You may be wondering if Maltese Shih Tzus are the right breed for your home. There is no better way to figure that out than to learn more about this special breed. As a designer breed, their main appeal is in their appearance. However, they do have their own unique personalities and temperaments. Learning these facts can help you to decide whether or not this breed will make the perfect new addition to your family.
Breeding
A relatively new breed, the Maltese Shih Tzu came about in the 1990s. People wanted small, adorable dogs, and combining these two breeds gave the ideal result. As a designer breed, it has characteristics that people adore. Bred for companionship, it is a sweet and friendly dog that anyone will want to cuddle. It is there to give attention and to be a friend. You will meet few other dogs so outgoing and lovable.
The Maltese Shih Tzu does not shed a lot, either. Another characteristic bred into it is being hypoallergenic. You do not have to worry about shedding causing problems with allergies or making it hard to clean up.
Intelligence
There are nearly endless wonderful facts about Maltese Shih Tzu dogs. Their intelligence is certainly up there as one of the best things about them. Training and keeping these dogs is less of a problem because of this. They catch on to things quickly and they retain information. They make for great pets for anyone, including singles and families, regardless of age.
Temperament
You do not have to worry about anger, viciousness, or other behavioral problems. The Maltese Shih Tzu is a wonderful dog with a great temperament. Gentle, loving, playful, and active, it is great with all ages. You can keep this dog around children and the elderly alike without any problems arising. Older children may be a better fit, but this pet generally does well with younger ones as well, with adult supervision, of course.
Like the Shih Tzu, the Maltese Shih Tzu may show some stubbornness. This is part of them being intelligent dogs and it may make training a little harder. It is still a relatively easy dog to train and raise, but you will have to work with that stubbornness.
Good for All
There are endless great facts about Maltese Shih Tzu dogs. While you will have to learn more about their health problems and you should consider the breeder before buying one, the dogs themselves are fantastic companions. These pups are full of love, friendship, and joy, and your family will be able to make memories year after year. Every moment together will leave you loving your little friend even more.
(Featured image source: dogtime.com)
