The Malshi is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, resulting in a small, affectionate companion.
Malshis typically weigh between 4-7 pounds and stand about 8-10 inches tall.
Their coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Daily brushing is essential to keep their coat clean and healthy-looking.
Physical Characteristics
The Maltese Shih Tzu is a Toy breed and is therefore very small. As a puppy, they will measure around 7 inches tall and weigh 4 lbs, but by two months of age, they will have mostly stopped growing and will certainly be of adult height and weight by 12 months old.
They normally reach an adult height of 10 inches tall and weigh between 6 to 12 pounds. Some people say they resemble a pom pom, with big bulgy eyes that can be hazel or amber in color.
Their coats are hypoallergenic and perfect for those who have allergies, as they do not have an undercoat and were bred specifically to eliminate shedding.
Shih Tzu Characteristics
Maltese Shih Tzus are normally born in litter sizes of 6 to 8 puppies, which is a relatively large sized litter considering their small bodies.
Puppies from this breed can cost around $500 – $1000 each, although prices will vary from breeder to breeder.
Each litter will look slightly different and have different colorations.
Take a look at this: Full Grown Shih Tzu Puppies
Size and Appearance
A Maltese Shih Tzu is a Toy breed of dog, so they don't grow to be very big.
They typically weigh between 6 to 12 pounds and measure 8 to 10 inches tall, making them a contender for the toy-sized group.
Their size can vary, but they usually stop growing around 2 months old and reach their adult height by 12 months old.
The Mal-Shi's head and body are proportionate to each other, with a beautiful blend of characteristics from their parents.
Some Mal-Shis have big bulgy eyes, which can be hazel or amber in color, while others have dark, large round eyes complimented by a dark, button nose.
Their coats can be straight or wavy, and they don't have an undercoat, which makes them hypoallergenic and perfect for those with allergies.
For more insights, see: Toy Cockapoo Full Grown
Health and Care
As a Malshi owner, you'll want to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your full-grown dog. Regular vet checkups are crucial to catching any problems early.
The Maltese Shih Tzu mix is generally a healthy hybrid, but it can inherit health conditions from both parent breeds. Both the Maltese and Shih Tzu are prone to brachycephalic respiratory syndrome, which can lead to breathing issues and loss of breath if they're overexerted.
To ensure your Malshi stays healthy, it's essential to keep an eye out for signs of white shaker syndrome, a condition that causes the whole body to shake due to inflammation in the brain. If you suspect your dog has this condition, take them to the vet immediately.
Patellar luxation, a slipped kneecap, is another common issue that can affect small dog breeds like the Maltese. Regular cardiac exams are also recommended to check for heart problems.
Here are some potential health issues to watch out for in your full-grown Malshi:
- Patellar luxation
- Dental issues
- Eye problems
- Reverse sneezing
By being aware of these potential health issues and taking your Malshi to regular vet checkups, you can help ensure they live a long, happy life.
Daily Life
Living with a Malshi is a joyful experience. They have moderate energy levels and require daily walks of around 15 to 30 minutes.
Their small size makes them suitable for living in small apartments and with city dwellers. A yard is not necessary, but it would certainly be appreciated.
They are intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation, which can be achieved through playtime and interactive activities. This will keep them entertained and happy.
As a companion dog, they cannot be left alone for too long without becoming distressed. This means they are best suited for families or individuals who can spend quality time with them.
A leisurely walk through the neighborhood, around 20 to 30 minutes long, is plenty for the Malshi. Throw in some playtime in the yard or at home throughout the day, and they are bound to be more than happy.
They prefer to be in the company of others and would do well in a multi-dog household. With proper socialization, they can also live with other animals.
Broaden your view: Black Malshi
Family Compatibility
The Malshi full grown makes an excellent family dog, highly adaptable to small city apartments or large countryside homes, as long as they get enough love and attention. They thrive in environments with a couple or just an individual, as long as they receive sufficient attention.
These dogs are not the most active and don't require long walks every day. They'll happily curl up on the couch with you for a cuddle and can be very affectionate. They can also be playful and love to be around children, so you get the best of both worlds with this pup!
Easily trainable and sociable, these dogs get along with everyone, including humans and animals. They can become a little feisty around those they don't know, but with the right socialization from a young age, this can easily be fixed.
You must make sure you're able to give your Malshi the attention they need. While this doesn't mean you need to be with them at all hours of the day, you'll need to play with them and show them love when you are with them.
A fresh viewpoint: Black and White Malshi
Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:
- They need lots of love and attention to thrive
- They're not high-maintenance when it comes to exercise, needing only 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise
- They require regular grooming if you keep their hair long
If you can provide the necessary attention and care, the Malshi full grown will make a wonderful addition to your family.
Care and Maintenance
Malshi full grown dogs require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their hair silky smooth. You can take them to a professional groomer for a unique haircut, or opt for a shorter cut like the teddy bear cut that needs brushing only once or twice a week.
Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting in dogs with floor-length hair. This will also help to remove dirt and prevent odor.
