Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog (Malshi): Size, Temperament, Health and Care (2026)
What is a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog? It is a small designer cross, often called a Malshi or Malti Tzu, with one Maltese and one Shih Tzu parent. Most adults weigh about 6 to 12 pounds, stand 9 to 11 inches tall and live 12 to 14 years. Expect an affectionate lap dog with a silky, low-shedding coat that needs daily brushing.
A Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog suits many apartment dwellers, seniors and families with older kids who want a cuddly companion. It is not a low-maintenance pet, though. This guide covers size, coat, temperament, exercise, grooming, health, lifespan and cost, with each figure linked to its source.
Key takeaways
- A Malshi is a Maltese crossed with a Shih Tzu; it is not AKC recognized.
- Petfinder lists 9 to 11 inches, 6 to 12 pounds and a 12 to 14 year lifespan.
- Short daily walks and play are enough exercise, per PetMD.
- The coat sheds little but mats easily, so brush daily.
- Watch for kneecap, dental, liver shunt and eye problems.
In this guide
What Is a Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog?
PetMD, in an article by Sarah Mouton Dowdy, MA, reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM, calls the Malshi a relatively new cross between two classic lap breeds. Because it is a mixed breed, the American Kennel Club does not recognize it, and there is no breed standard. Each puppy can lean toward either parent in looks and personality.
PetMD notes that the Shih Tzu’s name means “lion dog” in Mandarin and that the Maltese was a favorite of the ancient Greeks and Romans. As general advice, expect a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog to blend the Maltese’s silky coat with some of the Shih Tzu’s shorter face and sturdier build.
Other Names: Malshi, Malti Tzu and Mal-Shi
You may see this cross listed as a Malshi, Mal-Shi, Malti Tzu, Mal-Tzu, Shih-tese or Shima. Rover lists several of these names. They all describe the same Maltese Shih Tzu mix, so search for each one when you look at rescues or breeders.
Where Did the Malshi Come From?
Sources disagree. Rover says the cross was first bred in Australia in the 1990s as a companion for people with dog allergies, while Petfinder describes it as a designer breed developed in the US. Either way, it is a modern mix rather than an old breed.
Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Size and Appearance
Petfinder lists the Malshi at 9 to 11 inches tall and 6 to 12 pounds. PetMD says a full-grown Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog will be about the size of its parents. PetMD gives the Maltese at 7 to 9 inches and under 7 pounds, and the Shih Tzu at about 10 inches and 9 to 16 pounds.
| Trait | Maltese | Shih Tzu | Malshi (mix) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 7 to 9 inches | About 10 inches | 9 to 11 inches |
| Weight | Under 7 pounds | 9 to 16 pounds | 6 to 12 pounds |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years | 10 to 18 years | 12 to 14 years |
| Coat | Long, silky, white | Long double coat | Long, silky, low-shedding |
| Face | Not flat-faced (general advice) | Short, flat muzzle | Usually longer than a Shih Tzu |
Sources: PetMD breed profiles for the Maltese, Shih Tzu and Malshi; Petfinder for the Malshi.
Coat Colors
Petfinder says Malshis can be white, black, brown or any mix of these. Rover adds that white or white with tan markings is most likely. As general advice, a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog’s puppy coat can lighten or darken with age, so ask to see the parents.
Is a Maltese Shih Tzu Mix Hypoallergenic?
Not fully. PetMD says this Shih Tzu Maltese mix’s minimal shedding has earned it a hypoallergenic reputation, but that a 100% hypoallergenic dog does not exist. PetMD makes the same point about the Maltese. As general advice, spend time with the dog before you commit if anyone at home has allergies.
Other Maltese Mix Breeds
The Malshi is one of several Maltese mix breeds. Other Maltese hybrid dogs include the Maltipoo (Maltese and Poodle), the Morkie (Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier) and the Malchi (Maltese and Chihuahua). As general advice, every Maltese mix dog is small, but coat type and energy depend on the other parent.
