Breed matchup

Maltese vs Shih Tzu

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Maltese

Shih Tzu

Maltese

small · Malta

Shih Tzu

small · China

Head-to-head

Maltese vs Shih Tzu

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Both land in a similar moderate energy band. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Shedding levels are similar. Small dog with a beautiful white silky coat. Small dog with a luxurious long coat and friendly personality.

small vs small

Energy 3 vs 2

long vs long

12-15 years · 10-16 years

Biggest differences

Weight

4-7 lbs

9-16 lbs

Height

8-10 inches

9-10 inches

Lifespan

12-15 years

10-16 years

Monthly cost*

$50–$100

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Lower-shed / hypoallergenic lean: Maltese · Shih Tzu. No breed is fully allergen-free.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Maltese

Small dog with a beautiful white silky coat. Overall, Malteses are described as gentle, playful, affectionate, intelligent. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Gentle

Playful

Affectionate

Intelligent

Shih Tzu

Small dog with a luxurious long coat and friendly personality. Overall, Shih Tzus are described as affectionate, playful, outgoing, gentle. Trainability sits around 3/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so patience and clear boundaries matter more than force.

Affectionate

Playful

Outgoing

Gentle

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Maltese

Low energy requiring short walks and indoor play.

Shih Tzu

Low energy requiring short walks and indoor play.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Maltese

Choose a Maltese if you want a small dog with moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit excellent. Temperament leans gentle and playful.

Choose Shih Tzu

Choose a Shih Tzu if you prefer small size, low to moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit excellent. Traits include affectionate and playful.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

What is the difference between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu?

Which is better for apartments, Maltese or Shih Tzu?

Both score 5/5 for apartments — daily exercise still decides success.

Which is better with kids, Maltese or Shih Tzu?

Both rate 5/5 with children when supervised and socialized.

How do Maltese and Shih Tzu compare on energy?

Maltese: 3/5 (moderate). Shih Tzu: 2/5 (low to moderate). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.