Mal-Shi – Our Cute “Mitzi”

Mal-Shi – Our Cute “Mitzi”

"What a Little Cutie ....!

We count ourselves very fortunate to have literally “stumbled upon” this wonderful mixed breed of dog, when going to see some pedigree Schi-Tzu puppies at a highly respected breeder’s home. On arrival, we were greeted by the owner and then shown her beautiful Schi-Tzu, Maltese Terrier, Pomeranian and Miniature Schnauzer puppies. Obviously, myself, my wife and my two young daughters were “falling in love” with them all as we met them, one by one!

So, with owning a Mal-Shi, I can highly recommend our cute little “Mitzi’s” temperament! We were also lucky that the breeder introduced us to Mitzi’s mum and dad, so we were able to get an idea about Mitzi’s emotional stability likeliehood. As it has turned out, 18 months later, her character and temperament are just wonderful! We also have a fourteen year old rescue dog, “Muffin,” who is a cross Briard and Mitzi and her are real best pals.

There are people in the dog world who think that it’s hard to tell when it comes to assessing the temperament of a mixed breed, since it is a design ‘mix’ of two different specific breeds of dog. (Maltese Terrier crossed with Schi-Tzu.) Whenever you get into breeding two separate breeds, you’ll have to rely more on the temperaments of the immediate parents to really get an idea on the emotional stability of the puppy.

"Muffin and Mitzi"

The Mal-Shi is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Maltese Terrier and the Shih-Tzu. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.

Our cute little Mal-Shi puppy is called “Mitzi” and she is a wonderful dog!

Breed Description:

Coat: The coat of the Mal-Shi is typically long, straight, and dense. They may or may not have a double coat.

Overview: The Mal-Shi, also called the Malte Tzu, is created by the crossing of two breeds: the Maltese Terrier and Schi-Tzu. They are commonly referred to as “designer dogs” and have become very popular companions.

Character: Sturdy, well-built, and compact, the Mal-Shi is agile and lively. They exhibit a keen expression and hardy appearance.

Temperament: The ideal Mal-Shi is affectionate, loving, and devoted. They should be playful, spunky, and clever. They do best in a home with older, considerate children, but we can vouch for the fact that ours was also excellent with younger children. They generally do well with dogs and non-canine pets and again, our Mal-Shi loves all of our other pets, which include 3 guinea pigs, two rabbits and two hamsters! Mal-Shis are wary and suspicious of strangers and are quick to alert their family to visitors and out of the ordinary sounds …. and Mitzi is no exception to this rule.

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Care: The Mal-Shi requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Bathing should be done when necessary using a mild shampoo. The ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection, particular attention being taken to remove hair growth within the folds of internal skin. Dental hygiene is important to prevent early tooth loss. They may be prone to such health issues as slipped stifle, skin problems, eye and respiratory problems, and spinal disc disease.

Training: Early socialisation and obedience are recommended. The Mal-Shi may be stubborn and difficult to housebreak. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency. The rewards of the initial hard work we put in with Mitzi have paid off and resulted in a very well behaved and obedient loving family companion.

Activity: The Mal-Shi is well suited for apartment living provided they are sufficiently exercised and mentally stimulated, but do be warned that, although very small and cute, they will require a lot of exercise, attention and mental stimulation to channel their extremely high energy levels the right way. They enjoy good walks, family fun and play sessions, and off-lead play time, which we did experience some early stubborn recall difficulties, so again … be warned about that one … (they will do anything for a treat though!)

Ownership: If you are looking for a Mal-Shi, Malshi puppies for sale from reputable Mal-Shi, Mal-Shi breeders, or to adopt a Mal-Shi from a Mal-Shi rescue, then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. We hope that we have given you a good idea of our cute little dog’s characteristics and qualities and that you may be so lucky if you decide to become the owner of a Mal-Shi or Mal-Shi puppy!

Dog Books: Our Top Six for Christmas 2009

Dog Books: Our Top Six for Christmas 2009!

1. A Member of the Family: A Member of the Family: Cesar Millan’s Guide to a Lifetime of Fulfillment with Your Dog:

Many of us think of our dogs not as pets, but as full-fledged members of our families. If you own a dog or are thinking about getting one: “A Member of the Family” is the ultimate resource for integrating your canine companion into the life of your household.

