The Malshipoo is a popular hybrid dog that blends the loveable attributes of the Maltipoo and Shih Tzu breeds into one adorable fluffy package. But what exactly defines these hybrid darlings? Let’s learn more about the lovable Malshipoo.
What is a Malshipoo?
A Malshipoo is a crossbreed created by breeding a purebred Maltese Poodle mix (Maltipoo) with a purebred Shih Tzu. By blending the cheerful Maltipoo with the sturdy Shih Tzu, Malshipoo breeders aim to produce an ultimate companion dog – marrying the friendliness of the Maltipoo with the loyalty and sturdiness of the Shih Tzu while hopefully offering the best physical qualities from both lineages.
What Does a Malshipoo Look Like?
The Malshipoo generally resembles a fluffier version of either parental breed, covered in long silky hair, most often in black, white, gray, brown, red, cream, or apricot. Distinctive features include:
- Button nose and large wide-set eyes
- Overbite and underbite tendencies
- Floppy oversized ears
- Curly plumed tail
- Petite but sturdy frame ranging from 5-20 pounds
Image: malshipoo_stockholm Instagram
Temperament
Malshipoos typically exhibit a friendly, affectionate, and playful temperament. They are known for their loyalty and love to be around their human family members, making them excellent companions. Due to their Poodle ancestry, Malshipoos are often intelligent and trainable, enjoying activities that engage their minds.
Additionally, they get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age. However, as with any breed, individual temperament can vary, so early socialization and training are essential to help shape a well-rounded Malshipoo.
Common Health Concerns
Malshipoos are healthy dogs, but issues facing parent breeds may emerge, including:
- Luxating patellas
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye/ear infections
- Dental overcrowding
Reputable breeders screen for breed-associated genetic issues. We still recommend buying pet insurance and maintaining regular veterinary care.
Care and Grooming
You should be ready to observe the following care and grooming procedures if you plan to own a Malshipoo:
- Coat Care: Malshipoos typically have a low-shedding or non-shedding coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Brush your Malshipoo’s coat at least a few times a week using a slicker brush or comb designed for dogs with curly or wavy hair.
- Bathing: You should bathe your Malshipoo as needed, typically every 4 to 6 weeks or as recommended by your veterinarian. Use a mild dog shampoo formulated for sensitive skin to avoid irritation, and thoroughly rinse out all shampoo residue.
- Trimming: Regular trimming of your Malshipoo’s coat, including around the eyes, ears, and paws, can help maintain their appearance and prevent matting. Consider professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks to keep your dog’s coat neat and tidy.
- Ear Care: Check your Malshipoo’s ears regularly for signs of wax buildup, redness, or odor, which may indicate an infection. Clean its ears as needed with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution and a cotton ball, being careful not to insert anything into the ear canal.
- Dental Care: You should brush your Malshipoo’s teeth regularly, ideally daily, using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental chews or toys can also help reduce plaque buildup and maintain oral hygiene.
- Exercise: Regular exercise is vital to keep your Malshipoo physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games can help fulfill their energy needs and prevent boredom.
- Nutrition: You should feed your Malshipoo a balanced diet formulated for its size, age, and activity level. Monitor food intake and adjust portions as needed to maintain a healthy weight.
- Regular Vet Check-ups: Don’t forget to schedule regular veterinary check-ups for your Malshipoo to monitor its overall health and address any potential issues early on. Stay up-to-date on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental cleanings.
Image: malshipoo8 Instagram
How Much Do Malshipoo Puppies Cost?
You can expect to pay $1200 to over $5000 per Malshipoo puppy based on breeder reputation, lineage, and location. Observe caution buying from retailers importing mass-produced litters.
Instead, consider adopting or saving a Surrendered adult Malshipoo from shelters/rescues for $150 to $400 on average.
What’s the Difference Between a Maltipoo and a Malshipoo?
The main difference between a Maltipoo and a Malshipoo lies in their parentage: Maltipoos are a mix of Maltese and Poodle, while Malshipoos are a mix of Maltese Poodle (Maltipoo) and Shih Tzu. Consequently, Maltipoos may exhibit traits from two breeds (Maltese and Poodle), while Malshipoos combine characteristics of Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds.
These differences can affect aspects such as size, coat type, and temperament, though individual variation within each breed mix should also be considered.
In Summary:
- Maltipoo: Cross between Maltese and Poodle
- Cheerful and affectionate nature
- Hypoallergenic breed with a plushy coat
- Coat can be smooth, wavy, or curly, in various colors
- Average life expectancy of 12-15 years
- Malshipoo: Cross between Maltese Poodle and Shih Tzu
- Maltese has a solid white straight coat, while Shih Tzu has a variety of colors
- Coat can be long, silky, and low-shedding
- Maltese is smaller, weighing 4-7 pounds, while Shih Tzu is slightly larger
- Maltipoo is a relatively new hybrid, while Maltese has been around for about 2,800 years
Conclusion
The Malshipoo embodies the best qualities of its Maltese and Poodle parent breeds, combining affection, intelligence, and playfulness into one adorable package. As a designer dog breed, it has gained popularity for its hypoallergenic coat, friendly temperament, and suitability for various living environments.
Whether as a loyal companion or a cherished family pet, this breed continues to capture the hearts of dog lovers worldwide with its irresistible charm and endearing personality.
FAQs
Are Malshipoos good apartment pets?
Yes! Their small size and easygoing temperament make them ideal lap dogs suited for apartment/condo living.
What colors do Malshipoos come in?
Virtually any color/pattern: brown, black, white, cream, apricot, brindle, tri-color, spotted, speckled!
Do Malshipoos bark excessively?
Some alert barking is not unusual. Anxiety can trigger nuisance barking if left alone excessively. Generally, they are not considered huge barkers relative to size.
How long do Malshipoos live?
An average of 10-15 years with proper healthcare, nutrition, and responsible breeding for longevity.
