Shih Tzu and Maltese Mix (Malshi): Complete Breed Guide
Everything about the Shih Tzu and Maltese mix: size, coat, temperament, health risks, grooming, cost, and whether this designer breed fits your lifestyle.
The Shih Tzu and Maltese mix — commonly called the Malshi, Mal-Shih, or Maltzu — pairs two ancient toy breeds into one compact companion dog. Both parent breeds were developed as lapdogs for royalty, and their offspring inherits that same devoted, people-oriented disposition. But because this is a crossbreed rather than a standardized breed, individual puppies can look and behave quite differently from one litter to the next.
If you are researching the Shih Tzu and Maltese mix before bringing one home, this guide breaks down exactly what prospective owners need to know — from realistic size ranges and coat outcomes to the health screenings responsible breeders should provide in 2026.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Shih Tzu Meets Maltese
Understanding the Malshi starts with understanding each parent. The Shih Tzu and the Maltese share a toy-breed classification but differ in meaningful ways that influence what a mixed puppy may inherit.
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Weight Standard | 9–16 lb (4–7 kg) | Under 7 lb (under 3.2 kg) |
| Height at Withers | 9–10.5 in (23–27 cm) | 7–9 in (18–23 cm) |
| Coat Type | Double coat, long, flowing | Single coat, long, silky, no undercoat |
| Shedding Level | Low (hair, not fur) | Minimal (hair, not fur) |
| Muzzle Shape | Brachycephalic (short, flat) | Slightly longer, still compact |
| Origin | China (imperial court companion) | Malta / Mediterranean (ancient lapdog) |
| Typical Lifespan | 10–18 years | 12–15 years |
| Temperament Notes | Affectionate, outgoing, occasionally stubborn | Gentle, alert, can be reserved with strangers |
The Shih Tzu contributes a sturdier build and a brachycephalic (flat-faced) skull shape. The Maltese tends to be lighter-boned with a slightly longer muzzle. A Malshi puppy can land anywhere on that spectrum — which is why meeting the parent dogs matters so much when evaluating a litter.
How Big Will a Shih Tzu and Maltese Mix Get?
Most Malshi adults fall in the 6–16 lb (2.7–7.3 kg) range, with the majority clustering between 8 and 12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg). Height typically lands between 8 and 11 inches (20–28 cm) at the shoulder.
| Measurement | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Weight | 6 lb (2.7 kg) | 9–12 lb (4–5.4 kg) | 16 lb (7.3 kg) |
| Adult Height | 8 in (20 cm) | 9–10 in (23–25 cm) | 11 in (28 cm) |
| Time to Full Size | 9–12 months (most toy mixes reach adult weight by 10 months) | ||
The wide range exists because Shih Tzu weight standards span 9–16 lb while Maltese standards cap at 7 lb. A puppy from a larger Shih Tzu parent and a smaller Maltese parent may still grow past 12 lb. Always ask the breeder for the exact weights of both parents — that gives the best predictor of adult size.
Coat Types, Colors, and the Hypoallergenic Question
Both parent breeds have hair rather than fur, meaning they shed minimally. The Shih Tzu carries a double coat (soft undercoat beneath a longer topcoat), while the Maltese has a single-layer silky coat with no undercoat at all. A Malshi can inherit either configuration, and you often will not know for certain until the puppy is 4–6 months old and the adult coat begins to come in.
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. The Malshi is considered low-shedding and tends to produce less airborne dander than heavy-shedding breeds. However, allergens also live in saliva and skin cells. People with mild dog allergies often tolerate low-shedding mixes better, but spending time with the specific puppy before committing is the only reliable test.
Common coat colors: white, cream, black, brown, gold, parti-color (white with patches), and combinations. The Maltese parent almost always contributes white or cream; the Shih Tzu parent can introduce black, gold, liver, or brindle markings.
Grooming commitment: Regardless of which coat type the puppy inherits, expect brushing every other day at minimum to prevent matting. A professional groomer visit every 4–6 weeks for a trim keeps the coat manageable. Budget $50–$85 per grooming session depending on your region and the complexity of the cut. If you choose a shorter "puppy cut" (1–2 inches all over), you can extend home brushing to three times a week and stretch groomer visits to every 8 weeks.
Temperament: What to Expect from a Malshi
The best-case Malshi temperament combines the Shih Tzu's cheerful, outgoing friendliness with the Maltese's gentle alertness. These dogs bond deeply with their people, follow them from room to room, and generally greet visitors with curiosity rather than fear.
