What is the Difference Between Maltese and Shih Tzu?

Maltese and Shih Tzu are both small, affectionate dog breeds with long, silky coats. However, there are several key differences between them:

1. Origin: Maltese are of Italian origin, while Shih Tzu are Chinese in origin.
2. Height and Weight: Shih Tzu typically stand 8-11 inches tall and weigh 9-16 lbs., whereas Maltese stand 8-10 inches tall and weigh 6.5-9 lbs.
3. Coat Type: Maltese have a silky, straight, feathered coat, while Shih Tzu have a dense, long, flowy coat.
4. Colors: Maltese usually have an all-white coat, with lemon or tan-colored spots acceptable, while Shih Tzu come in a wide range of colors, including black, blue, brindle, brown, double-colored, red, silver, tri-colored, and white.
5. Temperament: Maltese are easygoing, docile, and sweet-tempered, while Shih Tzu are lively, courageous, and outgoing.
6. Suitability for Children: Shih Tzu are more robust and better suited for families with children, while Maltese are less sturdy and not recommended for families with young toddlers.
7. Grooming: Both breeds require regular grooming, but Shih Tzu may require more attention due to their double coat, which can aggravate allergy sufferers.
8. Health: Both breeds are prone to health issues, but Shih Tzu may have more health problems than Maltese.

When choosing between Maltese and Shih Tzu, consider factors such as size, temperament, and suitability for children. Both breeds make excellent companions and are suitable for apartment living, but Shih Tzu may be more suitable for families with children, while Maltese may be a better choice for those with limited time for grooming.

Comparative Table: Maltese vs Shih Tzu

Here is a table comparing the differences between Maltese and Shih Tzu:

Both Maltese and Shih Tzu are toy breeds with long, silky coats, short legs, and sweet faces. They have been bred as lap dogs for thousands of years and are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. However, there are some differences between the two breeds:

• Size: Maltese are generally smaller than Shih Tzu, with a compact and square-shaped body.
• Coat: Shih Tzu have a double-layered coat, while Maltese have a single-layered coat.
• Temperament: Maltese are known for being lively, playful, and easy to train, while Shih Tzu are known for being outgoing, courageous, and moderately emotional.
• Stranger Friendly: Maltese are highly sociable and have a low biting tendency, making them more friendly towards strangers compared to Shih Tzu.
• Health: Maltese are considered hypoallergenic, making them more suitable for people with allergies, whereas Shih Tzu can cause allergies.

When choosing between Maltese and Shih Tzu, it's essential to consider the potential health concerns each breed is susceptible to and buy your puppy from a responsible breeder who has conducted essential health screening. Ultimately, the choice between Maltese and Shih Tzu depends on your personal taste and lifestyle.