The Mal-Shi Shop
Mal-Shi Breed Summary
Intelligent, Devoted, Loving, Happy and Friendly
Malshi's are a hybrid cross between the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. It's thought that they were originally developed in the states over the last twenty years, most probably in response to a need for a small, non-shedding dog, suitable for hoomans with allergies.
They are now a very popular and charming breed and have found their way into many peoples heart and homes! Their adaptability, hypoallergenic coats and lovely personalities are what make them so suitable for so many types of families and lifestyles.
| Lifespan | 12 - 14 Years |
| Height (at the withers) | Males and Females 10in - 20in |
| Weight | Males and Females 5lb - 15lb |
| Coat | Coats are Usually Loose and Wavy depending on which of the Parents Physical Characteristics they Get. |
| Color | Cream with or without tan markings, White with or without tan markings, Black, Brown, Black and white, Brown and white, Black and brown |
| Eye color | Dark |
| Common health issues | Chiari malformation syringomyelia, Acquired tremor syndrome, Necrotising meningoencephalitis, Myxomatous degeneration of the mitral valve, Patent ductus arteriosus, Pyloric stenosis, Portosystemic shunt, Cataracts, Entropion (Eyelids Folding Inwards), Hydrocephalus, Patellar luxation, Hereditary deafness, Hip Dysplasia, Breathing issues, Hernias, Dental problems, Bladder stones, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Renal dysplasia, Allergies, Autoimmune diseases, Diabetes, Inflammatory bowel disease, Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, Immune mediated thrombocytopaenia, Hyperthyroidism, Eye injuries |
| Other Names | Maltese x Shih Tzu, malt-tzu, maltzu, and malti-zu |
It's important to remember with any designer cross-breed that temperaments and personality will vary from puppy to puppy however, these cute dogs are generally known for their charming, personalities. They absolutely love hoomans and form very strong bonds with their families. If they are left alone for too long, they can develop separation anxiety, which may result in them developing some destructive behaviors. For this reason, they need someone to be around with them for most of the day. They are a very intelligent breed which means they are easy to train. Malshis don't need lots of exercise and they are an ideal breed for first time owners.
A relatively new designer cross breed, the Malshi is thought to have been developed over the last ten or twenty years. They were created as a response to hoomans wanting a dog that was more unique than other breeds, possessing distinctive physical characteristics. The Malshi is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu and it's also claimed, although not proved, that cross breeds are hypo-allergenic and prone to fewer health issues. As a new breed, pups will vary from litter to litter with very different physical and mental traits. For example, some may look more Maltese like in physical appearance, whereas others maybe more out-going, in likeness to their parent, the Shih Tzu.