What should you do if you need to leave him alone at home while everyone’s at work? Are you giving him the space or time to give him the exercise he needs? How can you make sure your children and dog get along well? How do events in the human family – like birth, marriage, or divorce – affect the family dog? All of these questions, and many more, are answered by bestselling author Cesar Millan in this new book.

Brimming with practical tips and techniques, A Member of the Family addresses the most common issues and questions that emerge over the course of your lifetime relationship with your dog, explaining what it takes to be a good dog owner. From helping you choose the right dog for your particular family’s needs to setting the rules of the house (yes, you and your family are in charge) to finding a quality vet and monitoring your dog’s health, Cesar offers essential advice for a harmonious household. No topic is left untouched. With success stories from Cesar’s fans and clients included throughout, A Member of the Family includes sections on travel and doggie day care, caring for an aging dog, and dealing with the death of a pet and its long-lasting effects on a family.

In his frank, simple, and calm manner, Millan acts as your personal expert as you build a fulfilling, satisfying relationship with your dog.

Buy “A Member of the Family“ Today.

2. The Complete Dog Book: 20th Edition:

Toydogtoys.com Review: There’s the Scottish Terrier or “Scottie,” (“an earth dog used in hunting, amongst others, the fox”), the Boston Terrier (“a lively, highly intelligent, smooth coated, short-headed, compactly built, short- tailed, well balanced dog”), or the Great Dane (“one of the most elegant and distinguished varieties of giant-type dog”). In fact, there are 146 AKC-recognised breeds profiled within the pages of the Complete Dog Book, and the pictures and text provide great “doggie” browsing. The breed descriptions help you choose among the hounds, terriers, toys, and working breeds, the herders, guard dogs, and sporting breeds. Measurements help determine which dogs will best fit your home circumstances (Chesapeake Bay Retrievers measure 21 to 26 inches high at the shoulder, Chinese Cresteds are a mere 11 to 13 inches off the ground, while the Irish Wolfhound stands 30 to 32 inches tall). Breed temperaments help you choose your ideal pet, and show criteria helps you to know what you’re looking for when you actually start to shop for a puppy. In the meantime, there are interesting stories about breed origins, and a useful glossary of dog terms, while the chapters on grooming, training, and Canine Health and First Aid will come in handy once you’ve brought your new dog home.

Buy “The Complete Dog Book: 20th Edition“ Today.

3. Be the Pack Leader: Use Cesar’s Way to Transform Your Dog . . . and Your Life:

Review:- Be the Pack Leader is a HIT! This book is a huge hit with our organization! Adopters find themselves learning how “they” can be better pet owners through calm / assertive pack leadership.

Kudo’s to Cesar Millan for sharing his wisdom, expertise and special gifts to the world! We are grateful for it.

Linda R. Blakely
Raccoon Valley Animal Sanctuary & Rescue

Buy “Be the Pack Leader“ Today.

4. 101 Dog Tricks: Step by Step Activities to Engage, Challenge, and Bond with Your Dog:

101 Dog Tricks is the largest trick book on the market and the only one presenting full-color photos of each trick and its training steps. The step-by-step approach, difficulty rating, and prerequisites, allow readers to start training immediately. Tips and trouble-shooting boxes cover common problems, while “build-on” ideas suggest more complicated tricks which build on each new skill. No special tools (such as clickers) or knowledge of specific training methods are required. Trick training is a great way to bond with your dog and help him/her integrate into your family. It keeps him/her mentally and physically challenged and helps to establish paths of communication between you. Many tricks build skills needed for common dog sports, such as dog dancing and dog therapy work. It’s every dog lover’s privilege that Kyra and Chalcy took time from their performing schedule to share their secrets in 101 Dog Tricks.

Buy “101 Dog Tricks“ Today.

5. The Complete Dog Book for Kids (American Kennel Club):

Watch the magical world of dogs come alive in “The Complete Dog Book For Kids.”

Also Includes:

• Tips for finding the right dog for you.
• Health care and training basics.
• Information about the world of purebred dogs, from Junior Showmanship competitions to the informal Canine Good Citizen programme.

Buy “The Complete Dog Book for Kids“ Today.

