Google ★★★★★ 5.0 from 54 reviews (May 2026)
969+ dogs trained in the Macedon Ranges Read success stories →

Maltese x Shih Tzu Training

Do you have a Maltese x Shih Tzu that needs some training help? Natalie from Crazy Kind Calm dog training can help!

With over 900 dogs trained across the Macedon Ranges, Natalie understands the unique personality and needs that come with this wonderful breed.

Maltese × Shih Tzu crosses (Mal-Shis) are small, affectionate companion dogs who combine the best of two beloved lap dog breeds. They're playful, people-oriented, and love being the centre of attention — but their attachment can become a challenge.

Common Maltese x Shih Tzu traits and training needs

  • Prone to separation anxiety — both parent breeds are companion dogs through and through
  • Can be barky, especially at visitors, other dogs, and when left alone
  • May develop resource guarding over their favourite person, toys, or food
  • Can be stubborn about toilet training, especially in cold or wet conditions
  • May become snappy with children or rough handling
  • Attention-seeking behaviours including barking, pawing, and whining

Mal-Shi owners have a devoted little companion who wants to be involved in everything. If your Mal-Shi barks when visitors arrive, refuses to walk in the rain, or has made guarding your lap their full-time job — those are common patterns in this cross. Their affectionate, people-loving nature is your biggest asset in training. They want to please, they just need gentle, consistent guidance.

August - Maltese x Shih Tzu dog training

Maltese x Shih Tzu Training Options

Whether your Maltese x Shih Tzu is a new puppy or an older dog with some habits to work on, we've got options to suit.

One-on-one dog training
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One-on-One Training

Personalised sessions in your home, where the challenges actually happen. We work together on your specific goals — whether it's pulling on lead, barking, poor recall, jumping up, or something else entirely.

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Puppy school class
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Puppy School

Group classes in Kyneton for puppies aged 8-16 weeks. Build confidence, learn essential skills, and socialise with other pups in a safe, supportive environment.

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Maltese x Shih Tzu (and others) Success Stories

★★★★★ Google
"We were close to the end of our tether when we contacted Natalie to see if she could assist with our young, antisocial JR terrier. Natalie has helped us to better understand the behaviours and motivations of our pups, and how to navigate and manage situations that cause angst for both pups and humans alike. Natalie has worked with us on manageable training tasks to improve behaviours in a range of real-life situations. Our relationships with our pups, and quality of life for all of us, are now much improved. I highly recommend Natalie's approach and philosophy - it's made a positive difference for us."

concar carcon March 2021

Daisy
Papillon X Jack Russell • Malmsbury
★★★★★ Google
"Natalie has helped us with our rescue puppy Daisy, who was extremely anxious and scared of people and dogs, and acting out in other ways. We called Natalie when we were at the end of our tethers, after two months with Daisy, and after the first session we felt both empowered and reassured. Natalie's extensive notes after our session were also very helpful, to refer to as we were working through the recommendations. During her second visit, a month later, Natalie addressed specific issues that we are still having, and she also noted significant improvements in Daisy's confidence. It is wonderful to be supported by someone with such extensive knowledge and love for dogs. I highly recommend her services."

Teresa Martin

★★★★★ Google
"Fantastic Trainer, and very knowledgeable. highly recommended."

Blake Henry November 2021

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Some of the Maltese x Shih Tzus (and others) We've Trained

August Maltese x Shih Tzu dog training
August Kyneton
Tan Tan Keeshond dog training
Tan Tan Gisborne
Lola English Staffordshire Terrier dog training
Lola Kyneton
Zib Toy Poodle dog training
Zib Macedon
Nathan Australian Kelpie dog training
Nathan Metcalfe
Sammy Border Collie dog training
Sammy Woodend
Jimmy Whippet dog training
Jimmy Kyneton
Daphne Bull Arab x Irish Wolfhound dog training
Daphne Gisborne
Bella Labrador x Poodle (Std) dog training
Bella Woodend
Bertie Whippet dog training
Bertie New Gisborne
Milo Dachshund dog training
Milo Trentham

Ready to train your Maltese x Shih Tzu?

Let's talk about your goals and how we can help your Maltese x Shih Tzu become the best dog they can be.

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