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

"Find similarities and differences between Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi" Compare Shih Tzu and Mal-Shi. Which is better: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
 
 
 
Name Shih Tzu Mal-Shi
OriginsChina flagChina United States flagUnited States Canada flagCanada
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank20222
Reviews152
User Ratings

Other Names
What other names do they have?
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Malti Zu
Malt-Tzu
Malshi
Breed Type
Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi breed type comparison:
Purebred Cross Breed

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Size and Weight Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Price and Availability Comparison

Price
Which is cheaper, Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between Shih Tzu and Mal-Shi?
$800-$1200 $800-$1000
Availability
Which is easier to get, Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.
Average: The Mal-Shi is a commonly available dog breed.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank
Which dog has more intelligence? Is a Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi smarter? Which is best? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi intelligence:
Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
See more.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
See more.
Trainability
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi trainability comparison. What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Mal-Shi dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Ability
Which is the better watchdog: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Mal-Shi dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Which is a better guard dog Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Which dog is most likely to protect its owner? Which is the best dog to use for protection?
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Mal-Shi dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament
Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi behavior/temperament comparison:
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Playful
Loving
Independent
Alert
Intelligent
Affectionate
Going
Social
Quiet
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
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They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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High: Mal-Shi dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi social needs comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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Mal-Shi dogs are a social breed.
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Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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Mal-Shi dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi? Which can be better for hunting?
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.
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 vs Mal-Shi Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi playfulness comparison:
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
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Average: Mal-Shis, like any other dog breed, like playing.
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Barking
Which dog barks more/less: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
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Average: The Mal-Shi barks occasionally.
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Apartment Friendly
Which dog is more apartment friendly Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.
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.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability
Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Average: Mal-Shi dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
Which dog can be left alone: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
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 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 vs Mal-Shi Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Force PSI
Which bite is stronger: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Mal-Shi bite force: Weak.
Biting Potential
Is a Shih Tzu more dangerous than a Mal-Shi?

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Mal-Shi has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthiness
Which is the better dog? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi mouthiness comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
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Mal-Shi dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi health comparison. Which is the healthier: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Mal-Shi is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi health problems comparison:
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
No data available
Veterinarian Visits
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Mal-Shi should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Life Expectancy
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi lifespan comparison. How long do Shih Tzu and Mal-Shi breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the Shih Tzu and Mal-Shi?
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Mal-Shi: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level
Who has more energy a Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi energy level comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
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.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Mal-Shi dogs have an average exercise need.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
Mal-Shi dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption
Which dog eats more: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Does the Shih Tzu breed eat more than the Mal-Shi breed?
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day. 1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi weight gain potential comparison:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
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Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Mal-Shi's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat/fur do they have? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi coat comparison:
Dense Silky
Soft
Wavy
Double
Colors
What are the original Shih Tzu and Mal-Shi color? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi color comparison:
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Black
Gray
White
Brown
Yellow
Grooming
Which dog is easy to maintain, Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi grooming comparison:
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
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Average: The Mal-Shi requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Do Shih Tzu dogs shed more than Mal-Shi dogs?
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Mal-Shi dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
Which dog should be bathed more: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
Hypoallergenic
Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?
Yes See more. No See more.
Stinkiness
Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi?

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Mal-Shi has a low chance of bad smell.
Drooling Tendency
Which dog drools the most? Which dog drools the least? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?
The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
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The Mal-Shi is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Good With Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog
Which one could be a service dog?

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 Dog
Which one could be a therapy dog: Shih Tzu or Mal-Shi? Which is better for autism?

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.
Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Which one could be a detection/sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Which one could be a search and rescue dog?

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.
Boat and Sailor Dog
Which one could be a boat dog: Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi?

Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Mal-Shi breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Which one could be a cart pulling or drafting dog?

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.
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Fighting Dog / Military Dog

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.

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Reproducibility Comparison

Gestation Length 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.
Litter Size
How many puppies can Shih Tzu and Mal-Shi have? Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi litter size comparison:
2-5 puppies 4-8 puppies

Shih Tzu vs Mal-Shi Recognition Comparison

AKC Group
Which dog is recognized by the AKC?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed. Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Which dog is recognized by the FCI?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section. Not recognized by FCI.
Breed Recognition
What other organizations and kennel clubs recognize these dog breeds?
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
No data available

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