The Shih Tzu Maltese Mix: A Complete Breed Guide

The Shih Tzu Maltese mix — affectionately known as the Mal-Shi, Malti-Tzu, or Shih-Malt — is a small companion dog that combines the best traits of two ancient toy breeds. This crossbreed has become increasingly popular among families, singles, and seniors looking for an affectionate, low-shedding pet that thrives on human companionship.

If you are researching this breed because you are considering bringing one home, you have come to the right place. This guide covers everything from temperament and grooming to health concerns and finding a responsible breeder. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of whether the Shih Tzu Maltese mix is the right dog for your lifestyle.

Breed Overview

The Shih Tzu Maltese mix is a designer crossbreed, meaning it is the intentional pairing of two purebred dogs: the Shih Tzu and the Maltese. Unlike purebred dogs, crossbreeds like the Mal-Shi do not have a standardized breed registry, so individual puppies can vary in appearance and temperament depending on which parent's genes are more dominant.

That said, both parent breeds share similar characteristics — they are small, affectionate, low-shedding companion dogs — so the mix is fairly predictable in terms of general traits. Here is a quick overview:

• Breed Type: Toy / Companion crossbreed
• Weight: 6–14 pounds (2.7–6.4 kg)
• Height: 8–13 inches (20–33 cm)
• Coat: Long, silky, low-shedding; may be wavy or straight
• Colors: White, cream, tan, brown, black, or a combination
• Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, playful, loyal, social
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Hypoallergenic: Often considered low-allergen, but not 100% hypoallergenic
• Good with: Families, singles, seniors, apartment dwellers

Origin & History

The Shih Tzu and the Maltese are two of the oldest toy breeds in the world, and understanding their histories helps explain why the mix behaves the way it does.

The Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet and was later developed in China, where it was bred exclusively for Chinese royalty. These dogs were considered sacred and were never sold — they were given as gifts to dignitaries. The breed's name means "little lion" in Chinese, a reference to its lion-like appearance and its association with Buddhist mythology. Shih Tzus were bred to be affectionate lap dogs and companions, and they retain that loving, outgoing personality today.

The Maltese

The Maltese is one of the oldest European toy breeds, with a history dating back thousands of years to the island of Malta. These dogs were prized by ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians as companions and status symbols. Like the Shih Tzu, the Maltese was bred purely for companionship, resulting in a gentle, playful, and deeply affectionate dog that bonds closely with its owner.

The Rise of the Mal-Shi

The Shih Tzu Maltese mix is a relatively recent development, emerging in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as part of the designer dog trend. Breeders sought to combine the Shih Tzu's sturdy build and outgoing nature with the Maltese's silky coat and playful temperament. The result is a small, adaptable companion dog that has found a loyal following around the world.

Because the Mal-Shi is a crossbreed, it is not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC as a distinct breed. However, it is recognized by some alternative registries, and its popularity continues to grow. If you are looking for a purebred dog, you may want to explore other dog breeds that match your preferences.

Temperament & Personality

The Shih Tzu Maltese mix is, above all, a companion dog. They were bred to be with people, and they are happiest when they are near their human family. This is not a breed that does well when left alone for long periods — they can develop separation anxiety if isolated too often.

Key Personality Traits

• Affectionate: Mal-Shis are loving and devoted to their owners. They enjoy cuddling, being held, and following their people from room to room.
• Playful: Despite their small size, they have a surprising amount of energy and enjoy interactive play, short walks, and games.
• Social: They generally get along well with strangers, other dogs, and pets when properly socialized. They are not typically aggressive.
• Alert: They make good watchdogs because they will bark when someone approaches, but they are not aggressive guardians.
• Stubborn: Both parent breeds have a stubborn streak, so training requires patience and consistency.
• Sensitive: They are sensitive to tone of voice and do not respond well to harsh correction. Positive reinforcement is essential.

Are They Good with Children?

Yes, with caveats. Shih Tzu Maltese mixes are gentle and playful, and they can be wonderful companions for children. However, because they are small and somewhat delicate, they are best suited for homes with older children who understand how to handle a small dog gently. Very young children may accidentally hurt them by picking them up incorrectly or playing too roughly.

If you have young children and are considering a small dog, you may also want to explore other cute small breeds that are known for being sturdy and tolerant. Regardless of breed, always supervise interactions between dogs and young children.

