Shih Tzu Mixed with Maltese: The Malshi Breed Profile & Care Guide
Everything about the Shih Tzu mixed with Maltese (Malshi): size, coat types, temperament variability, health risks, grooming needs, and 2026 pricing
If you've been searching for a compact, affectionate companion dog, the Shih Tzu mixed with Maltese—commonly called the Malshi or Mal-Tzu—probably landed on your radar. This designer cross blends two ancient toy breeds into a small dog that typically weighs between 6 and 16 pounds and stands 8 to 14 inches tall. But unlike purebred dogs with predictable breed standards, every Malshi is a genetic roll of the dice. Some inherit the Shih Tzu's sturdy build and pushed-in face; others get the Maltese's finer features and silky white coat. Understanding that variability is the key to deciding whether this mix is right for your household.
This guide breaks down exactly what you can—and cannot—predict about a Shih Tzu mixed with Maltese, from coat type and shedding levels to inherited health conditions and realistic pricing in 2026. We'll also cover generation types (F1, F1B, F2) and explain why "hybrid vigor" doesn't guarantee a healthier dog.
The Parent Breeds: Shih Tzu and Maltese at a Glance
Before evaluating the mix, you need to understand the two breeds behind it. Both are toy-group companions with centuries of history as lap dogs, but they differ in meaningful ways that affect what a Malshi puppy might look and act like.
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | China (Tibetan monastery dogs, bred for Chinese royalty) | Mediterranean (Isle of Malta, favored by Greek and Roman nobility) |
| AKC Weight Standard | 9–16 lb (4–7 kg) | Under 7 lb (under 3.2 kg) |
| Height | 9–10.5 in (23–27 cm) | 7–9 in (18–23 cm) |
| Coat Type | Double coat, long and flowing; all colors accepted | Single coat, straight and silky; pure white only |
| Shedding Level | Low (hair, not fur) | Minimal (hair, not fur) |
| Muzzle Shape | Brachycephalic (short, pushed-in) | Moderate (slightly shorter than average but not flat) |
| Typical Lifespan | 10–18 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate; 30–45 min daily exercise | Moderate; 30–60 min daily exercise |
| AKC Group | Toy | Toy |
| Key Temperament Traits | Affectionate, outgoing, stubborn, playful | Gentle, alert, lively, sometimes anxious |
Both breeds rank as companion animals first—they were developed to sit on laps, not work fields or herd livestock. According to the AKC Shih Tzu breed standard and the AKC Maltese breed standard, neither breed has a working drive, which means a Malshi will almost certainly prioritize your company over any job you try to give it.
How Big Will a Shih Tzu Mixed with Maltese Get?
Size is one of the more predictable traits in this cross because both parents are firmly in the toy category. However, there is still a meaningful range depending on which parent's genes dominate and the individual puppy's nutrition and growth trajectory.
| Measurement | Low End | High End | Most Common Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Weight | 6 lb (2.7 kg) | 16 lb (7.3 kg) | 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) |
| Adult Height (at shoulder) | 8 in (20 cm) | 14 in (36 cm) | 9–12 in (23–30 cm) |
| Adult Body Length | 12 in (30 cm) | 18 in (46 cm) | 14–16 in (36–41 cm) |
What drives the variation: A Malshi from a larger Shih Tzu parent (14–16 lb) and a standard Maltese (6–7 lb) will typically land in the 9–12 lb range. If both parents are on the smaller end, expect puppies closer to 6–9 lb. Breeders who use "teacup" Maltese (under 4 lb) introduce additional health risks—fragile bones, hypoglycemia, and dental crowding—and should be avoided.
Puppies typically reach their adult weight by 9–12 months, though some Malshis continue filling out through 14–16 months. You can estimate adult weight by doubling the puppy's weight at 12–14 weeks, though this is approximate for mixed breeds.
Coat Types, Shedding, and the Hypoallergenic Question
Both the Shih Tzu and the Maltese have hair rather than fur, meaning their coats grow continuously and shed minimally. This makes the Malshi one of the more reliably low-shedding designer mixes—but "low-shedding" is not the same as "hypoallergenic."
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Allergies are triggered by dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine proteins—not just shed hair. While Malshis produce less airborne dander than heavy-shedding breeds like Labradors, a person with moderate-to-severe dog allergies may still react. If allergies are a concern, spend at least 60 minutes with an adult Malshi before committing, and consult an allergist about specific IgE testing.
