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The Mal-Shi is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. This hybrid originated in the United States. It is also known by Shih-tese, Shihtese and Malti Tzu. The Maltese is a small, fearless and very playful dog with a long, white silky coat that is hypoallergenic (very low shed cycle). Maltese do very well with other animals, but are often leery of strangers. The Shih Tzu is a medium sized and more sturdy breed with a double coat that is very people focused and literally thrives on attention and affection. The combination of these two breeds produce a cute, sturdy, intelligent, family focused dog with a slow shed cycle. Full-grown, they typically weigh 6-12 pounds and stand 10-10 inches tall.

Mal Shis are generally okay with older children who know how to handle dogs. They do well with older children, nearly all animals, and with those of whom they are accustomed. They're not overly vocal and often fearful of strangers, making them a poor candidate for watchdog. They're fairly vocal dogs that bark regularly.

Mal-Shi are house pets in need of protection from extreme temperatures and they require plenty of exercise and playtime. A brisk twenty minute daily walk may do the trick, but don't neglect to fulfill their never ending desire to run, chew and play. A bored lazy Mal-Shi is likely to become depressed, destructive, disobedient or even worse, missing. Overall, their exercise needs are moderate.

The MalShih coat typically resembles that of a standard Shih Tzu with less, or no, undercoat. Like the standard Shih Tzu, the Mal-Shi does not shed as like most breeds do, but rather lose hair slowly like people. Most owners keep their Mal-Shi in a puppy cut (coat trimmed short) and others groom them daily using the traditional top knot and center part. Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance. Mal Shis are considered hypoallergenic, which can be a plus for allergy sufferers.

Mal Shis are best suited for apartments and smaller homes. They are fairly easy to train.