There are a few key differences between maltese and shih tzu dogs.
Firstly, maltese dogs are smaller and more fragile than shih tzus. This means that they are not as well suited to being around children or other pets who may accidentally knock them over.
Secondly, shih tzus are heavier than maltese dogs, weighing in at twice as much. This makes them less agile and more prone to health problems associated with being overweight.
Finally, shih tzus have a longer life expectancy than maltese dogs, typically living for 12-15 years compared to the 8-10 year lifespan of a Maltese dog.
Maltese vs Shih Tzu: Which is the better breed of dog for you?
When choosing a breed of dog, it is important to consider your own lifestyle and personality. Do you want a small or large dog? Do you mind if your dog sheds? How active do you want your dog to be?
The Maltese is a small, pure white dog with silky hair that does not shed. Malteses are easygoing and docile, and they are more friendly toward strangers than Shih Tzus.
If you are looking for a low-maintenance companion who will be content lounging around the house, the Maltese might be the right breed for you. The Shih Tzu is a slightly larger breed of dog with a dense coat that comes in multiple colors.
Shih Tzus are lively and outgoing, and they tend to bond closely with their owners. If you are looking for an active partner to take on walks or hikes with you, the Shih Tzu might be the better choice.
Size and weight differences between Maltese and Shih Tzus
When it comes to size, there is a big difference between Maltese and Shih Tzus. A Maltese typically weighs 6.7 pounds while a Shih Tzu weighs an average of 12.5 pounds. This means that the Shih Tzu is almost twice the size of the Maltese. In terms of height, both breeds are about the same, with the Maltese being slightly taller than the Shih Tzu on average.
While weight and height are not the only factors to consider when choosing a dog breed, they can be important for some people. For example, if you live in an apartment or have limited space in your home, a smaller dog like Maltese may be a better option than a larger breed like a Shih Tzu.
Similarly, if you’re looking for a dog who can go on long walks or runs with you, the smaller Maltese may not have enough endurance compared to the robust Shih Tzu.
Fragility of Maltese compared to Shih Tzus
When it comes to Maltese dogs vs Shih Tzus, there are a few key differences that you should be aware of.
For starters, Maltese dogs are smaller and more fragile than their Shih Tzu counterparts. This is due to the fact that Shih Tzus are heavier, often weighing up to 16 pounds – twice as much as Maltese dogs.
In terms of height, both breeds are pretty similar. However, the weight difference is significant and something you should take into account if you’re considering owning either one of these breeds of dog.
Pros and cons of owning a Maltese and Shih Tzu
When it comes to choosing a small dog breed, many people find themselves torn between the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. Both breeds have their pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
The Maltese are a small, cute breed of dog that is popular among city dwellers. They don’t require a lot of exercise, which makes them ideal for apartment living.
However, Maltese do require regular grooming – including daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks – and can be difficult to potty train. Additionally, Maltese are prone to health problems such as respiratory issues and dental disease.
Shih Tzus are another popular small breed of dog. Like Maltese, they don’t require much exercise and are well-suited to apartment living.
Shih Tzus also have long hair that requires regular grooming – including daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks. However, unlike Maltese, Shih Tzus are relatively easy to potty train.
Additionally, while Shih Tzus may be susceptible to some of the same health problems as Maltese (such as respiratory issues), they are generally considered a healthier breed overall.
So which breed is right for you? If you’re looking for a small dog who doesn’t need a lot of exercise and can live happily in an apartment setting, either the Maltese or the Shih Tzu would make a good choice.
If you’re willing to commit to regular grooming but want an easier-to-train breed, the Shih Tzu might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference.
Things to consider before getting a Maltese and Shih Tzu
When it comes to choosing between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu, there are a few things you’ll want to take into consideration.
For starters, Maltese dogs are known for being loving and gentle. However, they may not do well in cold climates. If you live in an area with cold winters, you might want to opt for a Shih Tzu instead.
Additionally, Maltese dogs can be feisty little creatures if they’re not properly trained. So if you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet, a Shih Tzu might be the better choice.
Finally, when it comes to health concerns, Maltese fall somewhere in the middle. They’re not as prone to health problems as some breeds (such as Poodles), but they’re also not as hardy as other breeds (like Golden Retrievers).
So if you’re looking for a dog with good overall health, either breed could be a good option.
House-training
When it comes to house-training a Maltese, crate training is the most effective way to go about it. This is because dogs are den animals by nature and feel more comfortable in smaller, enclosed spaces. By confining your Maltese to a crate when you’re not able to supervise them, you can avoid accidents inside the house.
It’s important to bring your dog outside frequently – at least every few hours – so that they can relieve themselves. Once they’ve done their business, be sure to praise them and give them a treat as this will reinforce desired behaviors.
obedience training
When it comes to obedience training, there are a few things you should keep in mind regardless of what breed of dog you have. However, certain breeds do require specific methods and approaches when it comes to training. This is especially true for the Maltese.
A Maltese puppy must be trained with a sensitive but consistent hand in order to mature into a polite and well-trained dog. You must set a schedule, stay consistent and train with sensitivity and compassion. The Maltese is a sensitive breed that does not respond well to yelling or other harsh training tactics.
Some dog owners may opt for obedience classes while others choose to train their dogs at home. Either way, the key is consistency. Once you have decided on a method or approach, stick with it and don’t let your dog get away with bad behaviour simply because you feel sorry for him/her or because he’s having a ‘bad day’.
