Full Grown Maltese Shih Tzu: Size, Lifespan, Price & More
The Maltese Shih Tzu is a popular small dog breed known for its charm and adaptability. But what is this hybrid pup like once it reaches full grown size? This guide covers everything you need to know about the fully matured Maltese Shih Tzu.
About the Breed
The Maltese Shih Tzu is a cross between the purebred Maltese and Shih Tzu dog breeds. It inherits traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a smaller toy dog with long silky fur.
Maltese Shih Tzus are intelligent, playful companions that bond closely with their human families. Their compact size and gentle dispositions make them well-suited for apartments.
Size at Full Growth
On average, a Maltese Shih Tzu will reach its full size between 12-18 months of age. Fully grown males typically stand 8-11 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 6-12 pounds. Females are slightly smaller at 7-10 inches tall and 4-8 pounds. Both sexes have a short and compact physical build.
Appearance at Full Growth
As adults, Maltese Shih Tzus have a distinctive coat of long, silky fur. Their coat can be white, cream, silver, or white/cream mixed. The fur around their face forms a lion-like ruff and falls down the sides of their legs in feathery pantaloons.
Their large expressive eyes are usually dark brown. Overall, they have a square and sturdy yet delicate appearance.
Personality at Full Growth
Once fully matured, Maltese Shih Tzus retain the playful, fun-loving personalities they exhibited as puppies. They bond very closely with their humans and crave affection and attention. While friendly with visitors, they can be a bit shy and nervous around strangers until properly socialized. Loyal and cheerful, they make delightful family companion dogs.
Price
Purebred Maltese Shih Tzu puppies from reputable breeders typically cost between $800-$1500. Prices may vary depending on the puppy's pedigree, color, gender, and the breeder's location.
Be wary of drastically discounted "designer dog" puppies, as lower prices could indicate poor health or temperament.
Adopting a Maltese Shih Tzu from a shelter often costs $100-300 with all initial vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery included.
Food and Feeding
As adults, fully grown Maltese Shih Tzus have relatively modest caloric needs. Most do well with 1/2 to 3/4 cup of high-quality dry kibble per day, divided into two meals.
The specific brand and amount should be tailored to their size, age, activity level, and metabolism under veterinary guidance. Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Lifespan
With proper care, Maltese Shih Tzus can live 12-15 years on average as a hybrid breed. Some may live to be as old as 18. Their lifespan depends on genetics as well as environmental and preventative healthcare factors.
Health at Full Growth
Some potential health issues to watch for in fully grown Maltese Shih Tzus include patellar luxation, dental disease, eye problems, hypoglycemia, and portosystemic shunt.
Be sure to choose a breeder who screens breeding stock for genetic disorders and takes care to avoid inbreeding.
Establish a relationship with a veterinarian for annual checkups and timely medical treatment if needed.
Care and Nutritional Needs
As adults, Maltese Shih Tzus have low-maintenance care needs. Brush their long coat at least twice weekly to prevent matting and distribute skin oils.
Trim their nails every 1-2 months if they don't wear them down naturally. Bathe only when truly dirty to avoid stripping the coat's natural oils.
Dental hygiene like brushing their teeth 2-3 times a week helps prevent periodontal disease. Regular exercise like playtime and short walks keep them fit and stimulated.
Cost of Ownership
The annual costs of owning a fully grown Maltese Shih Tzu include basic supplies, preventative healthcare, potential emergency medical expenses, grooming, training equipment and classes as needed, pet insurance premiums, and the costs of a well-balanced diet.
Most owners should budget $500-$1000 per year on average for the needs of a healthy adult Maltese Shih Tzu.
Possible Behavioral Changes
As a Maltese Shih Tzu reaches maturity, some subtle behavioral shifts may occur. Training and socialization throughout puppyhood helps minimize potential issues.
Fully matured dogs tend to become a bit more aloof with strangers and protective of their family members or territory. Obedience refresher training is beneficial to keep commands from slipping.
Notable Characteristics
Key traits of the fully grown Maltese Shih Tzu include their devoted affection for people, small stature, lively playfulness, non-shedding silky coat, and adaptable nature. They thrive as gentle companion dogs in homes of all sizes. Their charming personality and "puppy-like" demeanor remain a defining part of the breed even at adulthood.
Determining Full Growth
Most Maltese Shih Tzu puppies reach their mature adult size between 12-18 months of age. Growth plates in their bones fuse at this stage signifying the end of growth periods. Weight gain slows significantly and activity levels plateau once full physical development is complete.
Suitability as a Pet
When provided with early training, socialization and a caring home environment, the Maltese Shih Tzu generally makes an excellent family pet. Their manageable size, kid-friendly demeanor and playful energy make them a great companion for homes with children as young as 7-8 years old.
While not suitable for large outdoor properties, their sweet personality and adaptability to small living spaces make them a fine choice for apartments too.
