Dachshund Maltese Mix: The Complete Malchi Breed Profile

The Dachshund Maltese mix — commonly called the Malchi — is a small designer crossbreed that blends the bold, curious nature of the Dachshund with the gentle, affectionate disposition of the Maltese. Weighing in at roughly 5 to 15 pounds, this compact companion has gained a following among apartment dwellers, seniors, and families looking for a portable, people-oriented dog.

But like all designer crosses, the Malchi is a genetic roll of the dice. One puppy in a litter might inherit the Dachshund's elongated body and wiry coat, while another could look almost entirely Maltese with a flowing white coat and compact frame. Understanding the range of possibilities — and the real health risks from both parent breeds — is essential before bringing one home.

Parent Breeds: Dachshund and Maltese at a Glance

Before predicting what a Malchi might be like, it helps to understand the two breeds behind the cross. The Dachshund and the Maltese are very different dogs with distinct histories, body types, and care needs.

Trait	Dachshund	Maltese
Origin	Germany (badger hunting, 15th–17th century)	Mediterranean island of Malta (companion breed, ancient lineage)
AKC Group	Hound	Toy
Weight Range	Miniature: 8–11 lb / 3.6–5 kg Standard: 16–32 lb / 7–14.5 kg	Under 7 lb / 3.2 kg
Height	Miniature: 5–6 in / 13–15 cm Standard: 8–9 in / 20–23 cm	7–9 in / 18–23 cm
Lifespan	12–16 years	12–15 years
Coat Types	Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired	Single-layer, long, silky white
Shedding Level	Low to moderate (varies by coat type)	Very low (hair, not fur)
Energy Level	Moderate — needs regular walks and sniff time	Low to moderate — playful but not demanding
Temperament	Bold, curious, independent, can be stubborn	Gentle, affectionate, alert, people-oriented
Trainability	Moderate — intelligent but willful	Moderate — eager but sensitive
Barking	High — bred to alert and vocalize	Moderate to high — alert barkers

The Dachshund was originally bred to pursue badgers and other burrowing animals into tight tunnels. This gives them a strong prey drive, a fearless attitude toward animals much larger than themselves, and a spine built for length rather than shock absorption. The Maltese, by contrast, has been a lap companion for millennia — bred purely for human company, with no working drive to speak of.

When these two breeds are crossed, the resulting puppies can land anywhere on the spectrum between these extremes. That's both the charm and the challenge of the Malchi.

Generations Explained: F1, F1B, and Backcross Malchis

In practice, the majority of Malchis available from breeders are F1 crosses. This is because maintaining a multigen line requires a dedicated breeding program over many years, and most Malchi breeders operate on a smaller scale compared to the large-scale Labradoodle or Goldendoodle operations.

If a breeder advertises an F1B Malchi (backcrossed to Maltese), expect a dog that leans more heavily toward Maltese traits: a lighter build, a softer and potentially lower-shedding coat, and a slightly calmer disposition. An F1B backcrossed to a Miniature Dachshund (less common) would produce a sturdier dog with stronger hound instincts.

Size, Build, and Physical Variability

Because the Dachshund comes in both Miniature and Standard sizes — and the Maltese is strictly a toy breed — the size range of a Malchi depends heavily on which Dachshund variant was used in the cross.

Parent Combination	Expected Weight	Expected Height
Maltese × Miniature Dachshund (most common)	5–12 lb / 2.3–5.4 kg	6–10 in / 15–25 cm at shoulder
Maltese × Standard Dachshund (less common)	10–20 lb / 4.5–9 kg	8–12 in / 20–30 cm at shoulder

Body shape is where things get genuinely unpredictable. Some Malchis inherit the Dachshund's elongated torso and short legs (chondrodysplastic build), while others have the Maltese's proportionally longer legs and more compact body. Many land somewhere in between — a slightly long body with moderate leg length.