Coat inheritance in a Malshi typically falls into one of three categories:
- Shih Tzu-dominant coat: Dense double coat with a softer undercoat and longer guard hairs. May have slight wave. Requires daily brushing to prevent matting. More prone to overheating in summer.
- Maltese-dominant coat: Single-layer, straight, silky, and fine-textured. Typically white or white with light tan/cream markings. Tangles easily but is lighter and cooler.
- Blended coat (most common in F1): Medium-density, slight wave, softer than a Shih Tzu's but with more body than a Maltese. Colors can include white, cream, gold, black, brown, or parti-color combinations.
Regardless of which coat type your Malshi inherits, plan for professional grooming every 4–8 weeks. A full groom session (bath, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning) typically costs $55–$95 depending on your region and the coat's condition. Matted coats may incur additional de-matting fees of $15–$30.
Grooming Tool Recommendations by Coat Type
| Coat Type | Daily Tool | Professional Cut Frequency | Recommended Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shih Tzu-dominant (double) | Slicker brush + stainless steel comb | Every 4–6 weeks | Chris Christensen Big G Slicker; Earthbath Oatmeal Conditioner |
| Maltese-dominant (single, silky) | Pin brush + wide-tooth comb | Every 6–8 weeks | Chris Christensen Baby Pin Brush; Iv San Bernard Silk Shampoo |
| Blended (wavy/medium) | Slicker brush + detangling spray | Every 5–7 weeks | Artero Matt-X Spray; Andis Premium Slicker Brush |
Temperament: What to Expect (and What Might Surprise You)
Temperament is where individual variation in the Malshi becomes most apparent. While both parent breeds are companion-oriented and people-focused, their secondary traits differ enough to create a wide behavioral range.
| Trait | Leans Shih Tzu | Leans Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Sociability | Outgoing with strangers, eager to greet | More reserved initially, warms up slowly |
| Independence | Content alone for 2–3 hours | Stronger attachment; separation anxiety more likely |
| Trainability | Stubborn; needs patience and food motivation | More responsive but sensitive to harsh correction |
| Barking | Moderate; alert barks at door | Higher tendency; may bark at sounds, visitors, boredom |
| Playfulness | Bursts of energy then long naps | Sustained playful energy throughout the day |
| Child Compatibility | Tolerant if socialized; sturdy enough for gentle kids | More fragile; better with older children (8+) |
Best-case temperament: A well-socialized Malshi with balanced inheritance is affectionate without being clingy, playful without being hyper, alert enough to notify you of visitors but quiet once reassured. These dogs thrive on routine and form deep bonds with their primary caretaker while remaining friendly with the rest of the household.
Challenging scenarios: Malshis that lean heavily toward Maltese sensitivity and Shih Tzu stubbornness can be difficult to housebreak—some owners report 4–8 months of consistent crate training before reliable potty habits develop. Separation anxiety is a genuine risk, particularly in dogs that inherit the Maltese's strong attachment drive. Dogs left alone for 6+ hours daily without enrichment often develop nuisance barking, destructive chewing, or inappropriate elimination.
Training approach: Use positive reinforcement exclusively—small, high-value treats (Zuke's Mini Naturals or freeze-dried liver pieces work well for toy breeds), clicker marking, and short 5–8 minute sessions. Force-free methods like those recommended by the ASPCA are especially important for this mix because both parent breeds are sensitive to harsh correction, which can trigger fear-based shutdown or defensive snapping.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Shih Tzu parent + one purebred Maltese parent. Maximum genetic diversity; most variation in appearance and traits. This is the most common and generally healthiest generation.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): One F1 Malshi parent + one purebred parent (either Shih Tzu or Maltese). Used to push traits toward one parent breed—e.g., backcrossing to a Maltese for a finer, whiter coat. Reduces genetic diversity slightly.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Malshi parents bred together. Greater trait variation than F1B because recessive genes from both original breeds can recombine unpredictably. Coat type and size are least predictable in F2 litters.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Malshi-to-Malshi breeding. Traits become more stabilized over time, but this requires a large, carefully managed gene pool to avoid inbreeding depression. Very few breeders maintain true multigen Malshi programs.
For most prospective owners, an F1 Malshi offers the best balance of genetic diversity and health. F1 puppies benefit from the widest gene pool, which reduces (but does not eliminate) the risk of recessive inherited diseases. If a breeder is selling F2 or multigen puppies, ask for documentation of the breeding pair's lineage and health clearances for at least three generations back.
