Maltese shih tzu crossbreed dogs, also known as ‘Malshi’, are a popular choice for dog lovers looking for a small, hypoallergenic companion. Despite their diminutive size, Malshi dogs have big personalities and are known for being affectionate, playful, and intelligent.

If you’re thinking of adding a Malshi to your family, here’s everything you need to know about the Malshi dog breed.

History

The Maltese Shih Tzu crossbreed originated in the 1990s in Australia, when two popular breeds – the Maltese and the Shih Tzu – were first crossed. The resulting offspring was a small, fluffy dog with the best traits of both parents.

Today, Malshi dogs are found all over the world and their popularity continues to grow. Thanks to their friendly dispositions and low-shedding coats, they make ideal pets for families with allergies or those who live in smaller spaces.

Appearance

Malshi dogs typically weigh between 6 and 12 pounds and stand between 9 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder. They have round heads with dark, expressive eyes and long, silky coats that can be either straight or wavy. Coat colours include white, cream, black, brown, red, silver, blue, or a mix of two or more colours.

Temperament

Malshi dogs are known for being loving and gentle companions. They bond closely with their families and enjoy spending time cuddling on the couch or playing fetch in the park. They do well with children and other pets and make great therapy dogs thanks to their calm natures.

While they are generally low-energy indoors, malshi dogs need daily walks or playtime in a fenced yard to stay healthy and happy. They can be stubborn at times but respond well to positive reinforcement training methods such as treats or praise. Like all dogs, they also benefit from socialisation early in life to prevent fearfulness or aggression around people or other animals.

Health

Malshi dogs are generally healthy but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. These include patellar luxation (dislocated kneecaps), eye disorders such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or cataracts, hip dysplasia (a malformation of the hip joint), elbow dysplasia (a malformation of the elbow joint) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). 

Grooming

Maltese Shih Tzus should be brushed daily with a soft bristle brush. The coat can also be trimmed short if desired, but this will need to be done by a professional groomer. It is important to avoid over-bathing Maltese Shih Tzus as this can strip the natural oils from their skin and coat, causing dryness and irritation. When bathing is necessary, use a mild shampoo made specifically for dogs.

In addition to regular brushing and occasional bathing, Maltese Shih Tzus also need their nails clipped on a monthly basis. Their ears should also be checked regularly for wax buildup or other signs of infection. If you are unsure how to properly groom your Maltese Shih Tzu, consult with a professional groomer or veterinarian for assistance.