Should I get a Maltese or Shih-Tzu?

Should I get a Maltese or a Shih-Tzu?
I can't pick I like them both :)

I've had a maltese for the past 2 yrs. She is a very calm dog and very loving. She likes to sit in my lap and sleep or next to me. She was very easy to house train. Shih-tzu's are cute too though. But I like my maltese.

11 Responses to “Should I get a Maltese or Shih-Tzu?”

  1. mmonroe811 says:

    get a pit bull
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  2. Jessie T says:

    Maltese
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  3. c_dawg_123 says:

    I'm not really partial to either breed…
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  4. Racquel W says:

    Go for the Shih-Tzu- they are so cute.
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  5. mthtchr05 says:

    Get a real dog and get a German Shepherd Dog.
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  6. Nikky says:

    I've had a maltese for the past 2 yrs. She is a very calm dog and very loving. She likes to sit in my lap and sleep or next to me. She was very easy to house train. Shih-tzu's are cute too though. But I like my maltese.
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    My maltese Belle.

  7. pops says:

    Maltese, although I prefer a Lhasa Apso
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  8. Sky Princess says:

    You should adopt. There are many pets out there who need homes and get put down. Try your local shelter maybe they have something you're looking for. My local shelter let me adopt my dog for $75 dollar donation and it goes to a good cause, she is the best dog I could have asked for.
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  9. ashes_ashes18 says:

    You should get a Maltese but you have to give them alot of attention and they are very fragile.
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  10. tammy-whammy says:

    Well, here's some more information on them, if that would help you make your mind up….hope it helps you out!

    Maltese
    The Maltese is a member of the Bichon family and is one of the oldest European breeds. Maltese have a beautiful mantel of long, silky, white hair. This is their crowning glory. Maltese are gentle-mannered and affectionate, yet playful and full of animation. Despite their size, they posses the vigor needed for a excellent companion. The Maltese is intelligent and easy to train, but is very strong-willed. They enjoy being groomed, petted and fondled.

    Height: 10 inches
    Weight: 4 – 6 lbs.

    Colors: White, slight lemon markings on ears are permissible.
    Coat: Long, straight coat, silky texture.

    Temperament: Maltese are friendly, alert
    With Children: It does not tolerate young children.
    With Pets: Does not mix well with other pets.

    Watch-dog: Very High
    Guard-dog: Very Low

    Care and Training: Extensive coat care is needed for the Maltese. Shampoo once a week and daily brushing is essential. Special attention is needed to keep the eyes clean as staining is possible. Indoor activity with suffice for exercise, but Maltese will enjoy a walk or a run in the park.
    Learning Rate: High, Obedience – High, Problem Solving – High

    Activity: Indoors – Very High, Outdoors – Medium
    Living Environment: An apartment is fine for the Maltese as they are a small, quite dog. The Maltese makes a good dog for the elderly if they can socialize and take time to groom and play with them.

    Health Issues: Generally very healthy. Subject to genetic eye disorders

    Life Span: 9 – 11 years
    Litter Size: 2 – 4

    Country of Origin: Malta
    History: The Maltese origins come from Malta dating back to about 1500 B.C. Their popularity rose during the reign of Queen Elizabeth as a companion to the women of the royal court. The Maltese is featured in many famous paintings. They first appeared in the United States in 1877.

    First Registered by the AKC: 1888
    AKC Group: Toy
    Class: Toy
    Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC (GB), UKC

    Shih Tzu
    The name "Shih Tzu" means lion dog in Chinese and they received the name because of their long, flowing mane-like coat. The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, toy dog with a long flowing double coat. They have a distinctively arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back. They may display an arrogant personality, but are actually playful and gentle. Shih Tzus adapt well to any family situation and will enjoy a cuddle in your lap, doing tricks, or fetching a tennis ball. Shih Tzus are an intelligent dog who will make a good family addition. Despite their small size the Shih Tuz is a confident and dignified breed.

    Other Names: Chrysanthemum Dog

    Height: 8 – 11 inches
    Weight: 8 – 15 lbs.

    Colors: All colors.
    Coat: Long, dense, not curly with a good undercoat

    Temperament: Shih Tzus are gentle, loyal, proud
    With Children: Yes, loves children.
    With Pets: Yes, gets along well with other animals.
    Special Skills: Family pet

    Watch-dog: Very High
    Guard-dog: Very Low

    Care and Exercise: Daily grooming is essential for the Shih Tzu. Bathing once a month. Clipping of matting on feet. Basic training when puppy is young. Minimal exercise is needed, but they will love to play outdoors.
    Training: Shih Tzus may be obstinate but patience and consistency will help over come the problem and achieve a reasonable level of training.
    Learning Rate: High, Obedience – Medium, Problem Solving – Low

    Activity: Indoors – High, Outdoors – Low
    Living Environment: Apartment is adequate provided they receive some type of exercise. An owner of a Shih Tzu should be a consistent leader who desire an active, curious breed.

    Health Issues: Kidney disorder, otherwise no major health problems.

    Life Span: 10 – 14 years
    Litter Size: 2 – 4

    Country of Origin: Tibet
    History: Shih Tzus may have originated from a cross between the Tibetan Mountain Dog and the Pekingese. They were a favored dog of the Emperor and is portrayed in Chinese paintings. They were first imported to England in the 1930's. Then after World War II they made their way to the United States by military officers going home. It wasn't until 1969 that the AKC recognized the breed.

    First Registered by the AKC: 1969
    AKC Group: Toy Group
    Class: Toy
    Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC(GB), UKC
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  11. brunette but blonde says:

    get a mix between the both its a new breed of dog i cant remember what its called, but my friend has one
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