Health Considerations: The Hybrid Vigor Myth and Real Risks
One of the most persistent claims about designer dogs is that they're automatically healthier than purebreds due to "hybrid vigor" (heterosis). The reality is more nuanced. While crossbreeding can reduce the risk of recessive conditions that are concentrated within a single breed's gene pool, it does not eliminate health risks—especially when both parent breeds share predispositions to the same conditions.
According to data compiled in the Merck Veterinary Manual, hybrid vigor provides measurable benefit primarily for traits controlled by many genes (polygenic traits) where one breed carries a high load of deleterious alleles. For conditions that both Shih Tzus and Maltese share, the cross offers no protective advantage.
Inherited Health Conditions: Shared and Parent-Specific
| Condition | From Which Parent | Prevalence Estimate | Typical Onset | Estimated Treatment Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Primarily Shih Tzu | Variable; higher in flat-faced puppies | Birth–2 years | $1,500–$5,000 (surgical correction) |
| Patellar Luxation | Both breeds | ~8–12% of toy breeds | 4 months–3 years | $1,200–$3,500 per knee (surgery) |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Both breeds | ~3–5% carrier rate | 3–9 years | No cure; management only |
| Dental Disease (early-onset) | Both breeds | ~60–80% of toy breeds by age 3 | 1–3 years | $300–$800 per cleaning; $200–$600 per extraction |
| White Shaker Syndrome (idiopathic cerebellitis) | Primarily Maltese | Rare but breed-associated | 9 months–3 years | $500–$1,500 (diagnostics + steroids) |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) | Primarily Shih Tzu | ~5–8% of brachycephalic breeds | 2–8 years | $50–$150/month (lifelong eye drops) |
| Portosystemic Shunt (PSS) | Both (toy breed predisposition) | ~2–4% of toy breeds | Birth–2 years | $3,000–$7,000 (surgical correction) |
What responsible breeders test for: Ask for OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patella evaluations, CERF/CAER eye clearance certificates, and a DNA panel that includes PRA (prcd-PRA) and hepatic shunt markers. Both parents should have current health clearances, not just one. A reputable breeder will provide these documents without being asked.
Dental care is non-negotiable for this mix. Both Shih Tzus and Maltese are notorious for early, severe dental disease due to crowded teeth in small jaws. Start toothbrushing by 10 weeks of age using a finger brush and enzymatic toothpaste (Virbac CET or Petrodex). Plan for professional dental cleanings under anesthesia starting at age 2–3, then annually. Budget $300–$800 per year for dental maintenance.
Seek emergency veterinary care if your Malshi shows any of these signs:
- Labored breathing, noisy breathing at rest, or blue-tinged gums (possible BOAS crisis)
- Sudden inability to bear weight on a hind leg (patellar luxation or fracture)
- Seizures, tremors, or uncoordinated movement (possible White Shaker Syndrome or PSS)
- Vomiting, lethargy, or collapse after eating (possible portosystemic shunt crisis)
- Eye squinting, redness, or discharge lasting more than 24 hours
Always consult your veterinarian before making decisions about diagnostic testing, treatment plans, or preventive care schedules for your Malshi. Individual health needs vary based on genetics, lifestyle, and age.
Cost Breakdown: Purchase Price and Ongoing Expenses
The cost of acquiring and maintaining a Shih Tzu mixed with Maltese varies significantly depending on whether you buy from a breeder or adopt from a rescue, as well as your geographic location and the level of veterinary care you choose.
Acquisition Costs (2026 Estimates)
| Source | Price Range | What's Typically Included |
|---|---|---|
| Responsible Breeder (health-tested parents, OFA/CERF clearances) | $1,200–$2,800 | First vaccinations, deworming, microchip, health guarantee, spay/neuter contract, take-back clause |
| Casual/Backyard Breeder (limited health testing) | $500–$1,200 | Often first vaccinations only; rarely includes health guarantee or genetic testing |
| Puppy Mill / Pet Store | $800–$2,000 | Minimal vetting; high risk of inherited disease and behavioral issues |
| Breed-Specific Rescue or General Small-Dog Rescue | $200–$500 | Spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, basic vet exam; often adult dogs |
Availability note: Malshi puppies from responsible breeders are less common than more popular designer mixes like Goldendoodles or Cavapoos. You may need to join a waitlist of 3–6 months or search across multiple states. Breed-specific rescues for Shih Tzu or Maltese occasionally have Malshi mixes available, though this is unpredictable. Check organizations like the American Shih Tzu Club Rescue Network and American Maltese Association Rescue for listings.
