INTRODUCTION

The Maltese Shih Tzu, also known as Mal-Shi, Malti zu and Malt-Tzu, is a hybrid or mixed breed of dog, a cross between the Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds. Created with the same goal as Doodles – to be a small, allergy-friendly companion that doesn’t shed much – this hybrid is a sweet lap dog that loves to play with children. Despite its unfortunate status as a designer breed, you can find these dogs in the care of shelters and rescue groups. Remember to adopt. One of the few “designer dogs” that does not originate from a poodle and therefore is not one of the ubiquitous “Poo” or “Doodle” hybrids, this adaptable mix is an adorable, sweet little dog with a long name. They can live in flats or large homes, and even novice pet parents will find these pups highly trainable and eager to please. If you are looking for a small, low-maintenance cuddle companion for the whole family, this may be the perfect dog breed mix for you.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Maltese Shih Tzu is a “designer breed”, a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. Designer dogs are not true breeds: they are crosses of two specific breeds. If you are interested in a Maltese Shih Tzu puppy, understand that their appearance, size and temperament are not as predictable as those of pure breeds, as it is not known what characteristics of each breed will appear in a given dog.Maltese Shih Tzus are adaptable and will be active and outgoing in a busy home, or quiet and reserved in a calm home. They require daily exercise and do well with a good walk or a romp in the yard.Maltese Shih Tzus can suffer from respiratory problems. Heat and humidity can aggravate these conditions, so an air-conditioned home is best.Some bark, but they do not seem to be as noisy as other small breeds, including the parent breeds. The Maltese Shih Tzus has little shedding, but needs daily brushing to keep its coat free of speckles. The Maltese Shih Tzus is affectionate and gentle, and can be an excellent companion for children and the elderly, as well as for first-time or timid owners. Because of their size, Maltese Shih Tzus can make excellent flat dwellers, but are happiest when they have a yard in which to enjoy the outdoors.To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet shop. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies and that they have sound temperaments.

HISTORY

The Maltese Shih Tzu was developed in the 1990’s in an attempt to create a low coat companion dog. It is somewhat surprising that it has gained popularity with a name that simply combines those of the two breeds used in the crossbreeding. Unlike many other designer dogs, the use of cute names has not been necessary to promote this hybrid.The Maltese Shih Tzu is currently one of the most popular hybrids in Australia, although its fame has also grown in North America and other countries.There are no breed clubs or breed standards for this dog, and many of the litters produced are the result of first generation crosses between Maltese and Shih Tzus. There have been some second generation crosses, but so far the Maltese Shih Tzu has not been the subject of third and subsequent generation crosses.