Maltese vs Shih Tzu: Which Breed is Right for You?

The Maltese and Shih Tzu are two petite breeds that pack a punch in personality and charm. Each has unique characteristics making it a favorite among dog lovers.

What to Know About the Maltese

The Maltese is known for its gorgeous white coat, which gives the breed a regal appearance. But there’s more to this small dog than just looks.

• Size: It typically weighs between 4 to 7 pounds.
• Lifespan: They can live up to 15 years or more.
• Personality:
  • Friendly and affectionate.
  • Gets along with people and other pets.
  • Known for being playful and energetic.
• Grooming:
  • Requires daily brushing to prevent matting.
  • Regular grooming at a professional groomer is often necessary.

What to Know About the Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu, often called “Lion Dog,” is another small breed with a big personality. This breed’s distinctive look includes a short muzzle and a long, flowing coat.

• Size: Weighs between 9 to 16 pounds.
• Lifespan: Usually lives between 10 to 18 years.
• Personality:
  • Known for being a sweet, affectionate companion.
  • Great with children and other pets.
  • Generally quite laid-back and enjoys lounging.
• Grooming:
  • Requires regular brushing.
  • Often needs frequent professional grooming to maintain its coat.

Both breeds are popular for a reason — they’re loving, loyal, and delightful companions. Whether one is drawn to the vibrant Maltese or the serene Shih Tzu, both breeds offer wonderful qualities that can make them a great addition to any household.

Understanding the basics about each breed helps potential dog owners make an informed decision about which might be the best fit. Whether deciding based on grooming needs, personality traits, or size, both the Maltese and Shih Tzu bring unique qualities to the table. Built on a long history of companionship, either pet would be a source of joy for many years.

Appearance: How Do They Look?

When comparing the Maltese and Shih Tzu, it’s hard not to notice just how adorable both of these breeds are. Each has distinct features, making them unique in their own right.

Maltese

1. Size and Build:
   • Small and compact, typically weighing between 4-7 pounds.
   • Standing around 8-10 inches tall at the shoulder.
   • Delicate, with a fine bone structure.
2. Coat:
   • Long, silky, and white. Some may have light tan or lemon on their ears.
   • Single-layered, which can grow very long if not trimmed regularly.
3. Face:
   • Round eyes, usually dark and expressive.
   • Black nose and slightly rounded skull.
   • Small, triangular drop ears adorned with long hair.
4. Tail:
   • Plume of a tail that curls over its back.

Shih Tzu

1. Size and Build:
   • Slightly heavier, weighing about 9-16 pounds.
   • Measures around 9-10.5 inches tall.
   • Sturdier, with a more solid bone structure.
2. Coat:
   • Long, flowing, and can come in various colors: gold, white, black, brown, or a mix.
   • Double-coated, usually kept in the “puppy cut” for easy maintenance.
3. Face:
   • Distinct squashed face, leading to a flat, short snout.
   • Large, round eyes that express a warm, friendly demeanor.
   • Broad, rounded head with a short muzzle.
4. Tail:
   • High-set tail that curls up over the back, forming a fluffy plume.

Differences in Grooming Needs

• Maltese:
  

  Needs daily grooming to avoid mats and tangles due to its silky hair.

• Shih Tzu:
  

  Also requires regular grooming, but its double coat can be more prone to matting if not kept short.

Each breed has its own unique look and requires a bit of effort to keep them looking their best.

Temperament and Personality: What to Expect

When comparing the temperaments and personalities of Maltese and Shih Tzus, distinct differences and similarities arise. Understanding these traits can help you decide between the two breeds.

Maltese:

• Friendly and Sociable: Maltese dogs are known for their pleasant and social nature. They love being around people and tend to get along well with other pets.
• Playful and Energetic: This breed is lively and playful, requiring plenty of interaction and mental stimulation.
• Affectionate: Maltese are incredibly affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They love to snuggle and can be quite clingy.
• Alert and Intelligent: They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement. Though small in size, they can be quite vigilant and alert.

