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The Maltese and the Shih Tzu are two charming small breeds with long, beautiful coats. Both are perfect for apartment living and are adored for their affectionate and friendly natures. But they have distinct differences in personality, grooming needs, and overall care requirements. Let’s explore these two toy breeds to see which one is better suited for your family and lifestyle.
| Characteristic |
 Maltese |
 Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Height (cm) | 23 | 26 |
| Weight (kg) | 3.5 | 4.5 |
| Life Expectancy (years) | 15 | 13 |
| Health | Good (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
| Intelligence | High (4/5) | Medium (3/5) |
| Activity | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
| Trainability | High (4/5) | Medium (3/5) |
| Shedding | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
| Aggressiveness | Low (2/5) | Medium (3/5) |
| Grooming Needs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
| Friendliness | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
| Tolerance to Being Alone | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
| Noise Level | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
| Child Friendliness | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
| Service Use (Guarding) | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
| Maintenance Cost | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu are affectionate, gentle, and perfect for families or individuals looking for a smaller dog. The Maltese is a bit more energetic and independent, making it a better option for active owners who enjoy some playtime with their pets. It also has low shedding and requires moderate grooming.
The Shih Tzu is a calmer breed, ideal for those who prefer a relaxed companion. It has a lovely personality but requires more frequent grooming due to its longer coat. It’s also a little more laid-back than the Maltese, which can be great for those looking for a less demanding dog.
In short:
Choose the Malteseif you want an energetic, playful companion with low shedding and moderate grooming needs.
Choose the Shih Tzu if you're looking for a more laid-back, affectionate dog and you're ready for regular grooming.
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