Maltese and a Shih Tzu: The Malshi Breed Profile & Care Guide

If you've been searching for a small companion dog with big personality, you've likely come across the combination of a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. Commonly called the Malshi (also written as Mal-Shi, Maltzu, or Maltese Shih Tzu mix), this designer crossbreed blends two ancient toy breeds into one compact, affectionate package. While not recognized by the American Kennel Club as a standalone breed, the Malshi has carved out a loyal following among apartment dwellers, seniors, and families seeking a low-shedding lap dog.

This guide covers everything prospective owners need to know — from exact size expectations and genetic health risks to real cost breakdowns and training strategies that actually work for this sometimes-stubborn cross.

Breed Overview: Origin, Size Class, and Lifespan

The Malshi is a first-generation (F1) or multigen designer cross between two purebred toy dogs: the Maltese (an ancient Mediterranean breed dating back over 2,000 years, favored by Roman nobility) and the Shih Tzu (a Chinese imperial breed developed in Tibetan monasteries and refined in Chinese royal courts from at least the 17th century). The deliberate crossbreeding of these two likely began in the United States during the late 1990s to early 2000s, part of the broader designer-dog movement that also produced the Maltipoo and Shih-Poo.

Both parent breeds fall firmly in the toy size class, meaning the Malshi is a small-to-tiny dog. Neither parent was bred for working purposes in the modern sense — both were developed purely as companion animals, which heavily shapes the Malshi's temperament today.

Attribute	Details
Size Class	Toy / Small
Weight	6–12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg)
Height	8–12 inches (20–30 cm) at the shoulder
Lifespan	12–15 years (some reach 16+)
Coat Type	Long, silky to slightly wavy; low-shedding, hair-like
Energy Level	Low to moderate
Grooming Frequency	Daily brushing; professional groom every 4–6 weeks
Best Family Fit	Adults, seniors, families with older/gentle children

Physical Characteristics: What a Malshi Actually Looks Like

Because the Malshi is a crossbreed rather than a standardized breed, appearance varies — even within the same litter. However, most Malshis inherit a blend of these features:

• Head shape: Typically mesocephalic to slightly brachycephalic (shorter muzzle than a Maltese, but less flat-faced than a pure Shih Tzu). This moderate muzzle often reduces the severity of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) compared to a purebred Shih Tzu.
• Eyes: Large, round, dark brown — often with the Shih Tzu's slightly prominent eye shape, which requires monitoring for injury or irritation.
• Ears: Pendant (drop) ears, heavily feathered, set at or slightly below the eye line.
• Coat: The Maltese contributes a single-layer, silky coat, while the Shih Tzu adds a denser double coat. Most Malshis land somewhere in between — a soft, flowing coat that is low-shedding but prone to matting. Colors include white, cream, gold, black, brown, or parti-color combinations.
• Tail: Carried over the back in a plumed curl, inherited from both parents.
• Build: Compact, slightly longer than tall, with moderate bone for a toy breed.

Weight range: Most adult Malshis weigh between 6 and 12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg), with 8–10 lb being the most common. Males tend toward the higher end. Dogs exceeding 14 lb likely have non-standard lineage or are overweight — check body condition score (BCS) with your vet.

Height: Expect 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) at the withers. There's no breed standard, so outliers exist in both directions.

Temperament & Personality: 5 Core Traits

Both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu were bred for one job: companionship. The Malshi inherits this single-minded devotion, resulting in a dog that thrives on human contact and struggles with isolation. Here are the five traits owners most consistently report:

1. Velcro-Dog Attachment
Malshis follow their owners from room to room, curl up on laps at every opportunity, and often develop separation anxiety if left alone for more than 4–5 hours regularly. This is not a breed for people who work 10-hour days without pet-sitter or doggy-daycare arrangements.

2. Alertness Without Aggression
They'll announce visitors with enthusiastic barking — making them decent watchdogs for their size — but they rarely show genuine aggression toward strangers. Once the doorbell drama passes, most Malshis are eager to be petted by newcomers.

3. Playful but Not Hyper
Expect short bursts of zoomies followed by long naps. A Malshi will happily chase a soft toy down a hallway but doesn't need (or want) marathon fetch sessions. This makes them ideal for mobility-limited owners.

4. Mild Stubbornness
The Shih Tzu side contributes an independent streak. Malshis are intelligent enough to learn commands quickly but may simply choose not to comply if they don't see the point. This is a dog that responds to food motivation and positive reinforcement — never harsh corrections, which will shut them down entirely.

5. Sensitivity to Household Emotion
Malshis are notably attuned to their owners' moods. Raised voices, tension, or chaotic environments can cause stress behaviors: trembling, hiding, or excessive licking. They do best in calm, predictable homes.

Exercise, Activity, and Daily Routine

The Malshi is not a high-energy dog, but "low energy" does not mean "no exercise." Under-stimulated Malshis develop nuisance behaviors: excessive barking, destructive chewing, or pacing.

