You’re not alone if you’re torn between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese! These two adorable toy breeds have much in common—fluffy coats, affectionate personalities, and a strong love for their humans—but they’re not as similar as they seem. Whether you want a playful, confident companion or a gentle, elegant lap dog, knowing their key differences can help you pick the perfect match.
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, outgoing little lion dog with a history tied to Chinese royalty. They love attention, have a mischievous streak, and don’t mind a bit of rough-and-tumble play. Meanwhile, the Maltese is graceful, delicate, and affectionate, often happiest when curled up in your lap.
From grooming needs to temperament and energy levels, let’s break down what sets these breeds apart—so you can decide which of these charming, pint-sized pups is the best fit for your lifestyle!
Shih Tzu vs. Maltese
Shih Tzu vs. Maltese: Key Differences
While the Shih Tzu and Maltese are small, affectionate companion dogs, they have distinct differences in appearance, temperament, and care needs. The Shih Tzu is sturdier, more playful, and independent, with a shorter muzzle and a thick double coat that requires regular brushing and trimming, as stated by PetMD. They’re outgoing, social, and adaptable but can be a little stubborn.
On the other hand, the Maltese is more delicate, elegant, and affectionate, with a long, silky single coat prone to tangling. They thrive on attention, are highly trainable, and form strong bonds with their owners.
|
Feature |
Shih Tzu |
Maltese |
|---|---|---|
|
Size |
9-10.5 inches, 9-16 lbs |
7-9 inches, 4-7 lbs |
|
Coat Type |
Thick double coat, requires frequent grooming |
Silky single coat, prone to tangles |
|
Shedding |
Low, but needs regular brushing |
Very low, hypoallergenic |
|
Temperament |
Playful, outgoing, a bit stubborn |
Affectionate, gentle, eager to please |
|
Trainability |
Can be stubborn, needs patience |
Highly trainable, loves to learn |
|
Energy Level |
Moderate, enjoys short play sessions |
Bursts of energy but loves cuddling |
|
Good for Families? |
Yes! Great with kids and other pets |
Yes, but fragile—better for older kids |
|
Lifespan |
10-16 years |
12-15 years |
|
Best For |
Those wanting a playful, sturdy lap dog |
Owners looking for a gentle, affectionate companion |
Shih Tzu vs. Maltese: Height
While both breeds fall into the toy category, there’s a clear difference in their height and overall build. The Shih Tzu is slightly taller and sturdier, making them more resilient to rough play, while the Maltese is smaller and more fragile, better suited for gentle companionship.
The Maltese’s fine-boned structure makes them feel light and dainty, whereas the Shih Tzu, despite its small size, has a solid and compact feel. If you want a tiny but durable pup, go for a Shih Tzu. The Maltese is your match if you prefer a dainty, elegant companion!
Shih Tzu Height
Average Height: 9 to 10.5 inches as per AKC
Build: Compact, sturdy, well-balanced
Ideal for: Families, apartment living, owners who want a small yet durable puppy
Maltese Height
Average Height: 7 to 9 inches
Build: Slender, fine-boned, graceful
Ideal for: Lap dog lovers, seniors, gentle owners
Because of their petite size, Maltese dogs need careful handling, especially around young kids. They’re not as robust as a Shih Tzu, so they’re better suited for calm households where they won’t be accidentally bumped or stepped on.
Shih Tzu vs. Maltese: Coat Type
As per WebMD, Shih Tzus have a thick, double-layered coat in black, gray, red, and gold colors. This gives them their signature fluffy look. The undercoat is soft and dense, while the top layer is long and silky. This combination makes their fur prone to tangles and mats, requiring daily brushing to keep it looking neat.
While the full-length coat is beautiful, many owners opt for a puppy cut to make grooming more manageable. Despite the high maintenance, their luxurious fur adds charm and a teddy bear-like appearance.
Maltese dogs, on the other hand, have a single-layered coat that is fine, silky, and straight. Since they lack an undercoat, their fur feels much lighter and softer than a Shih Tzu’s. PetMD says that Maltese tend to shed very minimally, it still requires daily brushing to prevent knots and tangles. Their signature floor-length coat gives them a graceful, flowing look but can also be trimmed short for easier maintenance.
The biggest difference between the two is the coat’s structure. Shih tzus have a thick, insulating double coat, while Maltese dogs have a delicate, single-layered coat. Shih Tzus are more resistant to colder weather, whereas Maltese coats are softer and more prone to tangling.
Both breeds need regular grooming, but the Shih Tzu’s coat wins if you prefer a fluffier, fuller look. The Maltese is the better choice if you love a sleek, silky appearance.
Shih Tzu vs. Maltese: Temperament
Shih tzus are known for their calm, easygoing personalities. They love companionship but are also quite independent, making them less clingy than other toy breeds. These small dogs enjoy lounging around and soaking up affection, but they’re not overly demanding. While they are social and friendly dogs, they can also be a bit stubborn regarding training.