Are They Good with Other Pets?

When socialized from a young age, Mal-Shis generally get along well with other dogs and even cats. They are not naturally aggressive and tend to be more interested in making friends than asserting dominance. Early socialization is key — expose your puppy to a variety of animals, people, and environments during their critical socialization window (3–14 weeks).

Size & Appearance

The Shih Tzu Maltese mix is a small dog, typically weighing between 6 and 14 pounds and standing 8 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. Because they are a crossbreed, individual dogs can vary in size depending on which parent's genetics are more dominant. A Mal-Shi with a larger Shih Tzu parent may be closer to 14 pounds, while one with a smaller Maltese parent may be closer to 6 pounds.

Coat

The coat is one of the most appealing features of this mix. Both parent breeds have long, silky hair rather than fur, which means the Mal-Shi typically has a low-shedding coat. The coat may be straight like the Maltese or slightly wavy like the Shih Tzu, and it comes in a variety of colors including white, cream, tan, brown, black, and combinations of these.

Because they shed very little, Shih Tzu Maltese mixes are often recommended for people with mild allergies. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic — allergens are found in saliva and dander, not just hair. If you have severe allergies, spend time with the breed before committing. You can also explore other hypoallergenic breeds that don't shed.

Physical Features

• Head: Rounded skull with a short muzzle, dark round eyes, and a black nose
• Ears: Drop ears covered in long hair
• Body: Compact and slightly longer than tall
• Tail: Plumed and carried over the back
• Legs: Short and straight, with small, rounded paws

Grooming Requirements

Grooming is the most demanding aspect of caring for a Shih Tzu Maltese mix. Their long, silky coat tangles and mats easily, and without regular brushing, it can become painful and require shaving. If you are not prepared for daily grooming, this may not be the right breed for you.

Brushing

Brush your Mal-Shi daily using a slicker brush and a metal comb. Start at the head and work your way down, paying special attention to areas prone to matting: behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. If you keep the coat short, you can reduce brushing to 2–3 times per week.

Bathing

Bathe your dog every 2–4 weeks using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Human shampoo can disrupt the pH balance of their skin and cause irritation. After bathing, dry thoroughly — damp coat can lead to skin infections and matting. You can explore dog shampoo options formulated for sensitive skin.

Professional Grooming

Even with regular home grooming, most Mal-Shis need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. A professional groomer can trim the coat, clean the ears, trim the nails, and express anal glands if needed. This is especially important if you are not comfortable trimming around the eyes and paws yourself.

Other Grooming Tasks

• Ear cleaning: Weekly, using a dog-specific ear cleaner. Floppy ears trap moisture and can lead to infections.
• Nail trimming: Every 2–4 weeks. Long nails cause discomfort and gait problems. Use dog nail clippers and have styptic powder on hand.
• Dental care: Brush your dog's teeth 3–7 times per week. Small breeds are prone to dental disease, which can affect overall health. Use a dog toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste.
• Eye care: Clean around the eyes daily to prevent tear staining and remove discharge. Some Mal-Shis have prominent eyes that are prone to irritation.

Exercise & Activity

Despite their small size, Shih Tzu Maltese mixes are not couch potatoes. They have a moderate energy level and need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. However, their exercise needs are much lower than those of larger breeds — a couple of short walks and some playtime are usually enough.

Daily Exercise Needs

• Walks: 2–3 short walks per day, totaling 30–60 minutes. These can be leisurely walks around the neighborhood — this breed is not built for long hikes or intense runs.
• Playtime: 15–30 minutes of interactive play, such as fetch, tug, or chase. This can be done indoors or in a securely fenced yard.
• Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and treat-dispensing toys keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom. Explore puzzle toys for dogs that are appropriate for small breeds.

Because of their small size, Mal-Shis can get plenty of exercise indoors, making them well-suited for apartment living. However, they still enjoy outdoor walks for mental stimulation and socialization. Just be mindful of hot pavement in summer and cold temperatures in winter — their small paws are sensitive. Consider dog shoes for extreme weather.

Signs of Under-Exercise

If your Mal-Shi is not getting enough exercise, they may exhibit:

• Destructive chewing or digging
• Excessive barking or whining
• Restlessness or inability to settle
• Weight gain
• Attention-seeking behaviors

If you notice these signs, increase their physical and mental activity. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog — this holds true even for small breeds.

