Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog: The Complete Mal-Shi Breed Guide
Everything you need to know about the Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog — size, coat, temperament, health risks, grooming, and real costs for 2026.
If you've been searching for a compact companion that blends the playful charm of a Maltese with the dignified sweetness of a Shih Tzu, the Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog — commonly called the Mal-Shi — might be on your radar. This designer cross has grown steadily in popularity among apartment dwellers, seniors, and families with older children who want a devoted lap-sized dog without the intensity of a high-energy breed.
But like any mixed breed, the Mal-Shi comes with real variability. Puppies from the same litter can look, behave, and shed differently depending on which parent's genes dominate. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect — and what you can't — so you can decide whether this mix fits your household.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Maltese Meets Shih Tzu
Understanding a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog starts with understanding each parent breed. Both are toy breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they have distinct histories, builds, and temperaments that influence what shows up in their offspring.
| Trait | Maltese | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Group | Toy | Toy |
| Weight Range | Under 7 lb (under 3.2 kg) | 9–16 lb (4.1–7.3 kg) |
| Height | 7–9 in (18–23 cm) | 9–10.5 in (23–27 cm) |
| Coat Type | Long, straight, silky single coat | Long, dense double coat |
| Shedding Level | Very low | Low to moderate |
| Head Shape | Slightly rounded, moderate muzzle | Brachycephalic (short muzzle, flat face) |
| Temperament | Playful, alert, sometimes reserved with strangers | Affectionate, outgoing, stubborn streak |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 10–18 years |
| Origin | Central Mediterranean, ancient breed | Tibet/China, bred as imperial companion |
The Maltese contributes a lighter frame, a single-layer coat, and an alert, sometimes vocal personality. The Shih Tzu brings a sturdier build, a double coat, a flatter face, and a more easygoing, people-pleasing disposition. In a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog, you can expect traits to land somewhere along this spectrum — but exactly where is the gamble inherent in any crossbreed.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, and Multigen Mal-Shis
Generation terminology matters when shopping for a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog. Here's what each label means:
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Maltese parent × one purebred Shih Tzu parent. Maximum genetic diversity, but most unpredictable traits — puppies in the same litter may vary significantly in size, coat, and face shape.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Mal-Shi bred back to one of the parent breeds (usually the Maltese for a smaller size or the Shih Tzu for a sturdier build). Slightly more predictable, leans toward the backcross parent's traits.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Mal-Shis bred together. Greater trait variability than F1B because recessive genes from both parent breeds can recombine in unexpected ways.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Mal-Shi to Mal-Shi breeding. Traits become more consistent over time, but this is still not a recognized purebred — the gene pool remains narrow and health testing is essential.
Practical takeaway: Most Mal-Shis sold by breeders are F1 or F1B. Always ask which generation a puppy is and request documentation of both parents. Avoid breeders who cannot explain their generation program.
Size Range: How Big Will a Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Get?
Because both parent breeds fall into the toy category, the Mal-Shi stays small. However, the Shih Tzu can be more than twice the weight of a Maltese, which creates a meaningful range even within one litter.
| Measurement | Minimum (Maltese-dominant) | Maximum (Shih Tzu-dominant) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6 lb (2.7 kg) | 14 lb (6.4 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 8 in (20 cm) | 11 in (28 cm) |
| Body Length (nose to tail base) | 12 in (30 cm) | 17 in (43 cm) |
Most Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dogs land in the 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) range by adulthood at 10–12 months. F1B puppies backcrossed to the Maltese tend to stay under 9 lb (4.1 kg), while those leaning toward the Shih Tzu can approach 14 lb (6.4 kg). If size matters for your living situation — for example, a weight-restricted apartment or airline cabin travel — ask the breeder for the exact weights of both parents and use the midpoint as a rough estimate.
Coat Types, Shedding, and the Hypoallergenic Question
The coat a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog inherits is one of the most visible — and variable — traits. Here are the realistic possibilities:
Coat Outcome Scenarios
| Scenario | Coat Description | Shedding | Likelihood (F1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maltese-dominant | Long, silky, single-layer, mostly straight | Very low | ~35% |
| Blended | Medium-length, soft, slight wave, low undercoat | Low | ~40% |
| Shih Tzu-dominant | Dense double coat, thicker undercoat, may be wavy | Low to moderate | ~25% |
Is the Mal-Shi hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic — allergens come from dander, saliva, and urine, not just hair. However, a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog that inherits the Maltese single coat is a low-allergen option. Most allergy sufferers tolerate these dogs reasonably well, but you should spend time with the specific puppy or adult dog before committing. If allergies are a primary concern, prioritize an F1B backcrossed to the Maltese, which increases the odds of a single-layer, low-shedding coat.
