouncy little Maltipoo mid-zoomie. It got me thinking—if someone were trying to decide between these two pint-sized pups, what would they need to know?

If you’re stuck choosing between a Maltipoo and a Chihuahua, let’s break it down. We’ll chat about their personalities, care needs, and which might be the better fit for your lifestyle. Grab your coffee, and let’s dive in!

Personality Maltipoo vs Chihuahua: Snuggle Bug vs. Sassy Sidekick

One of the biggest differences between Maltipoos and Chihuahuas is their personalities.

Maltipoos are social butterflies. They’re a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, which means they’re affectionate, people-oriented, and eager to please. These little fluff balls love being the center of attention and will happily curl up in your lap for hours. They’re known for their gentle, friendly nature and are fantastic for families or individuals looking for a loving companion.
Chihuahuas, on the other hand, are tiny but mighty. They’ve got big dog energy packed into a small frame. They tend to be feisty, confident, and sometimes a little stubborn. While they can be very loyal and affectionate with their favorite human, they often take time to warm up to strangers. If you want a pup with a touch of sass and a whole lot of personality, a Chihuahua might be your match.

Bottom Line: If you want a sweet, social pup that gets along with everyone, go for a Maltipoo. If you’re looking for a tiny watchdog with a fierce devotion to their owner, a Chihuahua might be the better fit.

Trainability: Eager Student vs. Independent Thinker

When it comes to training, these two breeds couldn’t be more different.

Maltipoos are eager to please and highly intelligent, thanks to their Poodle genes. They pick up commands quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement. Whether you’re teaching basic commands or fun tricks, a Maltipoo will be all in.
Chihuahuas are smart, but they’ve got a mind of their own. They can be stubborn, which means training requires patience, consistency, and a sense of humor. They’re also known for “small dog syndrome”—a tendency to think they run the show—so early socialization and training are key.

Bottom Line: If you want a dog that’s easy to train, the Maltipoo wins this round. If you’re up for a challenge and don’t mind a little sass in your training sessions, the Chihuahua could be your ideal pup.

Energy Levels: Zoomies vs. Sunbathing

Both of these breeds are small, but their energy levels vary quite a bit.

Maltipoos are playful, energetic, and love to be engaged. They enjoy short walks, play sessions, and interactive toys. Because they have Poodle in them, they also need mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored.
Chihuahuas can go either way. Some are incredibly energetic and love to run around, while others are professional couch potatoes. Many Chihuahuas prefer to lounge in the sun or be carried around in a cozy bag rather than engage in intense play.

Bottom Line: If you want a playful, energetic pup, go for a Maltipoo. If you prefer a dog that enjoys bursts of energy but is just as happy snuggled up in a blanket, a Chihuahua might be the way to go.

Grooming Needs Maltipoo vs Chihuahua: Fluffy vs. Low Maintenance

Grooming requirements are another big consideration.

Maltipoos have soft, wavy to curly coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting. They need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat looking fresh.
Chihuahuas come in both short-haired and long-haired varieties. Short-haired Chihuahuas need minimal grooming—just the occasional brushing—while long-haired Chihuahuas need weekly brushing to prevent tangles.

Bottom Line: If you want a lower-maintenance pup, a short-haired Chihuahua is the easiest. If you love a fluffy dog and don’t mind the upkeep, a Maltipoo is a great choice.

Health & Lifespan: What to Expect Maltipoo vs Chihuahua

Both breeds are relatively healthy but come with their own potential issues.

Maltipoos are prone to dental issues, luxating patellas (knee problems), and eye conditions. They typically live 12-15 years.
Chihuahuas are also prone to dental issues, along with heart problems and tracheal collapse. With good care, they can live 14-17 years.

Bottom Line: Both breeds require regular vet checkups, a healthy diet, and proper dental care to live long, happy lives.

Storytail Dogs: Raising Exceptional Maltipoos

At Storytail Dogs, we are passionate about raising Maltipoos that are not only well-bred but also nurtured with care to become wonderful companions. Our puppies are raised in a loving, home-based environment where they receive early neurological stimulation, structured socialization, and exposure to everyday sights and sounds. We believe that a well-prepared puppy grows into a confident, well-adjusted dog, so we focus on temperament testing, early training, and premium health care from the start. By prioritizing responsible breeding practices and thoughtful puppy placements, we ensure that every Maltipoo from Storytail Dogs is affectionate, intelligent, and ready to bring joy into their forever home.

You can see our available dogs here https://storytaildogs.com/puppies-available

Which Breed is Right for You?

If you’re still torn, here’s a quick cheat sheet:

✔️ Pick a Maltipoo if:

You want a sweet, friendly, and affectionate dog.
You’re looking for an easy-to-train companion.
You don’t mind regular grooming.

✔️ Pick a Chihuahua if:

You want a feisty, confident, and loyal sidekick.
You’re okay with an independent thinker.
You prefer a dog with minimal grooming needs.

Final Thoughts

Both Maltipoos and Chihuahuas make fantastic pets—it really depends on your lifestyle and what kind of personality you’re looking for in a furry friend. Whether you want an affectionate lap dog or a tiny protector with a big attitude, either breed will bring endless love and joy into your life.

Do you have a Maltipoo or a Chihuahua? I’d love to hear your experiences! Drop a comment below and share your thoughts. 🐶💕

American Kennel Club-“Chihuahua”- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chihuahua/
American Kennel Club-“Maltese”- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/maltese/