### Choosing Between Shih Tzu and Maltese: Bringing Joy to Your Home

When thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, picking between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese can be tricky. Both are charming toy dog breeds that look quite similar, making the choice even harder! Despite their petite size, these lovely dogs are packed with personality and are affectionately devoted companions.

Two Perfect Companions

Both the Shih Tzu and the Maltese were bred to be loving companions. These sweet pups thrive on being around their people and adore cuddling up for some lap time. Thanks to their gentle nature, they are among the top choices for anyone seeking a heartwarming addition to their family.

Size and Appearance

• Size: While they might be small in stature, there's a slight difference in size between them.

  • Shih Tzu: Measures about 9 to 10.5 inches in height and weighs between 9 to 16 pounds.
  • Maltese: Stands about 7 to 9 inches tall and typically weighs under 7 pounds.

• Appearance:

  • Shih Tzus: With their silky coats coming in various colors, they often have a special mark called the 'Star of Buddha' that adds to their charm. Their adorable smiles and confident walk make them impossible to ignore.
  • Maltese: Known for their pure white, luxurious coats, black button noses, and sparkling eyes, they are elegance personified. Their delightful prance is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Intelligent Hearts

When it comes to smarts, both breeds are more emotionally intelligent, deeply understanding their human's feelings. Dr. Rebecca MacMillan tells us they might not be the fastest learners in puzzle-solving, but they excel in love and loyalty, making training a breeze with ample praise and treats.

Family Fit and Activity Levels

Consider your lifestyle when choosing your companion:

• Energy: Both are relatively low-energy and enjoy leisurely walks and light play.
• Lifestyle: Ideal for those who love short walks or play sessions in the yard rather than high-energy activities.

Dr. MacMillan suggests 30-60 minutes of activity each day, which is just perfect for snuggles afterward!

Grooming Needs

Grooming can be a bonding experience with these delightful dogs:

• Shih Tzus and Maltese: Regular brushing keeps their coats tangle-free. Whether you keep their coats short or long, incorporating regular trips to the groomer will keep them looking their best.
• Conclusion: Their grooming needs are slightly different but manageable with some love and patience.

Health and Well-Being

Both breeds are generally healthy but do have some specific needs:

• Shih Tzus: Their adorable flat faces can sometimes lead to breathing issues, and they may have eye-related concerns.
• Maltese: Prone to heart conditions, so regular veterinary checks are important.

A Loving Home

These adorable dogs fit well in various environments, from cozy city apartments to spacious countryside homes. They adore cuddles and being a part of daily life, so they thrive best in homes where someone is around most of the time.

A Loving Call to Action

Both Shih Tzus and Maltese are little bundles of joy waiting for a home they can fill with laughter and warmth. If you’re considering bringing a dog into your life, why not think about adopting one? Both breeds are ready to shower you with unconditional love and devotion.

Remember, by choosing a Shih Tzu or Maltese, you're inviting a world of affection and delight into your home. Love them, cherish them, and watch as they return it tenfold!

Discover more about the beautiful blend of Maltese and Poodle in our Maltipoo breed profile.

(Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver)