Shih Tzu Maltese Breeders: Heartfelt Stories, Expert Tips, and the Truth About Finding the Right Puppy

The First Time I Held a Shih Tzu Maltese Puppy

I still remember the moment like it was yesterday.
It was 3 a.m. in my small Indiana home, and the air was thick with quiet anticipation. My Shih Tzu mama, Bella, was ready to deliver her first litter. I sat cross-legged on the floor, my heart pounding faster than hers. Then… the tiniest little squeak broke the silence.

A snow-white furball with silky ears nestled into my hands — her eyes still sealed shut, her body so small she fit in my palm. That was my first Shih Tzu Maltese puppy. And right then, I understood: breeding this mix wasn’t just about dogs. It was about creating tiny bundles of joy that would change people’s lives forever.

Why the Shih Tzu Maltese Mix Is So Special

Before we talk breeders, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes this designer breed a favorite across the globe.

A Perfect Blend of Charm and Elegance

The Shih Tzu Maltese mix — also called the Malshi — is a combination of two toy breeds known for their affection, intelligence, and beauty. You get:

• The playful, loving temperament of a Shih Tzu
• The elegant, hypoallergenic coat of a Maltese
• A personality that thrives in apartments, suburban homes, and anywhere there’s a human to love them

The Breeder’s Life: More Than Just Puppies

People often think breeders spend their days playing with adorable dogs (and yes, there’s a lot of that). But being one of the many responsible Shih Tzu Maltese breeders is also about dedication, patience, and a whole lot of 3 a.m. wake-up calls.

Our Day-to-Day Reality

• Feeding schedules that revolve around nursing moms and growing puppies
• Early socialization so every puppy leaves with confidence and curiosity
• Health checks — because an ethical breeder never cuts corners on veterinary care

How to Spot Ethical Shih Tzu Maltese Breeders

There’s a big difference between a breeder who’s in it for love and one who’s in it for quick profit. Here’s what I tell people to look for:

1. Transparency — A good breeder invites you to see where the puppies are raised.
2. Health Certifications — Ask for documentation on genetic testing and vaccinations.
3. References — Ethical breeders are proud of their past puppy placements.
4. Waiting Lists — A breeder with immediate availability year-round might be overbreeding.

💡 Pro tip: When you contact Shih Tzu Maltese breeders, notice how many questions they ask you. A responsible breeder wants to know about you before they ever talk about selling a puppy.

My Hardest Goodbye as a Breeder

One spring, I had a little male Malshi named Oliver. He was the runt of the litter — tiny, shy, and always curled up next to my feet while I worked at my desk. I considered keeping him. But then a retired couple from Ohio came to visit.

They had recently lost their 15-year-old Maltese and told me they weren’t sure their hearts were ready. Then Oliver toddled over, sat in the wife’s lap, and licked away her tears. That was it.

I cried the day they drove away with him, but weeks later they sent me photos of Oliver in his new backyard, wearing a tiny sweater. That’s when I remembered: this is why I breed.

The Puppy Process: From Birth to Forever Home

When people see my Instagram full of fluffy Malshi pups, they don’t see the months of preparation behind each one. Here’s a peek into the journey:

1. Breeding Pair Selection – Only the healthiest, best-tempered dogs are chosen.
2. Prenatal Care – High-quality diet, regular vet visits, and safe nesting spaces for the mama.
3. Whelping – Sometimes quick and smooth, sometimes requiring emergency care.
4. Early Weeks – Eyes open at 2 weeks, personalities bloom by 4 weeks.
5. Socialization – Gentle handling, new sounds, meeting children and other pets.
6. Vet Care – Shots, microchipping, deworming.
7. Placement – Matching the right puppy to the right family.

Questions to Ask a Shih Tzu Maltese Breeder

Before you put down a deposit, here are essential questions:

• How long have you been breeding Shih Tzu Maltese mixes?
• Can I meet the puppy’s parents?
• Do you offer a health guarantee?
• What’s included in the adoption fee?
• What kind of training or socialization do you do before adoption?

Costs: What to Expect from Reputable Breeders

While prices vary, ethical Shih Tzu Maltese breeders usually charge between $1,200 and $2,500 per puppy. The cost reflects:

• Vet care
• Quality nutrition
• Health testing
• Early training and care

If you see a price drastically lower than that, be cautious — it may indicate a puppy mill or poor breeding practices.

Why Waiting for the Right Puppy Is Worth It

I’ve had people on my waiting list for over a year. They tell me the same thing once they finally take their puppy home: “It was worth every single day of waiting.”

The truth is, a well-bred Shih Tzu Maltese can bring over a decade of companionship, laughter, and comfort. And that’s not something you rush.

The Emotional Side of Breeding

Being a breeder means falling in love over and over… and saying goodbye just as often. But it also means knowing that somewhere, a little Malshi is curled up on someone’s lap right now, making them feel less alone.

Final Tips for Finding the Right Shih Tzu Maltese Breeder

• Trust your gut — if something feels off, walk away.
• Look for breeders who see this as a calling, not a business.
• Be ready for your breeder to become a lifelong resource, not just a seller.

💖 From my heart to yours: If you’re ready to welcome a Shih Tzu Maltese into your home, take your time, ask the right questions, and find a breeder who loves these pups as much as you will.