Maltese vs Shih Tzu
Which breed is right for you?
Quick verdict
Both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu are affectionate toy companions that thrive in apartments, shed very little, and need only light exercise, so either suits a calm home or a first-time owner who has time for daily grooming. The single biggest difference is size and family fit: the Maltese is tinier and more fragile at 1.5 to 3 kg and does best with older children, while the sturdier 4 to 7 kg Shih Tzu is rated good with kids of all ages. The Maltese is also a touch more trainable and quieter on average, whereas the Shih Tzu can be stubborn to house-train and is heat-sensitive because of its flat face.
At a glance
| Maltese | Shih Tzu | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Toy | Toy |
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Weight | 1.5-3 kg | 4-7 kg |
| Height | 18-23 cm | 20-28 cm |
| Lifespan | 12-15 yr | 10-16 yr |
| Origin | Malta / Mediterranean | China (Tibet) |
| Energy | 3 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Trainability | 4 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Friendliness | 5 / 5 | 5 / 5 |
| Shedding | 1 / 5 | 2 / 5 |
| Barking | 4 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Good with kids | Older kids best | Good |
| With other dogs | Good | Good |
| With cats | Usually fine | Usually fine |
Choose the Maltese if:
Choose the Maltese if you want the smallest possible lap dog with a silky single coat, slightly easier training, and you live with adults or older, gentle children who will handle a delicate dog carefully.
Full Maltese profileChoose the Shih Tzu if:
Choose the Shih Tzu if you want a sturdier little companion that fits a home with younger kids, has an outgoing nature, and you do not mind extra patience with house-training and keeping it cool in hot weather.
Full Shih Tzu profileFrequently asked questions
Which is better for families with young children, the Maltese or the Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu is the better pick for young children. It is rated good with kids and is sturdier at 4 to 7 kg, while the tiny 1.5 to 3 kg Maltese is fragile and does best with older, gentle children.
Which breed is easier to train, the Maltese or the Shih Tzu?
The Maltese has a slight edge, with a trainability rating of 4 versus 3 for the Shih Tzu. Both are eager to please but house-training takes patience, and the Shih Tzu in particular can be stubborn about it.
Do the Maltese and Shih Tzu shed, and which needs less grooming?
Both shed very little, with the Maltese rated even lower than the Shih Tzu. Grooming demands are similar, though: each has a long coat that needs daily brushing or a short puppy clip to prevent mats.