But crossbreed temperament is a spectrum, not a guarantee. Here is how the range typically plays out:
| Trait | Leaning Shih Tzu | Leaning Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Sociability | Outgoing, greets everyone warmly | Polite but reserved with strangers initially |
| Trainability | Willing but can be stubborn; food motivation helps | Eager to please, responds well to praise-based training |
| Vocalization | Moderate barker, alerts to doorbell | Can be a frequent barker, especially when left alone |
| Separation Tolerance | Moderate — can handle 3–4 hours alone if trained | Lower — prone to separation anxiety if left too long |
| Child Compatibility | Generally good with gentle children 8+ | Can be nervous around loud or fast-moving children |
Challenging scenarios to prepare for: Some Malshi dogs inherit the Maltese tendency toward nervousness combined with the Shih Tzu's stubborn streak. This combination can make house-training a longer process (8–16 weeks is common, versus 4–8 weeks for larger breeds). Toy breeds also have small bladders, so frequent outdoor breaks — every 2–3 hours during the day for puppies — are essential.
Training approach: Use positive reinforcement exclusively. Reward-based methods with small, soft treats (such as Zuke's Mini Naturals, about 3 calories each) work well because Malshi dogs are food-motivated but too small for large training treats. Never use aversive tools like shock or prong collars — toy breeds are physically delicate, and fear-based methods can create lasting anxiety and reactivity. A front-clip harness (such as the Ruffwear Front Range in XXS) gives you gentle steering without tracheal pressure.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, and Multigen Malshi
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Shih Tzu parent × one purebred Maltese parent. Maximum genetic diversity; most variation in appearance and traits.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Malshi bred back to one of the parent breeds — usually the Maltese to emphasize smaller size and a silkier single coat.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Malshi parents bred together. Trait predictability does not necessarily improve; recessive traits from both breeds can resurface.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Malshi-to-Malshi breeding. Some lines develop more consistent type, but without a formal breed standard, uniformity is never guaranteed.
For the Shih Tzu and Maltese mix, F1 is the most common generation you will find. F1B backcrosses to the Maltese are sometimes marketed as "teacup" or "mini" Malshi, but this simply means the breeder selected for the smaller parent breed. There is no health advantage to any particular generation — what matters is the health testing done on the individual parent dogs.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality
A common marketing claim is that designer mixes benefit from "hybrid vigor" — the idea that crossing two breeds automatically produces healthier puppies. The reality is more nuanced. While outcrossing can reduce the risk of recessive disorders that are concentrated within a single breed, a Malshi can still inherit any condition that affects either parent breed. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, responsible breeding practices and health screening of parent dogs matter far more than the cross itself.
Conditions to screen for in parent dogs:
| Condition | Parent Breed Link | Prevalence / Notes | Recommended Screening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Shih Tzu | Common in flat-faced breeds; causes noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity | Evaluate parent for stenotic nares, elongated soft palate |
| Patellar Luxation | Both breeds | Kneecap slips out of groove; grades I–IV; very common in toy breeds | OFA patella evaluation on both parents |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Both breeds | Gradual vision loss leading to blindness; recessive gene | DNA test or CERF/OFA eye exam on parents |
| White Shaker Syndrome | Maltese | Idiopathic (cause unknown) tremors in small white dogs; onset typically 6 months–3 years | No genetic test; ask about lineage history |
| Dental Crowding / Periodontal Disease | Both breeds | Toy breeds have 42 adult teeth crammed into a tiny jaw; early tooth loss common | Begin tooth brushing by 12 weeks; veterinary dental cleanings starting at age 2–3 |
| Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt) | Maltese | Abnormal blood vessel bypasses liver; causes stunted growth, seizures, disorientation | Bile acids test on puppies at 8–12 weeks if lineage risk is high |
What a responsible breeder provides: OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patella clearances, a current CERF/OFA eye exam, and documentation that neither parent shows clinical signs of BOAS. Ask to see these records before placing a deposit. A breeder who cannot produce health clearances is not a responsible breeder, regardless of how they market their puppies.
Lifespan expectation: Most Malshi dogs live 12–15 years, with some reaching 16 or 17. Regular veterinary wellness exams twice yearly after age 7 help catch age-related conditions like mitral valve disease and kidney changes early.
If your Malshi shows labored breathing, bluish gums, collapse, persistent vomiting, seizures, or sudden lethargy, seek emergency veterinary care. Toy breeds can decline rapidly from conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in puppies or tracheal collapse in adults. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized health guidance rather than relying on online information alone.
Who Is the Malshi Best Suited For?
The Shih Tzu and Maltese mix thrives in specific living situations and can struggle in others. Here is a practical decision framework:
Ideal fit:
- Apartment or condo dwellers — the Malshi needs only 20–30 minutes of daily exercise (short walks plus indoor play) and adapts well to small spaces.