Daily exercise target: 30–45 minutes total, split into:

• Two short walks (10–15 minutes each) — enough for sniffing, light cardio, and neighborhood socialization. Use a harness, not a collar, to protect the trachea (both parent breeds are prone to tracheal collapse).
• Indoor play (10–15 minutes) — tug, soft-toy fetch in a hallway, or puzzle toys like the Outward Hound Dog Brick or Kong Classic (size XS or S).
• Mental stimulation (5–10 minutes) — short training sessions practicing known cues, scent games, or snuffle mat time.

Activity types to avoid: Long-distance jogging (their short legs and potential airway issues make this unsafe), rough dog-park play with large breeds (injury risk), and extended outdoor time in temperatures above 85°F (29°C) or below 35°F (2°C). Their single-layer or sparse undercoat provides poor insulation in both extremes.

Time of Day	Activity	Duration
Morning	Walk + potty break	15 min
Midday	Indoor play or puzzle toy	10–15 min
Afternoon	Training session or snuffle mat	5–10 min
Evening	Walk + potty break	15 min
Night	Couch/lap time (bonding)	Ongoing

Common Health Issues: What Malshi Owners Should Monitor

Crossbreeds can benefit from hybrid vigor — the tendency for mixed-breed dogs to have lower rates of certain inherited conditions than their purebred parents. However, this is not a guarantee, especially when both parent breeds share predispositions to the same problems. The Maltese and Shih Tzu overlap in several health risks, making the following conditions worth understanding.

Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. The information below is educational, not a substitute for professional veterinary care.

Condition	Description	Estimated Prevalence	Prevention / Management
Patellar Luxation	Kneecap slips out of groove; causes skipping or holding leg up	Common in both parent breeds; ~10–15% of toy breeds affected	Maintain healthy weight; avoid jumping from furniture; surgical correction if Grade III–IV
Dental Disease (Periodontitis)	Plaque buildup leads to gum infection, tooth loss, and systemic bacteria	Over 80% of toy breeds show signs by age 3 (per AVMA)	Daily tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste; annual veterinary dental cleanings under anesthesia ($300–$800)
White Shaker Syndrome (Idiopathic Cerebellitis)	Whole-body tremors in small white dogs; onset typically 1–5 years	Rare but overrepresented in Maltese lineage	No known prevention; responds well to corticosteroid treatment in most cases
Brachycephalic Airway Issues	Narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palate causing noisy breathing, exercise intolerance	Variable — more likely if Shih Tzu traits dominate	Harness only (no neck collar); avoid heat/humidity; surgical correction if severe
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)	Insufficient tear production; causes corneal irritation, discharge, potential blindness	Common in Shih Tzu lineage; ~5–10% risk	Lifelong cyclosporine or tacrolimus eye drops; regular vet ophthalmic exams

Additional concerns: Both parent breeds carry risk for portosystemic shunt (PSS) — a congenital liver vascular abnormality — and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Responsible breeders of both parent breeds should perform OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patella evaluations and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) eye exams. Ask for documentation before purchasing a Malshi puppy.

Grooming Requirements: Tools, Schedule, and Costs

The Malshi coat is one of the breed's biggest draws (low-shedding, often hypoallergenic-adjacent) and one of its biggest expenses. Without consistent grooming, the fine hair mats close to the skin within days, causing pain, skin infections, and restricted movement.

Brushing: Daily, using a stainless steel pin brush followed by a metal greyhound comb to check for tangles at the skin level. Pay special attention behind the ears, under the armpits, and around the sanitary area. A leave-in conditioning spray (such as Chris Christensen Ice on Ice or BioSilk for Dogs) helps prevent breakage.

Professional grooming: Every 4–6 weeks. Most owners choose a "puppy cut" or "teddy bear cut" (1–2 inches all over) to drastically reduce maintenance. Expect to pay $50–$90 per session depending on your region and coat condition. Matted dogs may incur de-matting fees ($15–$30 extra) or require a shave-down.

Bathing: Every 2–3 weeks using a gentle, oatmeal-based or moisturizing dog shampoo. Over-bathing strips natural oils and worsens tangles.

Eye care: Daily wiping of the eye area with a damp, soft cloth or veterinary eye wipe (e.g., Eye Envy or Angel Eyes wipes). Both parent breeds are prone to tear staining, and the Malshi's hair around the eyes traps moisture and bacteria. A topknot or short face trim helps keep hair out of the eyes.

Nail trims: Every 2–3 weeks. Overgrown nails alter foot structure and contribute to patellar luxation stress.

Ear cleaning: Weekly with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner. Drop ears trap moisture and debris, increasing infection risk. Pluck excess hair from the ear canal if your groomer or vet recommends it.

Annual grooming cost estimate: $600–$1,200 (professional grooming) + $100–$200 (at-home tools and products) = $700–$1,400/year.

