WOOFMAP · COMPARE
Maltese are more elongated, with silky straight hair and no undercoat; Shih Tzus are sturdy, with an abundant coat, undercoat and a different facial structure. Both need tangle prevention; Shih Tzus also need careful eye-area, breathing and heat monitoring.
AI realistic imageCompanion and toy dogs
Maltese
AI realistic imageCompanion and toy dogs
Shih Tzu
Explore a Maltese for a small, silky-coated dog. If you prefer the Shih Tzu look, prioritise health assessment and eye-area care. Both need grooming, nail-care and alone-time practice; neither should be chosen as a toy.
| Feature | Maltese | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size and build | Small and distinctly longer than tall, males stand 21–25 cm and females 20–23 cm at the withers. The nearly triangular ears hang beside the head, and the tail forms one broad curve toward the rump. | Small but sturdy, with a short muzzle and a high tail carried over the back. |
| Coat | The dense, glossy, silky coat falls long and straight, without an undercoat. Pure white is standard; a pale ivory tinge is permitted, while traces of pale orange are tolerated but undesirable. | Long dense outer coat with moderate undercoat, not curly; all colours are permitted. |
| Temperament and training | The standard describes a lively, affectionate, very calm and very intelligent dog. Reward-based, engaging lessons suit those qualities, while reactions to unfamiliar people and places will vary by individual. Small size does not replace consistent household guidance. | Intelligent, active and alert, with a friendly yet independent temperament. |
| Exercise, grooming and daily care | Comb the long coat regularly, checking behind the ears, under the legs and around the limbs for tangles; keep hair clear of the eyes. Walks, scent games and brief interactive play offer useful activity and enrichment. Close companionship should be balanced with gradual practice in being alone, household manners and gentle handling. Protect this small dog from rough collisions outdoors. | Detangle long hair daily and keep the eye area clean; limit exertion in heat and watch breathing. |
Explore a Maltese for a small, silky-coated dog. If you prefer the Shih Tzu look, prioritise health assessment and eye-area care. Both need grooming, nail-care and alone-time practice; neither should be chosen as a toy.
Apartment life still requires walks and company. Protect a small Maltese from collisions; monitor a Shih Tzu in heat and during activity. Both need coat debris removal and budgets for grooming and veterinary care.
Recommendations are editorial interpretations of the breed profiles, not guarantees about an individual dog. Age, breeding, socialisation, training and health matter; consider the individual dog, your time and budget.
