MalShi Breed - 8 Surprising Things to Know

The MalShi Breed is a crossbreed between the Maltese and Shihtzu breeds. They are an extremely intelligent, energetic, affectionate dog that can be very protective of their family. This article will cover some general information about this hybrid breed including their history, temperament, size and weight.
MalShis are one of the cutest little dogs you’ll ever see! Their small stature makes them perfect for apartments or condos with limited space to spare. These pups love to play around in your backyard all day long but they also make great companions for cuddling on the couch at night because they’re so affectionate! If you have children or grandchildren living with you then this is definitely the pet for you.

What is a MalShi breed?

A MalShi is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. They are part of the “toy group” which means they are technically a non-sporting dog breed. Commonly white in color, these little guys weigh no more than 10 pounds fully grown! These dogs have been bred to be family pets and will make wonderful companions for your children or even just enjoy long strolls along the beach because their coat repels sand well.

The name “MalShi” is a combination of the two breeds from which it was bred, a Maltese and Shih Tzu. The MalShi was developed several decades ago in an effort to create a breed that resembled small white Maltese with long hair.

Origin of the Maltese-Shih tzu Breed

The MalShi has been a hybrid breed for over 30 years. In the 1980s, a Maltese and a Shih Tzu were crossed together to create this new breed because of their extremely cute faces and cuddly nature. Although they have only recently been recognized as an actual dog breed in America, they have been around for quite some time in other countries such as Australia, France, England, and Japan.

It wasn’t until 2012 that the American Kennel Club finally decided these pups were distinct enough from the purebred parents to warrant their own separate classification within the AKC registry.

Physical Traits of the Maltese-Shih Tzu Breed

The MalShi breed is a small dog , meaning they won’t require much food to survive. They stand between 8 and 12 inches tall and can reach weights of up to 10 pounds when fully grown. These little guys have long silky coats that come in white or cream colors with tan, black or gray markings on their face, legs and tail. Their eyes are typically large and round and some even feature striking blue irises!

While they are small enough to take with you just about anywhere, don’t let their size fool you because these dogs have huge personalities. They’re very affectionate and love cuddling up on the couch next to you while watching your favorite television show.

Maltese-Shih Tzu puppies are not easy to come by so many people choose to adopt them from local shelters instead of purchasing one from a breeder. Since every family has different needs and budgets, make sure to do some research before deciding which shelter is best for you and go for a visit as soon as possible!

Why They are So Popular

These cute little dogs are so popular because they have wonderfully cuddly personalities. MalShi breed are very affectionate and love to follow their human companions around the house all day long. They also enjoy playing with children, other dogs and even cats!

The MalShi breed does not shed much at all which makes them perfect for those who suffer from allergies or simply like the look of a clean home. However, these pups do come with some setbacks because their silky coats require quite a bit of grooming attention throughout each week-long period.

What is the Temperament of the Maltese-Shih Tzu Breed?

The Maltese-Shih Tzu is not only super cute but also has a very loving and affectionate personality. These dogs are great family pets because they get along well with children, other animals and even strangers you may meet throughout your daily life. Although they’re quite small, these pups have huge personalities that will keep you entertained for hours at a time!

MalShis love nothing more than to be the center of attention which makes them perfect for families who like to take their dog everywhere they go including vacation or just around town.

How to Train Them

Training MalShis is actually quite easy. They are eager to learn and love spending time with their human companions. Be sure to start early so your furry friend picks up on all the commands you teach them, especially stay! These dogs can become easily distracted because they are so intelligent, so it’s important to keep them focused by using positive reinforcement techniques such as rewarding good behavior with treats or other rewards like toys and treats.

How Long They Live

These breeds are known to live between 10 and 14 years, so you’ll have your best friend for quite some time! But no matter how long they live, this is one pup you won’t want to leave behind. The Maltese-Shih Tzu breed makes the perfect companion for families with children who want a dog that never gets too big or out of control.

Common Health Problems with This Breed of Dog

These dogs are generally very healthy, but there are a few problems that MalShi breed may develop as they age. For example, these pups can become deaf as they grow older and their vision may begin to fade. However, this doesn’t stop them from being a loving companion!

They enjoy all of the attention you will give them and love nothing more than to play around with toys in your backyard. Keep an eye out for dental issues because their teeth tend to chip easily and can grow crooked. You may need to use a soft toothbrush and special dog toothpaste at least twice a week to keep their teeth healthy!

Conclusion:

Maltese-Shih tzu dogs are a mix of the two breeds, and they’re tiny (only weighing about 10 pounds). They can be difficult to train due to their stubbornness. However, with patience and consistency, you should have no problem teaching them new tricks.

