Mal-Shi — Breed Profile
"Affectionate, spirited, clever, eager to please, social butterfly"
Tiny Attention Seeker
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Apartment dwellers, families with older children, seniors, first-time dog owners, people wanting a low-shedding companion
Not Ideal For
Homes with very young children, owners with limited grooming time, those needing an independent dog, extreme heat/cold climates
Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, eye problems, heart murmurs, dental issues, hip dysplasia
Estimated annual vet cost: $800-$1,500
Breed History
Created by crossing Maltese and Shih Tzu in the 1990s-2000s, designed to combine the gentle Maltese temperament with the sturdy Shih Tzu build. Became increasingly popular as a hypoallergenic companion breed.
Fun Facts
- Mal-Shis are often called 'Malti-Tzus'
- Their teddy bear appearance makes them popular social media dogs
- They retain puppy-like playfulness well into adulthood
- The breed's coat requires regular professional grooming to prevent matting
Famous Mal-Shis
Various Instagram influencer Mal-Shis in designer dog communities
Mal-Shi products coming soon.
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