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Mal-Shi Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Mal-Shi so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Companion Dogs
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Mal-Shi dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States Canada flagCanada
Other Names
What other names does the Mal-Shi have?
Malti ZuMalt-TzuMalshi
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed

Photo Gallery of the Mal-Shi Breed

Mal-Shi Size and Weight

Size
Is a Mal-Shi small, medium or large dog?

How big do Mal-Shi get?

What is the average size of a Mal-Shi?

Small
Weight
How much does the Mal-Shi weigh? How much should a Mal-Shi weight? What is the normal weight of a Mal-Shi? How much does a full-grown Mal-Shi weight?
5-15 pounds (2.3-6.8 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Mal-Shi?
10 pounds (2.3-6.8 kg)
Height
How tall is the Mal-Shi? Mal-Shi height:
10-20 inces (25-51 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Mal-Shi?
10-20 inces (38 cm)

Mal-Shi Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Mal-Shi puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Mal-Shi in the United States? How much money is a Mal-Shi?

Where to buy a Mal-Shi with a good pedigree?

$800-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Mal-Shi, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Mal-Shi for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Mal-Shi gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Mal-Shi? How many Mal-Shi are there in the world?
Average: The Mal-Shi is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Mal-Shi Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Mal-Shi? Is the Mal-Shi breed dumb or smart?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Mal-Shi obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Mal-Shi ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Mal-Shi dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Mal-Shi?
Mal-Shi dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Mal-Shi good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Mal-Shi dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Mal-Shi dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Mal-Shi dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Mal-Shi Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Mal-Shi have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
PlayfulLovingIndependentAlertIntelligentAffectionateGoingSocialQuiet
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Mal-Shi sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Mal-Shi dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Mal-Shi a good family dog?
High: Mal-Shi dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Malti Zu need? Mal-Shi social needs:
Mal-Shi dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Mal-Shi to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Mal-Shi roam?
Mal-Shi dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Mal-Shi have high prey drive?
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. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Mal-Shi Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Mal-Shis, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Mal-Shi dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Malti Zu bark?
Average: The Mal-Shi barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Mal-Shi good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Mal-Shi in an apartment?
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.

Mal-Shi Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Mal-Shi dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Mal-Shi be left alone? How long can you leave a Mal-Shi alone?
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.

Mal-Shi Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Mal-Shi has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Mal-Shi? How much bite force does a Mal-Shi have? How strong is a Mal-Shi bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Mal-Shi bite force: Weak. The Mal-Shi bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Mal-Shi measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Mal-Shi may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Mal-Shi being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Mal-Shi bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Mal-Shi puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Mal-Shi can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do Mal-Shi bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Malti Zu? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Mal-Shi? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Mal-Shi has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Mal-Shi do?
Mal-Shi dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Mal-Shi dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Mal-Shi Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Mal-Shi dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Mal-Shi is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Mal-Shi breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Mal-Shi see the vet?
Average
The Mal-Shi should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Mal-Shi dogs live? How old can a Mal-Shi be? What is the age limit of the Mal-Shi? How many years can the oldest Mal-Shi live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Mal-Shi?

How long is the lifespan of a Mal-Shi?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Mal-Shi: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Mal-Shi Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Mal-Shi have? What is the activity level of the Mal-Shi?
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
How much exercise does a Mal-Shi need? How much exercise do Mal-Shi dogs require per day?

Do Mal-Shi dogs need a lot of exercises?

Mal-Shi dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Mal-Shi breed need?
Mal-Shi dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Mal-Shi Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Mal-Shi need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Mal-Shi breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Mal-Shi? How much food should I feed my Mal-Shi?
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Mal-Shi risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Mal-Shi's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Mal-Shi weight regularly.

Mal-Shi Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Mal-Shi have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
SilkySoftWavyDouble
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Mal-Shi coats?
BlackGray White BrownYellow
Grooming
How to groom the Mal-Shi and how often? How often should I take my Mal-Shi to the groomer?
Average: The Mal-Shi requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Mal-Shi, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Mal-Shi dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Malti Zu? Do Mal-Shi dogs shed a lot?
Mal-Shi dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Mal-Shi dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Mal-Shi need a bath? How often should you give a Mal-Shi a bath? Can I bathe my Mal-Shi every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Mal-Shi breed hypoallergenic?
No
Mal-Shi dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Mal-Shi has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Mal-Shi drool?
The Mal-Shi is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Mal-Shi could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Mal-Shi.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Mal-Shi Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Mal-Shi dogs get along with other pets? Are Mal-Shi dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Mal-Shi dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Mal-Shi temperament with other people:
Mal-Shi dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Mal-Shi dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Mal-Shi temperament with children:
Mal-Shi dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Mal-Shi dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Mal-Shi breed live with a cat?
Mal-Shi dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Mal-Shi good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Mal-Shi dogs get along with other dogs?
Mal-Shi dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Mal-Shi can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Mal-Shi breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Mal-Shi breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Mal-Shi dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Mal-Shi dogs good office canines? Do Mal-Shi dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Mal-Shi is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Mal-Shi dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Malti Zu temperament with senior people? Are Mal-Shi dogs good for elderly owners?
Mal-Shis are usually recommended for elderly people.

Mal-Shi As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Mal-Shi be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Mal-Shi is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Mal-Shi be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Mal-Shi be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Mal-Shi is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Mal-Shi be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Mal-Shi is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Mal-Shi be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Mal-Shi is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Mal-Shi be a boat dog?

Not really

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

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Mal-Shi be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Mal-Shi is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Mal-Shi dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Mal-Shi Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Mal-Shi pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Mal-Shi breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Mal-Shi: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Mal-Shi have in a litter? How many puppies can the Mal-Shi breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Mal-Shi have? How many puppies can a Mal-Shi give birth to?
4-8 puppies

Mal-Shi Recognition

AKC Group
Is Mal-Shi recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Mal-Shi recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Mal-Shi Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Shedding Level: Mal-Shi dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Mal-Shi is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Mal-Shi has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Mal-Shi dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Child Friendly: Mal-Shi dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Mal-Shi dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Mal-Shis are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Mal-Shi dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Hypoallergenic: Mal-Shi dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Mal-Shi's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: 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.
  • Office Friendly: Mal-Shi is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Mal-Shi Breed

Mal-Shi Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Emma Brachen

    Dec 29, 2023, 9:21:37 PM:

    Pretty good! Gave lots of good information I could use. Now I am ready to adopt my puppy!

  • Nia

    Jan 28, 2022, 10:13:33 AM:

    yes poppy I have one too cute but really not mommy Maltese's fault Daddy shih Tzu is over protective not his fault