What is a Mal-Shi?
The Mal-Shi is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Maltese with a Shih Tzu. This mix has become popular because it combines the best qualities of both parent breeds. Malteses bring gentle and playful personalities, while Shih Tzus contribute their affectionate and playful nature.
Most Mal-Shis weigh between 7 and 12 pounds and stand 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan ranges from 11 to 17 years with proper care. Because this is a mixed breed, individual dogs can vary quite a bit in appearance and temperament depending on which parent they take after more.
If you are considering adopting or buying a Mal-Shi, understanding both parent breeds helps you prepare for what to expect. Use our breed quiz to see if a Mal-Shi fits your lifestyle, or check the calorie calculator to plan their nutrition.
Parent Breeds at a Glance
| Trait | Maltese | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | small | small |
| Weight | 4-7 lbs | 9-16 lbs |
| Height | 7-9" | 9-10" |
| Lifespan | 12-15 yrs | 10-18 yrs |
| Activity | Moderate | Low |
| Grooming | High | High |
| AKC Group | Toy | Toy |
Mal-Shi Temperament and Personality
The Mal-Shi typically shows a blend of personality traits from both parents. Common traits include being gentle, playful, charming, affectionate. Individual personalities can lean more toward one parent, so meeting the specific puppy before committing is always a good idea.
Early socialization plays a big role in how any dog develops. Expose your Mal-Shi puppy to different people, dogs, sounds, and environments during the first 16 weeks. This builds confidence and reduces the chance of fear-based behaviors later in life.
Health and Common Conditions
Mixed breeds often have fewer health problems than purebreds because of increased genetic diversity. That said, Mal-Shis can still inherit conditions from either parent breed. Regular vet visits and preventive care go a long way in keeping your dog healthy.
Health issues to watch for:
- ● White Dog Shaker Syndrome
- ● Patellar Luxation
- ● Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- ● Dental Problems
- ● Brachycephalic Syndrome
- ● Eye Problems
- ● Liver Problems
Ask for health clearances from the breeder before buying a Mal-Shi puppy. Responsible breeders test both parent dogs for hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and breed-specific genetic disorders.
Grooming Needs
Grooming level: High
Mal-Shis require regular brushing (3-4 times per week minimum) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Their coat can mat easily if neglected.
Check our grooming schedule tool for a personalized plan.
Exercise Requirements
Activity level: Moderate
About 30-45 minutes of daily exercise works well for most Mal-Shis. A couple of walks and some playtime usually meets their needs.
Use our calorie calculator to match food intake with activity level.
Feeding Your Mal-Shi
A Mal-Shi weighing 7 to 12 pounds typically needs about 105 to 180 calories per day, depending on age and activity level. Puppies need calorie-dense food split into 3-4 meals. Adult dogs do well with 2 meals per day.
High-quality protein should be the foundation of your Mal-Shi's diet. Check our best food for Malteses and best food for Shih Tzus for brand recommendations that work well for this mix. For puppies, our puppy weight calculator helps track healthy growth.
Mal-Shi FAQ
How big does a Mal-Shi get?
A full-grown Mal-Shi typically weighs between 7 and 12 pounds. Size can vary depending on which parent's genes are more dominant.
How long do Mal-Shis live?
The average Mal-Shi lifespan is 11 to 17 years. Mixed breed dogs often benefit from genetic diversity, which can reduce certain breed-specific health risks.
Are Mal-Shis good family dogs?
Mal-Shis tend to be great family dogs. They inherit traits from both Malteses and Shih Tzus, which often includes a friendly and loyal temperament. Early socialization is still important for any dog.
Do Mal-Shis shed a lot?
Shedding depends on which parent's coat the Mal-Shi inherits. Malteses have high grooming needs, while Shih Tzus have high grooming needs. Your Mal-Shi's coat type will determine how much brushing is required.
How much exercise does a Mal-Shi need?
Mal-Shis need regular daily exercise. With a Maltese parent (Moderate energy) and a Shih Tzu parent (Low energy), expect your Mal-Shi to need at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day.
What health problems do Mal-Shis have?
Mal-Shis can be prone to health issues from both parent breeds, including White Dog Shaker Syndrome, Patellar Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Dental Problems. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet help prevent many of these conditions.
How much does a Mal-Shi cost?
Mal-Shi puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 from a reputable breeder. Prices vary based on the breeder's location, parent pedigree, and coat color. Adoption from a rescue is a more affordable option and usually costs $200 to $500.
Are Mal-Shis easy to train?
Both Malteses and Shih Tzus are known for their intelligence, which usually makes Mal-Shis responsive to training. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Start training and socialization early for the best results.