Quick Take
- Shih tzus and maltese are both hypoallergentic toy dog breeds
- These little dogs were bred to be the companions of nobility and royalty.
- Both breed require routine grooming
The maltese and shih tzu are two little purebred companion dogs that are incredibly popular. While maltese and shih tzus are both tiny, long-haired dogs, they have little else in common. The shih tzu was bred to be the pampered companion of Chinese royalty, while the maltese is Italian in origin and was bred to be the aristocratic companion of Italian nobility. Continue reading to discover more distinguishing characteristics between these two toy breeds, including size, coat type, colors, temperament, and health issues.
Shih tzus come in a variety of color options, more than most breeds. Black, blue, brindle, brown, red, and silver are just some of the hues.
©Angel LeBlanc/Shutterstock.com
Appearance
A mature maltese stands between 8.5 and 9 inches tall at the shoulder. In comparison, an adult shih tzu stands 9.5 inches tall, making it slightly larger than a maltese.
The shih tzu is also heavier than the maltese. Maltese weigh an average of 6.7 pounds, while the average shih tzu weighs between 12.5 and 16 pounds.
Maltese are a toy dog breed. They are hypoallergenic dogs with white hair.
©Kimrawicz/Shutterstock.com
Coat Type
Maltese are a smooth-coated breed with long, silky hair. Because they have hair rather than fur, they shed less than other breeds. However, this means that they must be groomed regularly to keep their coat from becoming tangled and matted.
A Maltese dog is small and compact enough, so people who are dealing with emotional or psychiatric conditions can bring the dog along for support – it loves to be cuddled, and thrives on human attention.
©Dora Zett/Shutterstock.com
Shih tzus also have hair rather than fur, but theirs is a thick, double coat that grows quickly and sheds minimally. They also require daily brushing to prevent severe matting.
Both breeds require high-maintenance grooming, including routine bathing and professional trims to keep their coats healthy. Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic.
Colors
A purebred Maltese should have an all-white coat, though lemon or tan-colored spots are acceptable. Apart from the coat, the maltese should have black spot markings on their eye rims, paws, nose, and lips.
The Shih tzu is distinguished by its unique hair texture and coloration. Black, blue, brindle, brown, double-colored, red, silver, tri-colored, and white are all considered standard color variations.
Bred solely to be companions, shih tzus are affectionate, happy, outgoing house dogs who love nothing more than to follow their people from room to room.
©rebeccaashworth/Shutterstock.com
Temperament
The maltese is an easygoing, docile, and sweet-tempered breed that is also playful and easy to train. Since they are more sensitive than the average dog, they require a great deal of affection and social engagement. They have a moderate degree of energy and require modest physical activity.
Shih tzus are are not the most sensitive breed. Although they enjoy spending as much time as possible with their owners, they have lower energy levels and are not the most lively of dogs. They enjoy socializing but do not require a great deal of activity to maintain their health.
Maltese are one of the most affectionate dog breeds, and require lots of love and attention in order to prosper.
©John Dowling/Shutterstock.com
The maltese is an extremely sociable breed that rarely bites. They have a great capacity for adaptation and get along well with strangers. They get along well with other dogs and children, making them ideal for outdoor activities and family life.
Although the shih tzu is not the most child-friendly breed of dog, they get along well with other cats and dogs. They are known to be accepting of newcomers and are not aggressive or snappy.
With appropriate socialization at a young age, Shih Tzus can become very friendly dogs.
©Galina Savina/Shutterstock.com
Life Expectancy and Health Concerns
The maltese has silky, elegant fur.
©iStock.com/Mindaugas Dulinskas
The shih tzu has a lifespan of between 11 and 16 years, while the Maltese typically lives 12 to 15 years. Both breeds are relatively healthy animals.
Some common health issues that plague maltese include collapsed trachea, hypoglycemia, and White Dog Shaker Syndrome (WDSS). WDSS is a disorder characterized by widespread head and body tremors. This disorder is sometimes referred to as Little White Shaker Syndrome because of its prevalence in small white dog breeds such as the maltese.
Although the shih tzu is a particularly healthy breed, regular veterinarian care is suggested, as they are susceptible to allergies, gallstones, ear infections, and hip dysplasia.
Shih Tzus have dense, long, and flowy hair.
©chaoss/Shutterstock.com
