Maltese Shih Tzu vs Miniature Schnauzer: Breeds Comparison

Before getting a puppy, you should be sure that the breed you're doing to buy or rescue is a good fit for your lifestyle and home.

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While Maltese Shih Tzu is a member of the Hybrid Group, Miniature Schnauzer belongs to the group of Terrier Dogs.

Despite these breeds aren't members of the same breed groups, they have some similarities and not only differences so keep reading to learn more.

Maltese Shih Tzu vs Miniature Schnauzer Size Comparison

Miniature Schnauzers are larger, with a typical height of 13 to 14 inches and weight of 11 to 20 pounds, while the typical height of Maltese Shih Tzu is 10 to 13 inches and they usually weigh 6 to 12 pounds.

We know that these numbers might be too abstract, so we made a tool to help you visualize these numbers.

The following chart compares the average breeds height with the average height of an American man and woman.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, the average height of a man is 69 inches, and the height of a woman is 63.5 inches.

Dog size comparison to a human. From left, average heights of Maltese Shih Tzu, Miniature Schnauzer, American female, and American male.

Maltese Shih Tzu vs Miniature Schnauzer lifespan

No doubt, the quality of care provided to the dog is one of the main factors when it comes to canines life longevity, however, there are also other factors, especially the dog's breed.

The life expectancy of Maltese Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer is the same. Their usual lifespan is 12 to 14 years

Read on to the following sections to better understand in detail how Maltese Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer compare and hopefully end up with enough arguments to decide which one is better for you.

Breed Name	Maltese Shih Tzu	Miniature Schnauzer
Traits
Breed Group	Hybrid Dogs	Terrier Dogs
Height	10 to 13 inches	13 to 14 inches
Weight	6 to 12 pounds	11 to 20 pounds
Life Span	12 to 14 years	12 to 14 years

Maltese Shih Tzu vs Miniature Schnauzer adaptability

When we say "dog adaptability", most people think about apartment living adaptability, so let's start with that.

All dogs are great — but not all dogs are great for or geared toward apartment living. A dog may be considered the worst dog breed for apartments for a few reasons including size, energy level, noise, smell, shedding...

Luckily, Maltese Shih Tzus and Miniature Schnauzers are considered to be good apartment living dogs.

While most dogs can be left home alone for 6 to 8 hours, some will do better. Check the table below to see how Maltese Shih Tzus and Miniature Schnauzers tolerate being left alone.

To learn more, read our list of dogs that can be left alone.

Hot weather tolerance

Depending on where you live, you should choose a dog that tolerates hot or cold weather well.

Miniature Schnauzer tolerates hot weather better than Maltese Shih Tzu.

During warm weather, be sure to provide shade and water and head out in the morning or late evening when it's cooler. Also, avoid pavements - if the ground is too hot to touch for your hand for a few seconds, it's too hot for paws.

Check our heatstroke article on prevention and symptoms to learn more.

What about cold weather?

Cold temperatures are not a problem for most dogs until they fall below 45° F, at which point some cold-averse dogs might begin to feel uncomfortable. When temperatures fall below 32° F, owners of small breed dogs, dogs with thin coats, and/or very young, old, or sick dogs should pay close attention to their pet’s well-being.

Once temperatures drop under 20° F, all owners need to be aware that their dogs could potentially develop cold-associated health problems like hypothermia and frostbite.

Miniature Schnauzer tolerates cold weather better than Maltese Shih Tzu.

Maltese Shih Tzus' fur is simply not designed for low temperatures, so you might consider getting them some kind of dog wear coat.

The best way to monitor dogs when it’s cold is to keep a close eye on their behavior. If you notice your dog shivering, acting anxious, whining, slowing down, searching out warm locations, or holding up one or more paws, it’s time to head inside.

Our "How Cold Is Too Cold For Dogs?" article has more information on this topic.

Maltese Shih Tzu vs Miniature Schnauzer temperament

It's always hard to make a general statement about the whole breed's temperament. Each dog has a different temperament, and there are a lot of factors that affect its behavior.

Looking for a perfect family dog?

If you're looking for a companion dog, you won't go wrong with Maltese Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer. Their outgoing and friendly personality makes them a great choice for families. Both are highly affectionate with family, they will immediately become a family member.

When it comes to behavior around children, there's no much difference between these breeds.

These breeds don't top the lists of kid-friendly breeds, but it doesn't mean they won't be a great with children. Unlike some breeds that are more gentle and patient with kids, they will probably require more time to get used to kids, but it absolutely possible.

We've created a list of the 15 best dogs for kids and family, so read it next if this is important for you.

Guarding behavior

Dog guarding behavior is welcome for some owners, while others prefer a dog that's friendly towards strangers.

Maltese Shih Tzus and Miniature Schnauzers are naturally suspicious toward strangers, so you can expect they will act protective.

Health And Grooming Needs

The best way to optimize your pup’s health is to research reputable breeders, and then when you meet them ask to see the parents and their health certificates as described above and to see the conditions in which all the dogs are living.

Check the table below to see the general health rating for these two canines, and read full breed profile articles to read in-depth information on their health.

Also, some breeds are prone to obesity, which could cause other health conditions. Be sure to check that information as well, if the breed is prone to obesity, keep a close eye on labels and feed your dog according to the food labels.

For example, hip dysplasia is hereditary and is especially common in larger dogs. Factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, and improper weight and nutrition can magnify this genetic predisposition.

What about shedding?

One of the bad parts of having a dog is definitely shedding. So be sure to take this into your consideration when choosing the right breed for you. Click here to learn how to minimize the shedding.

If you're looking for breed that doesnt't shed a lot, Maltese Shih Tzu or Miniature Schnauzer is perfect for you. These breeds are almost always on the list of dogs that shed the least.

Recommended article: 30 Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Don’t Shed.

Drooling potential?

Well, we have good news. These breeds have low drooling potential.

Maltese Shih Tzu vs Miniature Schnauzer trainability

Each dog needs some kind of obedience training, but some of them are easier to train, while others are more stubborn.

These breeds are relatively easy to train and they aren't very stubborn, but you have to be patient. persistence, and consistency play a huge role in successfully training your dog.

Do Maltese Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer need a lot of physical activity?

To keep your dog healthy, calm, and happy, you have to provide it with enough physical activities. Not only your dog will be healthier and happier when it's active, but you'll also reduce or completely eliminate destructive behavior.

Some people don't think about this when selecting a breed, so we have dedicated a whole chapter to physical needs.

Maltese Shih Tzus have a medium level of exercise needs, while Miniature Schnauzers require a high intensity of exercise.

Maltese Shih Tzu or Miniature Schnauzer: The bottom line

In this article, we tried to give you an idea of what you can expect from Maltese Shih Tzus and Miniature Schnauzers.

To further explore their personality, overall health, temperament, and much more, read their full breed profile.

Or, use the tool below to read the next comparison.