Malshi Dog Breed Guide 2025: Traits, Care & Tips

Did you know the Malshi is one of the fastest-growing dog breeds in the U.S.? This charming hybrid combines the gentle nature of the Maltese with the playful spirit of the Shih Tzu, making the Malshi dog breed a top choice for many pet lovers today.

In a industry where finding the perfect companion is essential, understanding the Malshi’s unique traits can help you make an well-informed choice. Our guide delves into what makes the Malshi so special—from their friendly and intelligent demeanor to their low exercise needs and hypoallergenic coats. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or adding to your family, we’ll cover everything you need to know to welcome a Malshi into your home confidently.

Join us as we explore the delightful characteristics, care tips, and the joys of living with a Malshi, ensuring you and your new furry friend have a harmonious and happy life together.

Breed Overview

Origin

The Malshi originates from the intentional crossbreeding of a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. This designer dog breed emerged in the 1990s, primarily in Australia, and has since gained popularity worldwide. As a modern crossbreed, the Malshi combines traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a unique and charming companion.

Size

Malshis are classified as very small dogs, making them ideal for various living situations. Their typical size ranges are:

• Height: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm)
• Weight: 6-12 pounds (3-5.5 kg)

This compact size ensures that Malshis are easy to manage and well-suited for apartment living or homes with limited space.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Malshi ranges from 12 to 14 years. With proper care, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and adequate exercise, Malshis can enjoy a long, healthy life. Their longevity makes them excellent long-term companions.

Appearance

• Coat: Malshis feature a long, silky, and slightly wavy coat, inheriting the luxurious fur of their parent breeds. Their coats come in various colors, including white, white with tan markings, black, brown, black and white, brown and white, and black and brown. The diversity in coat colors adds to their visual appeal.
• Grooming: Regular grooming is essential for maintaining a Malshi’s coat. Ideally, grooming should occur once a week to prevent matting and keep their fur healthy. Consistent grooming also helps in reducing shedding, making them suitable for individuals with mild allergies.

Energy Level and Exercise

Malshis possess high energy levels but require only moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They benefit from short walks, typically under an hour a day, ensuring they receive adequate physical activity without excessive exertion. Also, Malshis enjoy active playtime, which stimulates their minds and bodies, fostering a well-balanced temperament.

Temperament

Malshis are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their families. Their playful spirit and gentle demeanor make them excellent companions for individuals and families alike.

Health Considerations

Overall, Malshis are generally healthy dogs with few breed-exact health issues. Regular veterinary care and a healthy lifestyle contribute to their well-being. Potential owners should ensure they receive proper nutrition, exercise, and preventive healthcare to maintain their vitality.

Training and Socialization

Malshis are intelligent and eager to please, making training relatively straightforward. Consistent positive reinforcement techniques yield the best results. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults, comfortable in various environments and with different people and animals.

Suitable Living Environments

Due to their small size and adaptable nature, Malshis are well-suited for both urban and rural living environments. They are equally comfortable in apartments and houses, provided they receive enough attention and stimulation. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in diverse settings, making them versatile companions.

Appearance

Size

Malshis stand between 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 6 to 12 pounds. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living and easy to handle in various environments.

Coat and Color

The Malshi features a fluffy, long coat that blends characteristics from both the Maltese and Shih Tzu. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and tangling. Common coat colors include black, brown, white, brown and white, and black and brown. Also, some Malshis display a mix of these colors, adding to their unique appearance.

Facial Features

Malshis inherit the expressive black eyes and black nose from the Maltese, combined with the Shih Tzu’s facial structure. Their faces are well-proportioned, featuring a blend of white and colored fur. The shape of their eyes is typically rounded, giving them a friendly and alert expression.

Feature	Details
Height	9 to 11 inches at the shoulder
Weight	6 to 12 pounds
Coat Length	Long, fluffy, slightly wavy
Common Colors	Black, brown, white, brown and white, black and brown
Facial Traits	Black eyes, black nose, rounded eyes

Temperament

Affectionate and Loyal

Malshis demonstrate remarkable affection and loyalty to their families. They form strong bonds with their owners, often choosing one person as their primary companion. This loyalty makes them dependable and loving pets who thrive on close human interaction.

