About Malshi's
Most Mal-Shi's will take on the characteristics of both parents, but there is no guarantee how the gene pool will be mixed so each new litter is unique. The size of Mal Shi dogs are determined by the parents. The normal size of a Maltese is about 4 to 7 pounds and the Shih Tzu standard suggests that they should weigh between 9 and 15 pounds.
There are many dogs that do not conform to the standard, so you must check the parents if you want to know how big your puppy will get. A rough estimate would be between 6 and 15 pounds. Most Mal Shi puppies will be lighter in weight than the average Shih Tzu.
Most Mal Shi dogs tend to take on color combinations of the parents, although most Mal Shi puppies will inherit most of the coloring from the Shih Tzu parent. A Maltese is always white and a Shih Tzu can come in many different colors including white, black, gold, brown (liver), red, silver, or brindle.
The coat of the Mal-shi is typically long, straight, and dense. They may or may not have a double coat that is typical of the Shih Tzu. Even though most Mal-Shi puppies will resemble Shih Tzu dogs, their noses will be longer. They will carry their tail up and over their body just as both Shih Tzu and Maltese dogs do.
Both breeds are non-shedding so this characteristic will be passed down to the Mal-Shi puppy. Even though you will never find puppy hairs on your furniture, these breeds to loose hair and brushing is very important to keep the coat knot-free.





Who are the Parents?
When deciding on a puppy it is very important that you know who the parents are.
The Mal Shi is not a pure bred dog so you cannot register it with the AKC, although there are other registration sites such as the American Canine Hybrid Club that allows you to register your hybrid dog.
Temperament
The ideal Mal-shi is affectionate, loving, and devoted. They should be playful, spunky, and clever. They do best in a home with older, considerate children. They generally do well with dogs and non-canine pets. Mal-shi's are wary and suspicious of strangers and are quick to alert their family to visitors and out of the ordinary sounds.
Care
The Mal-shi requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Bathing should be done when necessary using a mild shampoo. The ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Dental hygiene is important to prevent early tooth loss. They may be prone to such health issues as slipped stifle, skin problems, eye and respiratory problems, and spinal disc disease.
Coat
The coat of the Mal-shi is typically long, straight, and dense. They may or may not have a double coat.
Training
Early socialization and obedience are recommended. The Mal-shi may be stubborn and difficult to housebreak. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency.
Activity
The Mal-shi is well suited for apartment living provided they are sufficiently exercised and mentally stimulated. They are able to meet the majority of their exercise needs indoors but enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and off-lead play time in a securely fenced yard.
Ownership
If you are looking for Mal-Shi - Malshi puppies for sale from reputable Mal-Shi - Malshi breeders or to adopt Mal Shi Malshis from a Mal-Shi - Malshi rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Mal-Shi - Malshi puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Mal-Shi - Malshi puppies that make great pets.