Malshi Temperament and Personality
PetMD describes the Malshi as affectionate, playful and outgoing when well socialized. It is smart and eager to please, but it can be willful and wary of strangers. Petfinder adds that the Malshi is alert and vocal and will bark to warn you about visitors. Petfinder also says a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog bonds strongly with its owners.
PetMD warns that Maltese form close bonds and may develop separation anxiety if left alone too long, and PetMD says Shih Tzu do best with plenty of attention. As general advice, a Malshi suits homes where someone is around for much of the day.
Is a Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Good With Kids?
PetMD says the Malshi is not a good fit for homes with small children, because toy dogs are easily hurt by accident, and notes that Malshis are also at risk around large dogs. Petfinder says they may need extra supervision with children and suit sure-footed people better than toddlers. As general advice, older, gentle children can do well with supervision.
Training and Socialization
PetMD recommends positive reinforcement for a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog and stresses socialization during the critical period up to about 16 weeks of age.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) says puppy classes can begin at 7 to 8 weeks, once a puppy has had its first vaccines. As general advice, keep lessons short and use tiny treats to suit a small stomach.
Pet Care Tip: Our suggestion is to practice short, calm departures from day one. Leave for a few minutes, return without fuss, and slowly build up the time. This can help a clingy Malshi learn that being alone is safe.
Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Exercise and Grooming
PetMD rates the Malshi as moderately energetic: short daily walks and play sessions are usually enough, and it adapts well to apartment life. PetMD warns that flat-faced dogs like the Shih Tzu face a higher risk of overheating and heatstroke, so as general advice, walk your Malshi in the cooler parts of hot days.
Grooming a Malshi
PetMD says the Malshi needs daily brushing and regular professional grooming, and suggests a shorter “teddy bear” cut to make home care easier. PetMD recommends trimming or tying back the hair around the eyes. As general advice, check the feet, ears and rear end for mats every week.
| Care task | How often | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily | PetMD, Petfinder |
| Professional grooming | Regularly (about every 4 to 8 weeks is a common schedule) | PetMD; timing is general advice |
| Tooth brushing | At least three times a week | PetMD |
| Dental cleanings | As your vet advises | PetMD |
| Eye-area hair | Trim or tie back | PetMD (Shih Tzu) |
| Exercise | Short walks and play daily | PetMD |
Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Health and Lifespan
PetMD says a Malshi’s lifespan is similar to its parents: 12 to 15 years for the Maltese and 10 to 18 years for the Shih Tzu. Petfinder gives 12 to 14 years for the mix. PetMD lists these conditions for the Malshi.
| Health issue | What it is | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Patellar luxation | Kneecap slips out of its groove; limping or bunny-hopping | PetMD |
| Periodontal disease | Bacteria damage the gums and teeth | PetMD |
| Liver (portosystemic) shunt | Blood bypasses the liver; poor growth, vomiting, seizures | PetMD |
| Hip dysplasia | Unstable hip that can lead to arthritis | PetMD |
| Eye problems | Cataracts, dry eye and progressive retinal atrophy | PetMD |
| Patent ductus arteriosus | Inborn heart defect; higher risk in Maltese | PetMD |
| Brachycephalic syndrome | Breathing, eye and dental issues from a flat face | PetMD |
A mix may inherit some, all or none of these risks.
Flat Faces and Breathing
PetMD lists brachycephalic syndrome for the Malshi but notes that Malshis tend to have longer muzzles than Shih Tzu. As general advice, choose a puppy with open nostrils and quiet breathing, and use a harness rather than a collar.
Extra weight strains small knees. If your dog needs to slim down, read our guide on how to help your dog lose weight.
When to call a vet right away: As general advice, call your vet or a 24/7 emergency animal hospital if your dog has a seizure, struggles to breathe or has blue-tinged gums, collapses on a hot day, or shows a red, painful or cloudy eye. Book a prompt visit for limping, bad breath or poor growth.
Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Price and Adoption
We could not find a reliable published average for Malshi puppies. For reference, iHeartDogs lists purebred Maltese puppies from reputable breeders at about $1,000 to $4,500, and Shih Tzu puppies at about $900 to $3,000, depending on the US region. As general advice, be wary of very cheap puppies, sellers who will not show the mother, or anyone who ships puppies without a visit.
Adoption is another option. As general advice, search Petfinder and local small-breed rescues for Malshis near you. Not sure what your rescue is? A dog DNA test can help.
7 questions to ask a breeder or rescue
- Can I meet the mother, and the father if possible?
- Have the parents had knee (patella) and eye checks?
- Was the puppy screened for a liver shunt?
- Does the puppy breathe quietly, even after play?
- How has the puppy been socialized so far?
- How does the dog cope when left alone?
- Will you take the dog back if it does not work out?
Example Scenario (illustrative)
Linda in Phoenix adopted a 9-pound Malshi who cried whenever she left the apartment. She practiced short absences, added a puzzle toy, and moved walks to early morning to avoid the heat. She also switched to a teddy bear cut. Within a month, he napped calmly while she ran errands.
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| “Malshis are 100% hypoallergenic.” | No dog is fully hypoallergenic (PetMD). |
| “Low-shedding means low grooming.” | Malshis need daily brushing (PetMD). |
| “Tiny dogs are perfect for toddlers.” | PetMD says Malshis are not a good fit for small children. |
| “Small dogs don’t need dental care.” | PetMD lists periodontal disease as a key risk. |
What most owners get wrong
In our experience, many owners skip brushing between grooming visits and end up with a painful, matted coat that has to be shaved. Five minutes of brushing a day, plus regular tooth brushing, prevents the two most common problems we hear about.
Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog: FAQs
What is a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix called?
It is usually called a Malshi, Mal-Shi or Malti Tzu. Rover also lists Mal-Tzu, Shih-tese and Shima.
How big does a Malshi get?
Petfinder lists 9 to 11 inches tall and 6 to 12 pounds.
Do Maltese Shih Tzu mixes shed?
Very little, but the coat mats easily. PetMD recommends daily brushing.
Is a Malshi hypoallergenic?
No dog is fully hypoallergenic, PetMD says, though Malshis shed minimally.
How long do Maltese and Shih Tzu mixes live?
Petfinder gives 12 to 14 years for the mix.
Are Malshis good with kids?
PetMD says they are not a good fit for small children; older, gentle kids can do well.
Do Malshis bark a lot?
Petfinder describes them as vocal dogs that bark to alert you to visitors.
Final Verdict: Is a Maltese and Shih Tzu Mix Dog Right for You?
A Maltese and Shih Tzu mix dog is a loving, playful lap dog that fits small homes and calm routines. In return, it needs daily brushing, regular grooming and dental care, and company for much of the day. Ask about knee, eye and liver checks, keep it cool in summer, and you can enjoy a devoted companion for many years.
Your next steps
- Meet adult Malshis or both parent breeds.
- Budget for grooming every few weeks.
- Book a vet check in your first week together.
Share your Malshi on the Pets Store Home Facebook page, and find more breed guides in our Dogs section.
About the author: Written and reviewed by the Pets Store Home Editorial Team, pet owners who check every guide against trusted sources.
How we checked this guide: Mix traits and health come from PetMD’s Malshi profile (reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM) and Petfinder. Parent breed facts come from PetMD profiles by Teresa Kho-Pelfrey, DVM (Maltese) and Katie Grzyb, DVM (Shih Tzu). Names and origin come from Rover, socialization from AVSAB, and parent breed prices from iHeartDogs.
Where sources differ, such as origin and size, we show each one. This guide was written in November 2026 and is reviewed every 12 months.
Last reviewed: November 2026.
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