Chinese Crested vs. Mal-Shi: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

2 / 5

Chinese Crested has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

4 / 5

Mal-Shi has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Chinese Cresteds are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Mal-Shi is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi dogs?

Affectionate
Happy
Playful
Alert
Lively
Sweet
Tempered

Affectionate
Independent
Loving
Playful
Social
Alert
Intelligent
Going
Quiet

Shedding Level

Do Chinese Cresteds shed more than Mal-Shis, or which breed sheds more, Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis?

1 / 5

Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

2 / 5

Chinese Cresteds aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi dog breeds?

China

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds?

mexican hairless, chihuahua

Shih Tzu, Maltese

Date of Birth

When were Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds first developed?

1200s

1990

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds?

Black
Brown
Cream
Blue

White
Black
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds?

4 / 5

Chinese Cresteds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

5 / 5

Mal-Shis are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi?

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi?

A Chinese Crested can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Mal-Shi can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

3 / 5

Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi dogs generally have an average level of adaptability when it comes to adjusting to changes in lifestyle and different living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds?

Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Patellar Luxation
Respiratory Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi?

Skin Problems
Contact Allergy
Dentition Problems

None Known

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds?

Skin Scraping
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

X-Rays
Respiratory Tests
Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints

Energy

How do the energy levels of Chinese Cresteds and Mal-Shis compare?

2 / 5

Chinese Cresteds are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Chinese Crested vs Mal-Shi social needs comparison

5 / 5

Chinese Crested has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Mal-Shi has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Chinese Crested vs Mal-Shi exercise need comparison.

2 / 5

Chinese Cresteds need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

4 / 5

Chinese Cresteds are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

1 / 5

The Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Chinese Crested dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi a better guard dog?

3 / 5

While Chinese Crested dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

4 / 5

Mal-Shi dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Chinese Crested vs Mal-Shi?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Chinese Crested vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi entertained?

Cuddle, Pets, Being Spoiled

Go to Beach, Go to Park, Run, Frisbee, Road trip, Tug-of-war, Chase, Fetch, Jumping, Shake, Walks, Play, Walk, Nap, Bath time, Brushing, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Walking, Sitting, Sleeping, Everything, Groom, Catch treats, Ride, Play ball

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis?

Both Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Chinese Crested, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mal-Shi, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis require more exercise?

In general most Chinese Cresteds usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Mal-Shis usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis?

3 / 5

Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi dogs?

Ideally, both Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Chinese Cresteds and Mal-Shis?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi in cups?

For an average 5-12 pound (2 - 5 kg) Chinese Crested feed 0.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 10-12 pound (5 - 5 kg) Mal-Shi feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

The average cost of a Chinese Crested is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Mal-Shi is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

The average per month expenses of a Chinese Crested is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Mal-Shi is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Chinese Cresteds vs Mal-Shis

2 / 5

Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi have below-average obedience intelligence compared to other breeds. However, calling them "dumb dogs" is unjust. While Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi lack obedience and working intelligence, they compensate for it with their remarkable ability to comprehend human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Chinese Crested vs Mal-Shi?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

5 / 5

Chinese Cresteds make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Chinese Cresteds or Mal-Shis have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Chinese Cresteds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

3 / 5

Chinese Cresteds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

4 / 5

Mal-Shis are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Chinese Crested or Mal-Shi?

4 / 5

Chinese Cresteds are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi?

3 / 5

Chinese Crested and Mal-Shi have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Chinese Cresteds and Mal-Shis compare?

4 / 5

Chinese Cresteds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.