Regardless of coat type, expect to brush your Mal-Shi at least every other day. Mats form quickly behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area. A slicker brush (such as the Chris Christensen Big G) and a stainless-steel comb are the two essential tools. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks runs $50–$85 per session depending on your region and whether you request a full scissor cut or a shorter puppy clip.
Temperament: What to Expect from a Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog
Temperament in any mixed breed exists on a spectrum. The best-case scenario and the challenging scenario below represent the range — most Mal-Shis land somewhere in the middle.
Best-case temperament: A confident, affectionate companion who greets visitors warmly, settles calmly on your lap, plays in short bursts, and adapts easily to schedule changes. This dog follows you room to room without developing separation distress, gets along with other household pets, and tolerates gentle handling by children.
Challenging temperament: A dog that inherits the Maltese tendency to be reserved with strangers combined with the Shih Tzu's stubborn streak. This dog may bark persistently at doorbells and passersby, resist leash training, show mild resource guarding around food or toys, and struggle with being left alone for more than 3–4 hours. This is not aggression — it's a combination of alertness and independence that requires patient, consistent training.
What most owners actually get: A friendly, moderately playful dog that bonds closely with one or two people, enjoys 20–30 minutes of daily activity split into short walks and indoor play, and is generally quiet unless triggered by doorbells or other dogs. Mal-Shis tend to be less yappy than pure Maltese but more alert than pure Shih Tzus.
Training should rely entirely on positive reinforcement — reward-based methods using small treats (Zuke's Mini Naturals work well for toy breeds at roughly 3 calories each), verbal praise, and play. Mal-Shis are sensitive to harsh corrections and will shut down or avoid you if you use punitive methods. Keep training sessions to 5–10 minutes, twice daily, to match their attention span.
Health Considerations: Inherited Conditions and the Hybrid Vigor Reality
Let's address a common misconception directly: hybrid vigor does not guarantee a healthier dog. The concept of heterosis — where crossbred animals show improved biological function — has documented support in livestock and some canine studies. However, it primarily reduces the risk of recessive genetic disorders that require two copies of a defective gene. It does not protect against conditions that both parent breeds share or structural issues related to anatomy.
A Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog can inherit health conditions from either parent. Here are the most clinically relevant ones:
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Shih Tzu (brachycephalic skull) | High in Shih Tzus (~50%+ show some signs per Merck Veterinary Manual); variable in mixes | Snoring, exercise intolerance, noisy breathing, heat sensitivity |
| Patellar Luxation | Both breeds | Common in toy breeds overall; estimated 5–10% in small-breed populations | Skipping gait, sudden hind-leg lameness, "knee popping" |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Both breeds (recessive gene) | Low individually but present in both gene pools | Night blindness progressing to total blindness, usually after age 5 |
| White Shaker Syndrome (idiopathic cerebellitis) | Maltese (primarily white-coated dogs) | Rare but breed-associated | Full-body tremors, onset typically 6 months–3 years |
| Dental Disease | Both breeds (small mouths, crowded teeth) | Very high — over 80% of toy breeds show periodontal disease by age 3 | Bad breath, red gums, tooth loss, reluctance to eat hard food |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Both breeds (long-backed, short-legged build) | Moderate risk in chondrodystrophic-type builds | Back pain, reluctance to jump, hind-limb weakness or paralysis |
What responsible breeders should test for: Ask for OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patella evaluations, CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) or OFA ophthalmologist eye exams, and a DNA panel that includes PRA markers. A breeder who cannot provide these results should be a dealbreaker.
Your preventive care plan: Daily tooth brushing with an enzymatic toothpaste (Virbac CET or Sentry Petrodex), annual veterinary dental cleanings starting at age 2–3, weight management to reduce joint and spinal stress (keep body condition score at 4–5 on the 9-point scale), and avoiding jumps from furniture higher than 18 inches to protect the spine. Always consult your veterinarian to build a screening schedule tailored to your individual dog.
Cost Breakdown: Buying, Adopting, and Annual Care
The price of a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog varies significantly based on the breeder's reputation, location, generation, and whether health testing is performed.
| Source | Price Range (USD) | What's Typically Included |
|---|---|---|
| Backyard breeder / online listing | $400–$800 | Puppy only; rarely any health testing, no contract, no take-back clause |
| Responsible hobby breeder | $1,200–$2,500 | OFA health-tested parents, first vaccinations, microchip, spay/neuter contract, take-back guarantee |
| Boutique / specialty breeder | $2,500–$4,000+ | Full genetic panel, multigen program, early neurological stimulation, extended health guarantee |
| Breed-specific rescue | $200–$500 | Spayed/neutered, vaccinated, temperament-evaluated adult or senior dog |
First-year total cost estimate: Beyond the purchase price, budget $1,800–$3,200 for first-year expenses including veterinary exams and vaccinations ($350–$600), spay/neuter ($400–$800 if not included), grooming ($400–$700 for 6–8 sessions), food ($240–$400 for a high-quality small-breed kibble like Royal Canin X-Small or Hill's Science Diet Small Paws), supplies ($200–$350 for crate, harness, bed, bowls, toys), and pet insurance ($350–$600/year for accident-and-illness coverage from providers like Trupanion or Healthy Paws).
