Maltese Shih Tzus (aka Malshi) are sweet-natured and full of charm — they may be small, but they have big hearts! Their adaptable personality makes them perfect for households of all kinds, especially those looking for a gentle companion.
Whether you’re thinking about adding a pup to your pack or already have a dog, this is your essential guide to Maltese Shih Tzus. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this beautiful breed – from holistic health, the best food for Maltese Shih Tzus to training tips – so you and your pup can make the most of every moment together.
Top breed takeaways
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Breed history
The Maltese Shih Tzu was developed in Australia in the 1990s to create a small, affectionate companion dog with a low-shedding coat. Bred purely for companionship, they thrive on human connection and make loyal, loving pets.
Key characteristics
Maltese Shih Tzus are affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable, making them great for families and first-time dog parents. They’re known for being confident and gregarious, making friends wherever they go. But they’re also happy to snuggle on your lap for a lazy afternoon snooze.
Health considerations
While generally healthy, they can be prone to dental issues, patellar luxation, and breathing difficulties due to their shorter snouts. A diet rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants, combined with regular vet check-ups, supports their long-term well-being.
Appearance and size
Small but sturdy, Maltese Shih Tzus typically weigh between 3-7kg and stand around 20-30cm tall. Their soft, low-shedding coats require regular grooming and come in a variety of colours, including white, black, brown, and mixes of these.
Maltese Shih Tzu personality and temperament
Friendly, sweet and always up for a cuddle, Maltese Shih Tzus are the ultimate social companion dogs.
They’re intelligent but can be a little stubborn, which means they need patience and consistent training. Their affectionate nature makes them a great fit for first-time dog parents or families looking for a loving, low-maintenance pup.
These social butterflies love being around people and other dogs. Whether it’s a friendly face at the park or a visitor at home, they’re more likely to be playful and greet them with a wagging tail than a wary glance, especially if they’ve been well-socialised from an early age.
Maltese Shih Tzus aren’t big barkers, but they can be vocal when excited or left alone for too long. They form strong bonds with their humans, so separation anxiety can be a concern. If you live in an apartment or have close neighbours, training and a well-established routine will help keep their chatter to a minimum.
As for guarding the house? They’ll definitely let you know when someone’s at the door, but their friendly nature means they’re more about making new friends than fending off strangers.
How long do Maltese Shih Tzus live?
Maltese Shih Tzus have an expected lifespan of between 12-14 years, but you can help your pup live a long and healthy life with a holistic approach to care.
The choices we make for our dogs can help them to thrive, not just survive: a nourishing real food diet, daily exercise, mental stimulation, training, proactive veterinary check-ups, and grooming, all work together to promote your pup’s healthspan (how long your dog is healthy) and quality of life.
Read more: The real cost of chronic illness in dogs and how you can prevent it →
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What does a Maltese Shih Tzu eat?
The best Maltese Shih Tzu diet is rich in high-quality protein, nutrient-dense ingredients, and healthy fats. Lyka’s meals are designed to meet the needs of every Maltese Shih Tzu, from curious puppies to wise seniors.
Maintaining the right weight and body shape is crucial for a Maltese Shih Tzu as excess weight can affect their mobility, quality of life, and lifespan.
Lyka real food meals are gently cooked to retain the flavours, textures, and nutrients of each carefully selected ingredient. It means they’re easy to digest, support hydration, and taste delicious – great for fussy pups. They’re also custom-portioned to match your dog’s daily needs, so you can help them maintain their optimum weight and body condition.
Read more: The life changing benefits of real food for dogs →
Do Maltese Shih Tzu puppies need special food?
Contrary to popular belief, puppies don’t need special puppy food if they’re getting the right portion of nutrient-dense real food. Puppies need a diet containing high-quality protein for tissue growth, essential vitamins and minerals for bone development and brain function, and low GI carbohydrates for slow-release energy.
Read more: What should puppies eat? Expert nutrition tips for optimal development →
Read more: Puppy vs adult food: what our experts want you to know →
Common Maltese Shih Tzu health concerns
Maltese Shih Tzus from reputable breeders are generally healthy, but they can still develop health issues or inherit conditions from their parents.
Brachycephalic airway syndrome
Their short snouts can lead to breathing issues. Watch for signs of difficulty breathing or overheating, especially during exercise and the summer months.
