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A Malshipoo is a hybrid dog combining the Maltese, Shih Tzu and Miniature or Toy Poodle. They are usually a second generation mix. Their parents may be a Poodle and a Malshi, a Shih Poo and a Maltese, or a Maltipoo and a Shih Tzu. So there is quite a range of potential when it comes to their looks and personality, depending on which parental line is the most pronounced!

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Some Malshipoo puppies may appear to be more like Poodles, with tightly curled coats and long legs. Others may have the longer, straight fur of their Maltese and Shih Tzu parentage. However, many will fall somewhere in between, with a slight curl to their fur. But, owners must be prepared for any outcome, in appearance, temperament, health, and more.

Malshipoo Appearance

Since Malshipoo puppies can inherit any physical traits from three distinct breeds, their appearance can be variable and unpredictable. Generally, these dogs are small. Especially when Miniature or Toy Poodles are involved. Here’s a table to show you the full range of sizes that your Malshipoo could stretch to:

One thing is certain – a Malshipoo will fall in the Toy breed category. On average, their height is usually around 10 inches, and weight usually falls around 10 lbs. However, this will of course vary, particularly if a Toy Poodle is used.

Coats and Coloring

There is really no limit to coloring when it comes to the Malshipoo breed. Of course, a specific puppy’s fur color will depend on the genes it inherits. But, thanks to the Poodle and Shih Tzu parents in particular, there is a huge range of shades that these little dogs can come in.

Maltese and Shih Tzu dogs tend to have straight fur that will grow very long if left alone. However, Miniature and Toy Poodles have tight curls. All three parent dogs need a high level of grooming to maintain their coat and to prevent painful tangles. Malshipoo puppies can inherit any mix of this hair, or may favor one breed over the rest. Often, they will look like mini teddy bears. They will often be very low shedding, but they will need a lot of grooming no matter what fur type they have.

Are They Friendly Dogs?

A Malshipoo adult may have traits from any of its three parent breeds. So, it may be intelligent and active like a Miniature Poodle. It may be affectionate and friendly, like the typical Maltese. Or, it could be bold and loyal, like many Shih Tzu dogs. Breeders hope to get the best traits from all breeds involved, but there’s really no way of knowing until your puppies arrive.

Since Miniature or Toy Poodles are most often used, this means all three parent breeds were originally bred as lapdogs. So, one trait you can almost guarantee in a Malshipoo is loyalty and a strong attachment to their immediate family. However, in some cases, this loyalty can lead to aggression towards non-family members. Socialize your puppy well to minimise this risk.

This strong attachment can also mean that some Malshipoo puppies may be prone to separation anxiety, which is also common in purebred Maltese dogs. It’s important to teach your puppy to be happy alone from a young age. But, bear in mind that this breed isn’t good for families that will be spending lots of time away from home. It needs lots of company to remain happy and healthy.

Malshipoo Training and Exercise

Malshipoo training should start from a young age when possible. Potty training in small breeds is often problematic, since they have such tiny bladders. But, thanks to the Poodle parent’s intelligence, and the Malshipoo’s strong bonds with family, training should be relatively easy. Positive reward training is a great way to build on this bond, and to achieve long lasting results.

In terms of energy, this is a small breed that won’t need as much exercise as a large breed, like a Labrador. All three parents were bred as lapdogs, so a Malshipoo will be happy to settle down with you on the couch. But, they will need some exercise every day. This could be in the form of games, training, or even a couple of short walks. Since they will have very active minds, mental stimulation and company is just as important as exercise. So, don’t assume you can just lay around all day with your dog. They’ll get bored and destructive if you do!

Malshipoo Health Concerns

Mixed breeds have a wider genetic pool than purebred dogs. So, there’s a chance that their risk of inheriting health problems will be lower. But, it’s still important that breeders health test all parent dogs before breeding. Only breeding from the healthiest dogs will lower the risks for future puppies.

The Malshipoo is still potentially vulnerable to hereditary issues found in all three parent breeds. And to those common in very small dog breeds. In terms of their physical structure, they will be very delicate. So, it they are handled too roughly, or fall from a high place, they can easily break bones or suffer injuries. It’s vital that Malshipoos are treated gently. They may not suit homes with very young children for this reason.

Hereditary problems that these little dogs are at risk of include:

• Dental problems, eg. overcrowded teeth
• Soft spots on the skull
• Patellar Luxation
• Heart issues, eg. heart murmurs
• Collapsed Trachea
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Hip dysplasia
• Cataracts and other eye issues

The Shih Tzu parent also suffers from brachycephaly (a flattened face). This can cause a number of health issues, including Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, Brachycephalic Ocular Disease, dental problems, and heatstroke.

   

Are Malshipoos Good Family Dogs?

Many owners of Malshipoos love the mix’s cuddly appearance and loyal personality. But, it’s important that this breed finds the right home. It forms strong attachments with its owners, but this means it can be prone to guarding and aggression. Socialization is vital for this small breed, as is obedience training. On top of this, it won’t suit homes where it is left alone for long periods, or homes with very young children that could accidentally hurt it.

Malshipoo Puppies

Waiting lists for reputable Malshipoo breeders may be long, since this mix is growing in popularity. But, this doesn’t mean you should jump at the first breeder you find. Put in effort to choose the best breeder possible by asking plenty of questions, visiting in person, and seeing evidence of health testing.

How Much Does a Malshipoo Cost?

The price of a Malshipoo puppy will vary depending on your location, the current demand for those puppies, and even on the physical traits that the puppies have. For instance, certain coat types or colors can cost more than others. And, as certain mixed breeds become more popular, prices can increase with demand. Puppy mills will often sell cheaper puppies, but lifelong costs will be higher with the increased risk of health problems and behavioral issues.

Generally, this mix tends to cost anywhere from $400 to $1500. But, price isn’t always an indicator of quality. So, instead, make sure to ask your breeder lots of questions and see the mother dog and puppies in person. Good breeders will willingly show evidence of health testing, and will ask you plenty of questions in return, to ensure their puppies are going to a good home.