Shih Tzu:

• Calm and Gentle: Shih Tzus are often more laid-back than Maltese. They have a calm demeanor and love to lounge around.
• Affectionate: Similar to Maltese, Shih Tzus form strong attachments to their owners and enjoy being in close proximity.
• Stubborn Streak: They can be a bit stubborn, which may require patience during training sessions.
• Social Butterflies: Shih Tzus enjoy socializing and can be quite friendly, but they’re also content in their own company.

Similarities:

• Size: Both breeds are small in size, making them ideal for apartment living.
• Family-friendly: Both Maltese and Shih Tzus get along well with children and make excellent family pets.
• Low Aggression: Both breeds generally display low levels of aggression and are known for their friendly dispositions.

Differences:

• Energy Levels: Maltese tend to be more energetic and playful, whereas Shih Tzus are often more relaxed.
• Trainability: Maltese may be easier to train because of their intelligence and eagerness to please. Shih Tzus might take a bit more effort due to their stubbornness.
• Social Needs: Maltese typically crave more interaction and can become anxious when left alone for long periods. Shih Tzus, while social, are a bit more independent.

Exercise Needs: Active or Couch Potatoes?

When comparing Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds, understanding their exercise needs is key. Do they lean more towards the active side or are they couch potatoes at heart? Let’s break it down:

Maltese:

• Energy Level: High
• Daily Walks: They thrive on short, energetic walks. Adding in some playtime can also help them burn off excess energy.
• Indoor Play: A Maltese enjoys games and toys, making them perfect for apartment living. They don’t necessarily need a big backyard to stay happy.
• Mental Stimulation: Interactive toys and puzzle games are great to keep their sharp minds engaged.

Shih Tzu:

• Energy Level: Moderate
• Daily Walks: Shih Tzus are content with a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. They don’t require intense physical activity.
• Indoor Play: They enjoy playing indoors but have a more relaxed play style compared to Maltese.
• Mental Stimulation: Scent games and gentle tug-of-war are favorites among Shih Tzus. They also benefit from training sessions which double as bonding time.

Playfulness:

• Maltese: These little furballs are often bursting with playfulness and love a good chase. Fetch might just be their favorite game.
• Shih Tzu: While they enjoy playing, Shih Tzus are more likely to enjoy it at their own pace, often taking breaks to rest.

Exercise Considerations:

• Age Factors: Both breeds have different exercise needs throughout their life stages. Puppies are more active while senior dogs may prefer lounging.
• Weather Sensitivity: Watch out for overheating in hot weather, especially for Shih Tzus due to their short snouts. Maltese, with their lighter coats, might handle the heat a bit better but still need caution.

Owner Lifestyle:

• Active Owners: If you love busy days with lots of activities, a Maltese might be the match made in heaven.
• Sedentary Owners: For those who cherish a relaxed vibe at home, the chill Shih Tzu could be the ideal companion.

Remember, both breeds appreciate love, attention, and most importantly, a family that matches their pace.

Grooming Requirements: High Maintenance or Low-Key?

When considering adding a Maltese or Shih Tzu to the family, it’s crucial to understand their grooming requirements. Both breeds have specific needs to keep their coats looking their best, but how high-maintenance are they?

