Coton de Tulear vs Maltipoo

Coton de Tulear vs Maltipoo: full comparison

Size and living space

The Coton de Tulear is a compact little dog that fits small homes easily and never crowds a room. By comparison, the Maltipoo is a compact little dog that fits small homes easily and never crowds a room. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Coton de Tulear wants a decent walk or two each day and some playtime. The Maltipoo wants a decent walk or two each day and some playtime. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Coton de Tulear is a serious grooming commitment, with daily brushing and regular salon visits and drops very little hair. The Maltipoo requires frequent brushing and regular professional trims and sheds almost nothing, so your sofa stays clear. Both are considered hypoallergenic, so either works well for allergy-conscious homes. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Coton de Tulear trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, barks a moderate amount, usually with reason and is very good with children and makes a dependable family dog. The Maltipoo trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, barks a moderate amount, usually with reason and is generally good with children when socialised and supervised. On guarding instinct, Coton de Tulear is not a natural guard and greets visitors warmly, whereas Maltipoo will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive.

Which is better for…

• For apartment or flat living, Coton de Tulear and Maltipoo are an even match — either can work well.
• For families with young children, Coton de Tulear has the edge, being the more naturally child-friendly and sociable of the two.
• For first-time dog owners, Coton de Tulear has the edge, as it is easier to train and more forgiving of beginner mistakes.
• For being left alone during the workday, Coton de Tulear and Maltipoo are an even match — either can work well.
• For allergy sufferers, Maltipoo has the edge, as it is hypoallergenic and lower-shedding.

Which should you choose?

Choose the Coton de Tulear if you want the more child-friendly companion or you want a longer-lived breed.

Choose the Maltipoo if you want a more protective, watchful guardian, you prefer lower grooming upkeep, or you want less shedding around the home.

Related guides