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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
Popularity Rank222
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Mal-Shi dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States Canada flagCanada
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Mal-Shi known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Malti ZuMalt-TzuMalshi
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Mal-Shi? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed

Photo Gallery of the Mal-Shi Breed

Mal-Shi Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Mal-Shi? Learn how big the Mal-Shi breed typically grows.
Small
Weight Statistics
How much does a Mal-Shi weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Mal-Shi breed.
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 Range
How much does a Mal-Shi puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Mal-Shi costs.
$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

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Mal-Shi? Discover the Mal-Shi's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
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.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Mal-Shi? Learn about the Mal-Shi's trainability and response to training methods.
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 Rating
How good is a Mal-Shi as a watchdog? Learn about the Mal-Shi's alertness and guarding instincts.
Mal-Shi dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Mal-Shi protective of its territory? Learn about the Mal-Shi's guarding instincts and behavior.
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

Personality Traits
What personality does a Mal-Shi have? Learn about characteristic Mal-Shi temperament and behavior traits.
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

Barking Frequency
Does a Mal-Shi bark a lot? Learn about typical Mal-Shi vocalization patterns and triggers.
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.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Mal-Shi? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Mal-Shi 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.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Mal-Shi live in an apartment? Learn about the Mal-Shi's suitability for apartment living.
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

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Mal-Shi to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Mal-Shi's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Mal-Shi dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Mal-Shi be left alone? Learn about the Mal-Shi's tolerance to solitude.
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 Risk Assessment
What is a Mal-Shi biting potential? Learn about the Mal-Shi's bite risk factors.

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.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Mal-Shi mouthy? Learn about the Mal-Shi's tendency to use mouth during play.
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.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Mal-Shi bite? Learn about the Mal-Shi's bite force measured in PSI.

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.

Mal-Shi Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Mal-Shi live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Mal-Shi breed.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Mal-Shi: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Mal-Shi handle different weather? Learn about the Mal-Shi's climate adaptability.
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.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Mal-Shi? Discover typical conditions affecting the Mal-Shi breed.
The Mal-Shi is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Mal-Shi need vet visits? Learn about the Mal-Shi's veterinary care requirements.
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.

Mal-Shi Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Mal-Shi? Understand daily activity needs of the Mal-Shi breed.
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

Obesity Tendency
Is a Mal-Shi prone to weight gain? Learn about the Mal-Shi's obesity risks.
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.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Mal-Shi need daily? Learn about the Mal-Shi's feeding requirements.
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Mal-Shi Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Mal-Shi hypoallergenic? Learn about the Mal-Shi's suitability for allergy sufferers.
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.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Mal-Shi come in? Discover all possible Mal-Shi color variations.
BlackGray White BrownYellow
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Mal-Shi need? Learn about Mal-Shi coat maintenance requirements.
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.

Drooling Tendency
Does a Mal-Shi drool a lot? Learn about the Mal-Shi's drooling habits.
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.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Mal-Shi smell bad? Learn about the Mal-Shi's natural odor levels.

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.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Mal-Shi have? Learn about the Mal-Shi's fur characteristics.
SilkySoftWavyDouble
Bathing Needs
How often does a Mal-Shi need baths? Learn about the Mal-Shi's bathing requirements.
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.

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.

Mal-Shi Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Mal-Shi good with children? Learn about the Mal-Shi's behavior around kids of different ages.
Mal-Shi dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Mal-Shi get along with other pets? Discover the Mal-Shi's compatibility with other animals.
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.
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 Capability
Can a Mal-Shi be a service dog? Learn about the Mal-Shi's service work potential.

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 Work Suitability
Is a Mal-Shi good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Mal-Shi's therapy work aptitude.

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.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Mal-Shi good at detection work? Learn about the Mal-Shi's scenting abilities.

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 & Rescue Potential
Can a Mal-Shi do search and rescue? Learn about the Mal-Shi's SAR capabilities.

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.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Mal-Shi good on boats? Learn about the Mal-Shi's maritime capabilities.

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.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Mal-Shi pull carts? Learn about the Mal-Shi's drafting abilities.

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.

Military Service Background
Was a Mal-Shi used in military service? Learn about the Mal-Shi's military history.

Not really

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

Mal-Shi Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Mal-Shi usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Mal-Shi pregnant? Learn about the Mal-Shi's gestation period.

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.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Mal-Shi have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

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.

Mal-Shi Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Mal-Shi in? Learn about the Mal-Shi's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Mal-Shi in? Learn about the Mal-Shi's international classification.
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 Rating: 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 Compatibility: 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
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Mal-Shi dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Mal-Shi's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: 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