Maltese

The Maltese is well-loved for its long, flowing white coat. However, this majestic look requires quite a bit of effort:

• Daily Brushing: The Maltese’s hair tends to tangle and mat easily. Daily brushing is essential to prevent knots and keep the coat silky.
• Regular Baths: To keep their coats bright and free from dirt, a bath every 1-2 weeks is beneficial.
• Frequent Trimming: Keeping the hair around their eyes and paws trimmed prevents irritation and maintains cleanliness.
• Professional Grooming: Many Maltese owners opt for a professional grooming session every month or two, especially if they prefer to keep the coat long.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus also sport a luxurious coat, but their grooming needs vary based on the owners’ preferences:

• Brushing Frequency: For long coats, daily brushing is a must to avoid matting. For shorter, clipped coats, a couple of times a week should suffice.
• Bathing Schedule: They require a bath every 3-4 weeks to stay clean and fresh.
• Trimming Needs: Regular trimming, especially around the face and ears, helps prevent infections and keeps the dog comfortable.
• Professional Grooming: Just like the Maltese, a trip to a professional groomer every month or two can help manage their coat, particularly if kept long.

Additional Grooming Considerations

Both breeds need general grooming care that goes beyond their coats:

• Ear Cleaning: Regular ear cleaning helps prevent ear infections.
• Eye Care: Both breeds are prone to tear staining, so frequent cleaning around their eyes is recommended.
• Nail Trimming: Monthly nail trims are necessary to prevent overgrowth and related issues.

Whether someone prefers higher grooming routines or a slightly lower-key approach, understanding the commitment required for each breed is essential. Both breeds are undoubtedly adorable but come with their unique set of grooming needs.

Health and Lifespan: What You Should Know

When deciding between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, it’s essential to consider their health and lifespan. Knowing what to expect can help ensure they have a happy and long life.

Maltese

Maltese dogs are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain conditions:

• Dental problems: Regular brushing and dental care are crucial.
• Eye issues: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and tear stains can affect them.
• Luxating patella: Knee cap dislocation is common in small breeds.
• White Dog Shaker Syndrome: This neurological condition causes tremors but is manageable.

Average lifespan: 12-15 years

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are also prone to specific health issues:

• Brachycephalic syndrome: Their short noses can lead to breathing problems.
• Hip dysplasia: This condition can cause arthritis and mobility issues.
• Eye problems: Watch out for cataracts, PRA, and dry eye.
• Dental issues: Regular dental care is essential for Shih Tzus too.

Average lifespan: 10-16 years

General Care Tips

Both breeds benefit from regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise. Here are some general care tips:

1. Regular grooming: Both breeds require consistent grooming to avoid matting and skin issues.
2. Balanced diet: High-quality dog food tailored to their size and age keeps them healthy.
3. Exercise: Daily walks and playtime help maintain their weight and overall well-being.
4. Dental care: Brush their teeth regularly and consider professional cleanings.

Key Takeaways

• Regular vet visits: Ensure they’re up-to-date with vaccinations and health checks.
• Monitor their weight: Obesity can exacerbate health issues, so keep them at a healthy weight.
• Watch for signs: Early detection of illnesses can make treatment more effective.

Trainability: Easy to Train or Stubborn?

Maltese

Maltese dogs are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please. They can be very quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, treats, and play. Here are some key points about training a Maltese:

• Eager to Please: Maltese dogs love making their owners happy. They respond enthusiastically to positive reinforcement.
• Quick Learners: They can pick up commands and tricks relatively quickly, making them a delight to train.
• Socialization: Early socialization is important for Maltese dogs to prevent shyness or anxiety around strangers.
• Consistency: Consistent training sessions help them understand and follow commands better.
• House Training: Housebreaking may take some time, but patience and consistency will pay off.

However, they can have a stubborn streak at times, which might make training slightly challenging if not addressed early. Owners should ensure to be patient and persistent.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu dogs have a reputation for being a bit more stubborn compared to Maltese. This doesn’t make them impossible to train, but it does require a different approach. Key points about training a Shih Tzu include:

• Stubborn Nature: Shih Tzus can be a bit headstrong, requiring a firm but gentle training approach.
• Positive Reinforcement: They respond well to rewards, but the rewards need to be worth their effort.
• Short Sessions: Keeping training sessions short and fun can prevent them from losing interest.
• House Training: Housebreaking can be particularly tricky with Shih Tzus. Consistent routines and patience are essential.
• Socialization: Like any breed, early socialization is crucial to prevent behavioral issues.

