Malchi (Chihuahua & Maltese Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More
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View 8 More +With the genes of a Chihuahua and Maltese, the Malchi is a small, fluffy hybrid dog with a big bark and a bigger heart. This pint-sized pup is high-spirited, playful, intelligent, and affectionate. Given the proper training and socialization, the Malchi can evolve into a loyal canine companion that will provide you with years of love and loyalty.
| Height: | 12–14 inches |
| Weight: | 5–12 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Colors: | Fawn, black, cream, white |
| Suitable for: | Singles, couples, families with older or no children |
| Temperament: | Affectionate, high-spirited, playful, yappy |
Before bringing a Malchi home, it’s important to understand the dog's personality and wellness needs to determine if they are the right fit for you. Well, don’t worry because our in-depth guide has you covered! Here is everything you need to know about the Malchi.
Malchi Characteristics
Malchi Puppies
Since they were introduced to the designer dog market 20 years ago, the Malchi is still a new hybrid dog breed. However, the Malchi is gaining popularity thanks to their spunky personality and petite frame. They can be excessive barkers and may not be suitable for apartments. It’s also important to note that the Malchi is not the most social of dogs. However, with the proper training and socialization, you can boost your Malchi’s confidence around new faces.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Malchi 🧠
As an affectionate and adorable dog, the Malchi can be pretty loud. They will make her presence known! This little lap dog may also be shy around strangers, and training and socialization are vital to ensuring your pet is a happy, friendly dog.
Are These Dogs Good for Families 👪
The Malchi is best suited for families without children or with teenagers. Despite being tolerant of youngsters, the dog’s Chihuahua roots can make them stubborn or aggressive if they are provoked. Due to their small size, the Malchi can be accidentally injured by rambunctious kids.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets 🐶 😽
The Malchi does best when they are the only pet in the household. They're somewhat feisty and always need to be the “top dog.” They can also be easily injured by larger dog breeds, but the Malchi gets along with calm cats.
Things to Know When Owning a Malchi:
Now that you know more about the Malchi’s personality, let’s explore their care requirements.
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
The Malchi is a very small dog that can suffer from indigestion. It's best to feed your Malchi only dry foods that are rich in fiber. They only need about a cup of kibble per day divided into two meals. This will cost you between $25 and $30 each month.
Exercise 🐕
The Malchi is truly a lap dog! They have very low energy levels and only need to be exercised for about 30 minutes per day. They enjoy short, brisk walks or romps in the backyard. In addition to physical stimulation, the Malchi needs a lot of mental stimulation. Interactive dog toys and puzzles will keep them entertained when you're not around.
Training 🎾
The Malchi is very intelligent, and training them is usually easy. Firm, positive reinforcement training methods work best for them. Never scold or hit your dog since it can make them anxious and aloof. Aim for a few short training sessions each day.
Grooming ✂️
Your Malchi can inherit the short hair of the Chihuahua or the long, silky fur of the Maltese. Though they're moderate shedders, your Malchi’s grooming needs will depend upon their coat. Malchis with long, thick hair must be groomed several times per week. They will also need consistent visits to a professional groomer. You can use a de-shedding brush or pin brush on your long-haired Malchi. If your dog has short hair, you’ll only need to brush them once a week. Also, it's crucial to Brush their teeth daily and clip their nails as needed.
Health and Conditions ❤️ 🏥
Despite being a healthy breed, the Malchi is prone to several health conditions. A quality diet, enough exercise, and routine vet visits will ensure your dog stays in tip-top condition. Be aware that your Malchi may need occasional knee, blood, and heart testing.
Male vs Female
The male Malchi will be slightly larger than the female, but only by less than an inch. Both sexes make wonderful pets.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Malchi
1. The Maltese Is an Ancient Breed
The Maltese breed can be traced back to the fourth and fifth centuries BC.
2. Chihuahua’s Have Big Brains!
Due to their brain-to-body size ratio, Chihuahuas are considered to have one of the largest brain sizes out of all other breeds!
3. The Malchi Is Incredibly Tiny
On average, the Malchi weighs only about 7 pounds.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fantastic little dog to add to your family, the Malchi might be the pet for you! They're a low-energy, moderate-shedding dog that craves affection. However, they does best in homes where there are no small children or other pets. The Malchi can also be a barker. If you’re thinking about scooping up a Malchi, this petite pup will provide you with lots of love for several years!
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Featured Image Credit: RonnySchoene, Shutterstock
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Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