Why this matters for health: The longer the spine relative to leg length, the higher the risk for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). If your Malchi has inherited a pronounced Dachshund-style build, you'll need to take spinal precautions (ramps instead of stairs, no jumping off furniture, harness-only walking). More on this below.

Coat Types and the Hypoallergenic Question

The Malchi can inherit one of several coat types depending on which parent's genes dominate:

• Long, silky coat (Maltese-dominant): Straight or slightly wavy, soft texture, usually white, cream, or light gold. Lowest shedding of the possible coat types, but requires daily brushing to prevent mats.
• Short, smooth coat (Smooth Dachshund-dominant): Sleek, close-lying fur in colors like black and tan, red, chocolate, or dapple. Moderate shedding, minimal grooming needed.
• Wirehaired coat (Wire Dachshund-dominant): Coarse, dense outer coat with a softer undercoat. Requires hand-stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks. Moderate shedding.
• Mixed/medium coat: A blend — perhaps medium-length, wavy fur with some coarseness. The most common outcome in F1 crosses. Moderate grooming needs.

Is the Dachshund Maltese Mix Hypoallergenic?

No — but some individuals may be low-shedding. The Maltese is often described as "hypoallergenic" because it has hair rather than fur and sheds minimally. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic; allergic reactions are triggered by dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine proteins, not just shed hair.

An F1 Malchi has roughly a 50/50 chance of inheriting a lower-shedding coat, but this is never guaranteed. If low shedding is a priority, an F1B Malchi backcrossed to a Maltese offers better odds. Allergy sufferers should spend time with the specific puppy or adult dog before committing, as individual reactions vary significantly.

Temperament: What to Expect (and What Might Surprise You)

The Malchi's temperament is where the parent breeds' differences create the widest variability. Here's the realistic range:

Trait	Leans Maltese	Leans Dachshund	Blended/Middle Ground
Sociability	Outgoing with strangers, velcro dog	Wary of strangers, bonds to one person	Friendly once introduced, selective cuddler
Prey Drive	Minimal — ignores squirrels	High — chases anything small and fast	Moderate — notices but can be redirected
Stubbornness	Sensitive, responds to gentle cues	Independent, "what's in it for me?" attitude	Somewhat willful but food-motivated
Barking	Alert barks, settles quickly	Persistent vocalizer, triggered by sounds	Moderate barker, manageable with training
Separation Tolerance	Poor — prone to separation anxiety	Moderate — content napping alone	Can handle 3–4 hours alone with preparation
Play Style	Gentle, prefers lap time	Digging, chasing, nose-to-ground sniffing	Enjoys short play sessions and sniffy walks

Best-Case Temperament Scenario

A Malchi that inherits the Maltese's easy sociability and the Dachshund's playful curiosity — without the extreme stubbornness or wariness. This dog is affectionate without being clingy, alert without being neurotic, and enjoys both couch time and short adventure walks. This is the outcome most breeders aim for, but it cannot be guaranteed in any individual puppy.

Challenging Temperament Scenario

A Malchi that inherits the Dachshund's wariness of strangers and the Maltese's separation anxiety — amplified. This dog may bark excessively at visitors, become destructive when left alone, and resist training due to a combination of sensitivity and willfulness. Early socialization (before 16 weeks of age) and positive reinforcement training are critical for any Malchi, but especially for puppies showing early signs of fearfulness.

Training should always use positive reinforcement and force-free methods. Malchis are too small and sensitive for aversive techniques, which can damage trust and increase fear-based behaviors. A well-run puppy kindergarten class using reward-based methods is an excellent investment.

Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality

There's a persistent myth that designer crossbreeds automatically benefit from "hybrid vigor" — the idea that mixing two breeds eliminates inherited health problems. The reality is more nuanced.

Crossbreeding can reduce the risk of conditions caused by recessive genes that are common within a single closed breed (because the other parent's genes may provide a healthy copy). But it does not protect against conditions that both parent breeds share, nor does it prevent structural problems inherited from either side.

