
Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are a popular crossbreed between Maltese and Shih Tzu dogs. These dogs are famous for their diminutive stature, adorable teddy bear appearance, and devoted nature. They have fluffy, soft coats that might be white, cream, or light brown among other colors. Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are loyal and loving pets, making them a great choice for families or individuals looking for a furry companion.
Are you trying to choose an attractive, lovable, and affectionate dog breed that will make your house a happy place? Look no further than the Teddy Bear Maltese! With its fluffy coat, adorable face, and playful personality, this breed is sure to capture your heart and become your new best friend. You may also check: Lab Terrier Mix
In this article, we’ll delve into the history, characteristics, temperament, and care requirements of the Teddy Bear Maltese. We’ll also address frequently asked questions about this breed and provide tips for finding a reputable breeder. So, let’s get started!
Here is a table for the Teddy Bear Maltese breed:
Breed Name | Teddy Bear Maltese |
---|---|
Size | Small |
Weight | 5-12 pounds |
Height | 9-12 inches |
Coat Type | Long, silky |
Coat Color | White |
Temperament | Affectionate, friendly, playful, intelligent |
Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Exercise Needs | Low |
Grooming Needs | High, daily brushing and regular trimming |
Health Concerns | Dental issues, allergies, luxating patella, collapsed trachea |
Note: The information in this table is based on the general characteristics of the Teddy Bear Maltese breed and may not apply to every individual dog.
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What Is a Teddy Bear Maltese?
A Teddy Bear Maltese is a small breed of dog that is a mix between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. This breed is also sometimes called a Malshi or Malti Tzu. They are known for their teddy bear-like appearance, with a round face, fluffy coat, and cute, button nose.
Teddy Bear Maltese are usually small in size, weighing between 5 to 12 pounds and standing 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a long, silky coat that requires daily grooming to prevent matting and tangling. The coat is usually white in color, although some may have patches of other colors.
In terms of temperament, Teddy Bear Maltese are known for being affectionate, friendly, and playful. They are also intelligent and respond well to training. They have a low exercise requirement and are well-suited to apartment living. However, they do require regular walks and playtime to maintain their health and happiness.
Overall, the Teddy Bear Maltese is a popular choice for those seeking a small, adorable companion dog with a sweet and friendly temperament.
History of the Teddy Bear Maltese

The Teddy Bear Maltese is a crossbreed between the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. The Maltese breed has its roots in ancient Egypt when they were revered as sacred animals. They later gained popularity in Europe, particularly among the aristocratic, and were frequently depicted in paintings and tapestries.
The Shih Tzu breed originated in China and was bred to be a companion dog. They were prized for their affectionate nature, long silky coats, and playful temperament.
The crossbreeding of these two breeds resulted in the Teddy Bear Maltese, which has become a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Characteristics of the Teddy Bear Maltese
The Teddy Bear Maltese is a little breed that usually weighs 5 to 12 pounds and is 9 to 12 inches tall. They have a beautiful, silky coat that comes in a variety of colors, like cream, brown, white, and black.
The Teddy Bear Maltese is easily recognized by its charming face, which has a round head, big eyes, and a button nose. In order to increase their cuteness, they also have floppy ears that dangle down on either side of their faces.
The Temperament of the Teddy Bear Maltese
The Teddy Bear Maltese is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They love to be around people and make great family pets. They are also playful and enjoy games and toys, making them a great choice for children.
They are simple to train because of their intelligence and desire to please. They are an excellent option for those who have allergies because they are hypoallergenic as well. They need to be socialized with and trained from a young age, just like all dogs, to guarantee that as they age they become calm, well-behaved pets.
Grooming Needs
One of the most appealing things about the Teddy Bear Maltese is their beautiful coat. Their fur is soft and fluffy, with a slight wave to it. However, this also means they require regular grooming to keep their coat looking their best. We recommend brushing their fur daily to prevent matting and tangling. A monthly trim may also be necessary to keep their coat at a manageable length. you may also check: Maltese German Shepherd Mix
In addition to grooming their fur, it’s important to keep their ears clean and free from infection. Their eyes should also be cleaned regularly to prevent any discharge or tear staining.
