Malshipoo: Size, Temperament, Price & Care Guide

Introduction

Tiny, fluffy, and full of love, the Malshipoo is a small designer dog that is catching the attention of apartment dwellers and families who want a cuddly lap companion.

It is a three-way mix of the Maltese, the Shih Tzu, and the Poodle, so it blends the gentle charm of all three. But because this is a rare mixed breed, reliable information is hard to find.

This guide gives you a clear, honest look at the Malshipoo: its size, coat, personality, health, lifespan, price, and how to find a responsible breeder.

What Is a Malshipoo?

A Malshipoo is a cross between a Malshi (a Maltese and Shih Tzu mix) and a Poodle, usually a Toy or Miniature Poodle.

Some breeders also produce them by crossing a Maltipoo with a Shih Tzu or a Shih-Poo with a Maltese. Because several breeds are involved, no two Malshipoos look exactly alike, even within the same litter.

The Malshipoo is not a recognized breed with an official breed standard. Kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club do not register mixed breeds as separate breeds.

That means size, coat, and temperament depend on the parents and on how the genes combine, so it is important to meet the parent dogs whenever possible.

The Three Parent Breeds

• Maltese: A silky, white toy dog known for being gentle, affectionate, and playful. Maltese generally live 12 to 15 years.
• Shih Tzu: A sturdy companion with a long, flowing coat and a sweet, outgoing personality. They can be stubborn but love people.
• Poodle: A highly intelligent, trainable breed with a curly coat that sheds very little.

Malshipoo Size and Appearance

Most Malshipoos are small. A typical adult weighs roughly 6 to 15 pounds and stands about 8 to 13 inches tall, depending on the size of the Poodle parent and the Shih Tzu line.

Dogs from Toy Poodle parents tend to be smaller, while those from Miniature Poodles may be sturdier.

Their appearance varies widely:

• Coat: Straight, wavy, or curly, and usually soft and fluffy.
• Colors: White, cream, apricot, grey, black, brown, or a mix. Many have a white or cream base inherited from the Maltese.
• Face: A short to medium muzzle, dark round eyes, and drop ears covered in long hair. Some look more like a Shih Tzu, others like a Maltese.

Puppies can change in color and coat texture as they mature, so a fluffy pup may look different at one year old.

Malshipoo Temperament and Personality

Malshipoos are known for being affectionate, playful, and people-focused. They bond closely with their owners and want to be involved in everything you do. Most are friendly with visitors, get along with other pets, and adapt well to apartment living.

Because they are intelligent, thanks to the Poodle, and eager to please, they usually learn quickly. The Shih Tzu side can add a stubborn streak, so training should be patient and reward-based.

Common Behavior Challenges

• Separation anxiety: Many small companion dogs struggle when left alone for long periods.
• Barking: They may bark at noises or visitors, especially if bored.
• House-training: Small breeds have small bladders and can take longer to housebreak.
• Fragility: Tiny dogs can be injured by rough handling, so they are best for homes with gentle older children.

Coat, Shedding and Grooming

The Malshipoo is considered a low-shedding dog, which appeals to many people with mild allergies. But no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Dander and saliva can still trigger allergies, so spend time with the dog before you commit.

Grooming is a real commitment:

• Brushing: Brush several times a week, and daily if the coat is long, to prevent mats.
• Professional grooming: Plan a trim every 4 to 8 weeks. Many owners keep the coat in a short “puppy cut.”
• Eyes: Wipe tear stains daily. Maltese and Shih Tzu lines are prone to staining.
• Ears: Check weekly and clean gently, since hair in the ear canal can trap moisture.
• Teeth: Brush several times a week. Small dogs get dental disease early.
• Nails: Trim every few weeks.

Exercise and Training Needs

Malshipoos have moderate energy. Two short daily walks and some indoor play are usually enough. They enjoy puzzle toys, short training sessions, and games of fetch in a safe space. Avoid jogging in hot weather, because the Shih Tzu side may contribute to a shorter muzzle and heat sensitivity.

Start socialization early. Introduce your puppy to different people, sounds, and places in a positive way. Use treats, praise, and consistency. Crate training can help with house-training and give your dog a safe place to rest.