Here are the health conditions a Malchi may inherit from one or both parent breeds:

From the Dachshund Side

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): The Dachshund's elongated spine makes it the breed most at risk for disc herniation and spinal cord compression. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, Dachshunds have a 10-fold higher risk of IVDD compared to other breeds. Any Malchi with a long-backed build should be treated as at-risk. Symptoms include back pain, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, weakness in the hind legs, and in severe cases, paralysis. Treatment ranges from strict crate rest and anti-inflammatory medication ($300–$800) to surgical decompression ($3,000–$8,000+).
• Patellar Luxation: The kneecap slips out of its groove, causing intermittent limping or a "skipping" gait. Common in small breeds. Grades I–II may be managed conservatively; Grades III–IV often require surgical correction ($1,500–$3,500 per knee).
• Dental Disease: Dachshunds are prone to early and severe periodontal disease. Daily tooth brushing and professional cleanings every 1–2 years ($300–$800 per cleaning under anesthesia) are essential.

From the Maltese Side

• White Shaker Syndrome (Idiopathic Cerebellitis): A neurological condition causing tremors, most commonly seen in small, white dogs. The cause is idiopathic (unknown origin). It typically responds well to corticosteroid treatment, but requires veterinary diagnosis.
• Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt): A congenital abnormality where blood bypasses the liver, leading to toxin buildup. Symptoms include stunted growth, disorientation, and seizures. Diagnosis requires bile acid testing ($200–$400) and imaging; surgical correction costs $3,000–$7,000.
• Patellar Luxation: Also common in Maltese — meaning this is a condition both parent breeds share, so crossbreeding does not reduce the risk.
• Hypoglycemia: Particularly in puppies and very small individuals. Malchi puppies under 4 months should be fed 3–4 small meals per day to prevent dangerous blood sugar drops.

Shared Risks (Both Breeds)

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disease leading to blindness. Both breeds carry forms of PRA. A responsible breeder will test parent dogs for PRA via DNA test or veterinary ophthalmologist exam.
• Tracheal Collapse: Weakening of the tracheal rings, causing a honking cough. Common in toy breeds. Always use a harness rather than a collar for leash walking to reduce tracheal pressure.

Always consult your veterinarian for personalized health guidance for your individual dog. A vet familiar with both Dachshund and Maltese health profiles can help you create a proactive screening plan.

Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Care

Grooming by Coat Type

• Long/silky coat: Daily brushing with a slicker brush and metal comb. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks ($50–$80 per session). Watch for tear staining around the eyes — wipe daily with a damp cloth or use a veterinary-approved tear stain remover.
• Short/smooth coat: Brush 2–3 times per week with a rubber grooming mitt. Bathing every 4–6 weeks or as needed.
• Wirehaired coat: Hand-stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks. Brush 2–3 times per week.
• All coat types: Nail trims every 2–3 weeks, ear checks weekly (especially if ears are floppy, which traps moisture), and daily tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste.

Exercise Requirements

The Malchi typically needs 30–45 minutes of activity per day, split into two or three short sessions. This isn't a dog that needs to run miles — but they do need mental stimulation and physical movement to prevent boredom and weight gain.

• Two 15-minute leash walks daily (harness, not collar)
• Indoor play sessions: tug, fetch in a hallway, or puzzle feeders
• Sniffari walks: let them lead and sniff to their heart's content — this satisfies the Dachshund's scent-hound instincts and is mentally tiring
• Avoid activities that stress the spine: no jumping on/off furniture, no rough wrestling with larger dogs, use pet ramps for couches and beds

Feeding Considerations

Feed a high-quality small-breed formula that meets AAFCO nutritional standards for your dog's life stage. Most adult Malchis eat approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of kibble per day (depending on caloric density and individual metabolism). Monitor body condition score (BCS) — you should be able to feel ribs without pressing hard, and see a defined waist from above.

