Last Updated on September 21, 2021 by Marco
Searched for the term – Maltese Chihuahua Full Grown – many times over on the internet without any viable info – this article’s for you!
Maltese Chihuahua, also affectionately known as Malchi, is a relatively new designer breed. This hybrid is a cross between two amazing dog breeds and came into being in the year 2000. The Maltese Chihuahua breed brings together some of the best traits of the Chihuahua and Maltese breed into the renowned Maltese Chihuahua breed.
As the breed is half Chihuahua, half Maltese, it’s been given several nicknames. Besides Malchi, you might hear the names Malachi or even Maltechi. Though some simply refer to them as Maltese x Chihuahua. Packed into a Malchi’s little purse-sized body are a big heart and a loving personality. So, it’s no wonder why this breed is so popular!
Maltese Chihuahua Full Grown: Physical Traits and Appearance
Being a small breed, Maltese Chihuahua full-grown may reach a height of 12 to 14 inches only. With their little bodies, their weight can vary from 7 pounds to, at most, 12 pounds when fully matured. Though there is a great variety in their coloration, the main shades you’ll see Malchis in are tan and white.
Since the Maltese Chihuahua is a hybrid, the appearance of the offspring varies depending on which parent breed they take after more. Even within a litter, siblings’ appearances may differ significantly.
Puppies with the Chihuahua side dominating may have shorter hair and longer bodies in comparison to height. Whereas when Maltese genes are favored, the pups have longer and curlier hair and a rather small face. The coat, however, of all Malchis is soft and easily manageable. The breeds don’t shed as much being minimal shedders – which means that coat maintenance is pretty straightforward.
Malchis’ ears are similar to their Maltese parent’s in that they are long and folded over. Their eyes are a beautiful shade of deep brown. Finally, their eyes can be partially covered because of the furry fringe hanging over their foreheads.
Learn more about: How Long Do Chihuahuas Mix Live; The Chihuahua Lifespan Explained
Maltese Chihuahua: Temperament and Behavior
Chihuahua mixed Maltese are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. Though they are an active breed, they tend to do better with mature owners.
This breed should be kept in an environment free of noise and unpredictable movement to prevent excessive barking and stress. That’s also why Malchis don’t do very well with little children. They fare better with older children and adults.
Maltese Chihuahua enjoy socializing. Being a sensitive breed, they may experience separation anxiety when left alone. Even Maltese Chihuahua full-grown require company.
Maltese Chihuahua Full Grown: Mixed Traits
As this is a designer breed, the Malchi acquires traits from both parent breeds. In cases where one breed is dominant, you’ll naturally see more traits from that parent in the offspring.
With a dominating Chihuahua side, training a Maltese Chihuahua might be tricky as they can show stubbornness. On the other hand, Maltese enjoy listening to their caretakers – so the pro-Maltese Malchi will be easier to train.
Chihuahuas are known to a loud on certain occasions. The Maltese Chihuahua can sometimes inherit this trait. If it comes across strangers, be it humans or animals, it’ll definitely bark. It may even bark at moving objects, such as cars and other vehicles.
Due to this reason, it is preferable to have the Malchi in an environment where there is little noise and movement, and this can be easier to manage in a household that includes only adults.
As both parent breeds of Malchis are prone to excessive barking when disturbed, they show similar behavior. If threatened or disturbed, they may turn aggressive. That’s why a Malchi is not suitable as a family dog.
The Malchi can also have genetic traces of the behavioral disorder of separation anxiety. Even full-grown Malchis cannot deal well with isolation, and they can resort to creating a stir by barking uncontrollably as a defense mechanism.
With both parents being small dog breeds, a Maltese Chihuahua full grown will still be small in size, making this breed more prone to injuries and vulnerable to large animals. However, a Malchi doesn’t believe that.
Maltese Chihuahuas tend to think of themselves as much larger than they actually are. Due to this, they may try to bully other dogs, even those greater in size than them.
Maltese Chihuahua: Age and Lifespan
A Malchi’s life expectancy is similar to other small dogs, and they may live from 12 to 15 years of age. On average, they may pass away due to natural age-related causes at 13 years. However, some may even survive long enough to reach the ripe old age of 17. Females tend to live a year or so longer than males.
Maltese Chihuahua Full Grown: Care and Maintenance
Maltese Chihuahua, especially full-grown, require regular veterinary checkups to ensure good health. They are prone to dental, ear, and eye problems. With regular checkups, early signs of possible health conditions are easier to detect and can mean a speedy recovery.
The Malchi is a delicate breed, and it does not bear the cold weather very well. To ensure your pup doesn’t suffer from any ill effects, it’s best to keep your Malchi properly covered with winter wear while venturing outdoors.
Additionally, you should invest in warming beds or sweaters for indoor use if the weather turns freezing.
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Exercise Needs
Maltese Chihuahua have minor exercise requirements. A daily walk and some socializing in dog parks are easy ways to help the pooch exercise. As its body size is small, the Maltese Chihuahua, even full-grown, may tire quickly. It’s ideal to do mental and physical enrichment activities with this breed to prevent exhaustion. This also keeps the pup healthy and entertained.
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Diet
Being a designer breed, a Maltese Chihuahua requires a special diet. The breed is at a greater risk of having intestinal problems, especially those related to digestion. To counter this health issue, the diet needs to be rich in fiber, and dry foods can help prevent indigestion. As a Maltese Chihuahua reaches adulthood, you’ll need to adjust its diet according to weight and size.
Conclusion
The Maltese Chihuahua is a recent designer breed; brought about by crossing the Chihuahua and Maltese breeds. Both breeds being diminutive in size, the Malchi offspring are small as well. Even full-grown, it may only reach up to 14 inches in height. Though its size may be small, don’t be fooled into thinking its personality is the same.
