Shih Tzu Maltese Mix (Malshi): Complete Breed Profile & Care Guide
Everything you need to know about the Shih Tzu Maltese mix (Malshi) — temperament, size, health risks, grooming, training, and 2026 ownership costs.
Meet the Malshi: A Designer Toy Breed With Big-Dog Personality
If you've been searching for a compact companion that blends the Shih Tzu's confident charm with the Maltese's gentle elegance, the Shih Tzu Maltese mix — widely known as the Malshi (also spelled Mal-Shi or Maltshi) — deserves a serious look. This intentional crossbreed pairs two ancient toy breeds into a dog that typically weighs under 15 pounds, thrives in apartments, and bonds deeply with its people.
The Malshi is classified as a toy/small designer breed. Neither the American Kennel Club (AKC) nor the United Kennel Club (UKC) recognizes the Malshi as a standalone breed, but both parent breeds hold full AKC recognition — the Maltese in the Toy Group and the Shih Tzu in the Toy Group as well. Reputable registries like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Breed Registry (DBR) do register Malshi litters, which helps buyers verify parentage.
Most Malshis live 12 to 15 years, with some reaching 16 or 17 when genetics, diet, and preventive veterinary care align. Their small frame means lower food costs but higher grooming expenses — a trade-off worth understanding before you commit.
| Size Class | Toy / Small |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6–12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg) |
| Height | 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) at the withers |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years (some to 17) |
| Coat Type | Long, silky, single or lightly double-coated; low-shedding |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Grooming | High — daily brushing, professional grooming every 4–6 weeks |
| Best Family Fit | Adults, seniors, families with older children (8+), apartment dwellers |
Origin & History: Why Breeders Crossed These Two Toy Breeds
The Shih Tzu Maltese mix emerged during the designer-dog wave of the late 1990s and early 2000s in the United States and Australia. Breeders aimed to combine the Maltese's hypoallergenic, single-layer coat with the Shih Tzu's sturdier build and outgoing temperament — producing a small companion dog that sheds minimally and handles family life with more confidence than some purebred Maltese lines.
Both parent breeds have ancient roots. The Maltese traces back over 2,000 years to the central Mediterranean; Aristotle referenced a small white companion dog believed to be the Maltese ancestor, and the breed was formalized in England in the 1800s before arriving in the U.S. by the late 19th century (AKC Maltese History). The Shih Tzu originated in Tibetan monasteries and was refined in the Chinese imperial court during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644); the breed standard was established after dogs were brought to England and Scandinavia in the early 20th century (AKC Shih Tzu History).
By crossing these two, breeders sought what's sometimes called hybrid vigor — the idea that genetic diversity from two distinct purebred lines can reduce the expression of recessive inherited disorders. However, hybrid vigor has limits: both parent breeds share susceptibility to certain conditions (patellar luxation, eye disorders), so a Malshi is not immune to health issues. Always ask a breeder for Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or PennHIP health clearances on both parents.
Physical Characteristics: What a Malshi Looks Like
The Malshi inherits a compact, slightly rectangular body with a level topline. Head shape varies — some puppies lean toward the Shih Tzu's brachycephalic (short-muzzled) face, while others show the Maltese's slightly longer, more moderate muzzle. Puppies with the shorter muzzle are at higher risk for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), so a moderately longer muzzle is preferable for respiratory health.
Weight range: 6–12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg). Most adults settle between 8 and 10 lb (3.6–4.5 kg). Females tend toward the lower end of the range.
Height: 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) at the shoulder. The Shih Tzu parent standard calls for 8–11 inches, while the Maltese standard is under 10 inches, so the cross rarely exceeds 12 inches.
Coat: The coat is long, straight to slightly wavy, and silky to the touch. Color varies widely — solid white, cream, apricot, black, brown, or parti-color (white with patches). Because the Maltese carries a single-coat gene and the Shih Tzu carries a double-coat gene, individual Malshis may have either coat type. Single-coated Malshis tend to shed less, which is relevant for allergy-sensitive households.
Ears: Drop ears, heavily feathered, set slightly below the crown of the skull. Ear hair requires regular cleaning to prevent moisture buildup and yeast infections.
Eyes: Large, round, dark brown. The prominent eyes inherited from both parent breeds are prone to injury and require monitoring for tear staining and corneal scratches.
