Differences and Similarities between the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog.

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Maltipoo Versus Shetland Sheepdog: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Maltipoo and for the Shetland Sheepdog. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Maltipoo or the Shetland Sheepdog.

Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog

Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog: Overview

Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are similar in size. The Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are both small-sized dogs.

Furthermore, the Maltipoo belongs to the Hybrid Dogs group. Hybrid Dogs are the offspring of 2 or more known, but different, dog breeds.

On the other hand, the Shetland Sheepdog belongs to the Herding Dogs group. Herding Dogs were bred for moving livestock, including sheep, cattle, and even reindeer. Herding dogs work closely with their human shepherds, and their natural intelligence and responsiveness make them highly trainable. They have high levels of energy, which needs to be channeled properly to prevent destructive behavior. Herding breeds are protective of their people and property and make excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence, agility, and activity level make them well suited to dog sports.

Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Maltipoo to the Shetland Sheepdog based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog

Factor Maltipoo Shetland Sheepdog
Tolerates Being Alone 1/5 2/5
Does NOT Shed 5/5 1/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Life Span 10 to 13 years 12 to 15 years
Tolerates Cold Weather 2/5 4/5
General Health 2/5 4/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 4/5 3/5
Low Prey Drive 4/5 3/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 4/5 2/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 3/5
Easy To Groom 3/5 2/5
Does NOT chew on things 3/5 5/5
NOT Rambunctious 3/5 2/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 3/5 4/5
Kid-Friendly 4/5 5/5
Dog Friendly 4/5 4/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 4/5 5/5
Intelligence 4/5 5/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 2/5 4/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 4/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 5/5 2/5
Good For Novice Owners 5/5 3/5
Easygoing 1/5 1/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 5/5
Easy To Train 5/5 5/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 1/5 2/5
Weight 5 to 20 pounds Starts at 20 pounds
Height 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder
Average Lifespan 11.5 years 13.5 years
Average Price $2020 $1590
Price Range $1500 – $2500 $1000 – $2000
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests No Data
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Dentition
  • Eye Examination- Recommend evaluation every year until age 5, every 2 years thereafter until age 9.
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Maltipoo in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Shetland Sheepdog. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Maltipoo is 86 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Shetland Sheepdog is 85 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Maltipoo is a better pet than the Shetland Sheepdog. So, you should get the Maltipoo!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog

    Below is a list of where the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are most different:

  • Maltipoos do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies. However, Shetland Sheepdogs shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.
  • Maltipoos adapt well to apartment living. However, Shetland Sheepdogs do not adapt well to apartment living.
  • The Similarities Between the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog

    The Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are most similar:

  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are not prone to gaining weight easily.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are very friendly towards strangers.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are very playful.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are very easy to train.
  • Both the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog.

    Maltipoos weigh 5 to 20 pounds when fully grown. Maltipoos are 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Shetland Sheepdogs weigh Starts at 20 pounds when fully grown. Shetland Sheepdogs are 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog

    The lifespan of Maltipoos is between 10 to 13 years. The average lifespan of Maltipoos is 11.5 years.

    The lifespan of Shetland Sheepdogs is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Shetland Sheepdogs is 13.5 years.

    Shetland Sheepdogs live longer than Maltipoos.

    Price of Maltipoo versus Price of Shetland Sheepdog

    The average price of the Maltipoo puppy is $2020. The price of the Maltipoo typically ranges from $1500 – $2500. However, the price of a Maltipoo can be as low as $200 and as high as $7850. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 845 Maltipoo puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Shetland Sheepdog puppy is $1590. The price of the Shetland Sheepdog typically ranges from $1000 – $2000. However, the price of the Shetland Sheepdog can be as low as $500 and as high as $3145. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 153 Shetland Sheepdog puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Maltipoo is more expensive than the Shetland Sheepdog.

    Maltipoo Shetland Sheepdog
    Average Price $2020 $1590
    Price Range $1500 to $2500 $1000 to $2000

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Maltipoo and Shetland Sheepdog. For different price points, the charts show how many Maltipoo puppies or how many Shetland Sheepdog puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Maltipoos. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Maltipoos. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Shetland Sheepdogs

    A breakdown of the prices of Shetland Sheepdogs

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Maltipoo puppy or the Shetland Sheepdog puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Adopting the Maltipoo versus Adopting the Shetland Sheepdog

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Maltipoos and many Shetland Sheepdogs are currently available for adoption.

    These adorable and cute dogs are waiting in dog shelters hoping that someday someone will rescue them. Furthermore, adoption costs are lesser than the cost of a new puppy. Dog adoption costs are usually around $300. In addition to your local dog shelter, a good place online to see dogs that are available for adoption is petfinder.com.