A bath twice a year is recommended to keep your Malshi's hair silky smooth. However, if you have a traditional Maltese Shih Tzu mix with floor-length hair, you may need to bathe them more regularly to prevent a greasy-looking pup.
Your Malshi's tiny mouth and cramped teeth make dental health crucial. Brush their teeth daily with doggy toothpaste to prevent decay and further health problems down the line.
Cleaning the corners of your Malshi's eyes is essential, as they are prone to drainage. Regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and brushing are also necessary to keep your Malshi looking and feeling their best.
You should visit a professional groomer roughly once every 4 to 6 weeks for a good trim. This will help keep your Malshi looking stylish and well-groomed.
Training
Training a Malshi requires patience and positive reinforcement techniques, such as verbal praise and treats, to avoid over-spoiling and bad behavioral habits.
They thrive with mental stimulation, which can be as simple as spending time with you and being shown affection. This is a great way to bond with your Malshi.
You should start training as a game to keep them engaged, and they'll love to play fetch and games like hide and seek. Malshis are intelligent dogs that are eager to learn new tricks and please their owners.
Socialization is crucial, and you should introduce your Malshi to many other dogs, including larger breeds, to increase their confidence and promote polite behavior. This will help them interact well with dogs, other animals, humans, and new situations.
Their confident nature means they'll bark at visitors, intruders, and anyone entering their space, so learning the 'quiet' command is essential to avoid annoying your neighbors. A single bark to alert you is fine, but no more after that.
Malshis can make excellent therapy dogs due to their loving, intuitive, and loyal nature. They'll grow a strong affection for their "one" human, making them a great choice for emotional support animals.
Ownership and Costs
The Mal-Shi is not an uncommon mix, making it relatively easy to find a reputable breeder after some research. Look for independent reviews online and don't be afraid to ask Maltese and Shih Tzu breeders for recommendations.
A Mal-Shi pup's average price is between $500 and $1,500, but some breeders may charge more.
Breeders & Costs
Finding a reputable breeder for a Mal-Shi can take some time and research, so be prepared to spend some time online looking for independent reviews.
The price of a Mal-Shi puppy varies between breeders and can range from $500 to $1,500, with some breeders charging even more.
Setting up your home with all the necessary puppy gear is a must, and it's not just a one-time cost.
Intriguing read: Bernedoodle Puppy vs Full Grown
Owning Essentials
Owning a home can be a significant investment, with the average cost of a down payment ranging from $13,000 to $20,000.
Research suggests that homeowners spend around 1-3% of their home's value on maintenance each year.
A well-maintained roof can last up to 30 years, but regular inspections can help prevent costly repairs.
Homeowners often underestimate the cost of utility bills, with the average household spending around $2,000 per year on electricity alone.
It's essential to consider these costs when deciding whether to rent or buy a property.
In many areas, property taxes can account for up to 50% of a homeowner's annual property costs.
A thorough home inspection can reveal potential issues before they become major problems.
The cost of replacing a furnace can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the type and size of the unit.
Mix and Parent Breeds
The Maltese Shih Tzu mix is a unique breed, and it's essential to understand that its characteristics can vary greatly. Unlike some other breeds, it's not guaranteed to be multi-generational, so each litter can be different.
The characteristics of this breed are not set in stone, and some pups might be almost 100% like one parent, while others might be an equal mix of both.
It's crucial to have no expectations about which parent your Maltese Shih Tzu mix will take after more, as this can vary within the same litter.
Shih Tzu Mix
The Shih Tzu Mix is a unique breed that can vary greatly in characteristics. Some Shih Tzu Mixes might be almost 100% like one parent, while others might be an equal mix.
These dogs are not multi-generational like Labradoodles or Cockapoos, so their characteristics are not guaranteed and can vary within the same litter. This means you'll need to like both Shih Tzus and the other parent breed to be a good match.
Suggestion: Full Breed Bulldog
Parent Breeds
The Maltese and Shih Tzu are similar in size, so it doesn’t matter which breed is the mother or father.
Both the Maltese and Shih Tzu have a long history, which gives us a good understanding of their characteristics and traits.
These breeds have been around for a while, so we know a lot about them, unlike some other mixed breeds.
You might enjoy: Maltese Shih Tzu Adults
Frequently Asked Questions
How big will a Malshi get?
A Malshi, full grown, typically weighs between 9-16 pounds and is a small breed. With proper care, they can thrive in a compact package.
What is the temperament of a Malshi dog?
A Malshi is typically outgoing and confident, making it a great companion for families with small homes and gardens. They are not naturally nervous, shy, or fearful, which is ideal for a small dog.
Sources
- Maltese Shih Tzu - Complete Mix Breed Guide (animalcorner.org)
- Maltese Growth & Weight Chart - Pawlicy Advisor (pawlicy.com)
- Maltese Shih Tzu Mix: Facts, Traits, & More (caninejournal.com)
- Mal-Shi (dogbreedinfo.com)
- Malshi (Maltese & Shih Tzu Mix): Breed Guide, Info, ... (dogster.com)
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