Choosing between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese can be confusing—especially if you’re a first-time dog owner.
Both are small, adorable, and loving companion dogs. But when it comes to beginners, small differences can make a BIG impact.
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible 👇
🆚 Quick Comparison Table (Beginner-Friendly)
| Feature | Shih Tzu | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Calm, laid-back | Energetic, playful |
| Training Difficulty | Moderate (can be stubborn) | Moderate (smart but stubborn) |
| Grooming Needs | High | High |
| Barking | Low–Moderate | Higher |
| Energy Level | Low | Medium |
| Health Issues | More common | Slightly fewer |
| Best For | Families, beginners | Active owners |
🐶 Personality: Calm vs Playful
🐾 Shih Tzu
- Very affectionate and people-oriented
- Loves to sit with you all day
- Calm and relaxed personality
👉 Perfect if you want a low-maintenance emotional companion
🐾 Maltese
- More active and playful
- Curious and alert
- Slightly more independent
👉 Better if you want a lively and energetic small dog
📌 Both are great companion dogs, but Maltese tends to be more energetic overall
🧠 Training: Which Is Easier for Beginners?
Shih Tzu
- Can be stubborn (especially potty training)
- Needs patience and routine
Maltese
- Intelligent but also stubborn
- Learns faster but can be noisy
👉 Winner for beginners: Slight edge to Maltese
(but both need consistency)
✂️ Grooming: Important for First-Time Owners
⚠️ Here’s something beginners often underestimate:
Both breeds need:
- Regular brushing
- Frequent grooming
- Haircuts every few weeks
👉 Their long coats tangle easily and require maintenance
🚨 If you don’t like grooming → neither breed is ideal
🔊 Barking & Behavior
Shih Tzu
- Usually quieter
- More relaxed indoors
Maltese
- More alert
- Tends to bark more
👉 If you live in an apartment → Shih Tzu is better
⚡ Energy Level & Lifestyle
Shih Tzu
- Low energy
- Happy with short walks
- Great for lazy or busy owners
Maltese
- More playful
- Needs more interaction
👉 Beginners usually prefer lower energy dogs → Shih Tzu wins
🏥 Health Considerations
-
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic (flat face)
→ Can have breathing and eye issues - Maltese generally have fewer health issues
👉 Winner: Maltese (slightly healthier overall)
👨👩👧👦 Best for Families vs Beginners
Choose Shih Tzu if you want:
✔ Calm, easygoing dog
✔ Less barking
✔ More cuddling
✔ Better for kids
Choose Maltese if you want:
✔ Playful and active dog
✔ Slightly easier training
✔ More alert personality
🏆 Final Verdict: Which Is Better for Beginners?
👉 Best Overall for Beginners: 🐶 Shih Tzu
Why?
- More relaxed personality
- Less barking
- Easier to manage daily
- Great emotional companion
👉 But…
👉 Choose Maltese if you want a more active, playful dog
💡 Simple Decision Rule
- Want calm + easy life → 👉 Shih Tzu
- Want active + playful dog → 👉 Maltese
🐾 Final Thoughts
Both dogs are amazing—but for beginners, lifestyle matters more than looks.
From real experience and behavior traits:
👉 Shih Tzu = Easier daily life
👉 Maltese = More fun but more effort
Choose based on your lifestyle, not just appearance.
FAQ
Is Shih Tzu or Maltese easier to take care of?
Shih Tzu is easier due to its calm nature and lower energy.
Which dog barks more?
Maltese usually barks more than Shih Tzu.
Are Shih Tzus good for first-time owners?
Yes, they are one of the best beginner-friendly small dogs.
Which is more playful?
Maltese is more energetic and playful.