Health Issues to Watch For
Like all dog breeds, the Teddy Bear Maltese may be prone to certain health issues. These include dental problems, respiratory issues, and eye problems. It’s important to take them to regular vet check-ups to monitor their health and catch any potential issues early on.
Dental problems can be avoided by brushing their teeth frequently, and respiratory problems can be avoided by refraining from secondhand smoke exposure.
Popularity

Over the past several years, interest in the Teddy Bear Maltese has grown. Several people find them to be perfect companions due to their endearing looks and affectionate personalities. They are a tiny breed, which makes them ideal for families with young children or apartments. you may also read: German Shepherd Poodle Mix
Exercise and Training
Despite their small size, Teddy Bear Maltese require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy short walks and indoor playtime, and are highly trainable, making them great candidates for obedience training and tricks.
Positive reinforcement techniques are recommended when training these dogs, as they respond well to praise and rewards.
Care Requirements
The Teddy Bear Maltese has a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming. They should be brushed daily to prevent matting and tangling, and their coat should be trimmed every few months to keep them looking neat and tidy.
They also require regular exercise and playtime to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks and playing games in the backyard, but they are also happy to cuddle up on the couch with their owners.
Benefits of Owning a Teddy Bear Maltese
Owning a Teddy Bear Maltese can bring numerous benefits.
Here are some of the most common ones:
Companionship:
Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They make great companions and are always eager to please their owners.
Low-shedding:
Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are a low-shedding breed, which means they are great for people who suffer from allergies or don’t want to deal with excessive shedding.
Size:
These dogs are small in size, making them perfect for people who live in apartments or have limited space.
Trainability:
Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are highly intelligent and trainable. They are eager to learn new tricks and commands and respond well to positive reinforcement.
Adaptability:
These dogs are adaptable and can adjust to different living situations. They can thrive in both urban and rural environments.
Health:
Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are generally healthy and have a long lifespan. They are a fantastic option for pet owners looking for low-maintenance dogs because they are not prone to numerous health problems.
Cuteness:
Let’s face it, Teddy Bear Maltese dogs are simply adorable. Their fluffy coats, big eyes, and small size make them irresistible to many people.
In summary, owning a Teddy Bear Maltese can provide you with a loving companion, a low-maintenance pet, and an adorable addition to your household.
How Much Does a Teddy Bear Maltese Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses

Here’s a table outlining the estimated costs associated with purchasing and owning a Teddy Bear Maltese puppy.
Expense | Cost |
---|---|
Purchase Price | $1,500 – $3,500 |
Shipping/Delivery | $300 – $500 (if applicable) |
Initial Vet Visit | $100 – $300 |
Vaccinations | $50 – $200 |
Spaying/Neutering | $200 – $500 |
Microchipping | $50 – $100 |
Food | $20 – $50/month |
Toys and Treats | $20 – $50/month |
Bed and Crate | $50 – $200 |
Grooming | $50 – $100/month |
Training | $100 – $300 (puppy classes) |
Total Cost for First Year | $2,740 – $6,000 |
Total Cost for Lifetime | $13,000 – $20,000+ |
Note that these are only estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on the location, specific breeder, and individual needs of your Teddy Bear Maltese puppy. It’s important to carefully research and consider all expenses before committing to adding a furry friend to your family.
why a Teddy Bear Maltese makes a great family pet?
A Teddy Bear Maltese can make a great family pet for a number of reasons. Firstly, They are manageable and the perfect size for families with young children due to their little stature. They make wonderful pets for families searching for a pet to keep them company because they are also incredibly social creatures and love to be around people.
In addition, Teddy Bear Maltese are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They enjoy cuddling and being held, which may be a wonderful comfort to kids who are upset or frightened. Despite their small size, they make excellent watchdogs since they are devoted to and protective of their masters.
Another great thing about Teddy Bear Maltese is that they don’t require a lot of exercise. While they do enjoy short walks and playtime, they are generally happy to curl up on your lap or a cozy spot and relax with their family. For families that might not have the time or space for a pet that needs a lot of physical activity, they are the ideal option.