    Below is an adorable Male Maltipoo named Cosmo that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Maltipoos like Cosmo on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Maltipoos, Shetland Sheepdogs are also available for adoption. For example, ~Courtesy~Simon And Shu Shu is a Male Shetland Sheepdog that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Shetland Sheepdogs like ~Courtesy~Simon And Shu Shu that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

    The Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog can both be adopted. Images from petfinder.com

    Buddy is the name of another Maltipoo (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also, Scooter is an adorable Male Shetland Sheepdog on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

    Maltipoos and Shetland Sheepdogs are always available for adoption. Images from petfinder.com

    You can find more Maltipoos and Shetland Sheepdogs that are available for adoption on petfinder.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Maltipoos do not like to be left alone.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not like to be left alone.

    Do Maltipoos shed more than Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Maltipoos do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Shetland Sheepdogs shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Maltipoo or the Shetland Sheepdog

    Maltipoos do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Maltipoo or the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Maltipoos are moderately easy to groom.

    Shetland Sheepdogs require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Does the Maltipoo Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Maltipoos have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate prey drive. They can sometimes chase after smaller animals and pets.

    Do Maltipoos Bark and Howl? What about Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Maltipoos are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

    Can Maltipoos Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Shetland Sheepdogs Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Maltipoos cannot tolerate cold weather. They are vulnerable to the cold.

    Shetland Sheepdogs can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Maltipoo vs. Shetland Sheepdog

    Maltipoos have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Can Maltipoos Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Shetland Sheepdogs Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Maltipoos can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Shetland Sheepdogs can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Maltipoo or the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Maltipoos get along very well with other dogs.

    Shetland Sheepdogs get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Maltipoos good family dogs? What about Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Maltipoos are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Maltipoos and Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Maltipoos get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Shetland Sheepdogs get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Maltipoo Easier to Train than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Maltipoos are very easy to train.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are very easy to train.

    Is the Maltipoo Better for Apartment Owners than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Maltipoos adapt very well to apartment living.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Maltipoo or the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Maltipoos are very good for new dog owners.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are OK for new dog owners.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Maltipoo

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Maltipoo that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Maltipoo:

  • Chi-Poo (77 percent match with Maltipoo). Here is our comparison of the Shetland Sheepdog vs Chi-Poo.
  • Yorkipoo (75 percent match with Maltipoo). Here is our comparison of the Shetland Sheepdog vs Yorkipoo.
  • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Shetland Sheepdog

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Shetland Sheepdog that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Shetland Sheepdog:

  • Collie (81 percent match with Shetland Sheepdog). Here is our comparison of the Maltipoo vs Collie.
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi (79 percent match with Shetland Sheepdog). Here is our comparison of the Maltipoo vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

    You may also be interested in how the Maltipoo and how the Shetland Sheepdog compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Maltipoo and of the Shetland Sheepdog to other breeds:

    Maltipoo Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Maltipoo versus Kai Ken     Maltipoo versus Cockapoo     Maltipoo versus Briard     Maltipoo versus Keeshond     Maltipoo versus Pomsky     Maltipoo versus Samoyed     Maltipoo versus Biewer Terrier     Maltipoo versus Japanese Chin     Maltipoo versus Belgian Tervuren     Maltipoo versus Basset Hound     Maltipoo versus Whoodle     Maltipoo versus Labrador Retriever     Maltipoo versus Irish Water Spaniel     Maltipoo versus Golden Retriever     Maltipoo versus Saluki     Maltipoo versus Leonberger     Maltipoo versus Pharaoh Hound     Maltipoo versus Irish Water Spaniel     Maltipoo versus Lakeland Terrier     Maltipoo versus Greater Swiss Mountain Dog     Maltipoo versus Finnish Spitz     Maltipoo versus Irish Terrier     Maltipoo versus Treeing Walker Coonhound     Maltipoo versus Shiloh Shepherd     Maltipoo versus Cavalier King Charles Spaniel     

    Shetland Sheepdog Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Shetland Sheepdog versus Kishu Ken     Shetland Sheepdog versus Lhasapoo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Neapolitan Mastiff     Shetland Sheepdog versus Pyrenean Mastiff     Shetland Sheepdog versus Bluetick Coonhound     Shetland Sheepdog versus Neapolitan Mastiff     Shetland Sheepdog versus Skye Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Kooikerhondje     Shetland Sheepdog versus Samoyed     Shetland Sheepdog versus Shichon     Shetland Sheepdog versus Japanese Spitz     Shetland Sheepdog versus Standard Poodle     Shetland Sheepdog versus Dalmatian     Shetland Sheepdog versus Xoloitzcuintli     Shetland Sheepdog versus Shiba Inu     Shetland Sheepdog versus Japanese Chin     Shetland Sheepdog versus Pekingese     Shetland Sheepdog versus German Shorthaired Pointer     Shetland Sheepdog versus Great Pyrenees     Shetland Sheepdog versus Staffordshire Bull Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Akita Chow     Shetland Sheepdog versus Australian Kelpie     Shetland Sheepdog versus Silky Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus German Shorthaired Pointer     Shetland Sheepdog versus Australian Shepherd     

    Conclusion: Maltipoo versus Shetland Sheepdog. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Maltipoo and the Shetland Sheepdog better suits you and your family.