The Maltese Shih Tzu is a hybrid designer type of dog resulting from the cross between a pure breed of Maltese and Shih Tzu. These dogs are also known as Malshi, Mal-Shi, Malti Zu, and Malt-Tzu.

The small-sized Malshi is an adorable and sweet little dog breed. This classic hybrid breed is a small and lovable that do not shed much which is a plus point for this breed.

Origin & History of the Malshi

The Maltese Shih Tzu developed in the 1990s to fulfill the purpose of a low shedding type of companion breed. It was named by combining the names of the two breeds that were used in the crossbreeding; the Maltese and Shih Tzu. The resulted name has gained this breed such popularity that this breed does not need a cute name to be promoted.

A Maltese Shih Tzu with its canine pal.
Image Source: Instagram@kazzamarie65

Many of the Maltese Shih Tzu Puppies produced are the result of first-generation breeding between the Maltese and Shih Tzu. Though there has been some second-generation breeding, this dog breed has not undergone breeding of third and successive generations.

The Malshi belongs to one of the most popular hybrid breeds in Australia. Additionally, the fame of this breed is also spreading in North America and other countries. However, AKC has not recognized this breed.

Are the Maltese Shih Tzu’s child-friendly?

Yes, the Maltese Shih Tzu is a child-friendly dog breed that loves the children of all ages. These dogs make an excellent companion for older and understanding children. But loves children of all ages overall.

You should teach your children how to behave with and approach your Malshi. Moreover, teach your kids not to touch or disturb the dog while they are eating or sleeping. No matter how friendly the dog is, never leave your kids alone with the dog unsupervised. Therefore, supervising the children and Malshi when together is necessary.

Behavior, Temperament & Personality

The Maltese Shih Tzu has a friendly, tolerant and kind temperament. These dogs are very good at understanding how to deal with people and other dogs. They are incredibly child-friendly dogs. Thriving on affection, they like to be around their people trying to take a nap in their lap. Behavior with other animals and strangers is usually quite acceptable.

Talking about the personality, the Maltese Shih Tzu has an affectionate, alert and devoted personality. These dogs are independent and intelligent which makes them stubborn at times. In addition, they are loving and devoted to their people. Overall, they are playful and fearless dogs.

Training Ability of the Malshi

It is a pleasure to train the Maltese Shih Tzu as it is an intelligent and happy breed. You can easily master their obedience training making them ready for advanced training. Your Malshi dog will be stubborn at times but that can be controlled with positive and consistent training.

A Malshi during training.

House-training your Malti Tzu can be difficult. So, try to introduce your dog with crate training as early as possible. Despite its small size, you should treat your Malt-Tzu like a dog rather than treating them like a baby. If not, they are likely to develop disruptive behaviors. Hence, treat them like real dogs by making them walk and not carrying them every time.

Facts about the Maltese Shih Tzu breed

Here are some facts about the Maltese Shih Tzu:

  • The Maltese Shih Tzu is a cross between a purebred Maltese and a purebred Shih Tzu.
  • It is not yet recognized by AKC though its ancestors are well-recognized.
  • This breed is one of the low-shedding breeds.
  • They have various names.
A Malshi ready to have dinner. Image Source: Instagram@dapperdoggroomingandspa

Health Issues of the Maltese Shih Tzu

Living an average life of 12-12 years, the Maltese Shih Tzu suffers from a few disease which are as follows:

Patellar Luxation

A condition when the dog’s kneecap (patella) gets dislocated from its normal position in the thigh bone is called Patellar Luxation.

White Shaker Syndrome

It is a disease that causes full body tremors in small dog breeds such as Maltese, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu.

Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome

It is a pathological disease that affects short-nosed dogs causing severe respiratory problems.

Color Patterns

According to 101dogbreeds, there are seven colors of the Maltese Shih Tzu which are:

  • Gray
  • White
  • Yellow
  • Brown
  • Solid
  • Black
  • Multi-colored

Size

An adult Maltese Shih Tzu is 8 to 12 inches tall with a weight of about 6 to 15 pounds.

Price of Malshi puppy

A mother Maltese Shih Tzu gives birth to 6-8 puppies a time. A well-bred Malshi puppy costs you a price ranging from $500 to $700 USD approximately.

Three little Malshi puppies. Image Source: TLC Puppy Love

Which dog breeds are they similar to?

Here are some dog breeds that are similar to the Maltese Shih Tzu (Malshi):

Visit Doglime for more dog breeds information.

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