Mal-Shi Breed Information & Characteristics
Weight Gain Potential
Do Mal-Shis get fat easily?
The Mal-Shi is a breed that has an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.
Hypoallergenic
Are Mal-Shis Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, the Mal-Shi is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Temperament
What is a Mal-Shi personality? What are Mal-Shi dogs best known for?
Affectionate
Independent
Loving
Playful
Social
Alert
Intelligent
Going
Quiet
Shedding Level
Are Mal-Shis heavy shedders? How Much Does a Mal-Shi Shed?
Mal-Shi will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.
Watchdog Ability
What is the watchdog ability of a Mal-Shi dog?
The Mal-Shi dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.
Origin
Where do Mal-Shis come from?
United States
Ancestry
What are Mal-Shis descended from?
Shih Tzu, Maltese
Date of Birth
When were Mal-Shis first bred? How old is the Mal-Shi breed?
1990
Eye Color Possibilites
What color are Mal-Shi eyes?
Hazel
Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What color can Mal-Shi nose be naturally?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What color can Mal-Shi coat be naturally?
White
Black
Brown
Coat Length
How long is a Mal-Shis coat?
The coat of a Mal-Shi dog is generally known for its length.
Coat Density
How Dense Is The Mal-Shi Coat?
Coat Texture
What is the texture of the hair of a Mal-Shi?
Straight
Litter Size
How many puppies can a Mal-Shi have in a litter? How many puppies can a Mal-Shi have in her first litter?
A Mal-Shi can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Mal-Shi dogs generally adapt well to changes in lifestyle and different living environments, but it is considered as an average level of adaptability compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Do Mal-Shis have a lot of health problems?
The Mal-Shi is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Mal-Shi?
Patellar Luxation
Respiratory Problems
Minor Concerns
What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Mal-Shis?
None Known
Occasional Tests
What are the occasional tests recommended for Mal-Shi breed?
X-Rays
Respiratory Tests
Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints
Energy
Do Mal-Shis have a lot of energy?
For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Mal-Shis may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.
Social Needs
Do Mal-Shis need socialization? How social are Mal-Shis?
Mal-Shi have above average social needs compared to other breeds.They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
How much exercise should Mal-Shis get?
The Mal-Shi dog requires a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These breeds are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pet and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep should a Mal-Shi have? Do Mal-Shis sleep a lot?
The Mal-Shi breed is known for its moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Mal-Shi drool a lot?
The Mal-Shi is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
How much does it bark?
Mal-Shis tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Territorial
Do Mal-Shis exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?
These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.
Mouthiness
Are Mal-Shis mouthy?
Roaming urge
What is the likelihood of a Mal-Shi running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?
Prey Drive
Do Mal-Shi dogs have a high prey drive?
Past times
What do Mal-Shis enjoy doing? How do I keep my Mal-Shi busy?
Go to Beach, Go to Park, Run, Frisbee, Road trip, Tug-of-war, Chase, Fetch, Jumping, Shake, Walks, Play, Walk, Nap, Bath time, Brushing, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Walking, Sitting, Sleeping, Everything, Groom, Catch treats, Ride, Play ball
Activity Level
What is the energy level of a Mal-Shi? How much energy does a Mal-Shi have?
Mal-Shis are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How far should a Mal-Shi walk each week? How many miles should a Mal-Shi walk every week?
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mal-Shi, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
How much a Mal-Shi should exercise a day? How much activity does a Mal-Shi need?
In general most Mal-Shis usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
What level of grooming should be provided for a Mal-Shi?
The Mal-Shi is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.
Brushing Frequency
How often should you brush a Mal-Shi?
Ideally, Mal-Shi should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.
Brushing Tools
What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Mal-Shis?
Pin Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper
Cups
How many cups of food does a Mal-Shi eat?
For an average 10-12 pound (5 - 5 kg) Mal-Shi feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
How Much Does a Mal-Shi Cost Daily?
The average cost of a Mal-Shi is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.
Monthly Cost
How Much Does a Mal-Shi Cost Per Month?
The average per month expenses of a Mal-Shi is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
How intelligent is a Mal-Shi?
The Mal-Shi have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Mal-Shis lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive is a Mal-Shi dog?
This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Are Mal-Shi dogs affectionate?
Apartment Friendly
Do Mal-Shi do well in apartments? Are Mal-Shis good indoor dogs?
Mal-Shis are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.
Child Friendly
Are Mal-Shis good with kids? Are Mal-Shis good around children?
Mal-Shis are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Are Mal-Shis good for elderly?
Cat Friendly
Are Mal-Shis good with cats? How friendly Mal-Shis are toward cats?
Mal-Shis are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,
Dog Friendly
Do Mal-Shi dogs get along with other dogs? Are Mal-Shis OK with other dogs?
Mal-Shis are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some,
Pet friendly
How do Mal-Shi dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?
Stranger Friendly
Are Mal-Shis friendly with strangers?
Mal-Shis are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.
Playfulness
Do Mal-Shis like to play? Are Mal-Shis playful?
Mal-Shis have an average level of playfulness. The Mal-Shis, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.
Trainability
Are Mal-Shi easily trained?
Mal-Shi dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.
Compare Mal-Shi with other breeds
Papillon
Mal-Shi vs Papillon
Spantriever
Mal-Shi vs Spantriever
Affenwich
Mal-Shi vs Affenwich
Border Collie Britt
Mal-Shi vs Border Collie Britt
Fourche Terrier
Mal-Shi vs Fourche Terrier
Springer Rottie
Mal-Shi vs Springer Rottie
American Bullhuahua
Mal-Shi vs American Bullhuahua
Labralas
Mal-Shi vs Labralas
Jackweiler
Mal-Shi vs Jackweiler
Weimshepherd
Mal-Shi vs Weimshepherd
Leonberger
Mal-Shi vs Leonberger
Mastiff
Mal-Shi vs Mastiff