This type of dog is also known for having health problems like seizures or allergies because it’s such a hybrid breed. If you want one as your pet make sure you research what diseases this mixed breed may inherit before bringing home a furry friend!

FAQ’s

How big are Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu is a snugly built little animal with a solid, sound structure. It stands from about 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and should weigh from 9 to 16 pounds. Its body length is slightly greater than its height, and it should be physically proportional all over, not too short or too small, but a true miniature breed dog. In movement, it moves with effortless, smooth strides, showing good drive and reach, with the head and tail held high, giving away its ancient royal bloodline.

Where does the Shih Tzu come from, and why was the breed developed?
The Shih Tzu lineage is hotly debated; however, one theory is that the Shih Tzu descended from a cross between the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso breeds. This cross breed that would eventually become Shih Tzus, were favourites of the Chinese royals and so prized that, for years, the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give any away.

The first dogs of the breed were imported into Europe in 1930 and were classified by the Kennel Club as “Apsos”. The first European standard for the breed was written in England in 1935 by the Shih Tzu Club, and the dogs were categorised again as Shih Tzu. The breed is now recognized by all of the major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world.

How is Shih Tzu pronounced, and what does it mean?
The most common and incorrect pronunciation of Shih Tzu is: Sh*t Zoo however, that isn’t actually how the little lion breed is supposed to be announced. According to the American Shih Tzu Club, the official and publicly confirmed pronunciation of Shih Tzu is: “Sheed-zoo."

The name comes from the Chinese language word for "lion" because this kind of dog was bred to resemble "the lion, as in traditional oriental art". Interestingly they are also known by another name tied to their European introduction. The Shih Tzu is sometimes called the Chrysanthemum Dog, a nickname that describes the way the hair on their face grows out in all directions. They look like a flower with a nose for the centre.

For more than one Shih Tzu, do you say Shih Tzus?
The age-old question, it is Shih Tzu or Shih Tzus? When writing or saying the plural of Shih Tzu, it is a common mistake for a person to write or say Shih Tzus, as one would think this is the normal way to put the dog in their plural form, and in fact, it is so common that I wouldn’t be surprised if we have even made such a slip up in this very article. However, the correct way to say Shih Tzus is Shih Tzu, due it being an irregular noun, allowing the plural of Shih Tzu can be Shih Tzu, just like ‘fish and fish’. With two or more Shih Tzu, there does not need to be an ‘s’.

What colours do Shih Tzus come in?
The Shih Tzu is a breed that can be found in an array of colours and with a variety of markings. It's common for owners to not know for sure what colour their Shih Tzu is. Sometimes a puppy may be referred to as an unofficial colour that is not recognized by the AKC, or another kennel club, through which the pup is registered. And in other cases, there can be some confusion when the colour listed on the papers does not seem to match what is seen. In addition to this, it's common for Shih Tzu dogs to change colour as they grow and mature, meaning that your little snowball of joy may turn sooty in their old age.

How much attention does a Shih Tzu need?
Despite their small stature, Shih Tzu are relatively active dogs. Puppies can be extremely hyper and adults are most content when given opportunities to release stored-up energy and be out and about. Without regular moderate exercise, a Shih Tzu can start to feel pent up and frustrated. This can manifest as behaviours such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.

Aim to take your little guy or gal for a minimum of two 20 to 30-minute walks per day, along with sessions of play like fetch to meet exercise requirements for this breed. If so, this will allow your Shih Tzu to enjoy being inside at home, able to relax beside you (or at your feet) and with a calmer disposition.

Do Shih Tzu get along with other pets?
In general, the Shih Tzu gets along quite well with other dogs, large and small. Shih Tzu rarely suffer from the ‘short leg syndrome’ common in small dogs, and more often than not, are simply little bundle of love.

However, every dog has their own personality, and it will depend on how well your dog as well as the other dogs have been socialized. Overall the Shih Tzu breed is calm and very playful and enjoys a variety of canine friends. But keep in mind each dog has their unique personality and circumstances. To say they will all behave exactly the same isn’t very realistic.

How do I provide the best care for a Shih Tzu?
Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Watch their diet, make sure they get plenty of exercise, regularly brush their teeth and coat, and call a veterinary clinic or pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual.

It is also a good idea to create a routine for your Shih Tzu to lessen their anxiety and ensure they live a happy and calm life. Build their routine care into your schedule to help your Shih Tzu live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during their lifetime. Most importantly a proper diet and exercise routine is key to the long-term health of your pet.