Breeds
/
Malshi

Malshi

Malshi 101: Traits, Shedding and Exercise Needs for Busy Families

The Malshi blends the Maltese’s gentle charm with the Shih Tzu’s playful loyalty—an affectionate lapdog perfect for families and seniors.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Coat Type
Long
Coat Texture
Silky
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Low
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Breed Type
Designer
Malshi puppy with fluffy white and tan coat sitting on a forest trail, portrait style with natural green background

Breed History of the Malshi

The Malshi became popular in the 1990s–2000s as a hypoallergenic companion mix. It combines two beloved small breeds: the Maltese and Shih Tzu.

Malshi Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Small, fluffy companions with silky or wavy coats.

  • Weight: 6–15 lb
  • Height: 8–12 in
  • Coat type: Long, silky to wavy
  • Coat colors: White, cream, gold, parti
  • Distinctive traits: Round eyes, fluffy tail, compact frame

How to Groom a Malshi: Coat Care & Maintenance

High-maintenance coats prone to matting without care.

  • Brushing daily
  • Bathing every 3–4 weeks
  • Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
  • Dental and eye/tear cleaning routine

Malshi Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

Moderate activity needs—happy with daily short walks.

  • Daily exercise: 20–30 minutes
  • Activities: indoor play, short walks
  • Ideal for apartments and condos

Training a Malshi: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Smart and people-oriented—responds well to consistency.

  • Trainability: High
  • Focus on crate and potty training
  • Use positive reinforcement; avoid harsh methods
  • Early socialization prevents shyness

Malshi Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Feed a small-breed diet to maintain energy and health.

  • Food type: kibble or fresh
  • Quantity: 0.5–1 cup/day split into 2 meals
  • Schedule: twice daily
  • Considerations: prone to dental issues—opt for small kibble

Malshi Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Generally healthy but may inherit some small-dog issues.

  • Patellar luxation
  • Dental disease
  • Eye problems
  • Lifespan: 12–15 years

Where to Adopt or Find Malshi Puppies in Canada

Common among Canadian rescues for small-breed mixes.

  • Breeders: ensure eye/knee clearances
  • Adoption: check Maltese/Shih Tzu rescues
  • Avoid mills or “teacup” marketing

Frequently Asked Questions About the Malshi

Are Malshis hypoallergenic? Yes, low-shedding coats make them allergy-friendly.

Do Malshis bark a lot? Moderate barkers; training reduces excess noise.

Are Malshis good with kids? Yes, gentle and playful.

How big do Malshis get? Typically 6–15 lb and 8–12 in tall.

Are Malshis easy to train? Yes—intelligent and eager to please.

Dog Name Generator – Find the Perfect Name for Your puppy!

Malshi puppy with fluffy white and tan coat sitting on a forest trail, portrait style with natural green background
Looking for the perfect name for your ? Whether your puppy is playful and goofy, calm and regal, or a bundle of boundless energy, our AI-powered Dog Name Generator is here to help. Barkley, our dog-loving AI assistant, will suggest personalized names based on your pup’s personality, appearance, and your preferred naming style.
  • personalities – Names that reflect your pups gentle, friendly nature.
  • Choose your naming style – Cute, strong, nature-inspired, or a quirky wildcard.
  • Fast, fun, and free – Get unique names in under a minute.
Dog Name Generator

Other Hybrid Dogs

Cavapoo
Whoodle
Schnoodle
Bordoodle
Irish Doodle
Pyredoodle
Aussiedoodle
Sheepadoodle
Bernedoodle
Labradoodle
Goldendoodle
King Shepherd

Breed Related Articles

Dog playing in park
Curious which dogs are the easiest to train? This guide reveals the smartest dog breeds in Canada, from the quick-thinking Border Collie and loyal German Shepherd to the adaptable Poodle and Golden Retriever. Learn how intelligence affects trainability, discover top working, herding, and hybrid breeds, and explore expert tips to keep clever dogs mentally challenged and happy. Whether you’re training a pup or choosing your next companion, these breeds combine brains, obedience, and heart.
Read More
Dog playing in park
Looking for a dog that won’t leave fur everywhere or trigger your allergies? This guide highlights the best low-shedding dog breeds in Canada, from small lapdogs like the Havanese and Maltese to athletic companions such as the Portuguese Water Dog and Standard Poodle. You’ll learn how to manage dander, grooming schedules, and find allergy-friendly dogs that suit your lifestyle — whether you live in a condo or on a country property. Includes top low-shedding mixes like Goldendoodles and Cavapoos, with links to detailed breed profiles for easy exploration.
Read More
Dog playing in park
Looking for the perfect family dog? This guide explores Canada’s most family-friendly breeds by group — from playful Sporting dogs like Labradors and Golden Retrievers to gentle Toy breeds ideal for apartment living. You’ll learn which dogs are best with kids, how to match a breed to your lifestyle, and why hybrids like Goldendoodles have become popular choices for Canadian families. Whether you’re active and outdoorsy or prefer calm cuddles at home, this article helps you find your perfect companion and links directly to detailed breed profiles for every recommendation.
Read More
Dog playing in park
Dog allergies don’t have to stop your family from owning a pup. Discover the top hypoallergenic dog breeds in Canada that are low-shedding, family-friendly, and perfect for allergy-sensitive homes.
Read More