Florida’s climate and living situations — condos, apartments, warm weather most of the year — make certain small dog breeds a noticeably better fit than others. Here’s how some of the most popular small breeds compare, including where Maltipoos stand out.

What Matters for Florida Living Specifically

• Heat tolerance. Breeds with thick double coats or flat faces (brachycephalic breeds) tend to struggle more with Florida heat and humidity
• Space requirements. Apartment and condo living favors breeds that don’t need extensive daily exercise
• Shedding. Florida homes with tile and light-colored furniture make low-shedding breeds an easier fit
• Noise level. Close-quarters living (shared walls, HOA rules) makes temperament and barking tendency worth considering upfront

Maltipoo
Low-shedding, small (5-20 lbs), and adaptable to apartment life. Their single coat (versus a double coat) handles warm climates reasonably well, though regular grooming is still needed. Affectionate and people-oriented, but prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long stretches — better suited to households with someone home more often.

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)
Similar low-shedding advantage, generally good heat tolerance, and highly trainable. Tend to be more independent than a Maltipoo but still benefit from regular companionship.

Yorkshire Terrier
Small and low-shedding, but their long coat requires more frequent grooming to stay manageable in Florida humidity. Can be more vocal than a Maltipoo, worth considering in close-quarters housing.

French Bulldog
Popular in Florida for their compact size and low exercise needs, but as a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, they’re significantly more prone to heat stress and overheating — a real consideration given Florida’s climate for much of the year.

Shih Tzu
Low exercise needs and generally good temperament for apartment living, but also brachycephalic to a degree and can struggle in extreme heat; needs consistent grooming for their coat.

Bottom Line

For Florida specifically, breeds with single, low-shedding coats and non-flat faces — like the Maltipoo — tend to handle the climate and close-quarters living better than double-coated or brachycephalic breeds. That said, individual temperament and your household’s daily routine matter as much as breed traits.

Considering a Maltipoo?

We raise home-based Maltipoo litters in Miami, FL, from health-tested parents. See our available puppies →