A comprehensive comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
| Attribute | Shih Tzu | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Tibet/China | — |
| Breed Group | Toy | Toy |
| Life Span | 10–16 yrs | 12–15 yrs |
| Weight | 4–7 kg | 1.4–1.4 kg |
| Height | 23–27 cm | 45.2–58.1 cm |
| Temperament | Affectionate, Playful, Outgoing | Gentle, Playful, Charming |
| Exercise Needs | Low (20-30 min/day) | Moderate (30-60 min/day) |
| Grooming | — | moderate |
| Shedding | moderate | moderate |
| Good with Children | Yes | No |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes | Yes |
The Shih Tzu is known for being affectionate, playful, outgoing, while the Maltese tends to be gentle, playful, charming.
Shih Tzu
Maltese
Shih Tzu
Maltese
When it comes to daily activity, the Shih Tzu requires low (20-30 min/day) exercise, compared to the Maltese which needs moderate (30-60 min/day).
Shih Tzu
Maltese
Understanding the financial commitment of each breed helps you plan for a lifetime of care.
| Cost | Shih Tzu | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $500 – $2,000 | — – — |
| Monthly Cost | ~$100/mo | — |
Both breeds have breed-specific health considerations. Being aware of these helps you plan for preventive care and vet visits.
Shih Tzu
Life span: 10–16 yrs
No breed-specific health issues documented.
Maltese
Life span: 12–15 yrs
Choose the Shih Tzu if you want a breed that's affectionate and playful and works well in apartments, especially with a family.
Choose the Maltese if you prefer a breed that's gentle and playful and adapts to smaller spaces.
Dive deeper into everything Shih Tzu — costs, care, and expert insights.
How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?
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