Dental problems
Small breeds are often prone to dental issues. Regular brushing and dental check-ups are essential to keep their teeth and gums clean and healthy.
Read more: Protecting your dog’s dental health: how to clean your dog’s teeth →
Joint issues
Maltese Shih Tzus can be prone to luxating patellas; a developmental condition where the kneecap slips out of place.
Read more: Arthritis in dogs: tips to naturally help your pup's sore joints →
Maltese Shih Tzu coats, grooming, and hygiene tips
Regular grooming keeps your Maltese Shih Tzu’s coat healthy while also supporting their skin, nails, and teeth. Simple routines like brushing, bathing, and nail trims help prevent common issues like matting, overgrown nails, and gum disease, keeping them comfortable and thriving.
Coat types and shedding
Maltese Shih Tzus have a soft, low-shedding coat that requires regular maintenance to prevent tangles and matting. Their fur can grow long, so routine trims — especially around the eyes — help with visibility and hygiene.
Like all dogs, Maltese Shih Tzus do shed, but far less than many other breeds. Their low-shedding coat makes them a great option for those looking for a dog with minimal fur around the home.
Grooming
Brushing a few times a week with a soft bristle or slicker brush keeps their coat smooth and free of knots. Regular nail trims prevent discomfort, and a diet rich in omega fatty acids, like those in Lyka’s Kangaroo and Lamb Bowls, support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Maltese Shih Tzu hygiene
Introduce nail trimming early to help them get used to the process, using positive reinforcement to make it stress-free.
Keep an eye on their paws for debris, redness, or irritation between the pads. While they don’t need frequent baths, use a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo when needed to keep their coat clean and soft.
Maltese Shih Tzus need a bath every 6-8 weeks, unless they’ve discovered a muddy puddle or rolled in something smelly. Always use dog-friendly shampoo, as human products can irritate their skin.
Brushing your dog's teeth a few times a week helps reduce tartar buildup and supports healthy gums.
Routine ear checks are important to spot signs of infection, wax buildup, or irritation. You can give them a gentle wipe with a clean, damp cloth, but be careful not to reach too far into their ear, as this can cause damage.
Maltese Shih Tzu exercise requirements
Maltese Shih Tzus may be small, but they have plenty of playful energy and need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. A couple of short walks (about 30 minutes a day) combined with interactive playtime is usually enough to meet their needs.
They love engaging in mentally stimulating activities, so training sessions, puzzle toys, and socialising with other dogs help keep their minds sharp. Without enough stimulation, they can develop boredom-related behaviours like excessive barking or chewing.
Maltese Shih Tzus can be a little mischievous, especially if left alone for too long. Their affectionate nature means they prefer exercise with their humans—whether it’s a game of fetch or a leisurely stroll around the block.
For sustained energy and overall well-being, a diet with high-quality protein and low-glycaemic ingredients is ideal. Lyka meals, featuring ingredients like butternut squash and purple sweet potatoes, provide steady energy and support their playful spirit.
Training a Maltese Shih Tzu
Maltese Shih Tzus are affectionate, intelligent, and known for their stubborn streak, making training a mix of charm and challenge. While they love to please, they also have a mind of their own — meaning consistency is key.
Start training your Maltese Shih Tzu from day one, whether they’re a pup or a new addition to your home. Set clear expectations and stick to them—these little dogs are quick learners but will test boundaries if given the chance.
Positive reinforcement works best. Praise, gentle encouragement, and high-value rewards will keep them engaged. And remember, training isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing part of their daily routine.
Nutrition plays a role in more than just their coat and energy levels — it supports their brain, too. Amino acids like tryptophan are essential for neurotransmitter production, influencing mood and trainability. Look for meals with tryptophan-rich proteins like free-range chicken and eggs, both found in Lyka’s Chicken Bowl.
Maltese Shih Tzus can be vocal and prone to separation anxiety, so recall training and socialisation are essential.
A well-trained pup is a confident pup — one that’s ready to enjoy every adventure by your side.
