Toy dogs, companion dogs, lap dogs or sleeve dogs. Whatever you choose to call them, you must agree that Maltese dogs, with their silky white hair, are some of the cutest canines in the whole world.
Mix breeds are often dogs from different breeds (without human intervention) whose ancestry is either not known or is complex. There are many such types of this playful and charming breed of dogs out there.
Here’s a look at 26 of the most popular Maltese mix breeds.
- Maltese American Rat Terrier Mix (Ratese)
- Maltese Beagle Mix (Malteagle)
- Maltese Bichon Mix (Maltichon)
- Maltese Cairn Terrier Mix (Cairmal)
- Maltese Cavachon Mix (Malton)
- Maltese Cavalier King Charles Mix (Cavamalt)
- Maltese Chihuahua Mix (Malchi)
- Maltese Chinese Crested Mix (Crested Malt)
- Maltese Cocker Spaniel Mix (Silky Cocker)
- Maltese Coton de Tulear Mix (Cotonese)
- Maltese Dachshund Mix (Mauxie)
- Maltese German Shepherd Mix (Sheptese)
- Maltese Havanese Mix (Havamalt)
- Maltese Japanese Chin Mix (Jatese)
- Maltese Lhasa Apso Mix (Lhatese)
- Maltese Miniature Pinscher Mix (Malti Pin)
- Maltese Miniature Schnauzer Mix (Mauzer)
- Maltese Papillon Mix (Papitese)
- Maltese Pekingese Mix (Peke-A-Tese)
- Maltese Pomeranian Mix (Maltipom)
- Maltese Poodle Mix (Maltipoo)
- Maltese Pug Mix (Maltipug)
- Maltese Shih Tzu Mix (Malshi)
- Maltese Silky Terrier Mix (Silkese)
- Maltese Yorkshire Terrier Mix (Morkie)
- Maltese Chow Chow Mix (Maltchow)
- DOs and DON’Ts
Maltese American Rat Terrier Mix (Ratese)
First up is a very friendly and inquisitive breed called the Rat Terrier mix or a Ratese. It’s an original American breed whose name was supposedly coined by Teddy Roosevelt.
Ratese Looks
It’s a compact but tough-looking dog. The standard Ratese is 13 to 18 inches tall and the miniature’s height is 10 to 13 inches. It has a short and dense coat with patterns on it.
The coat requires little maintenance to stay in good condition with a monthly bath. But the dog itself must be given high-quality food. Its life expectancy is 12 to 18 years and weighs anywhere from 10 to 25 pounds.
Ratese Temperament
They are lively and intelligent dogs which makes them a great breed for families of all sizes, even if you live in an apartment and can’t get a large dog. But if you have a toddler, this might not be the best dog because the Rat Terriers react nimbly.
Maltese Beagle Mix (Malteagle)
As the name suggests, the Malteagle is a mix of Maltese dogs and beagles. These are great lap dogs and have a lot of love to give.
Malteagle Looks
These are designer dogs that are typically 10 to 12 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 15 to 22 pounds. This is a crossbreed with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
They have a short- to medium-length shiny coat with minimal shedding, which shouldn’t be difficult to maintain. They need a diet that is rich in protein.
Malteagle Temperament
These are great designer dogs for families with kids and seniors. They are active and affectionate and get along quite well with other pets.
This is a good breed to get if you’ve never had a dog before and are a new pet parent. Like their parent breed the Maltese, they are intelligent and loving.
They also love receiving attention from every member of your family.
Maltese Bichon Mix (Maltichon)
Maltichon is a dog best suited for most kinds of families. This is a highly sought-after breed of dogs and it’s not just because they are quite the lookers. They are categorized as watchdogs and toy dogs.
Maltichon Looks
The Maltese Bichon mix dogs are about 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh 8 to 13 pounds. They are beautiful, fluffy dogs whose parents are also adorable toy dogs.
They are petite and are a unique mix with great traits from both their purebred parents. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
Maltichon Temperament
The Maltichons are cuddly and sweet dogs. They are amusing yet quite intelligent. They can get along with a family of any size and other pets too.
They like moderate activity and hence, are good companion dogs for elders and kids alike. Dog parents should give them high-quality dry food.
But keep an eye out as they tend to react to some types of food. If they are scratching more than usual, switch immediately to hypoallergenic dog food.
Related: 17 of the Top Blue Heeler Mix Breeds You Don’t Want to Miss
Maltese Cairn Terrier Mix (Cairmal)
Cairmals are lively little dogs with a stubborn streak. They are fun loving like the Maltese and plucky like the Cairn Terriers, two purebred dogs.
