Maltese vs Shih Tzu
Side-by-side comparison of Maltese and Shih Tzu: energy, shedding, trainability, apartment fit, and more.
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Stats at a Glance
| Trait | Maltese | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Small |
| Energy | Low-Moderate | Low |
| Shedding | Low | Low-Moderate |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking | High | High |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Good With Kids | Older kids onlySmall size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children | Yes |
| Good With Dogs | Often, with socializationSocialization from an early age improves relations with other dogs | Often |
| Daily Exercise | 20–30 min/day | 20–40 min/day |
| Origin | Malta | — |
Quick Verdict
Best for apartments
Similar
Maltese: "Yes"Shih Tzu: "Yes"
Best with kids
Shih Tzu
Maltese: "Older kids only"Shih Tzu: "Yes"
Easiest to train
Similar
Maltese: "Moderate"Shih Tzu: "Moderate"
Lower shedding
Maltese
Maltese: "Low"Shih Tzu: "Low-Moderate"
Lower grooming burden
Similar
Maltese: "High"Shih Tzu: "High"
More active households
Maltese
Maltese: "Low-Moderate"Shih Tzu: "Low"
Verdicts are based on trait ratings. Always evaluate individual dogs and confirm behaviour with the shelter, foster, or rescue organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Maltese or Shih Tzu better for apartments?
Maltese is rated "Yes" for apartment living, while Shih Tzu is rated "Yes". Consider your building's space and noise policies when choosing.
Which breed sheds more, Maltese or Shih Tzu?
Maltese has low shedding. Shih Tzu has low-moderate shedding.
Are Malteses or Shih Tzus easier to train?
Maltese trainability is rated "Moderate" and Shih Tzu is rated "Moderate". Both breeds respond best to early, consistent positive-reinforcement training.
Which needs more exercise, a Maltese or a Shih Tzu?
A Maltese typically needs 20–30 min/day, while a Shih Tzu needs 20–40 min/day. Actual needs vary by individual dog, age, and health.
Which is better with kids, a Maltese or a Shih Tzu?
Maltese is rated "Older kids only" with children (small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children); Shih Tzu is rated "Yes". Supervision and early socialisation are recommended for any breed around young children.
How much grooming does a Maltese need compared to a Shih Tzu?
Maltese requires high grooming, while Shih Tzu needs high grooming.