Malchi Dog Breed

The Malchi, as a mixed breed, is not an official member of any breed group--but both parent breeds are in the Toy group, so these hybrids would fit nicely in that category. Neither does any info exist about the Malchi's true origin; while a Maltese-Chihuahua mix may have existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. These affectionate, enthusiastic dogs are great companions, especially for seniors or for people living in apartments.

A few Chihuahua-Maltese mix facts: they're toy-sized, averaging eight inches at the shoulders in height and six pounds in weight; their coat length can vary from medium to long, depending on whether the Chihuahua parent has a short or long coat--and regardless, the coats won't shed too much; and these little hybrids adapt very well to apartment living.

Some advantages and drawback to owning a Malchi:

As the offspring of two tiny but scrappy breeds, the Malchi is itself a dog with a personality as huge as its body is small. This hybrid has a toy-sized body, with a round head and roundish eyes; its coat is usually medium-length and fluffy, but can be longer if its Chihuahua parent has a long coat as well.

One important piece of Malchi information is this hybrid's scrappiness. The Malchi is the epitome of a large dog in a small dog's body! While friendly, this mixed breed can be fussy and temperamental, and may develop Small Dog Syndrome (excessive moodiness, barking, and quick temper) if allowed; owners will need to provide their Malchis with plenty of obedience training and socialization, starting during puppyhood if possible, to minimize this tendency. And the Malchi dog breed will do better in homes with older children. Younger kids may play too rough (even unintentionally) with these tiny dogs, which can injure them or cause them to bite or snap at the kids. In any case, it's best if the dog and the children are raised together.

The Malchi usually has a good bit of energy too, but will normally tire out rather easily. A few minutes of playtime (either indoors or out), combined with a short walk or two, should fulfill this hybrid's activity requirements just fine.

Active, sensitive, intelligent, bold, and sometimes fussy, the Malchi temperament is one of scrappiness and affection. These hybrids are very people-oriented, and they're very loving with their human family members. They'll also be protective of them--as protective as a five-pound dog can be, at least! They usually socialize well with other pets, though they may act dominant around other dogs (especially those of the same sex). Malchis also make pretty good playmates for children, although they won't mix very well with smaller kids. Overall, it's best if these dogs grow up alongside any kids or other household pets, so they can learn to be accustomed to one another.

In regards to training: Malchis are pretty smart, so they normally respond well to it. These dogs can learn tasks, tricks, or commands without too many repetitions--especially if there are treats involved! As with any breed, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

The Malchi has pretty good watchdog skills too. While this mixed breed is really too small to neutralize potential threats (like a burglar), that doesn't mean they won't try! The Malchi is alert and courageous, and will usually bark if it perceives an unknown sight or sound.

The Malchi, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, a few Malchis may suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including patellar luxation, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and collapsed trachea (which sounds serious, but is a relatively minor condition if treated at early onset). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Malchi is 11-16 years.