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Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Comparison – Which dog is better Malti Zu or Chrysanthemum Dog?

"Find similarities and differences between Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu" Compare Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu?
 
 
 
Name Mal-Shi Shih Tzu
OriginsUnited States flagUnited States Canada flagCanada China flagChina
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank22220
Reviews219
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare different names used for Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. What other names are these breeds known by?
Malti Zu
Malt-Tzu
Malshi
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Breed Classification
Compare breed classifications between a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu. Learn about their genetic backgrounds.
Cross Breed Purebred

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is heavier?
5-15 pounds (2.3-6.8 kg) 9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
10 pounds (2.3-6.8 kg) 9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu? Is a Mal-Shi taller than a Shih Tzu?
10-20 inces (25-51 cm) 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
10-20 inces (38 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm)

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy prices between a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu. Which breed costs more?
$800-$1000 $800-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu?
Average: The Mal-Shi is a commonly available dog breed.
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
See more.
Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare training requirements.
Mal-Shi dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare alertness levels.
Mal-Shi dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare territorial behaviors.
Mal-Shi dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu. How do their temperaments differ?
Playful
Loving
Independent
Alert
Intelligent
Affectionate
Going
Social
Quiet
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu?
High: Mal-Shi dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Mal-Shi dogs are a social breed.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu?
Mal-Shi dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu? Which can be better for hunting?
Mal-Shi dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare vocalization tendencies.
Average: The Mal-Shi barks occasionally.
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A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare play drive and energy.
Average: Mal-Shis, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare living space needs.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Mal-Shi indoors.
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare adaptability levels.
Average: Mal-Shi dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu?
Mal-Shi dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Which has lower bite risk: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare biting tendencies.

Low 🔽

The Mal-Shi has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Which is more mouthy: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Mal-Shi dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Which has a stronger bite: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Mal-Shi bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare average lifespans.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Mal-Shi: 13 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare climate tolerances.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is healthier?
The Mal-Shi is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu?
Average
The Mal-Shi should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
No data available Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Umbilical Hernias
Ear Infections
Distichiasis
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Bladder Stones
Ectopic Cilia
Reverse Sneezing
Dry Eye
Proptosis
Juvenile Renal Dysplasia
Keratitis
Retained Baby Teeth
Snuffles

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare activity levels.
Mal-Shi dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Mal-Shi dogs have an average exercise need.
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu?
Mal-Shi dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Mal-Shi's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare daily food needs.
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare allergy friendliness.
No See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu? Compare breed colors.
Black
Gray
White
Brown
Yellow
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare maintenance needs.
Average: The Mal-Shi requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare drooling amounts.
The Mal-Shi is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare natural smell levels.

Low 🔽

The Mal-Shi has a low chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu? Compare fur types.
Silky
Soft
Wavy
Double
Dense
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare bathing frequencies.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu? Do Mal-Shi dogs shed more than Shih Tzu dogs?
Mal-Shi dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Which is better with children: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare kid-friendliness.
Mal-Shi dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Mal-Shi dogs are generally with other pets.
Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu? Which dog is more friendly?
Mal-Shi dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu?
Mal-Shi dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Mal-Shi or Shih Tzu? Can a Mal-Shi and a Shih Tzu be friends? Do Mal-Shi dogs get along with Shih Tzu dogs?
Mal-Shi dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu?
Yes
Mal-Shi dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Mal-Shi is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Shih Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Mal-Shis are usually recommended for elderly people.
Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare service capabilities.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare therapy capabilities.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential
Which is better for search and rescue: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare SAR abilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Maritime Work Ability
Which is better on boats: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

Mal-Shi breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Mal-Shi or a Shih Tzu? Compare draft work capabilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.
Military Service Background
Compare military history between Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which has stronger military background?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which has larger litters?
4-8 puppies 2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which needs longer recovery?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Mal-Shi vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which groups do they belong to?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which groups are they in?
Not recognized by FCI. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Mal-Shi and Shih Tzu. Which is more widely recognized?
No data available American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

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