The Malshi is the result of crossing two purebred dogs, namely the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. They were developed in the United States due to the demand for dogs with low hair growth, and the cross proved so successful that their popularity grew and grew, and not just among allergy sufferers. Malshis can inherit the appearance and personality of both parent breeds, although it should be noted that each dog is different. When it comes to appearance and coat, puppies from the same litter can look quite different, with most Malshis boasting a white coat, though some have colour combinations.
Read our Malshi Buying Advice page for information on this dog breed.








Malshis are affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable dogs that make great companions for families and individuals. They do well in apartments and smaller living spaces with regular daily walks and playtime. However, due to their small size, they require gentle handling and may not be ideal for households with very young children.