Cairmal Looks
They are 12 to 13 inches tall and weigh from 10 to 15 pounds. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
They have a thick coat but with very little shedding. It is not difficult to maintain but be sure to brush it multiple times a week so that the pup gets used to it. Their teeth on the hand need to be brushed every day to avoid dental issues.
Cairmal Temperament
These are fun family dogs and can be people pleasers. But they have a stubborn streak so start training while they are still puppies.
Get them to socialize, get them to play and get them used to all the grooming that you will be doing. As they age, Cairmals’ parent breeds develop joint issues so make sure they get enough exercise.
Maltese Cavachon Mix (Malton)
Malton is a hybrid of the purebred Maltese and the crossbreed Cavachon. Cavachon is a mix of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. It is recognized by Dog Registry of America, Inc or the DRA.
Malton Looks
They are about nine to 11 inches tall and weigh 10 to 15 pounds. They are a toy breed with a medium to long coat but don’t shed all that much and come in brown and black and white colors.
They live for 10 to 16 years but health plays a major role in this. Small games, toys and a casual stroll are enough for these little balls of fur.
Malton Temperament
It is a good companion dog and is easy to train, making it a good fit for first-time dog parents. They take some time to get adjusted to a new home and are hypoallergenic dogs.
But once they settle in, these canines are very friendly and easy to train.
Maltese Cavalier King Charles Mix (Cavamalt)
They are a hybrid cross of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Maltese, also called Maltaliers or Cavamalt. They are easy to train and feel quite at home in an apartment.
Cavamalt Looks
They are 10 to 12 inches tall and weigh about 10 to 13 pounds. They live till about 10 to 16 years and are petite and pretty looking dogs.
They are a mix of two toy breeds but pups from one litter don’t look the same as another. They have silky fur and its wavy nature is a matter of pride.
Cavamalt Temperament
This is a relatively new American hybrid dog. They are small, fun loving and have a low level of energy which makes them a perfect fit in a busy family.
They don’t shed as much but must be well groomed. They are fluffy and charming but don’t let that get in the way of training them. Be strong.
Related: 17 Westie Mix Breeds You Will Love
Maltese Chihuahua Mix (Malchi)
Malchis are a mix of Chihuahuas and Maltese dogs. Since the parents look so different, these puppies don’t have one definite look. But they are loyal and affectionate and can be sassy from time to time.
Malchi Looks
They are small dogs that are 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh about 5 to 12 pounds. Their coat can be short or long, scruffy or fluffy. So it all depends on the grooming.
They live till the age of 12 to 15 years. They come in light colors like cream, black, white and brown colors and shed moderately. So it is important to brush their coat every day to keep them good-looking.
Malchi Temperament
They are sweet and goofy dogs with a lovable personality. They tend to think of themselves as being bigger than their size so they might try to be a bully.
But otherwise, they have a great personality which fits with a family of any size. Keep an eye out if you have children because they can get aggressive and defensive.
Find out more about Malchis right here!
Maltese Chinese Crested Mix (Crested Malt)
This is a cross of Chinese Crested and Maltese dogs. They are not widely available but are a popular breed of dogs.
Crested Malt Looks
They are 10 to 12 inches tall and weigh about 5 to 10 pounds. They commonly live for 10 to 15 years. There is no one kind of coat for this mix because the parent, Chinese Crested, doesn’t have one. So your Crested Malt could be a hairless dog with silky fur.
Each litter produces a different kind of puppy. Sometimes they look like their parents and sometimes they are the opposite. It’s truly a breed where you can expect the unexpected.
Crested Malt Temperament
They are sweet, kind and very friendly dogs. This makes them a great companion dogs to families of all sizes. Elders and children will love them and vice versa.
They are small dogs with both parents being hypoallergenic. So assume that they will inherit those traits.
Maltese Cocker Spaniel Mix (Silky Cocker)
A mix of Cocker Spaniel and Maltese. What’s that like? Let’s see.
They are small and friendly. They are good for people of all ages and families and singles. You could be living in a house or an apartment and it’s fine with the silky cocker.
Silky Cocker Looks
They are about 10 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 18 pounds heavy. Their lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
But don’t stick to that description very strictly because this is yet another Maltese mix that is full of surprises. They come in dramatic variations and are very popular.
Silky Cocker Temperament
The offspring of two popular parents, these puppies have giant eyes. They are friendly and lively and make for great companions.
These are energetic and amiable dogs, like mom and dad. They are constantly in search of a toy or a playmate for entertainment.
But they also need a little more exercise than an average dog of that size.