Cost, Availability, and Finding a Malchi

Puppy Pricing (2026 Estimates)

Source	Price Range	Notes
Reputable small-scale breeder (health-tested parents)	$800–$2,500	Includes health testing of parents, early socialization, vet checks, and take-back clause
Backyard/casual breeder	$400–$800	Often no health testing, limited socialization — higher risk of inherited conditions
Puppy mill/pet store source	$500–$1,500	Strongly discouraged — high rates of health and behavioral problems
Rescue/adoption	$50–$400	Malchi-specific rescues are rare; check small-breed and Dachshund/Maltese breed rescues

First-Year Cost Estimate

Beyond the purchase price, budget for the following in year one:

• Veterinary care (initial exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter): $500–$1,200
• Food and treats: $250–$450
• Grooming (if long-coated): $300–$650/year
• Supplies (crate, harness, bed, ramp, toys, bowls): $200–$400
• Pet insurance (recommended for IVDD coverage): $350–$600/year
• Training classes: $150–$300

Total first-year estimate: $2,250–$5,600+ depending on purchase price and coat care needs.

Finding a Responsible Breeder

Because the Malchi is not recognized by the AKC or any major registry, there's no centralized breeder directory. To find a responsible source:

• Ask for proof of health testing on both parent dogs: OFA or PennHIP for patellas, DNA testing for PRA, and ideally a veterinary ophthalmologist exam
• Request to meet the parent dogs in person (or via video) to assess temperament
• Ensure the breeder provides a written health guarantee and take-back clause
• Avoid breeders who always have puppies available, sell exclusively online with no phone contact, or ship puppies without a conversation
• Consider breed-specific rescues: Dachshund Rescue of North America and American Maltese Association Rescue occasionally take in mixed-breed dogs

Who Is the Malchi Best Suited For?

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up the Dachshund Maltese mix?

The Malchi is a cross between a purebred Dachshund (usually the Miniature variety) and a purebred Maltese. Both parent breeds are small dogs, but they come from very different backgrounds — the Dachshund is a scent hound bred for hunting, and the Maltese is a toy companion breed.

How big will a Dachshund Maltese mix get?

Most Malchis fall in the 5–12 lb (2.3–5.4 kg) range and stand 6–10 inches (15–25 cm) at the shoulder. If a Standard Dachshund was used as a parent, the mix could reach up to 20 lb (9 kg). There is no way to predict exact adult size from a young puppy.

What will the temperament be like?

Temperament varies widely. A Malchi may be outgoing and gentle like a Maltese, bold and independent like a Dachshund, or some blend of both. Early socialization between 8–16 weeks is the single most impactful factor in shaping a well-adjusted adult dog, regardless of genetic predisposition.

Is this mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?

Not guaranteed. Some Malchis inherit the Maltese's low-shedding hair coat, while others get the Dachshund's fur coat with moderate shedding. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific dog before committing, and consider an F1B backcross to Maltese for better odds of a low-shedding coat.

What health issues might a Malchi inherit?

The most significant concern is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) from the Dachshund side, especially in long-backed individuals. Other risks include patellar luxation, dental disease, progressive retinal atrophy, tracheal collapse, and liver shunt. Crossbreeding does not eliminate these risks — it only reduces the odds of recessive single-gene disorders.

How much does a Dachshund Maltese mix cost?

From a responsible breeder who health-tests parent dogs, expect to pay $800–$2,500 for a Malchi puppy. Adoption through a rescue typically costs $50–$400. First-year total costs (including vet care, supplies, grooming, and insurance) typically range from $2,250–$5,600+.

Whether you're considering a Malchi from a breeder or hoping to find one through a rescue, the key to success is preparation: puppy-proof your home, invest in a ramp for furniture access, line up a positive-reinforcement trainer, and establish a relationship with a veterinarian who understands the health profiles of both parent breeds. A well-cared-for Malchi can be a delightful, loyal companion for 12–15 years or more.