High Energy and Playful

Malshis maintain high energy levels even though their small stature. They actively participate in playtime activities such as running, wrestling, and fetch. Regular engagement in these activities ensures they remain mentally and physically stimulated, contributing to their overall well-being.

Velcro Dogs

Known as “Velcro dogs,” Malshis closely follow their owners throughout the home. They prefer to stay near their family members, even accompanying them to the bathroom. This intense attachment can result in separation anxiety if they are left alone for extended periods, highlighting the need for consistent companionship.

Social and Friendly

Malshis exhibit a friendly demeanor towards strangers and other animals. Their sociable nature makes them adaptable to various social settings, allowing them to interact comfortably in different environments. This trait enhances their suitability as family pets.

Intelligent and Trainable

Malshis display high intelligence, making them quick learners during training sessions. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, enabling them to master commands and adapt to household routines efficiently. Their trainability ensures they become well-behaved members of the family.

Calm Indoors

While Malshis enjoy playtime and activity, they also exhibit a calm and composed behavior indoors. They are content to relax with their owners, making them ideal companions for both active and quiet households. This balance contributes to a harmonious living environment.

Alert and Protective

Malshis maintain an alert presence, making them attentive to their surroundings. They can act as effective watchdogs, notifying their owners of any unusual activities. This protective instinct adds an extra layer of security to their role as family pets.

Adaptable to Various Living Situations

Malshis adapt well to different living environments, whether in apartments or larger homes. Their versatile temperament allows them to adjust to various household dynamics, making them suitable for a wide range of living situations.

Health

Malshis are generally healthy, but they may experience exact health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups ensure their ongoing well-being.

Common Health Issues

Malshis can encounter several health concerns, including:

• Patellar Luxation: This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap, leading to limping, bunny-hopping, or knee sounds during movement. It’s more common in smaller breeds like the Malshi.
• Dental Problems: Periodontal disease is prevalent in Malshis, where bacteria buildup damages gums, teeth, and bone. Consistent dental care, such as brushing and professional cleanings, is crucial to prevent these issues.
• Allergies: Atopic dermatitis affects some Malshis, causing itching, redness, and skin irritation. Identifying and managing allergens helps mitigate these allergic reactions.

Maintaining a healthy Malshi involves regular exercise, a balanced diet, and attentive grooming. Early detection and treatment of health issues contribute to a long, vibrant life for your Malshi dog breed.

Care and Grooming

Proper care ensures our Malshi remains healthy and vibrant. We focus on their nutritional needs and regular exercise to support their well-being.

Feeding and Nutrition

Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for our Malshi’s health. We provide high-quality dog food customized to their small size, typically offering 1/2 to 1 cup daily, split into two meals. Monitoring their weight prevents obesity, which can lead to health issues like patellar luxation and dental problems. Fresh water should always be available. We incorporate supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, to promote a healthy coat and skin, aligning with their grooming needs.

Treats should be given in moderation, accounting for no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Also, regular feeding schedules aid in digestion and establish routine. Consulting with a veterinarian allows us to adjust their diet based on age, activity level, and any health concerns, ensuring our Malshi receives optimal nutrition for a long, active life.

Exercise Needs

Our Malshi requires regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Daily walks of 15 to 30 minutes suffice, providing sufficient activity without overexertion. Interactive play sessions, such as fetch or gentle tug-of-war, stimulate their energy levels and strengthen our bond. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys or training exercises prevents boredom and promotes intelligence. Given their small size and moderate energy, our Malshi adapts well to indoor activities, making them suitable for apartment living. Consistent exercise routines help manage their weight and reduce the risk of behavioral issues. Also, regular physical activity supports their cardiovascular health and overall longevity. Balancing exercise with adequate rest ensures our Malshi remains happy, healthy, and well-adjusted within our household.

Training and Behavior

Training a Malshi dog breed proves effective due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. We use positive reinforcement techniques, including praise, treats, and playtime, to achieve successful training outcomes. Consistency and patience play pivotal roles; short, captivating training sessions maintain their interest and attention. Techniques such as clicker training, shaping, and luring encourage learning new skills and behaviors efficiently.