Malshipoo Health Problems

Mixed breeds are not automatically healthier. A Malshipoo can inherit conditions from any of its three parents. Common concerns include:

• Patellar luxation: Kneecaps that slip out of place, common in toy breeds.
• Dental disease: Crowded teeth lead to tartar, gum disease, and tooth loss.
• Tracheal collapse: Weakened windpipe rings that cause a honking cough, more common in toy breeds.
• Eye problems: Dry eye, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and tear staining.
• Liver shunt: An abnormal blood vessel that bypasses the liver, seen in Maltese and other toy breeds.
• Low blood sugar: Very small puppies can crash if they skip meals.
• Allergies and skin problems: Itchy skin and ear infections are common.
• Heart disease: Valve problems can appear in older small dogs.

Ask the breeder about health testing for both parents, including knee exams, eye exams, heart checks, and liver screening. A good breeder will be open about the health of the lines.

Malshipoo Lifespan

Small dogs usually live longer than large ones. A well-cared-for Malshipoo can live roughly 12 to 15 years, in line with its parent breeds. Good nutrition, a healthy weight, dental care, regular vet visits, and a safe home all help.

How Much Does a Malshipoo Cost?

Prices vary by region and breeder, and because Malshipoos are uncommon, you may need to wait.

Puppies from breeders who health-test their dogs commonly range from about $1,000 to $3,000, though some sellers charge more for very small sizes or fashionable colors.

Be careful with ads that promise “teacup” or “micro” sizes, because extremely tiny dogs often have more health problems.

Plan for ongoing costs too:

• Food, treats, and supplies
• Grooming every four to eight weeks
• Vaccines, parasite prevention, and annual vet exams
• Dental cleanings
• Pet insurance or an emergency fund

How to Find a Responsible Malshipoo Breeder

• Ask to meet the parents or at least see them on a video call.
• Request health testing results for both parents.
• Visit the home or ask to see where the puppies are raised.
• Get a written contract with a health guarantee and a return policy.
• Expect questions. A good breeder screens buyers.
• Do not buy before eight weeks of age.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Constant availability of puppies in many breeds
• No health records or no access to the parents
• Pressure to pay a deposit quickly by wire or gift card
• Promises of an exact adult size or a “guaranteed hypoallergenic” dog
• Shipping a puppy without you ever meeting the breeder

Rescues and shelters also have Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Poodle mixes. Adopting an adult dog lets you know the size and temperament in advance.

Is a Malshipoo Right for You?

A Malshipoo is a great match if you want a small, affectionate companion and you are home often. It suits apartments, seniors, and families with gentle children.

It is less suited to people who are away all day, who do not want to groom regularly, or who want a dog with a predictable look and size.

Malshipoo vs Maltipoo vs Shih-Poo

People often confuse these three small mixes. Here is the simple difference:

• Maltipoo: Maltese and Poodle. Usually the most Poodle-like, often with a curlier coat.
• Shih-Poo: Shih Tzu and Poodle. Often a bit sturdier, with a flatter face.
• Malshipoo: Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Poodle together. A blend of all three, so the look and personality can vary more.

All three are small, affectionate, and low-shedding, and all need regular grooming. If you want a more predictable result, ask the breeder about the exact makeup of the parents.

Feeding Your Malshipoo

Choose a high-quality small-breed food made for your dog’s age. Tiny puppies should eat three or four small meals a day to prevent low blood sugar, then move to two meals as adults.

Measure portions, because small dogs gain weight fast. Even a few extra treats can matter. Fresh water should always be available, and crunchy kibble can help reduce tartar. Ask your vet about the best diet if your dog has allergies or a sensitive stomach.

Preparing Your Home for a Malshipoo Puppy

• Puppy-proof the house. Hide cords, small objects, and toxic plants.
• Set up a safe space with a crate or playpen, bed, and water.
• Buy a harness, not a collar, to protect the delicate neck and windpipe.
• Add ramps or steps so your dog does not jump off furniture.
• Book a vet visit within the first few days.

FAQs

1. What is a Malshipoo?

It is a mixed breed made by crossing a Maltese, a Shih Tzu, and a Poodle.

2. How big do Malshipoos get?

Most weigh about 6 to 15 pounds and stand roughly 8 to 13 inches tall.

3. Are Malshipoos hypoallergenic?

They shed little and are often tolerated by people with mild allergies, but no dog is completely hypoallergenic.

4. How long do Malshipoos live?

Usually about 12 to 15 years with good care.

5. How much does a Malshipoo cost?

Commonly about $1,000 to $3,000 from a health-testing breeder, though prices vary.

6. Are Malshipoos good with kids?

They can be, but their small size makes them best for gentle older children.

7. Do Malshipoos bark a lot?

Some do, especially when bored or anxious. Training and exercise help.

8. Do Malshipoos need a lot of grooming?

Yes. Regular brushing and a trim every few weeks keep the coat healthy and tangle-free.