- Work-from-home individuals or retirees — these dogs want companionship and do poorly when left alone for 8+ hours daily.
- Families with children aged 8 and older — younger children may accidentally injure a 9-lb dog through rough handling.
- First-time dog owners who are prepared for the grooming commitment and patient with house-training.
- Allergy-sensitive households — the low-shedding coat is one of the better options among small breeds, though not a guarantee.
Less ideal fit:
- Households with toddlers or very young children unless constant supervision is possible.
- People who work long hours away from home without a dog walker or pet sitter arranged.
- Owners in extremely hot climates who cannot maintain air conditioning — brachycephalic-influenced dogs overheat easily above 85°F (29°C).
- Anyone seeking a jogging partner or high-energy outdoor dog.
Cost Breakdown: What a Shih Tzu and Maltese Mix Actually Costs
Pricing for designer mixes varies considerably by region, breeder reputation, and whether health testing has been performed on the parent dogs.
| Expense Category | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase Price (from breeder) | $600 | $1,000–$1,800 | $2,500+ |
| Adoption Fee (rescue/shelter) | $150 | $300–$500 | $600 |
| First-Year Veterinary Care (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip) | $500 | $800–$1,200 | $1,500 |
| Annual Grooming (6–8 sessions) | $300 | $400–$550 | $700 |
| Monthly Food + Treats | $25 | $35–$50 | $65 |
| Pet Insurance (monthly premium) | $25 | $35–$50 | $65 |
Breeder vs. rescue: Malshi puppies from breeders who perform OFA health clearances, provide early socialization (such as Puppy Culture or Avidog protocols), and offer a health guarantee typically charge $1,000–$2,500. Prices below $800 often signal that health testing was skipped. Rescue organizations occasionally have Malshi or similar small mixes available; check Petfinder and breed-specific rescues for both Shih Tzu and Maltese, as mixed-breed dogs frequently appear in their networks. Adoption is a legitimate, ethical path to a Malshi — many end up in rescue due to owner circumstances rather than behavioral issues.
First-year total budget estimate: Plan for $2,500–$4,500 in the first year (including puppy price, veterinary setup, gear, grooming, and food). Ongoing annual costs after year one typically run $1,500–$2,800.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Malshi?
The Malshi is a cross between a purebred Shih Tzu and a purebred Maltese. Both are toy breeds with long histories as companion dogs. The mix is not recognized by the AKC as a distinct breed but may be registered with designer breed registries like the ACHC (American Canine Hybrid Club).
How big will a Shih Tzu and Maltese mix get?
Most adults weigh between 8 and 12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) and stand 9–10 inches (23–25 cm) tall at the shoulder. The full range is 6–16 lb (2.7–7.3 kg) depending on which parent's size genes dominate. Puppies typically reach their adult weight by 9–12 months.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect an affectionate, people-oriented companion who wants to be near you. Most Malshi dogs are friendly, playful, and alert. Some lean toward the Shih Tzu's outgoing confidence; others inherit the Maltese's more reserved, watchful nature. Early socialization (exposure to diverse people, sounds, and environments between 8 and 16 weeks) has a significant impact on adult temperament regardless of genetic leaning.
Is this mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
Low-shedding, yes — both parent breeds have hair rather than fur, so the Malshi sheds minimally. Hypoallergenic, not exactly. No dog is truly hypoallergenic because allergens are also present in saliva and dander. However, many people with mild dog allergies tolerate the Malshi well. Spending time with the specific dog before adoption is the best way to assess your personal reaction.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
The most relevant conditions are brachycephalic airway issues (from the Shih Tzu side), patellar luxation (both breeds), progressive retinal atrophy (both breeds), dental crowding leading to early periodontal disease (both breeds), and portosystemic liver shunts (from the Maltese side). Requesting OFA health clearances from the breeder for both parent dogs significantly reduces — but does not eliminate — these risks.
How much does a Shih Tzu and Maltese mix cost?
From a responsible breeder who health-tests parent dogs, expect to pay $1,000–$2,500. Adoption fees through rescues typically range from $150–$600. First-year total ownership costs (puppy price, vet care, grooming, supplies, food) generally fall between $2,500 and $4,500.
Are Malshi dogs good with other pets?
Generally yes, especially when raised together or introduced gradually. The Malshi has low prey drive compared to terrier breeds. However, because of their small size, they can be intimidated by large, boisterous dogs. Supervised introductions and separate safe spaces are wise in multi-pet households.
This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for decisions about your dog's health, nutrition, and care plan.
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