Early socialization is crucial for Malshis, particularly from birth to around 16 weeks of age. This period ensures they interact well with humans and other animals, fostering a well-adjusted temperament. Exposing them to various environments and experiences during this time helps mitigate behavioral issues later in life.

Temperament

Malshis display an affectionate, happy, and playful temperament. They thrive on human interaction, enjoying close proximity to family members. Their friendly nature makes them excellent companions, as they form strong bonds with their households. Malshis exhibit high energy levels, yet their exercise needs remain moderate, benefiting from daily walks and active play sessions.

Their sociable demeanor extends to strangers and other animals, improving their suitability as family pets. Malshis are known as “Velcro dogs” due to their tendency to closely follow their owners, providing both companionship and a sense of security. Their intelligence allows them to adapt quickly to household routines and expectations, making them both lovable and manageable.

Behavioral Traits

Malshis respond well to structured environments where rules are clear. Their keen intelligence means they quickly grasp commands and household expectations. But, without proper training and socialization, they may develop undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking or separation anxiety. Regular mental stimulation through interactive toys and training sessions helps maintain their well-being.

Their alertness contributes to their role as effective watchdogs, as they are quick to notice and respond to unfamiliar activities. Even though their alertness, Malshis remain gentle and non-aggressive, balancing their protective instincts with a friendly disposition.

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward desired behaviors with treats and praise to reinforce learning.
• Short Sessions: Keep training sessions brief and enjoyable to maintain engagement.
• Consistency: Apply the same commands and rules to avoid confusion.
• Early Socialization: Introduce Malshis to various people, animals, and environments early on.
• Mental Stimulation: Incorporate puzzle toys and interactive games to challenge their intelligence.

By adhering to these training and behavioral strategies, Malshi owners can cultivate a harmonious and well-behaved companion, ensuring a fulfilling relationship for both the dog and the family.

History

Origin

The Malshi dog breed emerged in Australia during the 1990s through the deliberate crossbreeding of the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. Breeders aimed to develop a small, hypoallergenic companion suitable for individuals with dog allergies. This designer breed quickly gained popularity due to its charming appearance and friendly temperament, making it an ideal choice for urban living and families alike.

• Maltese: The Maltese boasts an ancient lineage spanning over 2,000 years. Originating from the Isle of Malta, these dogs resemble Spitz or Spaniel-type breeds. Historically, Maltese dogs were cherished in Greece, Rome, and Egypt, often featured in art and literature. Their popularity soared in England, where they became favored among the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth I. The Maltese is renowned for its long, silky white coat and gentle disposition.
• Shih Tzu: The Shih Tzu also has a rich history, believed to date back to 8,000 B.C. in China. Bred as companion dogs for Chinese nobility, Shih Tzus were prized for their sturdy build and affectionate nature. They played important roles in Chinese courts, symbolizing loyalty and companionship. The breed’s distinctive facial features and luxurious coat have made it a beloved pet worldwide.

The combination of the Maltese and Shih Tzu resulted in the Malshi, inheriting the best traits from both parent breeds. The Malshi benefits from the Maltese’s elegant appearance and the Shih Tzu’s sturdy health, creating a resilient and adaptable companion. This hybrid retains the hypoallergenic coat characteristic of the Maltese, making it suitable for those with sensitivities. Also, the Malshi’s friendly and playful nature reflects the sociable personalities of both parent breeds, ensuring a harmonious addition to any household.

By merging the historic qualities of the Maltese and the Shih Tzu, the Malshi dog breed represents a modern solution for dog lovers seeking a compact, affectionate, and low-shedding pet. Its development in the late 20th century showcases the ongoing evolution of dog breeding to meet exact lifestyle and health needs, maintaining the charm and heritage of its distinguished ancestors.

Conclusion

Choosing a Malshi means welcoming a loving and playful companion into your home. Their affectionate nature and adaptable personality make them perfect for families and individuals alike. We appreciate how their hypoallergenic coats and manageable size fit seamlessly into various lifestyles.

Caring for a Malshi is rewarding, thanks to their loyal and friendly demeanor. They thrive on human interaction and bring joy to every day with their spirited energy and sweet disposition. Embracing a Malshi ensures a strong bond and countless happy moments for your family.