Pros and Cons
A Maltese and a Shih Tzu were crossed to create the Teddy Bear Maltese, sometimes referred to as the Maltese Shih Tzu. Like all dog breeds, there are both pros and cons to owning a Teddy Bear Maltese. The most notable ones are listed below: you may also read: The Beagle Chihuahua Mix
Pros:
Adorable Appearance:
Teddy Bear Maltese is known for their cute, fluffy appearance that often resembles a stuffed teddy bear. Their soft, long coat requires regular grooming, but many people find their appearance worth the effort.
Good for Apartment Living:
Teddy Bear Maltese is a small dog breed, which makes them well-suited for apartment living. They do not require a lot of space and can often get their exercise indoors.
Loving and Loyal:
Teddy Bear Maltese is known to be a very loving and loyal breed. They often bond closely with their owners and make great lap dogs.
Good with Children:
Teddy Bear Maltese is generally good with children and can make a great family pet. They are playful and affectionate and can often tolerate children’s playful behavior.
Cons:
Health Issues:
Like all designer dog breeds, Teddy Bear Maltese is prone to certain health issues, including eye problems, allergies, and dental issues.
Separation Anxiety:
Teddy Bear Maltese is known to be prone to separation anxiety. They do not like being left alone for long periods and may become destructive if left alone for too long.
Barking:
Teddy Bear Maltese can be prone to excessive barking, which may be an issue in apartment living situations where noise can be a problem.
Training:
Teddy Bear Maltese can be challenging to train, particularly in terms of housebreaking. They may require patience and consistency in training.
Overall, Teddy Bear Maltese can make great pets for the right owner. However, Before deciding to bring one into your home, it’s critical to be aware of both the advantages and disadvantages.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Teddy Bear Maltese hypoallergenic?
Yes, the Teddy Bear Maltese is hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
2. Are Teddy Bear Maltese good with children?
Yes, the Teddy Bear Maltese is a great choice for families with children. They are playful and enjoy games and toys, making them great companions for kids.
3. Is Maltese a Teddy Bear dog?
Yes, Maltese is often considered a Teddy Bear dog due to its small size, fluffy coat, and adorable appearance.
4. What dog breed is a Teddy Bear?
The dog breed that is commonly referred to as a Teddy Bear is a crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise.
5. Are Teddy Bear dogs good pets?
Yes, Many people would enjoy having a teddy bear dog as a pet because of the breed’s reputation for being amiable and cuddly, as well as for having a tiny frame and a low-shedding coat.
6. Can teddy bear dogs be left alone?
Yes, teddy bear dogs can be left alone for short periods of time, but they are social animals and prefer to be with their owners or other dogs. In addition to giving them toys and activities to keep them occupied while you are away, it is crucial to gradually train them to feel at ease being left alone.
7. Does teddy bear dogs stay small?
Yes, teddy bear dogs are small-sized breeds and typically stay small throughout their lives.
8. Do teddy bear puppies bark a lot?
Yes, teddy bear puppies can bark a lot, just like any other dog breed. However, with proper training and socialization, their barking can be minimized.
9. Are teddy bear puppies healthy?
Yes, teddy bear puppies can be healthy as long as they are bred responsibly and given proper care, nutrition, and exercise throughout their lives. However, they could be susceptible, like all breeds, to specific health concerns like allergies, dental disorders, and hip dysplasia. Regular vet checkups and preventative care can help keep them healthy.
10. What breed of dog is the calmest?
Basset Hounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Great Danes, Greyhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and Shih Tzu are a few of the breeds of dogs that are typically recognized for being laid-back, and relaxed. No of their breed, dogs can have a variety of temperaments, so it’s vital to keep that in mind.
11. Are teddy bear dogs quiet?
Yes, teddy bear dogs are generally quiet dogs.
12. What is the cutest teddy bear dog?
The Shih Tzu is the most well-known breed that resembles a teddy bear, yet the term “cutest teddy bear dog” is arbitrary and subject to personal choice.
In Conclusion
The Teddy Bear Maltese is an adorable breed with a friendly and affectionate temperament. With the right care and attention, they can enjoy long and healthy lives, however, they do need routine grooming and may be prone to certain health problems.
If you’re thinking about bringing a Teddy Bear Maltese into your household, do your research and select a reliable breeder. And remember, all dogs deserve the best care possible.