Maltese and Shih Tzu mix(MalShi) | A Complete Guide to This Adorable Designer Dog

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Discover everything you need to know about the Maltese and Shih Tzu mix, a cute and cuddly designer dog breed that’s a perfect companion for families and individuals alike. Learn about their history, appearance, temperament, care, training, and more in this comprehensive guide.
This post is for those who love tiny and cute dog breeds, like the Maltese Shih Tzu mix. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What is a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix called?

Height	8-14 Inches
Weight	5-15 Pounds
LifeSpan	12-15 Years
Color	white, Cream, Black

The Maltese Shih Tzu mix is known as the Mal-Shi or Malti Tzu. This is a crossbreed that inherits from Maltese and the Shih Tzu dog breeds. Nowadays this hybrid breed is increasing due to its sweet personality, affectionate nature, and low-shedding coat.

Shih Tzu

Height	9-10 Inches
Weight	9-16 Pounds
LifeSpan	10-18 Years
Cost	$1400-$2000
Color	Black, White, Gold, Brindle, Gold, Liver, Red
Common Health Problems	Brachycephalic airway syndrome, Eye problems, Dental problems

Maltese

Height	7-9 Inches
Weight	5-7 Pounds
LifeSpan	12-15 Years
Cost	$600-$2000
Color	White & Lemon & Tan
Common Health Problems	Patellar luxation, White shaker syndrome, Liver shunt, Dental problems

History Of MalShi

The MalShi breed emerged in the United States in the mid of 1990s. To get small, affectionate, and low-shedding breeders started crossbreeding the Maltese and Shih Tzu. Although the exact origin of the breed is unclear as some research first started in Australia from one of the breeders and gradually this breed got popular in America.

Appearance

MalShi is a small breed that generally weighs between 5 to 15 pounds and their height is between 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. MalShi has a soft, silky coat, and colors like white, cream, or a combination of both. Their eyes are round pupils and dark. Ears are soft and covered with long hairs.

Temperament

Mal-Shi is a very Sweet, joyful, playful, and affectionate personality. They are a perfect match for children and great for other pets. They are eager and love to spend time with their owners, additionally, they are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. However, they can be prone to separation anxiety, so providing more time and affection is important.

Care

When it comes to grooming, Mal-shi comes under a low-maintenance breed because of its soft hairs and doesn’t shed much. However, it’s important to do regular grooming, brushing, and occasional haircuts to keep the coat in healthy condition.

Do Maltese Shih Tzu have health problems?

The most common health problem is dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Other health problems respiratory issues, heart problems, and joint issues such as hip dysplasia. However, these can be prevented by regular exercise and veterinary check-ups, and vaccinations.

Training and Exercise

Generally, these breeds are active and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Mal-shi usually loves walking and playing in spacious ground or parks and also they are quick learners and quickly catch tricks and commands. However, sometimes they can be stubborn so it’s important to use positive reinforcement techniques and be patient with their training.

Cost

It Depends upon breeders to breeders and also demands in the market. You can expect a good and quality breed anywhere between $700 – $2100.

How to find MalShi?

You can find these puppies in reputable breeders, animal shelters, and rescue organizations. Try to avoid online purchases and away from scams.

How smart is a Maltese Shih Tzu?

They are eager and love to spend time with their owners, additionally, they are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. And as per AKC, Maltese Shih Tzu’s parent breeds have Secured 20th and 38th ranks for their intelligence. Hence MalShi also inherits these traits from its parent breeds.

How long can a Maltese Shih Tzu be left alone?

Maltese Shih Tzus are social dogs and enjoy being around their owners and other people. Maltese Shih Tzus should not be left alone for more than 4-6 hours at a time.

FAQ

What is the lifespan of a Maltese Shih Tzu?

Maltese Shih Tzu mixes have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Is a Maltese Shih Tzu a good dog?

Yes, It’s a very Sweet, joyful, playful, and affectionate personality. Good for first-time owners.

Do Maltese Shih Tzu mixes shed a lot?

No, Maltese Shih Tzu mixes have a low-shedding coat that requires minimal grooming.

Are Maltese Shih Tzu mixes good with children?

Yes, Maltese Shih Tzu mixes are great with children and make excellent family pets.

How much exercise do Maltese Shih Tzu mixes need?

Maltese Shih Tzu mixes are active and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk and some playtime in the backyard should suffice, but they also enjoy participating in obedience training classes and learning new tricks.

Conclusion

The Maltese and Shih Tzu mix is a cute and cuddly designer dog breed that makes a great companion for family members.