The Malshi is a combination of the Shih Tzu and a Maltese. It is considered a designer dog breed that is well-suited for all types of people and home situations. The dog stands about 10” tall and may weigh up to 12 pounds, although most adult Malshi weighs around 8 to 10 pounds. The Malshi is well-known for being a loving dog perfect to play with the kids or keep seniors company.
Appearance
As you might suspect, a typical Malshi will have attributes of both Shih Tzus and Maltese. How much they favor one over the other will depend on how the genes work themselves out in each puppy. Because the Malshi is still relatively new, the exact appearance will not be settled for several generations to come. But it can be said that the Malshi mostly has the body type of the Shih Tzu with the head and facial features more associated with the Maltese.
History
Although the exact history of the Malshi is not well known, it is believed to have been developed in Australia during the 1990s. The idea behind the combination was to create the best attributes of Shih Tzus and Maltese into a single dog. The result was an animal that quickly gained popularity in Australia and was soon seen in North America. In fact, the popularity of this animal is still spreading around the world as more people discover the attributes of the Malshi.
Temperament
For the most part, the Malshi is a happy, outgoing dog that is quite playful and has demonstrated considerable intelligence. They are the perfect dog for indoors or outdoors and best suited for just about anyone who loves dogs. This means that whether you live in a small apartment up to a large property with plenty of room to roam around, the Malshi is a great addition to the home.
Health
The Malshi is a healthy dog that can live to the age of 12 to 14 in most cases. There have been some cases of inherited illnesses such as White Shaker Syndrome or Patellar Luxation associated with the Malshi. They are also quite intelligent and thanks to their fur or hair are for the most part hypoallergenic. As with any dog, they will need to be fed the right type of dog food and exercised to stay in shape. But their playful qualities usually means that they can exercise themselves when they interact with you. In any event, about 10 to 15 minutes of walking or play each day is enough to keep them in shape.
Grooming
As with any breed of dog that mixes with Shih Tzus, the grooming will depend in large part if Malshi has long hair or fur. They will need to be brushed every few days and their hair or fur-trimmed every six to eight weeks depending on the style that is most suited to them.
The Malshi is a happy, intelligent dog that is perfect for most households. If you are looking for the first dog for your kids or want another heartbeat around the house, then the Malshi is one to consider.
My dog is a maltese× lhaso, which is similar to above.
Very loving, clever dog but has recently been unwell.
Vet has diagnosed Cushing’s disease, which is a common problem with these type of dogs.
She will be on medication for rest of her.
Please all be aware of symptoms for Cushing’s disease
Wee slot at night
Urine concentrated
Pop, swollen belly
Eating excessively
Coat thinning on back
Lethargy
Walks slower
Some symptoms appear to be normal for dog, can be difficult to diagnose as an owner.
Blood results are abnormal
Where can you get these dogs and what do they cost. Would love to have one but on a fixed income and a disabled husband who needs a pet to help keep his emotions up
I live in Parsons ks 67357 and can only have a small dog according to our home lease.