The Maltese Shih Tzu mix, often called a Malshi, is a small designer dog that combines the charm of the Maltese with the easygoing personality of the Shih Tzu. These little companions are bred for companionship—pure and simple. They’re friendly, low-shedding, and incredibly loyal, making them a favorite for seniors, families, and anyone wanting a cuddly lap dog.
If you want a dog that thrives on affection and doesn’t require a huge yard or hours of running, the Malshi could be your perfect sidekick.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) |
| Weight | 7 to 14 pounds (3 to 6 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Soft, long, straight or wavy |
| Colors | White, cream, tan, black, or combinations |
| Temperament | Affectionate, social, alert |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Exercise Needs | 20 to 30 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Low (may be hypoallergenic) |
| Trainability | Moderate to high |
| Average Price | $500 to $1,500 |
| Best For | Apartment living, families, seniors, first-time owners |
A Little Breed Background
The Malshi is a modern mix, developed in the last few decades to be a small companion with fewer of the health and grooming demands of some toy breeds.
Both the Maltese and Shih Tzu were historically lapdogs for royalty—so expect your Malshi to be just as fond of comfort and pampering.
Because both parents are from the toy group, Malshis stay small and manageable, even for city dwellers or less active households. They were bred specifically to be gentle, loving, and low-shedding, not for hunting or working.
What Do Malshis Look Like?
Most Malshis inherit a compact body with a soft, fluffy coat. Their faces are typically round with dark eyes, a short snout, and floppy ears. Depending on the genetics, their coats may be long and straight like a Maltese or slightly wavy like a Shih Tzu.
They come in a variety of colors—white and cream are most common, but tan, gray, and black markings are also possible. Their coats are low-shedding but need regular grooming to stay tangle-free.
Personality and Behavior
Malshis are known for being social, affectionate, and alert. They thrive on attention and love to follow their humans around the house. These dogs are generally happy to meet new people and get along well with children and other pets.
They are also playful without being hyper, making them well-suited for small spaces. Expect bursts of energy followed by long naps.
Because they’re so people-oriented, Malshis may develop separation anxiety if left alone often. They prefer to be part of your everyday routine—whether that’s a walk around the block or lounging on the sofa.
Are They Good for Families?
Yes, Malshis can make excellent family dogs. They’re gentle enough for older children and playful enough to keep things fun. Due to their small size, supervision is important around toddlers who might accidentally be too rough.
They’re also a great fit for retirees or people living in smaller homes who want a loving but manageable companion. Need help choosing the perfect name for your pint-sized pup? Check out this list of Small Dog Names for some adorable ideas.
Training and Exercise
Malshis are eager to please but may have a stubborn streak now and then, especially if they take after the Shih Tzu. Consistent, positive training methods work best—praise and treats go a long way.
They don’t need intense physical exercise but still benefit from daily walks and short play sessions. Without it, they might become bored or a bit lazy. A 20- to 30-minute walk each day is usually enough. For more tips on how to effectively train your dog, check out these Best Dog Training Methods.
Grooming and Coat Care
One of the reasons this mix is so popular is because of its low-shedding coat. However, low shedding doesn’t mean low maintenance.
- Brush 3–4 times a week to avoid matting
- Bathe every 3–4 weeks or as needed
- Clean ears regularly to prevent infection
- Trim nails monthly
- Schedule haircuts every 6–8 weeks if kept in a long style
If you’re prone to allergies, this mix may be a better option, but no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
Health Outlook
Malshis are generally healthy but can inherit issues from either parent. Common health concerns include:
- Dental problems (common in small breeds)
- Respiratory issues (due to short snouts)
- Eye problems like tear staining or dryness
- Luxating patella (slipping kneecaps)
- Allergies and skin problems
A proper diet, good dental hygiene, and regular checkups can help prevent many of these concerns.
Nutrition and Feeding
Malshis do well on high-quality dry kibble formulated for small dogs. Most need around ½ to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
Stick to:
- Small-breed formulas for easier chewing
- Foods with real meat and minimal fillers
- A feeding routine to avoid picky eating or overeating
Avoid free-feeding, and monitor their weight—these little dogs can gain pounds quickly.
What Does a Malshi Cost?
You can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for a Malshi puppy from a breeder, depending on location and lineage. Adoption fees are usually much lower, around $100 to $500.
Make sure your breeder health-tests the parent dogs and doesn’t breed for looks alone.
Should You Get a Maltese Shih Tzu Mix?
Malshis are ideal for people who want a loving, easygoing companion that doesn’t shed much and doesn’t need hours of exercise.
They’re best for:
- Seniors looking for a lapdog
- First-time owners
- Families with older children
- Apartment or condo dwellers
They’re probably not the right choice if you’re away from home all day or want a dog with a high activity level.