Temperament & Personality: Five Core Traits You'll See Daily
The Malshi's personality is one of its strongest selling points. Here are the five traits owners report most consistently, with real-world behavioral examples:
1. Affectionate and Velcro-Loyal
Expect your Malshi to follow you room to room. They thrive on physical contact — most will curl into your lap within minutes of sitting down. This attachment means they're prone to separation distress if left alone for more than 4–5 hours regularly.
2. Playful but Not Hyperactive
A Malshi will happily chase a soft toy down a hallway or play a short round of tug, but they don't have the endurance of a terrier. Play sessions typically last 10–15 minutes before they self-regulate and settle.
3. Alert Without Excessive Barking
They'll announce visitors with a few sharp barks, then usually accept newcomers quickly once they see you're comfortable. This makes them decent watchdogs for a toy breed — aware but not reactive.
4. Socially Confident (with Early Socialization)
The Shih Tzu side contributes a boldness that many purebred Maltese lack. A well-socialized Malshi will approach strangers, walk confidently on new surfaces, and adapt to travel. Without early exposure (7–16 weeks is the critical window), some lines can become timid or fearful.
5. Gentle and Low-Prey-Drive
Unlike many small breeds with terrier ancestry, the Malshi rarely shows intense prey drive. They typically coexist peacefully with cats, rabbits, and other small pets — though introductions should always be supervised.
Exercise & Activity: Exactly How Much Movement They Need
The Malshi is a low-to-moderate energy dog, but "low energy" doesn't mean "no exercise." Insufficient activity leads to weight gain (a major risk for toy breeds) and boredom-driven behaviors like excessive licking or barking.
| Activity Type | Duration | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leash walk (outdoor) | 20–30 minutes | 1–2× daily | Use a harness, not a collar, to protect the trachea |
| Indoor play (tug, fetch) | 10–15 minutes | 2× daily | Soft toys only; avoid hard balls that can damage teeth |
| Training/mental enrichment | 5–10 minutes | 1–2× daily | Food puzzles, scent games, trick training sessions |
| Free roam / exploration | 15–20 minutes | Daily | Supervised sniffari in a secure yard or puppy-proofed room |
Total daily exercise target: 30–45 minutes of structured activity, plus mental stimulation. This is easily achievable for apartment dwellers, seniors, and people with limited mobility.
Important heat warning: Malshis with shorter muzzles (brachycephalic-leaning) are vulnerable to heat exhaustion. When outdoor temperatures exceed 80°F (27°C), walk in early morning or evening, keep sessions under 15 minutes, and carry water. Signs of overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and stumbling — seek veterinary care immediately if these occur.
Common Health Issues: What Malshi Owners Should Watch For
Crossbreeding reduces some inherited disease risks, but the Malshi remains susceptible to conditions shared by both parent breeds. Below are the five most significant health concerns, with prevalence data where available from veterinary literature (Merck Veterinary Manual).
| Condition | Description | Estimated Prevalence | Typical Treatment Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap slips out of groove; causes skipping or hind-leg lameness | 15–20% of small breeds | $1,500–$3,500 per knee (surgical) |
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Narrowed airways cause noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, heat risk | Higher in short-muzzled individuals; ~10–15% of affected crosses | $2,000–$6,000 (stenotic nares/soft palate surgery) |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Gradual degeneration of retinal cells leading to blindness | 3–5% in Maltese lines; Shih Tzu also a carrier breed | No cure; management & adaptation |
| Dental Disease (Periodontitis) | Plaque buildup, gingivitis, tooth loss — small mouths crowd teeth | 80%+ of toy breeds by age 3 | $500–$1,200 per professional cleaning; $300–$800 per extraction |
| White Shaker Syndrome (Idiopathic Cerebellitis) | Full-body tremors of unknown cause; more common in small white dogs | Rare but documented in Maltese and Maltese mixes | $800–$2,000 (diagnostics + corticosteroid therapy) |
Prevention strategy: Ask your breeder for OFA patella evaluations, CERF/OFA eye certifications, and a DNA panel that screens for the prcd-PRA mutation. For dental health, begin tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste (e.g., Virbac CET or Sentry Petrodex) by 12 weeks of age and schedule annual veterinary dental cleanings starting at age 2–3.
