Size matchup
Maltese vs Shih Tzu: size & weight
Typical weight (4-7 lbs vs 9-16 lbs) and height (8-10 inches vs 9-10 inches)—so you can tell who’s bigger on the metrics that matter.
Small companion breeds with close weights; coat styling changes perceived size more than the scale does.
Typical weight
- Maltese: 4-7 lbs (mid ~6 lbs)
- Shih Tzu: 9-16 lbs (mid ~13 lbs)
Shih Tzu usually tips the scale higher.
Typical height (withers)
- Maltese: 8-10 inches (mid ~9.0 in)
- Shih Tzu: 9-10 inches (mid ~9.5 in)
Shih Tzu is typically taller at the shoulder.
Size class & fit
Maltese
small · lifespan 12-15 years
Gentle, Playful, Affectionate
Shih Tzu
small · lifespan 10-16 years
Affectionate, Playful, Outgoing
Size drives food bills, car space, crate size, and how hard a jump lands on kids and seniors. Pair this page with lifestyle compare when temperament matters as much as inches.
Planning verdict
Lean Maltese
Lean Maltese if you want a small dog around 4-7 lbs and 8-10 inches, with energy 3/5.
Lean Shih Tzu
Lean Shih Tzu if you prefer small size near 9-16 lbs and 9-10 inches, with energy 2/5.
FAQs
- Which is bigger, a Maltese or a Shih Tzu?
- By typical weight/height midpoints, the Shih Tzu tends to be larger overall. Maltese typically weighs about 4-7 lbs (mid ~6 lbs) versus Shih Tzu at 9-16 lbs (mid ~13 lbs). Height at the shoulder is commonly listed around 8-10 inches vs 9-10 inches. Both are classified as small dogs in our data. On typical midpoints, Shih Tzu tends to be the larger dog.
- Which is taller, Maltese or Shih Tzu?
- Shih Tzu is typically taller at the withers (8-10 inches vs 9-10 inches).
- Which weighs more, Maltese or Shih Tzu?
- Shih Tzu usually weighs more (4-7 lbs vs 9-16 lbs).
- Are Maltese and Shih Tzu the same size class?
- Yes—both are small in our breed data. Individuals still vary by sex and bloodline.
- Do males and females change the size comparison?
- Often yes. Males are commonly at the high end of weight/height ranges and females at the low end. Always check the actual dog (or parents) rather than breed averages alone.
Related size matchups
References
- How to Choose the Right Dog Breed — American Kennel Club (AKC)
- How Long Will Your Dog Live? Size Matters — American Kennel Club (AKC)
- General Dog Care — ASPCA