They prefer doing things at their own pace, so patience and positive reinforcement go a long way. Shih Tzus are fantastic family pets because they get along well with children, other pets, and strangers.
Maltese dogs, on the other hand, are more energetic, lively, and playful. They thrive on human attention and form incredibly strong bonds with their owners. Unlike the more relaxed Shih Tzu, a Maltese is always ready for action and can be quite vocal when excited.
Their affectionate nature makes them wonderful lap dogs, but they don’t like being alone for long periods. If they don’t get enough attention, they can develop separation anxiety. Maltese dogs are also quite alert and protective, often acting as little watchdogs despite their small size.
The biggest difference between the two is their level of independence. Shih Tzus are more laid-back and adaptable, while Maltese dogs tend to be more attached and happiest with their families, claims WebMD. If you want a dog that can entertain itself at times, a Shih Tzu might be a better fit. But if you’re looking for a tiny, affectionate shadow that will follow you everywhere, the Maltese is the way to go.
Shih Tzu vs. Maltese: Health
Shih Tzus are generally sturdy dogs, but their short, flat faces make them prone to breathing issues, which is why it’s a brachycephalic breed, mentions Royal Canin. They can struggle in hot weather, so keeping them cool and avoiding excessive exercise is important. Their large, prominent eyes are also susceptible to infections, ulcers, and tear staining.
Another common issue is hip dysplasia, which can cause mobility problems as they age. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise help keep them in good shape.
Maltese dogs are delicate but generally healthy, though their small size makes them more fragile than a Shih Tzu. One of their most common health concerns is luxating patella, where the kneecap slips out of place.
They are also prone to dental problems due to their tiny mouths, making regular teeth cleaning a must. Like Shih Tzus, their eyes can develop tear staining and may be prone to hypoglycemia, especially as puppies. Proper nutrition and regular vet visits help keep them thriving.
The biggest difference in health concerns comes down to their physical structure. Shih Tzus are more prone to respiratory and joint issues due to their compact bodies, while Maltese dogs have more concerns about their small size and fragile build.
Both breeds require regular grooming and dental care to prevent infections, and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being. Whether you choose a Shih Tzu or a Maltese, proper care and attention go a long way in ensuring a long, happy life.
Shih tzu vs. Maltese: Life Expectancy
Shih tzus have a life expectancy of around 10 to 16 years, with most living well into their early teens. Their life span largely depends on genetics, diet, and overall care. Since they are a brachycephalic breed, respiratory issues can sometimes affect their quality of life.
Keeping them at a healthy weight, avoiding excessive heat, and providing regular vet check-ups can help them live a long and happy life. With proper care, some Shih Tzus have even been known to reach 17 years or more!
Maltese dogs tend to live slightly longer, averaging 12 to 14 years, says VCA. They are one of the longest-living toy breeds due to their sturdy genetics and small size. However, their longevity depends on good nutrition, regular exercise, and proper dental care, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Since they form strong bonds with their owners, they thrive in loving, attentive homes that meet their emotional and physical needs.
While both breeds have impressive lifespans, Maltese dogs generally have a slight edge regarding longevity. Shih tzus, with their flat faces and potential breathing issues, may require extra care to ensure they stay healthy into old age.
On the other hand, despite being delicate, Maltese dogs can outlive many other small breeds with the right care. Whether you choose a Shih Tzu or a Maltese, providing a healthy lifestyle and lots of love will help them stay by your side for as long as possible.
Conclusion
The Shih Tzu and Maltese are two adorable dogs from the toy breed category, known for their affectionate nature and suitability as companion dogs. Despite their small size, these small dogs have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Shih Tzu breed, originating from China, has a double coat with a unique hair texture, often featuring tan-colored spots. In contrast, the purebred Maltese has a feathery hair coat that requires daily brushing to maintain its silky texture.
While both dog breeds are people-oriented, Maltese dogs are often more energetic and enjoy outdoor activities, whereas Shih Tzu prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. Both breeds get along well with other pets, including cats and other dog breeds, making them great family choices. When comparing the two breeds, their health issues and grooming needs are essential factors to consider. The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed but is prone to eye problems, ear infections, luxating patellas, and hip dysplasia, while the Maltese require extra care to prevent separation anxiety and health problems such as eye rim infections and require surgery for some genetic conditions.
The Maltese and Shih Tzu have long coats that demand regular brushing and daily grooming to prevent matting. A reputable breeder can help ensure fewer genetic disorders and health problems in both breeds. The Mature Maltese typically stands slightly smaller than a mature Shih Tzu, but both are lightweight and easy to carry. These friendly dogs adapt well to households with children and small children, though supervision is recommended due to their delicate size. In conclusion, choosing between the Shih Tzu vs Maltese depends on the owner’s lifestyle and preference.