First-Year Budget Estimate
| Expense Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase / adoption fee | $200 | $2,800 |
| Initial vet visits (3 puppy wellness exams + vaccines) | $350 | $650 |
| Spay/neuter | $200 | $600 |
| Grooming (6–8 sessions) | $330 | $760 |
| Food (high-quality small-breed kibble or wet food) | $240 | $480 |
| Dental cleaning (if needed year one) | $0 | $500 |
| Supplies (crate, bed, harness, toys, bowls) | $150 | $350 |
| Pet insurance (annual premium) | $360 | $720 |
| Total First Year | $1,830 | $6,860 |
Ongoing annual costs after the first year typically range from $1,200 to $3,000, driven primarily by grooming, dental care, food, and preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick).
Who Is the Malshi Best Suited For?
This mix is not a one-size-fits-all dog. Based on the temperament range, grooming demands, and health considerations outlined above, here's a practical fit assessment:
- Retirees or work-from-home owners who can provide consistent companionship
- Apartment or condo dwellers (Malshis adapt well to small spaces)
- Families with children aged 8+ who understand gentle handling of small dogs
- First-time dog owners willing to invest in positive-reinforcement training
- Allergy-conscious owners seeking a low-shedding companion (with the caveat above)
- Owners who enjoy grooming as a bonding activity or have a grooming budget
- Households where the dog will be left alone 6+ hours daily
- Families with toddlers or very young children (fragility risk)
- Owners unwilling to commit to regular professional grooming
- People seeking a rugged outdoor/hiking companion
- Those who want a quiet dog (barking tendency can be significant)
- Owners on a tight budget who cannot absorb $2,000–$5,000 in unexpected vet bills
Exercise needs: Plan for 30–45 minutes of daily activity, split into two or three short walks and indoor play sessions. Malshis do not need a yard—a daily leash walk around the neighborhood plus interactive play (tug, puzzle toys, short fetch sessions) is sufficient. Avoid exercising in temperatures above 85°F (29°C) if your dog has inherited a brachycephalic muzzle, as heatstroke risk is elevated.
Socialization timeline: Begin structured socialization between 8 and 16 weeks of age. Expose your Malshi puppy to a minimum of 5–7 new people per week, varied surfaces (grass, gravel, tile), common household sounds (vacuum, doorbell, thunderstorm recordings at low volume), and 2–3 well-vaccinated, temperament-tested adult dogs. Follow the AVMA's puppy socialization guidelines while balancing disease risk before the full DHPP vaccine series is complete.
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-group companion breeds with origins in Asia and the Mediterranean, respectively. The mix is sometimes also called a Mal-Tzu, Shih-Tese, or Schatzu.
Are Shih Tzu mixed with Maltese dogs good with cats?
Generally yes. Neither parent breed has a strong prey drive, and most Malshis coexist peacefully with cats when introduced gradually. A proper introduction involves keeping the dog on a leash for the first 3–5 meetings, providing the cat with elevated escape routes, and rewarding calm behavior with treats.
How long do Malshi dogs typically live?
Most Malshis live 12–15 years, with some reaching 16–18 years with excellent preventive care. Lifespan is influenced by dental health (periodontal disease can shorten life by 1–3 years), weight management (even 2 extra pounds on a 10-lb dog strains the heart and joints), and early detection of inherited conditions like portosystemic shunts.
Do Malshi puppies change color as they grow?
Yes, frequently. Many Malshi puppies born with dark coats (black, dark brown) lighten significantly by 12–18 months—a trait inherited from both parent breeds. Puppies with gold or cream coats may also shift shade. Don't select a puppy based solely on coat color if a specific adult color is important to you.
Is a Malshi easier to train than a purebred Shih Tzu?
It depends on the individual. Maltese tend to be slightly more biddable than Shih Tzus, so a Malshi that leans toward the Maltese side may be easier to train. However, both breeds are known for independence, and neither is a "natural obedience" dog like a Border Collie or Poodle. Expect 4–8 months of consistent, daily training for reliable basic obedience and 6–12 months for solid house-training.
Can I leave a Malshi home alone during the workday?
Malshis can tolerate 3–4 hours alone if properly crate-trained and given enrichment (frozen Kong, lick mat, puzzle feeder). Beyond that, separation anxiety becomes a significant risk. If you work 8-hour days, consider a dog walker for a midday visit, a doggy daycare one or two days per week, or a companion animal in the household.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
