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General Appearance

The Mal-Shi is a small, well-proportioned dog with a sturdy frame and a sweet, expressive face. The breed combines the elegance of the Maltese with the compact and robust build of the Shih Tzu, resulting in a charming and approachable appearance.

 

Size

  • Weight: 6–12 pounds.

  • Height: 8–12 inches at the shoulder.

 

Coat

  • Texture: Soft and silky, often slightly wavy or straight.

  • Length: Medium to long, depending on grooming preferences. The coat may be kept longer for a flowing look or trimmed shorter for easier maintenance.

  • Colors: Common coat colors include white, cream, tan, black, brown, or a mix of these. Patterns may include solid, parti-color, or patches.

 

Head

  • Skull: Round and slightly domed, proportional to the body.

  • Muzzle: Short to medium length, with a slight taper toward the nose.

  • Nose: Black is preferred, though lighter pigmentation may occur depending on coat color.

  • Eyes: Large, round, and dark, with an alert and loving expression.

  • Ears: Medium-sized, set slightly below the top of the head, and feathered, hanging close to the cheeks.

 

Body

  • Neck: Medium length, slightly arched, and blending smoothly into the shoulders.

  • Chest: Moderately broad and deep, with well-sprung ribs.

  • Back: Straight and level, with a short, compact loin.

  • Tail: Medium length, carried high and often curled over the back, with a plume of fur.

 

Legs

  • Forequarters: Straight and well-boned, with moderate angulation at the shoulders.

  • Hindquarters: Strong and muscular, with well-defined stifles and parallel hocks.

  • Feet: Small, round, and compact, with well-arched toes and thick pads.

 

Movement

The Mal-Shi moves with a lively and smooth gait, showing confidence and poise. Its stride is moderate and well-coordinated, reflecting its playful and agile nature.

 

Temperament

  • Personality: Affectionate, friendly, and eager to please, the Mal-Shi thrives on human companionship and bonds deeply with its family. It is gentle with children and sociable with other pets.

  • Energy Level: Moderate. The breed enjoys playtime and walks but is equally content to relax with its family.

  • Trainability: Intelligent and eager to learn, the Mal-Shi responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.

 

Faults

  • Aggressiveness or excessive timidity.

  • Poor coat quality, such as excessive coarseness or lack of density.

  • Unbalanced or exaggerated features that detract from the breed’s appealing proportions.

 

Care Requirements

  • Grooming: Regular brushing (2–3 times a week) is essential to prevent matting and maintain coat health. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks is recommended for easier maintenance.

  • Exercise: Daily walks and play sessions are sufficient to keep the Mal-Shi healthy and happy.

  • Diet: A balanced diet suitable for small breeds is recommended, with portion control to prevent weight gain.

 

Ideal Owner

The Mal-Shi is an excellent choice for families, singles, and seniors seeking a loving and low-maintenance companion. It adapts well to various living environments, including apartments and homes with small yards, as long as it receives sufficient attention and interaction.

malshi

Question & Answer

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Can You Register a Mal-Shi?

Yes, you can register your puppy or dog with the Designer Kennel Club. The DKC is the best registry for the designer dog breed. 

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Can I get Papers for a Mal-Shi?

Yes, you can receive registration papers for your puppy or dog. Register your puppy or dog as a Foundation dog.

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Can I register my Mal-Shi puppy litter?

Litter registration is offered by the Designer Kennel Club. To register your puppy litter, you must register both parents as Foundation dog, then register your puppy litter. 

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Can I register my dog without AKC papers? Yes, you can register your dog as a Foundation dog

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How to prove my dog is purebred without papers? registration papers will show proof of breed & ownership. 

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What is the best dog registry? DKC registration papers are the best for all designer dog breeds. 

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