What is the Maltese Shih Tzu mix breed dog?
The Maltese Shih Tzu Mix also called the Mal-Shi or Malti zu, and the Malt-Tzu is a mixed breed or hybrid dog breed. Itās a cross between Shih Tzu and Maltese breeds. This hybrid was created with the same goals as Doodles: to be a small, allergy-friendly companion that doesnāt shed much. It is a sweet lapdog who loves to play with children. The Maltese Shih Tzu mix breed is popular.
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Parent breed information
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Maltese
American Kennel Club states that the Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds. Also, it is widely believed that they originated on the island of Malta. They were also beloved pets of one Roman governor of Malta. Emperor Claudius probably made the introduction of the Maltese to Britain. Nobles and royalty have loved the breed for centuries.
These dogs are thought to have been small, white dogs with long luxurious coats who were the pets of wealthy Mediterranean countries for centuries. This is the origin story of the Maltese. These dogs may have been brought to Malta by Phoenician traders. In 1805, a Knight from Malta wrote about the long-haired breed. A portrait of the breed is kept in the Royal Library of Malta. It dates back to 1833 and is very similar to the modern Maltese.
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Shih Tzu
Although Shih Tzu means ālittle lion,ā this dog breed is not fierce. This dog breed is a lover and not a hunter.
Shih Tzus were bred to be companions and are happy, affectionate, and outgoing house dogs. They love to go with their owners from one room to the next. The Shih Tzu is a well-loved and unique toy dog breed. A Shih Tzu is a great companion dog. They have a small, strong body, long, sometimes expertly-styled hair, and floppy ears. Learn more about this adorable little dog and discover if it is right for you.
The American Shih Tzu Club was formed in 1963 by merging the Texas Shih Tzu Society and the Shih Tzu Club of America. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed as a member in 1969.
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Temperament
The Maltese Shih Tzu can be adaptable and intelligent. You will find him active and outgoing, but sometimes he can be quiet and laid back.
The Shih Tzu and Maltese are both companion dogs. A mix of the two breeds is likely to result in a dog with companion qualities. They are likely to be outgoing, friendly, and loyal.
These dogs are not aggressive. Both dogs are known to enjoy spending time with their human companions.
Both breeds are very playful, so keep them busy with toys and other games. You could end up with a few (very small) holes or puddles in your living room.
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Size
The Maltese is between seven and nine inches tall and weighs less than seven pounds. The Shih Tzu, smaller than the Maltese Shih Tzu mix, can be seen at nine to ten inches in height and weighs nine to sixteen pounds. As an adult, the Maltese Shih Tzu will be between these two.
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Lifespan
The Malshi can live a long life. The average life expectancy of these pups is between 12 and 14 years.
Health Concerns
The Shihtzu Maltese mix was created to eliminate the health problems of their parents. This breed can still have health issues, just like any other dog. Below are the top three most common health problems.
- Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome
- White Shaker Syndrome
- Patellar Luxation
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Coat
The Maltese Shih Tzu coat, which is usually long, allows owners to create beautiful haircuts. They can have straight or wavy coats. Although they donāt have an undercoat, these pups were specifically bred to reduce shedding. However, some shedding still occurs. Moreover, their coats are hypoallergenic, which is great for people with allergies who donāt want too many dog hairs around their home. Later, we will discuss grooming your Malshi.
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Color
As we mentioned, the Maltese Shih Tzu mixās color can change from litter to litter. They are usually white, brown, or black, but they can also come in different colors to make your dog stand out. It can be difficult to distinguish your Shih Tzu Maltese mix from other dogs if the markings of the pups are different.
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Training
Both dogs love their humans and are very loyal. However, the Shih Tzu can be stubborn. Although their size may make it seem easy to train them, you might need patience and perseverance to get the Malshi to be successful.
Positive reinforcement is important for any breed. Socialization is crucial for your dog. Socialization is exposing your dog, at an early age, to new people, dogs, and environments.
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Children and Other Pets
The Maltese Shih Tzu can be a friend and good with all ages. He is a great companion for older, more sensitive children, but he also enjoys small children.
You should teach your children how to touch and approach dogs. Also, supervise interactions between dogs with children. This will prevent any biting, ear pulling, or head pulling. Your child should never approach a dog while he is sleeping, eating, or trying to steal his food. It would be best if you never left your child alone with any dog, regardless of how friendly.
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Are they good family dogs?
These dogs are temperament-wise great pets for families, especially if there isnāt much space. Youāll need to be vigilant if you have children or dogs. Dogs of this size can get hurt if they are rough with each other.
Your Malshiās flat face will limit their ability to handle physical exertion. Their coat can be quite low-maintenance, but a regular trim might be the best option.
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Conclusion.
A Maltese Shih Tzu Mix is a hybrid small breed also known as a Malshi. They make great companions and are loyal, courageous, bold, confident, and affectionate. They are also excellent watchdogs. Maltese Shih Tzu puppies thrive when given lots of time, attention, and training. They shed very little but are not hypoallergenic. Therefore, they require lots of attention and grooming.