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training →
Training a Maltese Shih Tzu puppy
When you first welcome a puppy into your home, toilet training is usually the top priority. Generally speaking, puppies can hold their bladder for one hour every month of age, so they’ll need frequent bathroom breaks throughout the day and night. There will be a few accidents along the way, but with patience and consistency, they’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Malshis are quick learners with amiable natures, making training a fun activity for you both. With positive reinforcement, you’ll see how eager they are to please. Enrichment activities and early socialisation build your puppy’s confidence and cognitive skills. Obedience classes are also a great way to bond with your pup and make them responsive to your commands and cues.
The gold standard of training is force-free training, focusing on building obedience through positive reinforcement.
How to choose a reputable Maltese Shih Tzu breeder
If you’ve decided that a Maltese Shih Tzu is the right breed to fit your life, and you can commit to a lifetime of love and care, the next step is to find a reputable breeder.
What do we mean by ‘reputable breeder’?
Reputable, ethical breeders establish breeding programs, planning a limited number of litters using breeding pairs carefully selected for their health and temperament. The health and wellbeing of their dogs and puppies are paramount.
Ethical breeders often have an application and selection process and may even have a waitlist. They should be receptive to scheduled visits so you can see their facilities, meet their dogs, and ask them any questions you may have about their program.
This is when you should enquire about how they have addressed common health conditions, like hip dysplasia scoring.
A puppy farm (factory, or mill) often operates in poor conditions and on a large scale to maximise their profit. Health and wellbeing are of secondary importance, if at all, leading to puppies with long-term health and behavioural issues.
How do I find a reputable Maltese Shih Tzu breeder?
Often each state has a recognised breed club that can provide a list of reputable breeders that will usually have a website, social media channels, and direct contact details.
RightPaw is a website dedicated to promoting responsible breeders and ethical programs. Not all breeders use this site, but it’s a helpful tool to support you on your puppy journey.
Speaking to other dog parents is also a great way to gain invaluable insight into their first-hand experience.
How much is a Maltese Shih Tzu puppy?
You can expect to pay around $3,500 for a puppy from an ethical breeder. But remember that the ongoing cost of parenting a dog is a significant commitment.
But if you want to adopt a dog from a shelter, we’re right behind you. Try to find out as much information about them as you can but recognise that a lot of their history will be unknown. When you bring them home, show them love, patience, and consistency to help them settle into a new and secure life with you.
Read more: How much does a dog cost? The real price of dog ownership →
Maltese Shih Tzu FAQs
Is a Maltese Shih Tzu hypoallergenic?
Maltese Shih Tzus have a low-shedding coat and are sometimes considered a "hypoallergenic" breed, making them a potential option for people with allergies. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, as allergens are also present in their skin, saliva, and urine.
If you have allergies, it’s best to spend time around Maltese Shih Tzus before bringing one home to see how you react. Regular grooming and cleaning can also help minimise allergens in the home.
Are Maltese Shih Tzus good with children?
Yes, they are a gentle and friendly breed that’s often used as therapy dogs, making them great family pets. They are more suited to older children who have developed fine motor skills and understand how to engage gently and respectfully with small dogs.
Are Maltese Shih Tzus suited to different living environments?
Maltese Shih Tzus are highly adaptable and thrive in both apartments and houses with yards. Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them well-suited for compact living spaces, as long as they get daily walks and playtime.
While they enjoy having a yard to explore, they’re primarily indoor dogs that prefer being close to their humans. Whether in a city apartment or a suburban home, they’re happiest in an environment where they receive plenty of attention, companionship, and mental stimulation.
Are Maltese Shih Tzus high maintenance?
They require regular grooming but are relatively low maintenance in behaviour.
Do Maltese Shih Tzus bark a lot?
They can be vocal, but with proper training, excessive barking can be managed.
How often should I bathe my Maltese Shih Tzu?
Bathe them every 4-6 weeks using a gentle dog shampoo.
When should I desex my Maltese Shih Tzu?
Most dogs are desexed when they reach maturity. Your vet will consider your dog’s age, size, health, and behaviour to determine the right time for the procedure.
New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together
Parenting your Maltese Shih Tzu comes with many decisions, like choosing the best food to help your best friend thrive. Designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, and made with real, human-grade ingredients, our meals are custom-portioned to match your dog’s needs. We’re nourishing Maltese Shih Tzus across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years.
Join our pack of proud Maltese Shih Tzu parents today.
