Maltese vs. Shih Tzu: Which Is Better?

Maltese

The Maltese is a small breed of dogs in the toy group. The breed is descended from dogs originating in the Central Mediterranean Area. Maltese are bred to be cuddly companion dogs, and thrive on love and attention. the breed also fares well in apartments and townhouses, and is a prized ideal pet of urban dwellers. Maltese also suffers from separation anxiety, so potential owners should be cognizant of this behavior.

Maltese Pros

• Hypoallergenic – Maltese, which causes less allergic reactions.
• Apartment Friendly – Maltese are very apartment-friendly dogs.
• Level of shedding – Maltese shed to a minimum level.
• Salivation – Maltese do not drool a lot.
• Wandering – Maltese is not the greatest explorers.
• Adaptation – Maltese adapt to lifestyle changes and all living environments.
• Child Friendly – Maltese are child-friendly dogs.
• Cat Friendly – Maltese are very cat-friendly dogs.
• Dog Printer – Maltese are very dog-friendly dogs.
• Elderly Citizen Friendly – Maltese is generally recommended for the elderly.

Maltese Cons

• Intelligent Level – Low to Average: This breed does not possess the brightest intelligence. ​​
• Separation Anxiety – When pet owners leave them alone in the house, the owners may develop a separation problem because they have a very close relationship.
• Office Friendly – Maltese owners do not have the best dog breed for the office environment.
• Suitable for first-time owners – Maltese is not good for novice owners because of their stubbornness.

Related: 10 Most Common White Dog Breeds

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a breed of small companion dog of very ancient dog type, with long silky fur. It is a friendly lap dog that at one time was bred to be a companion dog for Chinese royalty. The dog may also be called the Tibetan Lion Dog, but whether or not the breed should be referred to as a Tibetan or Chinese breed is a source of argument, the absolute answer to which "may never be known".

Shih Tzu Pros

• Shih Tzu does not cause allergic reactions in humans.
• Love the natural cleansing and water method.
• Shih Tzu does not have a specific odor. These can eat both dry food and natural food. There is no precedent for dogs, and they have a good appetite.
• These seldom make sounds; they are not used to barking loudly.
• Training is easy due to natural intelligence and ease.

Shih Tzu Cons

• Security features are missing in Shih Tzu. These dogs are good with everyone; don't divide them into "owners" and "strangers." There is no point in leaving such a dog as a protector. Additionally, it is essential to make sure that strangers do not snatch pets themselves.
• Pets need a lot of people's care and attention. Suffering begins in the absence of the owners.
• It is necessary to perform the water procedure frequently.
• Dogs need protective clothing when walking. This is predominantly important in spring and autumn when the road is muddy and waterlogged. Be sure to buy tops and raincoats. Some owners even use pets shoes.
• Allergic reactions are possible. Health is a weak point in this generation.
• Dogs do not understand the difference between adults and young children.
• You can't walk with Shih Tzo in the scorching heat.

Comparative Study

Grooming

When it comes to grooming, both Maltese and Shih Tzu dogs are superior care dogs. Both of these lap breeds feature a coat that resembles human hair and continues to grow.

Lifetime

The Maltese age is similar to the expected age of Shih Tzu. Both of these younger species live an average of 11 to 16 years. Many factors can affect the life duration of Maltese or Shih Tzu. The dog's overall health, care, diet, lifestyle, and other factors affect its longevity.

Size Comparison

Maltese male weight: 6 to 8 pounds (3 to 4 kg); Shih Tzu Male weight: 8.8 to 16 pounds (4 to 7.25 kg).

Maltese male height: 9 to 10 inches (22 to 25 cm); Shih Tzu Male Height: 7.9 to 11 inches (20 to 28 cm).

Shedding

The shedding of Shih Tzus and Maltese is similar because both breeds are considered non-shedding dogs. These two young breeds will lose some hair every day, and if not cleaned regularly, dead hair will cause mites if not pulled out quickly. Shih Tzu coat is thicker in texture, Maltese has a soft coat that is silky to the touch.

Price

Maltese is usually more expensive to buy, and the average Maltese price can be double that of Shih Tzu. The average Shih Tzu dog costs about $1,000, while the average Maltese dog can cost up to $ 2,000.

Temperament

Maltese temperament is lively, friendly, calm, and love for the rich. Shih Tzu and Maltese temperament are that the Maltese strangers around are timider than Shih Tzu.

Origin

In Tibet, the Shia Zhou breed was bred like a companion dog.

Maltese dogs originally came from the island of Malta.

Companion Dogs

Shih Tzu and Maltese breeds are right, along with other care dogs. The small size weakens the Shih Tzu and Maltese around large breeds, which can accidentally injure a small dog during the game.

Intelligence

Maltese and Shih Tzu are smart little dogs. Not all Maltese are equal in intelligence, just as not all Shih Tzu are equal in intelligence compared to other dogs of the same breed. Because of these variations within each breed, it is necessary to test individual dogs' intelligence level to make an appropriate estimate.

Trainability

Both the Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds responded well to the training. Cheese and Maltese dogs can learn basic commands successfully, provided the owner works with the dog with perseverance and patience. Maltese language training is more comfortable with the more stubborn Shih Tzus.

Barking

In general, Maltese bark more than Shih Tzu dogs on average. Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds are at risk of stinging, especially when the root cause is stinging. On average, Maltese bark more than Shih Tzu.

Health Issues

Maltese and Shih Tzu are relatively healthy and long-lived dog breeds with reasonable care and proper nutrition. There are some genetic diseases associated with each breed, but overall both breeds are considered relatively healthy.

Older Shih Tzu is more likely to have joint problems and arthritis than Maltese dogs. Shih Tzus are heavier and have shorter legs than the Maltese. This combination of physical traits can lead to more common problems. The Maltese l weighs a little lighter, and when kept at a healthy weight, puts less pressure on the joints and has less incidence of joint problems.

Final Verdict

Overall, Maltese and Shih Tzu make great family companions with older owners who have the time and desire to care for and enjoy the little dog.

Shih Tzu and Maltese make a fantastic family pet for older adults who have time to set aside for raising dogs. The Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds are in high demand and need to be trimmed once a month, along with a trim to keep the Maltese or Shih Tzu coat in good condition. Shih Tzu and Maltese are companion dogs that spend most of their time around their owners.

Maltese and Shih Tzu dogs are small, and their size makes them breed accidental when playing with small children or toddlers.

The Maltese is even more potent and weighs less than Shih Tzu and is not the recommended breed of dog for a family with young children. Compared to the Maltese, Shih Tzu is strangers and fits better for families with older children. Children need to be taught to handle a small dog properly.

Teach your children not to pick up a dog and sit with pets and play with Shizuo or Maltese. Children should not pick up a small dog because many small dogs get seriously injured when they accidentally fall.