6. Puppy Whisperer: A Compassionate, Non Violent Guide to Early Training and Care:

Following the success of his book The Dog Whisperer, Paul Owens turns his attention to puppies. In The Puppy Whisperer, Owens and his protoge Terence Cranendonk offer a compassionate step-by-step guide to all things puppy, including how to:

• Evaluate temperament.
• Choose the right pup personality for your family.
• Monitor diet, play, and exercise.
• Train and problem solve.
• Provide early socialization and positive training.
• Potty train, step-by-step.
• Ensure safety and health care, including the latest on vaccinations.

Puppies can be a lot of work, but they can also be a furry bundle of joy. If youíre thinking of bringing a puppy into your home, The Puppy Whisperer is your must-have guide.

Buy “Puppy Whisperer: A Compassionate, Non Violent Guide to Early Training and Care“ Today.

The Top Six Dog Gifts For Christmas 2009!

The Top Six Dog Gifts For Christmas 2009!

We are fast approaching Christmas 2009 and christmas shopping is fast becoming foremost in our minds. Is your “man’s Best Friend” on your Christmas gifts list yet for this christmas?

It can be difficult to think of original dog gifts at Christmas time, so we have searched around to find You the top six dog gifts for Christmas 2009.

Mitzi, our cute little Mal-Shi puppy - as Santa Clause!

We are here to help you quickly and easily find our recommended top six dog gifts for christmas 2009. Whether you are looking for dog toys for your prize pooch, training books or DVDs from Cesar Millan, our favourite dog behavioural and training expert, also known as “The Dog Whisperer,” or any other ideas for the most exciting range of dog gifts available online today, we have recommended dog and puppy gift ideas here for you!

1.  XL Luxury Christmas Dog Stocking Puppy Treat Xmas Gift:

Christmas Dog Stocking; Goodboy Range; Ideal for Christmas Treats for Your Dog or Puppy.

XL Luxury Christmas Dog Stocking Puppy Treat Xmas Gift

2. Pet File:

Pet lovers needn’t struggle to keep track of all the paperwork associated with being a responsible pet owner. Divided into four useful sections, this attractive and practical journal is the perfect way to get organised. With plenty of space for storing health, training and breed information, there is also room to record details of pet development as it grows and becomes part of the family. Included is a section for key contacts plus a fold-out year to view to record important dates such as vaccination or holiday dates and plenty of pockets for photographs, leaflets and other important information. (Size: 24 x 23cm.)

Pet File

3.  Glow in Dark Ball Dog Toy Luminous Night FUN! Squeak 6″

Glo Ball Dog Toy 6″ (150mm) Diameter. This wonderful dog toy is luminous. This means that when taken into the dark after being in the light it will glow and your dog will really enjoy chasing it around! It has that all important squeak! Available in a 6 inch (150mm) or 4 inch (100mm). THIS LISTING IS FOR THE LARGER 6 INCH. NON-TOXIC AND NOT HARMFUL TO PETS OR CHILDREN.

Glow in Dark Ball Dog Toy Luminous Night FUN! Squeak 6

4. Pedigree Dog Xmas Stocking Present Pet Gift THIS YEARS:

Luscombe Water Gardens Ltd Pedigree Christmas Stocking for Dogs: THIS YEARS Pedigree dog stocking (note some traders are selling last years stock!). Quality squeaky toy; Packs of: Pedigree Rodeo, Schmackos and Meaty Sticks.

Pedigree Dog Xmas Stocking Present Pet Gift THIS YEARS!

5. Dog Christmas Cake:

Luscombe Water Gardens Ltd Christmas Cake Treat for your Dog: Hatchwells Pet Products; A Real Christmas Treat for your Pet of a Chrismas Cake; Especially formulated from Cereals, Meat & Animal Derivatives; Approximately 10cms across, it makes a great stocking filler for your dog.

Dog Christmas Cake

6. Diamante & Pearl Dog Collar (30cm/12″):

For all the posh pets! These stunning collars from the USA are made of quality leather collar with 2 rows of sparkling crystals and 1 row of shimmering pearls. Quality brass D ring and clasp. For the complete designer style, look for our matching lead.

Diamante & Pearl Dog Collar (30cm/12

So these are our top six dog gifts and dog presents for a christmas for your dogs for 2009. If you find any better dog presents we would love to hear from you, letting us know what you have found. Please send us an email to “toydogto@toydogtoys.com” and we will consider it to be included in our “top six!”