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About This Breed

Dog Group: Miscellaneous (Designer)
Size: 10-20 inches tall, 6-12 lbs
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long, soft, and slightly wavy
Shedding: Light
Hypoallergenic: Yes

History: The Malshi is a type of designer dog that is the result of crossing a Maltese with a Shih Tzu. It's hard to pinpoint exactly when the first Malshi appeared, but it was likely sometime during the 1990s. In terms of where the Malshi originated, some sources say that the breed came about in Australia. Today, though, Malshis can be found in many different countries across the world. Because the Malshi is not a purebred dog, it is not eligible for American Kennel Club (AKC) registration. However, the breed has been recognized by some smaller clubs for hybrid and designer dogs, like the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR) and the Dog Registry of America (DRA).

Temperament: Because the Malshi is a crossbreed, it inherits personality traits from both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. So, it's difficult to determine whether a Malshi will favor the Maltese, Shih Tzu, or both. In general, though, Malshis are affectionate, happy, and playful little dogs that are very loyal to their owners. In fact, Malshis are at their happiest when being around family. That said, they may suffer from separation anxiety if left by themselves for too long, so they're not a great fit for someone who plans on being away from home often or for extended periods of time. In the right home and with proper training, the Malshi makes a devoted companion for many different types of people.