Training & Socialization

Shih Tzu Maltese mixes are intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn. Both parent breeds were bred for companionship rather than obedience, so they may not have the same eagerness to please as, say, a Golden Retriever. That said, with patience and positive reinforcement, they can learn all the basic commands and more.

Training Tips

1. Start early: Begin training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Young puppies are eager to learn and form habits quickly.
2. Use positive reinforcement: Reward desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play. Never use punishment-based methods — they damage trust and can make your dog fearful or aggressive. Learn more about positive behavior modification.
3. Keep sessions short: 5–10 minutes per session is plenty for a small breed. Multiple short sessions are more effective than one long one.
4. Be consistent: Use the same commands and hand signals every time. Everyone in the household should follow the same rules.
5. Practice in different locations: A dog who sits in your living room may not sit at the park. Gradually introduce distractions to generalize the behavior.
6. Be patient: Stubbornness is part of the breed's charm. If your dog does not respond immediately, stay calm and try again.

Essential Commands

Every Shih Tzu Maltese mix should learn these basic commands:

• Sit: The foundation of all training
• Stay: Builds impulse control
• Come: The most important safety command
• Leave it: Prevents eating dangerous items
• Drop it: Gets your dog to release objects
• Loose-leash walking: Makes walks enjoyable

Socialization

Socialization is critical for this breed. While Mal-Shis are naturally friendly, they can become shy or anxious if not exposed to new people, animals, and environments during their critical socialization period (3–14 weeks of age). Enroll in a puppy class, invite friends over, and take your puppy to safe public places to build confidence.

If you are struggling with training or socialization, consider hiring a professional trainer. Learn when to see a behaviorist for more serious issues.

Health Concerns

Shih Tzu Maltese mixes are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Because they are a crossbreed, they may inherit conditions from either parent breed. Responsible breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic conditions to reduce the risk of passing them on.

Common Health Issues

• Dental disease: Small breeds are prone to dental problems due to crowded teeth. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential. Explore dental chews for dogs with sensitive stomachs as a supplement to brushing.
• Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap slips out of place. It can cause lameness and may require surgery in severe cases.
• Hip dysplasia: While less common in small breeds, hip dysplasia can occur. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping can help.
• Eye conditions: Shih Tzus are prone to eye problems like cataracts, dry eye, and corneal ulcers. Regular veterinary checkups can catch these early.
• Respiratory issues: Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced) like the Shih Tzu can have breathing difficulties. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.
• Allergies: Both parent breeds can suffer from skin allergies. If you notice itching, redness, or hair loss, consult your vet. You can also explore dog food for allergies and sensitive stomachs.
• Hypoglycemia: Small puppies can experience low blood sugar. Regular feeding and monitoring are important.

Preventive Care

To keep your Mal-Shi healthy, follow these preventive care guidelines:

• Annual vet exams: Schedule a wellness checkup every year. Your vet can catch problems early when they are most treatable.
• Vaccinations: Keep your dog up to date on core vaccines, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. Learn more about the DHPP vaccine.
• Parasite prevention: Use year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Explore over-the-counter flea and tick treatments if you prefer to avoid prescriptions.
• Dental care: Brush your dog's teeth regularly and schedule professional cleanings as recommended by your vet. Learn about dog dental cleaning.
• Weight management: Obesity is a serious health risk for small dogs. Keep your Mal-Shi at a healthy weight by measuring food and limiting treats.

Diet & Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for your Shih Tzu Maltese mix's health, energy, and longevity. Because they are small dogs, their nutritional needs differ from those of larger breeds. They need calorie-dense food in small portions, and they are prone to weight gain if overfed.

What to Feed

Choose a high-quality dog food that meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for your dog's life stage. Look for a food with:

• Named animal protein first: Chicken, turkey, beef, fish, or lamb should be the first ingredient, not "meat meal" or fillers.
• Balanced nutrition: The food should contain the right balance of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
• Small kibble size: Small breeds need small kibble that is easy to chew and digest. Consider soft dry dog food for small dogs with bad teeth if your dog has dental issues.
• Life-stage appropriate: Puppies need puppy food, adults need adult food, and seniors may benefit from senior-specific formulas. Explore dog food for older small dogs if your dog is aging.

