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Compare Maltese and Shih Tzu side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level

Playfulness

Intelligence

Trainability

Protectiveness

Sociability

Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

12–15 years

10–16 years

Weight

3.5–4.5 kg

4.5–8.1 kg

Height

20–25 cm

25–28 cm

Origin

Malta

Tibet

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Maltese and Shih Tzu are both small, affectionate breeds that make excellent companions, especially for families and first-time dog owners. While they share some similarities, such as their sociability and suitability for apartment living, they also have distinct differences that may influence a potential owner's decision. The Maltese, originating from Malta, has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and typically weighs between 3.5 to 4.5 kg. In contrast, the Shih Tzu, hailing from Tibet, has a lifespan of 10 to 16 years and weighs between 4.5 to 8.1 kg. Grooming needs and shedding levels also vary, with the Maltese being less prone to shedding than the Shih Tzu. Both breeds are playful and friendly, but their trainability and intelligence levels differ slightly, with the Maltese being generally easier to train.

Maltese — Advantages

Lower shedding level (1)
Higher intelligence (4)
Better trainability (4)
Longer average lifespan (12-15 years)
More suitable for first-time owners

Disadvantages

Slightly lower weight range (3.5-4.5 kg)
Higher grooming difficulty (4)
Can be more sensitive to nutrition (2)

Shih Tzu — Advantages

Wider weight range (4.5-8.1 kg)
Potentially longer lifespan (10-16 years)
Good with kids and first-time owners
Similar energy level (3) and playfulness (4)