Maltese vs shih tzu: Which Is Better?

Choosing between the Maltese and Shih Tzu is a delightful dilemma for any dog lover. Both breeds are iconic lap dogs with luxurious coats and charming personalities that have captivated owners for centuries. However, assuming they are interchangeable is a mistake that leads to frustration. One might be too fragile for your rough play style, while the other might require more grooming than you can handle. We analyze the nuances to solve this problem. They are not the same. See more in our Dogs guides.

Quick Comparison: Maltese vs Shih Tzu at a Glance

Maltese vs Shih Tzu: Personality at a Glance

Size & Living Space

When it comes to size, both breeds fall into the toy category, but the physical difference is significant. The Maltese is a diminutive companion, typically weighing under seven pounds. They are incredibly portable, often fitting in a purse or small carrier. This tiny size makes them ideal for travel and living in very confined spaces like studio apartments. However, their small bones are fragile. They can be injured easily if dropped or if they jump off high furniture. You must handle them with constant care.

The Shih Tzu is a compact, solid dog ranging from nine to sixteen pounds. While still small enough for apartment living, they possess a sturdier build. They can handle roughhousing better than a Maltese. Their weight gives them a bit more stability on slippery floors. If you want a small dog that feels like a substantial cuddle buddy rather than a feather, the Shih Tzu fits the bill. Both breeds thrive indoors because of their size, but the Shih Tzu is slightly more resilient to the clumsy affections of humans.

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PropawPicks Verdict: Choose the Maltese for maximum portability and tight spaces, but choose the Shih Tzu if you prefer a slightly sturdier, robust lap dog.

Temperament & Family Fit

The Maltese is a dedicated companion that bonds intensely with one person. They are often described as velcro dogs because they follow their owners everywhere. Despite their sweet expression, they can be fearless and feisty, sometimes challenging larger dogs. They are alert and will bark at strange noises. While loving, they can be snappy if startled or handled roughly due to their fragility. They are best suited for adults or older children who understand how to respect their boundaries.

The Shih Tzu was bred solely to be a companion, and their temperament reflects centuries of royal pampering. They are affectionate, happy, and outgoing dogs that generally get along with everyone. They are less high-strung than the Maltese and often possess a goofy, clown-like sense of humor. Their sturdy nature makes them much better suited for families with young children. They are patient and tolerant, though they should still be supervised during interactions. A Shih Tzu is less likely to be a one-person dog, usually spreading love evenly among family members.

PropawPicks Verdict: The Shih Tzu wins for families with children due to their patience, while the Maltese is the better choice for singles or seniors wanting a devoted, watchful shadow.

Training

Training toy breeds requires patience and consistency. The Maltese is intelligent but can be stubborn. They are famously difficult to housebreak because of their small bladders. You must take them out frequently and crate train them to prevent accidents. They respond well to positive reinforcement like treats and praise. However, they can suffer from Small Dog Syndrome if not trained with firm boundaries. This occurs when owners fail to enforce rules, leading the dog to believe they are the pack leader.

The Shih Tzu is also known for a stubborn streak. They are clever but often prefer doing what they want over what you ask. Like the Maltese, housebreaking can be a long process that requires vigilance. They are sensitive dogs, so harsh corrections will cause them to shut down. Food motivation works wonders with this breed. Keep training sessions short and fun to hold their attention.

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PropawPicks Verdict: Both breeds are challenging to potty train, but the Shih Tzu is generally slightly more food motivated, making them marginally easier to train for beginners.

Exercise Needs

Neither breed requires an extensive exercise regimen, making them perfect for low-energy households. The Maltese has a moderate energy level. They enjoy short walks and indoor play sessions. They are quite agile and will zoom around the house or yard to burn off steam. Because they are so small, a brisk walk around the block is often sufficient to tire them out. They do not tolerate extreme heat or cold well, so indoor play is vital during harsh weather.

The Shih Tzu has lower energy requirements. A short daily walk and some playtime are plenty to keep them healthy. They are perfectly content to curl up on the sofa for long hours. Due to their flat faces (brachycephalic), they can overheat quickly and should not be exercised strenuously in hot or humid weather. They are prone to respiratory distress if pushed too hard. Their exercise needs are easily met by senior citizens or those with limited mobility.

PropawPicks Verdict: Both are low energy, but the Shih Tzu is the ultimate couch potato, whereas the Maltese requires slightly more active play to stay happy and fit.

Grooming & Shedding

If you dislike dog hair on your clothes, both breeds are excellent candidates. The Maltese has a single layer of hair that grows continuously, much like human hair. They do not have an undercoat, meaning they shed very little. This makes them one of the most hypoallergenic breeds available. However, that white coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats. Many owners keep them in a puppy cut to reduce maintenance. Their tear staining is also a common issue that requires daily cleaning.

The Shih Tzu has a double coat consisting of a soft wooly undercoat and a long, silky topcoat. While they also shed very little, the double coat tangles easily. If you keep their coat long, you must brush them every single day. Grooming costs for a Shih Tzu can be high, requiring professional visits every four to six weeks. Their facial hair also needs tying up to keep it out of their eyes and prevent irritation.

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PropawPicks Verdict: The Maltese is easier to maintain due to the lack of an undercoat, but both breeds demand a significant commitment to daily brushing and professional grooming.

Health & Lifespan

The Maltese is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are prone to dental issues because their teeth are crowded in their small jaw. Regular dental cleanings are essential. They can also suffer from luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps) and certain eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy. White Shaker Syndrome is another condition seen in this breed, causing tremors. Keeping them at a healthy weight is crucial to avoid stressing their delicate joints.

The Shih Tzu has a slightly longer lifespan, often living between 10 and 18 years. Their flat face makes them susceptible to brachycephalic syndrome, causing breathing problems and eye injuries. Their protruding eyes are easily scratched. Ear infections are common due to their floppy ears trapping moisture. Hip dysplasia and kidney issues can also occur. Like the Maltese, they require careful dental hygiene. Regular vet checkups are vital to monitor their respiratory health and teeth.

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PropawPicks Verdict: The Shih Tzu has a longer potential lifespan but faces more severe brachycephalic health risks, while the Maltese is prone to dental and orthopedic issues.

Cost of Ownership

The initial price of a Maltese puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $600 to $2,000. Show quality lines can cost even more. Their ongoing costs are moderate. Because they are so small, they eat very little food, which keeps monthly grocery bills low. Their health expenses are usually manageable, though dental cleanings add up. Grooming supplies are their main recurring cost if you maintain the coat yourself, or professional fees if you do not.

The Shih Tzu is often slightly more expensive to purchase initially, falling between $800 and $3,000. Their size still means low food costs, but their grooming needs are often higher due to the density of their double coat. Professional grooming sessions are essential and expensive. You may need to visit the groomer every six weeks. Potential vet bills for respiratory issues can also be higher. Budgeting for professional grooming is a must for this breed.

PropawPicks Verdict: The Maltese is generally slightly less expensive to maintain groom-wise, though both breeds have low food costs due to their toy size.

Final Word from ProPawPicks

Both the Maltese and Shih Tzu offer endless love and companionship in compact packages. Your final decision should rest on your household’s activity level and your tolerance for grooming and potential health issues. Choosing either breed guarantees a loyal friend for years to come.

Which Should You Choose?

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Tags: maltese vs shih tzu,small dog breeds,hypoallergenic dogs,apartment dogs,toy breed comparison,shih tzu temperament

Sources

• AKC
• ASPCA