Small breed
Malshi Puppies
Small dog, big heart, perfect for families
We do not have Malshi puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 6–12 lbs
- Height 8–14 in
- Lifespan 12–14 years
- Exercise 30 min a day
About the Malshi
About the Malshi Breed
The Malshi breed, a delightful blend of the Maltese and Shih Tzu, brings together the best traits of both breeds, resulting in a small dog with a big personality. Originating from pairing these two beloved toy breeds, the Malshi has quickly become a favored companion for families and individuals alike. With their charming looks and affectionate nature, they make wonderful additions to any household, especially those with young children, other dogs, or even friendly cats.
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Malshi Temperament and Care
These little fur balls have a moderate energy level, making them perfect for apartment living. While they enjoy playtime and a daily walk, they are just as happy snuggling up on the couch for a cozy movie night. The Malshi does require professional grooming to keep their luxurious coat looking its best, but the level of shedding is surprisingly low for a dog of their size, which is a plus for those who may be sensitive to allergens or just prefer a cleaner home.
Known for their intelligence, Malshis can be trained with relative ease, responding well to positive reinforcement and consistent commands. They are affectionate companions, often forming strong bonds with their families. Their tendency to bark means they can serve as good alert dogs, keeping an eye on any happenings around the home. If you are searching for a loving and adaptable companion, the Malshi may be the perfect fit for your life in XO PUPS.
Is the Malshi Breed Right for You?
If the Malshi breed sounds like a good fit for your home, the best next step is to meet one in person. You can see our Malshi puppies for sale or book an appointment at our Chantilly store. Every puppy comes from licensed, inspected breeders and goes home with our puppy package. To compare breeds side by side, the American Kennel Club breed directory is a great resource.
Malshi breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Friendly
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Territorial Relaxed
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy Low
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Mental stimulation Moderate
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Very heavy
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Drooling None to speak of
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Well suited
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Needs a coat
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Warm weather Comfortable
A good match for
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First-time owners Ideal first dog
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Senior owners Excellent
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Running partner Not suited
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Hiking Not suited
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Low
Living with a Malshi
Temperament & Family Fit
The Malshi, a delightful mix of Maltese and Shih Tzu, is known for its affectionate and friendly demeanor. This breed is particularly well-suited for families, getting along wonderfully with young kids and other pets, including cats. With their warm personalities and gentle nature, Malshis can quickly become beloved family members, bringing joy to every household they join.
Energy & Exercise
In terms of energy level, the Malshi is on the lower end of the spectrum, making them perfect companions for those who prefer a relaxed lifestyle. A few short walks or playtime sessions are usually enough to keep them happy and content. Ideal for apartment living, their mellow nature allows them to thrive in smaller spaces without the need for extensive exercise routines.
Care & Grooming
While the Malshi is prone to moderate shedding, their grooming needs can be quite demanding, often requiring professional help to maintain their beautiful coats. Regular grooming appointments help keep their fur in top shape and prevent matting, ensuring they always look their best. It’s essential to keep up with their grooming routine to maintain both their appearance and comfort.
Training Notes
Thanks to their trainable nature, Malshis usually respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, making training sessions a rewarding experience for both the dog and the owner. However, some consistency is necessary to manage their barking tendencies, as this breed can be quite vocal. With gentle guidance, they can learn to be well-mannered companions while showcasing their sweet and playful spirits.
Caring for a Malshi
- Grooming
- Professional grooming
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Low
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Malshi like in terms of size?
A Malshi is a small dog, perfect for those who prefer a pint-sized companion. They are light and easy to carry, making them great for apartment living or those who might be short on space.
How much energy does a Malshi have?
Malshis are known for their low energy levels, which means they enjoy cozy cuddle sessions just as much as short playtimes. They are perfect for someone who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle and doesn't want an overly active dog.
Are Malshis good with kids and other pets?
Yes! Malshis tend to do well with young kids, other dogs, and even cats. Their friendly nature makes them great companions for families and multi-pet households.
What is the grooming requirement for a Malshi?
Malshis require a significant amount of grooming as they have a beautiful coat that needs professional attention to keep it tangle-free and healthy. Regular grooming sessions help maintain their charming appearance and can be a bonding experience for you and your furry friend.
Do Malshis bark a lot?
Malshis do have a moderate barking tendency, which can serve as a good alert system for your home. With proper training and socialization, they can learn when it's appropriate to bark and when it's not, allowing them to be sweet companions without turning into excessive yappers.
