Wender Pets
The Shih Tzu and the Maltese are both ancient companion breeds with royal pedigrees. The Shih Tzu warmed the laps of Chinese emperors. The Maltese charmed Roman aristocrats. Both have been professional companions for thousands of years.
But "small white fluffy dog" is where the similarities end.
The Quick Comparison
🏯 Shih Tzu
- Weight: 9-16 lbs
- Origin: Tibet/China — imperial palaces
- Personality: Confident, stubborn, charming
- Energy: Low to moderate
- Coat: Dense double coat, many colors
- Lifespan: 10-16 years
🏛️ Maltese
- Weight: 4-7 lbs
- Origin: Malta — Mediterranean aristocracy
- Personality: Playful, gentle, people-focused
- Energy: Moderate — more playful than expected
- Coat: Single coat, always white
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
Size Matters More Than You Think
The Shih Tzu is nearly twice the weight of a Maltese. This makes the Shih Tzu sturdier — better for families with young children who might accidentally be rough. The Maltese is delicate enough that a toddler's accidental squeeze could cause real harm.
Personality: The Emperor vs The Entertainer
A Shih Tzu believes they are royalty and you are the staff. They're confident, sometimes stubborn, and always charming. They'll sit on your lap because they've chosen to honor you, not because they need your approval. Training a Shih Tzu is an exercise in negotiation — they understand what you want, they just need a compelling reason to comply.
A Maltese lives to make you happy. They're playful, affectionate, and eager for interaction. They'll learn tricks for the sheer joy of your reaction. Where a Shih Tzu accepts your love as tribute, a Maltese actively seeks it.
Grooming: The Beautiful Burden
Both breeds have long, flowing coats that require serious maintenance. But the maintenance differs:
Shih Tzu: Dense double coat that tangles easily. Daily brushing is essential. Many owners opt for a "puppy cut" to keep things manageable. Their flat face means you'll also need to clean facial folds and keep eyes clear of irritating hair.
Maltese: Silky single coat that's finer and more prone to staining (tear stains are the bane of Maltese owners). Daily brushing, regular bathing, and tear stain management are the routine. The good news: single coat means less shedding.
Health Comparison
Shih Tzu Health Watch
- • Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- • Eye problems (proptosis, dry eye)
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Ear infections
Maltese Health Watch
- • Patellar luxation
- • Patent ductus arteriosus (heart)
- • Portosystemic liver shunt
- • Hypoglycemia (puppies)
- • Dental disease (very common)
Apartment Living
Both breeds are excellent apartment dogs — that's literally what they were bred for (palace apartments, but apartments nonetheless). Low exercise needs, small size, and quiet(ish) temperament make them ideal for city living.
The Maltese may bark more at noises and visitors. The Shih Tzu is generally quieter but can be vocal when they want attention.
The Verdict
Choose a Shih Tzu if you...
- • Have young children (sturdier build)
- • Enjoy a dog with an independent, charming personality
- • Want a dog that's confident and not clingy
- • Prefer a slightly less delicate breed
Choose a Maltese if you...
- • Want a highly affectionate, people-oriented companion
- • Live alone or with older children
- • Prefer a single-coat, lower-shedding breed
- • Want a dog that's easier to train