Owners might find that working with a professional trainer for a Shih Tzu could be beneficial due to their stubborn streak. While it might take more time and patience, the end result of a well-trained Shih Tzu is well worth the effort.

Living Situations: Apartment or House?

When choosing between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, it’s important to consider the type of home they will be living in. Both breeds have unique characteristics that make them suitable for different living environments.

Apartments

1. Maltese
   • The Maltese is a small breed, typically weighing less than 7 pounds. Their petite size makes them ideal for apartment living.
   • These dogs are relatively low-energy but still enjoy indoor playtime. They don’t require a large yard.
   • While they can bark to alert you of strangers, they aren’t known to be overly vocal, which is a big plus for apartment dwellers with thin walls.
   • Regular indoor activities and short walks will suffice to keep a Maltese happy and healthy.
2. Shih Tzu
   • Shih Tzus are also small, generally weighing between 9-16 pounds, making them well-suited for apartments.
   • This breed was literally bred to be a companion dog for royalty in small spaces, so they adapt well to apartment living.
   • They’re typically quiet and don’t have high exercise needs, preferring short walks and indoor play.
   • Shih Tzus are known for being affectionate and enjoy lounging around, which fits well with a smaller living space.

Houses

1. Maltese
   • Maltese dogs adapt well to larger homes and can benefit from having a yard to explore, though they don’t need a lot of outdoor space.
   • They’re not known for digging or being particularly mischievous, so your backyard will likely stay in good condition.
   • A house offers more room for them to roam, but their small size means they won’t feel confined even in a smaller home.
2. Shih Tzu
   • A house can provide more space for a Shih Tzu to move around, although they don’t require a lot of space to be happy.
   • Having a yard can be an advantage, offering them a safe place to sniff around and relax under supervision.
   • Shih Tzus are generally easy-going, so they can adapt well to either a house or an apartment, but they do appreciate having more room if it’s available.

Overall, both breeds are quite adaptable and can be happy in either an apartment or a house, as long as they receive the love and attention they need.

Family Compatibility: Kids, Pets, and More

Kids

Both the Maltese and Shih Tzu are known for their gentle and loving nature, making them great companions for kids. The Maltese is particularly affectionate and thrives on human interaction, often forming strong bonds with children. However, due to their small size, they are more delicate and can get easily injured if playtime gets too rough.

On the other hand, the Shih Tzu also has a friendly demeanor and tends to be very patient with children. Their slightly sturdier build compared to the Maltese allows them to handle more rambunctious play. Yet, like any dog, supervision during playtime is critical to ensure the safety of both the dog and the child.

Pets

When it comes to compatibility with other pets, the Maltese tends to be a social butterfly. They usually get along well with other dogs and even cats, provided proper introductions are made. Early socialization is key to helping a Maltese adapt smoothly to a multi-pet household.

Shih Tzus also generally accommodate well to other pets. They are known for their easygoing nature and can coexist peacefully with other dogs and cats. Like the Maltese, they benefit from early socialization to prevent any territorial issues.

Living Conditions

Maltese dogs are quite adaptable and can thrive in various living conditions, from apartments to houses. They do not need a large yard to be happy, as long as they get their daily exercise and playtime. Another plus is that Maltese are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for families with allergies.

Shih Tzus are equally adaptable, thriving in both apartments and larger homes. They are a bit more independent compared to Maltese but still enjoy companionship. Their double coat requires regular grooming but offers a hypoallergenic benefit as well.

Training

Training is an important aspect of integrating any dog into a family. Maltese dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Since they are people-oriented, they respond well to attention and treats during training sessions.

Shih Tzus may exhibit a bit of stubbornness but can be trained successfully with patience and consistency. They may not pick up commands as quickly as the Maltese, but they are intelligent and can learn a lot with the right approach. Positive reinforcement and possibly some added patience will go a long way.

