All About The Malshipoo: Maltese Shih Tzu & Poodle Blend

Do you have a cute Maltese Shih Tzu? Want to learn more about them? Well, you have landed on the right page. Maltipoo breed is a cross between a Maltipoo and a Shih Tzu or a Shihpoo and a Maltese. These three favorite breeds mixed into one create the ideal breed.

Do you know poodle mix and German Shepherds are listed as the second most intelligent dogs? Yes, a smart Malshipoo. Shih Tzu is the more laid-back of the three, while the Maltese is the most outgoing. An energetic lapdog is the best word to describe this breed. Let’s learn more about Malshipoo in this article.

Quick Breed Summary Table

Size: 6 to 10 inches.

Life span: 12 to 14 years.

Weight: 6 to 12lb.

Other names: Mal-Shi, Malti zu, and the Malt-Tzu

Coat: Medium length, curly or straight.

Do They Shed: No, hypoallergenic.

Color: Various.

Temperament: Moderate.

Socialization: Very easy to socialize.

Intelligence: High levels of intelligence can be stubborn.

Destructive Behavior: No.

People Skills: Very friendly with everyone they meet, even good with kids.

Activity Levels: Energetic, but in moderation.

Overview

A Malshi is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. Both of these parent breeds are small in stature and make excellent cute apartment living pets. Because it is a mix, the American Kennel Club does not recognize this dog breed.

It does, however, place both of its parent breeds in the Toy Group. This crossbreed was bred for the first time in the 1990s to create an adorable, playful pet dog that sheds little. This pet dog is very low maintenance. It does not require a lot of grooming because of its low shed.

The Maltese Shih Tzu temperament is generally calmer and more tolerant than the Maltese temperament. The breed is known for being a confident animal, and those who own them describe them as “gutsy.”

They have a good reputation for being extremely tolerant of children of all ages. It will gladly play along to please its owner, even kids.

They would like to remain disciplined at all times, especially during initial home training. The breed will tolerate other pets.

But the Maltese puppy will need to be socialized from an early age. Due to the lack of a breeding standard for your designer lappet, their appearance cross slightly.

They will stand between 20 and 30 cm tall and weigh between 3 and 6 kg. A healthy and happy Maltese Shih Tzu life is between 12 and 14 years old.

History

The Maltese Shih Tzu was created in the 1990s to posts as a  low-shedding companion dog. It’s a little surprising that they become famous with a name that simply combines the terms of the two breeds used in the crossbreeding.

Unlike many other designer dogs, puppy names were not required to promote this hybrid. Mal-Shi has grown in North America and other countries. It is now one of Australia’s more popular pets. This dog has no breed clubs or standards.

Many puppies are the result of first-generation breeding between Maltese and Shih Tzus. There has been some second-generation breeding, but no third or subsequent generations have been bred.

Maltese Shih Tzu Appearance

Since this dog is a mixed breed, there are no guarantees as to what your puppy will look like. What we can say is that you will have a one-of-a-kind puppy.

Height and Weight

The average weight of this mixed breed is around 7 pounds, But they have been known to grow up to 12 pounds. They should be about 6 to 10 inches off the ground when you see them.

Colors and Coat

This dog will have a medium-length, non-shedding coat, making it hypoallergenic. Coats are available in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, and silver.

They can be all white or a combination of white and brown/tan. Usually, they wear a brown mask around their eyes, giving them the appearance of a superhero!

Maltese Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament

The companion of the parent breeds determines the nature of a hybrid. This mix’s natural behavior is energetic yet lazy in this case.

This puppy will let you know when it is ready to be played with on its terms. Tiny puppies, however, are almost always prepared to cuddle in your lap or snuggle on the couch with you.

Despite diminutive stature, the Malshi has a fiery personality. Pups will walk free to strangers and make friends with them right away. They have a moderate level of energy and an outgoing personality.

This playful dog is fun with both strangers and children. These eager pups have no trouble socializing because all they want to do is be a great companion for everyone they meet.

Both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu are known for their loudness. As a result, you can anticipate their Mix barking or yipping as a warning (so they could potentially make good watchdogs).

The Maltese Tzu will develop a strong bond with you and your family. Your pet will never want to leave your side or your family. This is a playful quality. But it should be used with caution when moving around. As this breed is so small, it is very vulnerable to injury.

A spoiled Maltese Shih Tzu could develop bad habits. Never sign your pet the impression that it is in charge of you. The Maltese Shih Tzu, like all dogs, needs a strong and dominant pack leader.

If your Maltese Shih Tzu is going to behave, they need clear and consistent training from a young age, as well as fair and consistent discipline. The breed is cheerful and friendly, and it gets along well with other pets in the apartment.

As always, it’s best to socialize them early, as this will tend to prevent any future aggression.

Caring for a Maltese Shih Tzu

Typically, the Malshi takes three or more marionette cuts per year. Daily brushing and the traditional center part and a top knot. The Shih Tzu is the most common grooming regimen if supporting a full coat or “show coat.”

Grooming and Shedding

As this dog breed is hypoallergenic, the shed is not an issue. Brushing your dog daily is a fun play. Once a month, they should be taken to the groomer. They do, however, enjoy being groomed. It would be best suited to a family who can groom him whenever he wants.