How Much to Feed

Feeding guidelines on the bag are a starting point, but every dog is different. The best way to determine how much to feed is to monitor your dog's body condition. You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs, and they should have a visible waist. Adjust portions based on your dog's weight and activity level.

For small breeds like the Mal-Shi, it is usually best to feed two or three small meals per day rather than one large meal. This helps maintain stable blood sugar and prevents hunger. You can also use an automatic dog feeder to manage portions if you are away during the day.

Treats and Supplements

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. Choose healthy treats like small pieces of chicken, carrots, or blueberries. Avoid toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol. If you want to give supplements, consult your vet first — some supplements can interact with medications or cause harm. Explore dog vitamins if your vet recommends them.

Fresh Water

Always provide fresh, clean water. Small dogs can become dehydrated quickly, especially in hot weather. Consider a dog water bottle for walks and travel.

Lifespan & Senior Care

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu Maltese mix is 12 to 15 years, which is typical for small breeds. With proper care, some live even longer. As your dog ages, their needs will change, and you will need to adjust their care routine accordingly.

Signs of Aging

• Decreased energy and playfulness
• Stiffness or difficulty jumping
• Cloudy eyes or vision problems
• Weight gain or loss
• Changes in appetite or thirst
• Confusion or disorientation
• Increased barking or anxiety
• Incontinence or accidents in the house

Senior Care Tips

1. More frequent vet visits: Senior dogs should see the vet every 6 months for wellness checks and bloodwork.
2. Joint support: Consider joint supplements or a senior dog food with glucosamine and chondroitin. Learn about dog food for older small dogs.
3. Dental care: Continue brushing and schedule regular professional cleanings. Dental disease can worsen with age.
4. Adjust exercise: Keep walks shorter and gentler. Swimming can be a great low-impact exercise if your dog enjoys it.
5. Comfortable bedding: Provide an orthopedic dog bed to support aging joints.
6. Mental stimulation: Continue to engage your dog's mind with puzzle toys and gentle training sessions.
7. Ramps and steps: Help your dog get on and off furniture with dog steps or ramps to reduce joint strain.

Senior dogs require more patience and care, but they are also incredibly loving and loyal. Enjoy the golden years with your companion by keeping them comfortable, engaged, and pain-free.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

If you have decided that a Shih Tzu Maltese mix is the right dog for you, the next step is finding a responsible breeder. Because this is a designer crossbreed, there is no breed club or registry that oversees breeding standards. This means it is up to you to do your research and avoid unethical breeders.

What to Look For

• Health testing: A reputable breeder will test their breeding dogs for genetic conditions like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye diseases. Ask to see the test results. Learn more about genetic testing for dog breeds.
• Clean facilities: Visit the breeder's home or kennel. The dogs should be clean, healthy, and well-socialized. Avoid breeders who keep dogs in cramped, dirty conditions.
• Transparency: A good breeder will answer all your questions, provide references, and let you meet the puppy's parents. They will also ask you questions about your lifestyle to ensure the puppy is a good fit.
• Health guarantee: Reputable breeders offer a health guarantee for their puppies. Learn about health guarantees for puppies.
• Breeder contract: A contract that outlines the responsibilities of both parties is a sign of a professional breeder. Explore breeder contract guides.
• Lifetime support: A good breeder will offer support throughout the dog's life and will take the dog back if you can no longer care for it.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Breeder will not let you visit the facility
• Puppies appear sickly, dirty, or fearful
• Breeder refuses to provide health testing results
• Multiple litters on the premises with no clear records
• Pressure to buy on the spot
• No health guarantee or contract
• Puppies are sold before they are 8 weeks old

If you encounter any of these red flags, walk away. It is better to wait for the right puppy from a responsible breeder than to support a puppy mill or backyard breeder. Learn more about puppy mills vs reputable breeders and backyard breeder dangers.

Adoption and Rescue

If you are open to adopting, consider checking breed-specific rescues or shelters. Shih Tzu Maltese mixes do end up in rescue, and adopting can be a rewarding way to give a dog a second chance. You can also explore dog breeders for small dogs if you prefer to go through a breeder.

Frequently Asked Questions