🚨 Call your veterinarian now if your Malshi shows:
- Labored breathing, blue-tinged gums, or collapse after exertion
- Sudden inability to bear weight on a hind leg
- Eye redness, squinting, or pawing at the eye (possible corneal ulcer)
- Seizures or uncontrolled full-body tremors
- Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours (hypoglycemia risk in toy breeds)
Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment plans. This guide is educational and does not replace professional veterinary care.
Grooming Requirements: Tools, Frequency, and Professional Costs
The Malshi's coat is beautiful but demanding. Neglecting grooming for even a few days can result in painful mats close to the skin, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area.
Daily brushing (5–10 minutes): Use a stainless steel pin brush or a combination slicker-and-comb tool. Work in sections from skin outward. For long-coated Malshis, a detangling spray (e.g., Chris Christensen Ice on Ice or BioSilk for Dogs) helps prevent breakage.
Professional grooming (every 4–6 weeks): Most owners opt for a "puppy cut" or "teddy bear cut" — trimming the coat to 1–2 inches all over, which dramatically reduces matting and daily maintenance. Expect to pay $50–$90 per session depending on your region and the groomer's experience with toy breeds. That's roughly $650–$1,170 per year in grooming alone.
Eye care: Tear staining is common. Wipe the inner eye corners daily with a damp cloth or use a veterinary-approved tear stain remover (e.g., Angels' Eyes or Eye Envy). Trim the hair around the eyes every 2–3 weeks to prevent corneal irritation.
Ear care: Clean ears weekly with a dog-specific ear cleanser (e.g., Epi-Otic Advanced or Zymox). Pluck excess ear canal hair if your groomer or vet recommends it — this is breed- and dog-specific, so ask your vet rather than assuming.
Nail trims: Every 2–3 weeks. Overgrown nails alter foot posture and can contribute to patellar luxation stress.
Training & Intelligence: Methods That Work for This Breed
The Malshi is intelligent but not always biddable — meaning they understand commands quickly but may choose whether to comply. This is typical of companion breeds selected for personality rather than working obedience. Expect a trainability rating of 3.5 out of 5.
Recommended methods: Positive reinforcement and force-free training are the only approaches that work well with this sensitive breed. Use high-value treats (small pieces of freeze-dried chicken, Zuke's Mini Naturals) and keep sessions to 5–10 minutes to match their attention span. Never use shock collars, prong collars, or alpha rolls — these methods damage trust and can trigger fear-based aggression in toy breeds.
Housebreaking timeline: Toy breeds are notoriously slower to house-train because of small bladders and a lower tolerance for cold/wet weather. Expect 3–6 months of consistent crate training and scheduled potty breaks (every 2 hours for puppies under 4 months). Indoor potty options like Ugodog or Fresh Patch (real grass pads) are practical for apartment-living Malshi owners.
Key training priorities:
- Recall (come when called): Start in a distraction-free room, build to yard and park settings over weeks
- Handling desensitization: Touch paws, ears, and mouth daily from puppyhood so grooming and vet exams are stress-free
- Separation training: Practice short departures (30 seconds to 5 minutes) building to longer absences to prevent separation anxiety
- Leash manners: Harness-train early; collar pressure on a toy breed's trachea risks tracheal collapse over time
Family Suitability: Kids, Pets, and Apartment Living
Children: The Malshi does best with children aged 8 and older who understand how to handle a small dog gently. Their light frame (6–12 lb) makes them vulnerable to accidental drops, squeezes, or falls from a child's arms. They are not recommended for families with toddlers unless an adult supervises every interaction. Teach children to let the dog approach them rather than picking the dog up.
Other pets: Malshis generally get along well with other dogs and cats, especially when raised together. Their low prey drive makes them one of the safer small-breed choices for multi-pet homes that include rabbits or guinea pigs — though supervision is always wise.
Apartment living: This is where the Malshi shines. Their compact size, moderate bark level, and low exercise requirements make them one of the best designer breeds for apartments and condos. They don't need a yard — a nearby park and daily walks are sufficient. Just ensure your building's pet weight restrictions accommodate a dog up to 12 lb.
Seniors and single owners: The Malshi is an outstanding match for retirees and single adults. They provide companionship without the physical demands of a larger, higher-energy breed. Their portability also makes them excellent travel companions (most fit in an airline-approved under-seat carrier).