Ongoing annual cost: Expect $1,500–$2,800 per year after the first year, with dental cleanings ($400–$800 under anesthesia) being the single largest periodic expense. Pet insurance premiums for toy breeds tend to rise after age 5 as breed-specific conditions become more likely.
Who This Mix Suits Best — and Who Should Look Elsewhere
The Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog is an excellent match for:
- Apartment and condo dwellers: Low exercise needs (20–30 minutes/day) and a compact size make this breed well-suited to smaller spaces. Most adapt to indoor potty pads if outdoor access is limited.
- Seniors and retirees: A gentle, lap-oriented companion that doesn't demand strenuous activity but provides meaningful daily interaction and routine.
- Families with children aged 8+: Mal-Shis are sturdy enough for supervised, gentle play with older kids who understand how to handle small dogs. They are not ideal for toddlers or very young children who may accidentally drop or squeeze them.
- First-time dog owners: Moderate trainability and forgiving temperaments make this a reasonable starter breed, provided you commit to consistent positive-reinforcement training and socialization during the first 6 months.
- People who work from home: This breed thrives on companionship and does poorly when left alone for 8+ hours daily. If you work outside the home, plan for a dog walker or daycare at minimum.
This mix is not the right fit for:
- Households with very young children (under 5) due to injury risk to the dog
- People seeking an outdoor adventure companion — this is not a hiking or endurance breed
- Those who want a completely independent, low-maintenance dog — Mal-Shis need daily grooming attention and human interaction
- Anyone in extremely hot climates without air conditioning — if your Mal-Shi inherits a brachycephalic face, heatstroke risk is real above 80°F (27°C)
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog?
The Mal-Shi is a cross between a purebred Maltese and a purebred Shih Tzu. Both are toy breeds in the AKC Toy Group, originally bred as companion dogs for royalty and nobility. The cross aims to combine the Maltese's silky coat and alert personality with the Shih Tzu's sturdier build and easygoing temperament.
How big will this mixed breed get?
Adult Mal-Shis typically weigh 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) and stand 8–11 in (20–28 cm) at the shoulder. The range extends from 6 lb (2.7 kg) for Maltese-dominant individuals to 14 lb (6.4 kg) for Shih Tzu-dominant ones. Most reach their full size by 10–12 months of age.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect a friendly, affectionate companion that bonds closely with family members and is moderately playful. Most Mal-Shis are alert without being excessively vocal, though some inherit the Maltese tendency to bark at strangers or the Shih Tzu's independent stubbornness. Early socialization (exposure to 50+ people, surfaces, and environments before 16 weeks) significantly improves temperament outcomes.
Is this mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but many Mal-Shis are low-shedding, particularly those that inherit the Maltese single coat. F1B backcrosses to the Maltese offer the best odds of a low-allergen coat. If allergies are a concern, spend at least 2 hours with the specific dog before bringing them home and consider running a HEPA air purifier (such as the Levoit Core 300) in rooms where the dog spends the most time.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
Key risks include brachycephalic airway syndrome (if the Shih Tzu's flat face is inherited), patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease, and intervertebral disc disease. Hybrid vigor may reduce some recessive disorder risks but does not eliminate structural or shared breed conditions. Request full health-test documentation from the breeder and schedule a baseline veterinary exam within the first week home.
How much does a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog cost?
From a responsible breeder, expect to pay $1,200–$2,500 for a health-tested F1 or F1B puppy. Boutique breeders may charge $2,500–$4,000+. Rescue adoptions typically cost $200–$500. First-year total expenses (including vet care, grooming, food, and supplies) typically run $3,000–$5,700 on top of the purchase price.
Can I find a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog in a rescue?
Yes, though it requires patience. Check Maltese and Shih Tzu breed-specific rescues (such as the American Maltese Association Rescue and Shih Tzu Rescue organizations), as well as general small-breed rescues in your area. Petfinder.com allows you to search by mixed-breed designation. Adult Mal-Shis in rescue are often surrendered due to owner lifestyle changes rather than behavioral problems, and many are already house-trained and groomed-accustomed.
Veterinary reminder: This guide provides general breed information and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for health screenings, vaccination schedules, and nutrition plans tailored to your individual dog. For suspected poisoning emergencies, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Tom Renshaw
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
