DogMixFactsMal-Shi
Also searched as Shih Tzu Maltese Mix
The Mal-Shi is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese. Most grow into toy-sized dogs of 6–12 lb and live 11–16 years.
Photos show the purebred parents. There is no single look for a mix: puppies in one litter can resemble either side.
How big does a Mal-Shi get?
Pounds. The dark band is where most Mal-Shi dogs end up; the light band is the full range between the smallest and largest parent.
Height runs 8–10 inches at the shoulder, against 9–10.5 in for the Shih Tzu and 7–9 in for the Maltese.
Coat, energy and training
Shih Tzu and Maltese have low-shedding coat, so some puppies shed little. It is not guaranteed: coat type varies even within one litter, and no dog is truly hypoallergenic.
Daily walks and some play are enough for most of these dogs.
The Shih Tzu rates moderate and the Maltese moderate; a puppy may lean either way.
Expect regular brushing and professional grooming every few weeks.
Temperament
The Shih Tzu is usually described as affectionate, playful, outgoing. The Maltese as gentle, playful, charming. A mix can take after either parent or land in between. If you can, meet both parents of a puppy before you choose.
Shih Tzu vs Maltese vs the mix
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Mal-Shi | Maltese |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 9–16 lb | 6–12 lb | 4–7 lb |
| Height | 9–10.5 in | 8–10 in | 7–9 in |
| Lifespan | 10–18 yr | 11–16 yr | 12–15 yr |
| Shedding | very low | very low | very low |
| Energy | moderate | moderate | moderate |
| Group | Toy | mixed | Toy |
Questions about the Mal-Shi
- How big does a Mal-Shi get?
- Most grow to 6–12 pounds and 8–10 inches at the shoulder. Because puppies can take after either parent, the full possible range is 4–16 pounds.
- How long does a Mal-Shi live?
- A typical lifespan is 11–16 years, the midpoint of the Shih Tzu (10–18 years) and the Maltese (12–15 years).
- Does a Mal-Shi shed?
- Shedding is very low. Shih Tzu and Maltese have low-shedding coat, so some puppies shed little. It is not guaranteed: coat type varies even within one litter, and no dog is truly hypoallergenic.
- Is a Mal-Shi easy to train?
- Trainability is moderate, based on how both parent breeds respond to training. Start early and keep sessions short.
Other Shih Tzu mixes
- Shorkie
- Poodle Shih Tzu Mix
- Chihuahua Shih Tzu Mix
- Shih Tzu Bichon Mix
- Dachshund Shih Tzu Mix
- Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix
- Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix
- Shih Tzu Schnauzer Mix
- Shih Tzu Havanese Mix
- Pit Bull Shih Tzu Mix
Other Maltese mixes
- Maltipoo
- Morkie
- Chihuahua Maltese Mix
- Pomeranian Maltese Mix
- Maltese Bichon Mix
- Dachshund Maltese Mix
- Maltese Schnauzer Mix
- Maltese Jack Russell Mix
- Maltese Havanese Mix
- German Shepherd Maltese Mix
Figures are calculated from each parent breed's standard height, weight and life expectancy. How we calculate.