Pros of the Malshi
- Compact size ideal for apartments and travel
- Low shedding — good for mild allergy sufferers
- Affectionate, people-oriented temperament
- Moderate exercise needs (30–45 min/day)
- Long lifespan (12–15+ years)
- Generally good with other pets
Cons of the Malshi
- High grooming costs ($650–$1,170/year)
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone excessively
- Not ideal for families with very young children
- Housebreaking can take 3–6 months
- Brachycephalic individuals may have breathing issues
- Dental disease is nearly universal without daily brushing
Cost of Ownership: Puppy Price and Annual Budget Breakdown
Understanding the full financial picture helps you decide whether a Malshi fits your budget — not just the purchase price but the recurring annual costs.
Puppy price range (2026): From a responsible breeder who health-tests both parents, expect to pay $800–$2,500. Puppies from champion-line parents or rare color combinations (e.g., solid apricot) may reach $3,000. Avoid breeders offering puppies under $500 without health documentation — this is a strong indicator of a backyard breeder or puppy mill. Adoption is also an option: Malshi mixes appear in small-breed rescues like Small Paws Rescue and local humane societies, typically for $200–$500 adoption fees.
| Expense Category | Annual Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food (premium kibble or fresh) | $240–$480 | ½ to ¾ cup/day; brands like Royal Canin X-Small, Orijen Small Breed |
| Professional grooming | $650–$1,170 | Every 4–6 weeks at $50–$90/session |
| Routine veterinary care | $400–$700 | Annual exam, vaccines, heartworm test, fecal screen |
| Preventive medications | $200–$400 | Heartworm, flea/tick (e.g., NexGard, Revolution Plus) |
| Dental cleanings | $500–$1,200 | Annual professional cleaning under anesthesia |
| Pet insurance | $360–$720 | $30–$60/month; recommended for unexpected surgeries |
| Supplies & toys | $150–$300 | Harness, bed, puzzle toys, grooming tools |
| Total estimated annual cost | $2,500–$4,970 | Varies by region and veterinary market |
First-year total (puppy + annual costs): Expect $3,300–$7,470 when you combine the puppy purchase with first-year veterinary, grooming, and supply expenses. Budget toward the higher end if you live in a major metro area with elevated veterinary costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shih Tzu Maltese mix right for first-time dog owners?
Yes, with one caveat: grooming commitment. The Malshi is forgiving of beginner training mistakes thanks to its easygoing nature, but the daily brushing and regular professional grooming schedule is non-negotiable for coat health. If you're willing to invest the time and money in grooming, the Malshi is an excellent first dog — especially for apartment dwellers and people who want a lower-energy companion.
How much exercise does a Malshi need daily?
An adult Malshi needs 30–45 minutes of structured activity per day. This typically breaks down into one or two leash walks (20–30 minutes total) plus 10–15 minutes of indoor play or training. Puppies under 6 months need shorter, more frequent sessions (5–10 minutes, 3–4 times daily) to avoid joint stress on developing bones.
What health problems is this breed prone to?
The most common breed-specific conditions are patellar luxation (knee), brachycephalic airway issues (in shorter-muzzled individuals), progressive retinal atrophy (eyes), early-onset dental disease, and — rarely — White Shaker Syndrome. Responsible breeding with health-tested parents significantly reduces these risks. Always consult your veterinarian for a breed-appropriate screening schedule.
How big does a Shih Tzu Maltese mix get?
Adult Malshis typically weigh 6–12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg) and stand 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) at the shoulder. Most settle around 8–10 lb. Growth is largely complete by 10–12 months, though some fill out slightly until 18 months.
Is the Malshi good with children and other pets?
With children aged 8+, yes — they're gentle and playful. They are not recommended for homes with toddlers due to their fragile frame. With other dogs and cats, the Malshi is typically sociable, especially when introduced during puppyhood. Their low prey drive makes them compatible with most household pets.
How much does a Shih Tzu Maltese mix cost to buy and maintain?
Puppy prices from responsible breeders range from $800–$2,500. Annual maintenance costs (food, grooming, veterinary, insurance, supplies) run $2,500–$4,970 per year. Over a 14-year lifespan, total lifetime ownership cost is estimated at $35,800–$70,380, not including emergency surgeries. Pet insurance is strongly recommended to manage unexpected expenses.
Have a Malshi or considering one? Share your experience or questions in the comments — our community of small-breed owners is always happy to help.
Anouk Beaumont
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
