Pure breeds are defined as "of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations." Purebred dogs are extremely popular and are the only dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Association (AKC). These dogs have a documented ancestry, or pedigree, as well as specific characteristics of the breed they represent. Pure breeds are selectively bred, or inbred, to retain and strengthen their genetic traits.
Hybrids often have resulting cute-sounding names in addition to being cute-looking new versions of dogs. Examples of hybrids are: the Shi-Poo (Shih Tzu/Poodle), Puggle (Poodle/Pug), and Mal-Shi (Maltese Shih Tzu). The important fact about hybrids is that they are not pure breeds. Though more defined in lineage than "mutts," hybrids are the result of mixing of one or more pure breeds.
Pure breeds are defined as "of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations." The American Kennel Association does not recognize hybrids, nor does it allow them to register or compete. The American Canine Hybrid Club has been established to allow mixed breeds to compete as long as they have proper documentation of ancestry.
The Maltese Shih Tzu, or Mal-Shi, has characteristics of both the Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds. Mal-Shi are known to be social, non-shedding and even hypoallergenic small dogs with straight to wavy, silky fur. An adult Mal-Shi weighs only 6-10 pounds. This hybrid is thought to have the best characteristics of its Shih Tzu and Maltese parents.
Shih Tzu may have health problems such ocular disorders and infections and spinal problems. The breed is unable to withstand temperatures above 75 degrees, and its fur is prone to matting. For this reason many owners tie up the facial hair in a bow on top of the dog's head. Dogs must be brushed daily or given a "pet clip" or "puppy cut", which is a short haircut done only if the dog is not in competition.
The Maltese part of the Maltese Shih Tzu dates back 28 centuries. The breed originated on the Island of Malta and has not changed in the intervening years. Physically, the Maltese has one layer of fur that is long, silky, straight and pure white in color. The fur is also hypoallergenic and sheds very little. Maltese have dark, expressive eyes and a black nose..
The body is long and sturdy. The personality of the Maltese is described as high in energy, difficult to housebreak, and afraid of nothing. However, Maltese are also cuddly lapdogs who are good with children and other pets. Maltese date back 28 centuries. The breed originated on the Island of Malta and, due to being separated from the mainland, has not changed much in the years since.
It is not a surprise that breeders and fans of both the Maltese and Shih Tzu may desire to have the lineage and genetics of both breeds in one dog. As the Shih Tzu, which is the product of a Lhasa Apso and Pekingese cross breed became registered as a pure breed, it may be possible that the hybrid Mal-Shi one day gains recognition as a pure breed by the American Kennel Association.