Feeding and Diet

Your pet should be fed at least twice a day and no more than three times a day. They expect to consume 45 calories per pound of body weight daily. Calories Consumed Per Day should be around 350 cups (s) of kibble per day.

1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals, is the recommended daily amount.

The amount of food your adult dog consumes is determined by its health, size, age, build, metabolism, and level of activity. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals who expect different amounts of food.

A very active dog will require more than a dog who is sedentary. The quality of dog food you buy makes a difference as well. The better the dog food, the more it will nourish your dog, and the less you’ll have to shake into his bowl.

Rather than leaving food out all the time, measure his food and feed him twice a day to keep your Maltese Shih Tzu in good shape. Give him the eye and hands-on tests if you’re not sure if he’s overweight. Look down at him first.

There should be a waist visible. Then, with your thumbs along his spine and fingers spread downward, place your hands on his back. Without pressing too hard, you should be able to feel but not see his ribs. If you can’t, he’ll need to eat less and exercise more.

If you like to feed your dog with sausages then check on this article Can dogs eat sausage?

How to Train a Maltese Shih Tzu?

Consistency is essential when training of Maltese Shih Tzu Mix comes to life. Crate training and housebreaking are both relatively simple for them. If the training is done correctly, they will tend their crate as their personal space.

Eventually, enter it on their own in your apartment. They will be food motivated, just like any other dog. So make sure treats are always available.

If the dog has a higher percentage of Shih Tzu than Maltese, training them may be more difficult. This is due to Shih Tzus’ tendency to be stubborn. Establish rules from the beginning and be assertive when teaching them. This will help your dog understand who is in charge.

When complimenting your dog, use lots of praise and raise your voice to a higher pitch. You’ll also want to teach your dog how to be quiet. They won’t be particularly vocal, but some of their noise may be bothersome at first.

A first-generation Malshi is usually a focused, intelligent dog. In general, the Malshi is a top student when compared to training a Shih Tzu. The Malshi is usually very perceptive and eager to learn and comply.

It pictures them as an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Or those who lack the free time, patience, and training skills required for formal housetraining. Socialization your family tzu with children, friends, and animals at a young age.

Exercise Requirements:

• This breed requires daily exercise, but toy dog breeds do not require a lot of it.
• Because they are so small, their bodies do not require or can handle the same level of activity as a German Shephard or a Pitbull.
• You should keep your dog on a leash because they will bolt if they see a squirrel or even another dog.
• The number of daily walks: 1.
• 30 minutes of total exercise per day is required.

Shih Tzu Maltese Mix Pros and Cons

Pros:

• It’s ideal for people who live in apartments.
• Get along well with children.
• Adaptable to a wide range of situations.
• Allergy-friendly (so great for people with allergies).
• Active and enthusiastic about having a good time.

Cons:

• Can be a bit yappy and noisy at times.
• Known for being obstinate and suffering from small dog syndrome.
• Separation anxiety is a problem for you.
• It is impossible to exercise for too long.

Common Maltese Shih Tzu Diseases & Conditions

If you’re like most dog parents (or soon-to-be dog parents), you must adore your pet. Taking care of their health is very important. Having pet insurance could save you the trouble of going to the vet in the future, with reimbursement for all vet bills!

Whether it’s an illness, injury, or wellness expense, you can save a lot of money on your pet’s medical bills. Be it mental stimulation or any other health issue, have a word with your vet immediately. Here is the list of diseases and conditions with their symptoms.

Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, usually due to inflammation. It affects all breeds but is particularly common in Maltese Shih Tzus.

Hypothyroidism can cause abnormal weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, ear infections, and lethargic behavior, among other things.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: All breeds of dogs are affected by brachycephalic airway syndrome, but smaller dogs are particularly affected. In hot Australian weather, it’s a major concern that can lead to severe respiratory distress.

Intervertebral Disk Disease: This condition in which the disc between the vertebras is damaged, resulting in swelling and leakage.

Inactivity or lethargic behavior, shivering, limping, or the inability to bend down to eat are common symptoms. If you notice any of these behaviors, contact your veterinarian.

Hip Dysplasia: When the hip does not form properly, it may become lame over time.

Portosystemic Shunt of the Liver: The shunt of the liver is when the portal vena or one of its offshoots forms an anomalous link with another vein, causing blood to bypass or ‘shunt’ the liver.

Poor muscle development or stunted growth are common symptoms, which are usually caused by a birth defect. Another symptom of a liver portosystemic shunt is disorientation.

Facts About Shih Tzu Maltese

• The Maltese Shih Tzu Mix is one of Australia’s most popular dog breeds.
• The Maltese Shih Tzu, developed during the nineties, is an extremely new hybrid race, but its parents are some of the oldest known races of domesticated dogs. Shih Tzu and Maltese are amongst them.
• This Mix should last between twelve and fourteen years. They enjoy being trained and learning new tricks.
• Maltese Shih Tzus are frequently advertised as hairless dogs. There is no such thing as a hairless dog, but the Maltese Shih Tzu sheds significantly less than its parent breeds, making them an ideal companion for allergy sufferers.
• Small Dog Syndrome is a severe problem for these canines. Due to their personality and characteristics, Malshis make excellent therapy dogs.
• The Maltese Shih Tzu can develop serious behavioral issues if not properly trained, disciplined, and given plenty of human attention. Barking and snappiness are two problems that can arise. If these intelligent animals are not stimulated, they may become destructive in the home.

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