Training and Intelligence: What Works (and What Doesn't)

Trainability rating: 3 out of 5. The Malshi is intelligent — they learn cues quickly — but their Shih Tzu heritage gives them an "what's in it for me?" attitude that frustrates first-time trainers expecting Golden Retriever-level eagerness.

Methods that work:

• Positive reinforcement only. High-value treats (small pieces of boiled chicken, freeze-dried liver, or Zuke's Mini Naturals), verbal praise, and play rewards. Keep sessions to 3–5 minutes — toy breeds have short attention spans.
• Consistency across household members. If one person allows couch-jumping and another scolds for it, the Malshi will exploit the inconsistency.
• Crate training for housetraining. Small bladders mean small margins for error. A properly sized crate (just large enough to stand, turn, and lie down — typically a 24-inch crate) prevents indoor accidents when unsupervised.
• Early socialization (8–16 weeks). Exposure to varied surfaces, sounds, people, and gentle dogs during the critical socialization window prevents the fearfulness that plagues under-socialized toy breeds.

Methods to avoid: Shock collars, prong collars, alpha rolls, leash jerking, or any aversive technique. Malshis are physically fragile and emotionally sensitive — aversive methods cause shutdown, fear-aggression, or trembling avoidance behaviors. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recommends force-free, reward-based training for all dogs, and this is especially critical for toy breeds.

Housetraining timeline: Expect 4–8 months for reliable housetraining, longer than larger breeds. Small bladders (roughly 1 oz per pound of body weight) mean a 8-lb Malshi can comfortably hold it for only about 4 hours. Puppy pads can be a useful indoor backup for apartment dwellers, but transition to outdoor elimination as soon as vaccinations allow.

Family Suitability: Kids, Other Pets, and Living Spaces

Children: Malshis are not recommended for families with children under 6–7 years old. Their small size (often under 10 lb) makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from rough handling, drops, or falls. A toddler squeezing a Malshi too hard can cause rib fractures or tracheal damage. For families with older, gentle children who understand how to interact with small dogs, the Malshi can be a wonderful, playful companion.

Other dogs: Generally good with other dogs, especially when socialized early. However, a Malshi should not be left unsupervised with dogs over 25 lb — a playful swipe from a Labrador can cause serious injury. They often do best as the only pet or paired with another small, calm dog.

Cats: Many Malshis coexist peacefully with cats, particularly if introduced as puppies. The Malshi's low prey drive (neither parent breed was developed for hunting) helps here.

Apartment living: Excellent fit. Their small size, moderate energy, and adaptability make the Malshi one of the better toy breeds for apartments. The main concern is barking — while not excessive, they will vocalize at hallway noises, which can be an issue in thin-walled buildings. White-noise machines and desensitization training help.

Seniors and mobility-limited owners: One of the best matches for this breed. Low exercise requirements, lap-oriented temperament, and small size (easy to lift, carry, and manage) make the Malshi a popular choice for retirees.

Cost of Ownership: Puppy Price and Annual Budget

Puppy purchase price:

• From a responsible breeder (health-tested parents, OFA certifications, contract with take-back clause): $800–$2,500
• From a backyard breeder or pet store (not recommended — higher health risk, no health guarantees): $400–$800
• Adoption/rescue (uncommon for Malshis specifically, but Shih Tzu and Maltese mixes appear in breed-specific rescues): $200–$500

First-year total cost estimate:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost
Puppy purchase	$800–$2,500
Initial veterinary (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip)	$400–$800
Grooming (first year)	$700–$1,400
Food (high-quality small-breed kibble or wet food)	$200–$400
Supplies (crate, harness, leash, bed, toys, bowls)	$200–$400
Dental care (toothbrush, toothpaste, first cleaning if needed)	$50–$500
Pet insurance (optional but recommended)	$300–$600/year
First-Year Total	$2,650–$6,600

Ongoing annual cost (years 2+): Approximately $1,500–$3,000/year, with grooming and dental care being the largest recurring expenses. Senior Malshis (10+ years) may require more frequent veterinary visits, dental procedures, and joint supplements, pushing costs higher.

Is a Maltese and a Shih Tzu Mix Right for You?

The Malshi is a strong match for owners who:

• Work from home or have flexible schedules (avoid long solo hours)
• Live in apartments or smaller homes
• Want an affectionate lap companion, not a performance or sport dog
• Can commit to regular grooming appointments and daily brushing
• Have older children or no children
• Are prepared for the dental care commitment that toy breeds demand

Consider a different breed if you:

• Work long hours away from home without pet-care coverage
• Have toddlers who may handle a small dog roughly
• Want a dog for hiking, running, or outdoor sports
• Cannot budget $1,500+ annually for grooming and veterinary care
• Prefer a dog that trains easily with minimal repetition

Frequently Asked Questions