Cost Considerations: Buying and Owning

When thinking about adding a furry friend like a Maltese or a Shih Tzu to the family, it’s important to consider the costs involved. From the initial purchase price to ongoing care costs, here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

Initial Purchase Price

• Maltese: Expect to pay between $1,000 to $2,500 for a well-bred Maltese puppy. Prices can vary based on breeder reputation and the puppy’s bloodline.
• Shih Tzu: Shih Tzu puppies typically range from $500 to $1,500. However, for puppies with superior pedigrees, prices can soar to $3,000 or more.

Regular Medical Costs

• Veterinary Visits: Annual check-ups average around $100-$300, not including vaccinations.
• Vaccinations: Initial year shots can cost up to $150, with boosters afterward costing around $75 annually.
• Dental Care: Regular dental cleanings starting from $200 can help prevent periodontal disease.

Grooming Expenses

• Maltese: Professional grooming, including baths, haircuts, and nail trims, can cost between $50-$100 per session, typically required every 4-6 weeks due to their long, silky coat.
• Shih Tzu: Grooming costs are similar, around $50-$100 per session, also needed every 4-6 weeks, given their flowing double coat.

Feeding Costs

• Maltese: Smaller dogs usually consume less food. High-quality dry dog food costs about $20-$50 per month.
• Shih Tzu: Expect to spend around $25-$60 a month on premium dog food for a Shih Tzu.

Miscellaneous Expenses

• Toys and Treats: Both breeds love their playtime and treats, estimate $10-$40 monthly.
• Training: Basic obedience classes can range from $50-$125 for a series of group sessions.

Potential Extra Costs

• Health Issues: Both breeds are prone to certain genetic conditions. Be prepared for unforeseen medical expenses which can range from minor treatments costing $100 to more complex surgeries costing thousands.
• Pet Insurance: Consider pet insurance costs ranging from $20-$50 monthly for peace of mind against high vet bills.

Owning either breed requires thoughtful financial planning. Understanding these costs helps ensure a happy, healthy life for the new furry family member.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision

Choosing between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu can be difficult, but thinking about your lifestyle and preferences can make it easier. A few key factors might nudge you in one direction or another.

Temperament

• Maltese: Energetic, playful, loves to be the center of attention.
• Shih Tzu: Calm, affectionate, enjoys lounging.

Grooming Needs

• Maltese: Daily brushing required to avoid tangles and mats.
• Shih Tzu: Regular grooming necessary; tends to be less high-maintenance compared to a Maltese.

Space Requirements

• Maltese: Can adapt well to apartment living as long as they get some exercise.
• Shih Tzu: Also good for apartments; they are less hyper and can be content with moderate exercise.

Compatibility with Kids and Other Pets

• Maltese: Can be fragile; requires gentle handling, may not be ideal for very young children.
• Shih Tzu: Generally more robust and calm, often great with kids and other pets.

Health Considerations

• Maltese: Prone to dental issues, luxating patellas, and some respiratory conditions.
• Shih Tzu: Susceptible to eye problems, hip dysplasia, and breathing issues.

Training and Socialization

• Maltese: Quick learners but may have a stubborn streak; benefits from early socialization.
• Shih Tzu: More laid-back but can be a bit obstinate; consistent training works best.

Travel and Outdoors

• Maltese: Loves outdoor activities but should be monitored due to fragile bones.
• Shih Tzu: Prefers moderate outdoor activities, not a high-energy breed.

Cost of Ownership

• Maltese: Potentially higher grooming and healthcare costs.
• Shih Tzu: Grooming might be less frequent, but healthcare can still be a cost factor.

Lifespan

• Maltese: Typically 12-15 years.
• Shih Tzu: Generally 10-16 years.

Take these points into account to land on a decision that makes both you and your future furry friend happy.

Why the Maltese Dog is the Perfect Companion

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