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
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Weight: 6–12 pounds.
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Height: 8–12 inches at the shoulder.
Coat
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Texture: Soft and silky, often slightly wavy or straight.
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Length: Medium to long, depending on grooming preferences. The coat may be kept longer for a flowing look or trimmed shorter for easier maintenance.
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Colors: Common coat colors include white, cream, tan, black, brown, or a mix of these. Patterns may include solid, parti-color, or patches.
Head
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Skull: Round and slightly domed, proportional to the body.
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Muzzle: Short to medium length, with a slight taper toward the nose.
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Nose: Black is preferred, though lighter pigmentation may occur depending on coat color.
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Eyes: Large, round, and dark, with an alert and loving expression.
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Ears: Medium-sized, set slightly below the top of the head, and feathered, hanging close to the cheeks.
Body
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Neck: Medium length, slightly arched, and blending smoothly into the shoulders.
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Chest: Moderately broad and deep, with well-sprung ribs.
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Back: Straight and level, with a short, compact loin.
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Tail: Medium length, carried high and often curled over the back, with a plume of fur.
Legs
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Forequarters: Straight and well-boned, with moderate angulation at the shoulders.
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Hindquarters: Strong and muscular, with well-defined stifles and parallel hocks.
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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
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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.
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Energy Level: Moderate. The breed enjoys playtime and walks but is equally content to relax with its family.
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Trainability: Intelligent and eager to learn, the Mal-Shi responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Faults
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Aggressiveness or excessive timidity.
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Poor coat quality, such as excessive coarseness or lack of density.
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Unbalanced or exaggerated features that detract from the breed’s appealing proportions.
Care Requirements
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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.
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Exercise: Daily walks and play sessions are sufficient to keep the Mal-Shi healthy and happy.
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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.
