Maltese x Shih Tzu

The Maltese x Shih Tzu (also known as the Malshi or Malt-Tzu) is a designer crossbreed between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, first deliberately bred in the 1990s in Australia and the United States. The goal was to create a small, low-shedding companion that combined the Maltese's refined elegance and the Shih Tzu's sturdy, robust build and confident personality, while reducing the health challenges associated with purebred Shih Tzus. The cross has become one of Australia's most consistently popular small designer dogs. It is not recognised by the ANKC or major international kennel clubs. Also known as Malshi, Malt-Tzu, Malti-Zu and Shih-Tese. As a The Maltese x Shih Tzu (also known as the Malshi or Malt-Tzu) is a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, first deliberately bred in the 1990s in Australia and the United States. The goal was to create a small, low-shedding companion that combined the Maltese's refined elegance and the Shih Tzu's sturdy, robust build and confident personality, while reducing the health challenges associated with purebred Shih Tzus. The cross has become one of Australia's most consistently popular small dogs. It is not recognised by the ANKC or major international kennel clubs. Also known as Malshi, Malt-Tzu, Malti-Zu and Shih-Tese. As a crossbreed rather than a recognised purebred, individual dogs may vary in appearance and temperament depending on which parent breed they take after more strongly.

The Maltese x Shih Tzu is a low-exercise breed well-suited to apartment and compact living. Two short daily walks of 15–20 minutes plus indoor play provides adequate exercise. The breed is intelligent and trainable though can be mildly stubborn — consistent, positive, reward-based training produces good results, particularly with food motivation. Build separation tolerance from puppyhood: this breed is deeply people-dependent and prone to separation anxiety without early conditioning. Daily coat and dental care are the most significant ongoing commitments. Individuals with more pronounced Shih Tzu facial features should not be exercised in hot weather and require indoor air conditioning during Australian summers. Feed a quality small-breed diet in measured portions twice daily.

Regular grooming is essential. Daily brushing is ideal; a minimum of every second day is required to prevent mats forming in the silky, continuously growing coat. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks for trimming is strongly recommended — a short teddy bear or puppy cut significantly reduces daily brushing requirements. Clean the eye area daily to prevent tear staining and monitor for any discharge. Check and clean ears weekly. Brush teeth daily from puppyhood — dental disease is the most common long-term health concern in this cross. Bathe every three to four weeks. Trim nails every three to four weeks. Monitor breathing in warm weather for individuals with more pronounced Shih Tzu facial features.

Socialisation from puppyhood prevents fearfulness and anxiety in this small companion breed. Puppy school is recommended. Consistent positive training from day one manages the mild stubbornness inherited from both parent breeds. Teach children to sit on the floor with the dog rather than picking it up — falls can injure a dog of this size. Build independence gradually rather than reinforcing clinginess. Monitor more flat-faced individuals in warm weather and avoid exertion in heat.

Maltese x Shih Tzus benefit from daily mental stimulation despite their small size and low exercise needs. Short trick-training sessions, small puzzle feeders, sniff games and indoor enrichment engage the breed's intelligence and prevent boredom-related problem barking. Rotate toys regularly. A consistent daily routine suits this breed well. The most natural enrichment is being involved in household activities and receiving daily interaction with their family.

Dental Disease: The most significant long-term health concern — inherited from both parent breeds' small-jaw predispositions. Crowding, rapid tartar accumulation and early tooth loss are common. Daily brushing from puppyhood and regular professional dental cleans are essential.

Brachycephalic Concerns: Individuals inheriting more of the Shih Tzu's flat facial structure may show mild breathing difficulties in heat. Avoid exercise in hot weather and provide air conditioning in Australian summers.

Patella Luxation: Very common in small breeds; source from health-screened breeders.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: Hereditary condition causing femoral head degeneration; more common in small toy breeds. Source from screened breeders.

Tear Staining: Common in lighter-coloured individuals; daily eye cleaning and investigation of underlying causes recommended.

Separation Anxiety: Both parent breeds are prone; build independence from day one.