Maltese Coton de Tulear Mix (Cotonese)
These are hybrid dogs recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club. Affectionate and eager to please. Doesn’t that sound for anyone who is looking for love?
Well, you found them. Meet the Cotonese dogs, a cross of Maltese and Coton de Tulear breeds.
Cotonese Looks
They are fluffy and all white in color. They are eight to 12 inches tall and six to 12 pounds heavy. They live for a good 13 to 15 years and are a good companion.
They have a light coat which is typically white, cream or biscuit colored. Their hair is soft and doesn’t shed a lot.
Give them a regular brushing and bath. Take them to the groomers routinely and they will be just fine.
Cotonese Temperament
These little dogs are friendly yet can be alert. They are smart and easy to train. They love to climb and jump so go for it.
That doesn’t mean you have to worry about entertaining them constantly. They are happy to sit by your feet and chill.
Maltese Dachshund Mix (Mauxie)
You’ve got Mauxie, kid. Well, you know what it means. This is a rather small dog with two purebred parents.
Mauxie Looks
They are eight to 10 inches tall when they stand and weigh 10 to 20 pounds. Mauxies live for 12 to 14 years and come in a range of colors. They can be white, yellow, tan or black, grey and chestnut.
Their coat too varies from glorious and fluffy like the Maltese or any kind from the Dachshund. It could be short or long or silky or wiry. Clearly, there is no way to tell.
Mauxie Temperament
Mischievous and hyper are words commonly associated with these puppies. But they can be high strung. So it is important to train them while they are young and get them to socialize.
They can be hypoallergenic as Maltese are. They may chase smaller pets if they are anything like their Dachshund parent. So keep an eye out.
Maltese German Shepherd Mix (Sheptese)
Also called a Malshep, this crossbreed of a small Maltese and a large German Shepherd is quite the challenge. Since the parents are poles apart in size, breeding is challenging and might lead to problems when the female is giving birth.
But the Sheptese breed is registered with the Dog Registry of America.
Sheptese Looks
When two parents look so different from each other, their pup is going to look nothing like anything you’ve ever seen. A Sheptese litter could take after either of the parents.
They are unlikely to be of lighter colors unless the German Shepherd is of a light color, which does not happen. Many of them are brown or chocolate in color, possibly with a tan.
A medium-sized Sheptese can weigh from 26 to 60 pounds. So these are not tiny, toy dogs and they have a dense coat.
Sheptese Temperament
Maltese dogs are sweet and gentle but German Shepherds are ferocious watchdogs. A cross of these two breeds leads to a range of emotions and behavior.
They require a lot of attention and space. So this is not for families living in an apartment. You need a backyard or a front porch where the dog can play.
Maltese Havanese Mix (Havamalt)
These dogs are small in size and are also called Havatese. It’s a good dog to bring home whether you have infants or not. It has the people-loving characteristics of the Havanese and fun-loving traits of the Maltese. So you are bound to love it.
Havamalt Looks
They stand at about 10 to 12 inches tall and weigh about 10 to 17 pounds. Their average lifespan is 12 to 14 years and they are easy to train.
Havamalts have a double coat but there is minimum shedding. It is long and silky and you must brush it about three to four times a week.
Take them to the groomers once in a few months and you should be fine. And remember not to give them too many baths because their skin might dry out.
Havamalt Temperament
Havamalts are affectionate pooches with a sweet nature. They crave companionship and are not hyperactive. So they don’t need exercise to a point where it begins to feel like a chore for you.
Don’t leave them alone for too long because that makes them anxious and might make them a wee bit destructive.
Maltese Japanese Chin Mix (Jatese)
These are a lovely breed of playful dogs owing to their parents coming from two such toy breeds. Not much is known about its origin but both parents have long histories that can be helpful.
Jatese Looks
They are eight to 11 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 6 to 10 pounds. They live for 11 to 15 years and are not complex pets to live with.
They have a soft coat which comes in two colors like its Japanese parent. Even an adult Jatese is quite petite and manageable.
They have a luxurious silky coat which requires some amount of maintenance. It is a must to give them regular baths and stay on top of the grooming.
Jatese Temperament
They are sweet and affectionate but can turn sassy when the situation demands. They are also cuddly dogs and happy to put their emotions on display.
The only thing to watch out for is, they tend to suffer from separation anxiety. But they get along great with people, including children so get them to socialize when they are still pups.
Maltese Lhasa Apso Mix (Lhatese)
The offspring of two famous breeds, these are typically described as tiny and reliable dogs. They are good with people of all ages and other pets in the house.
Lhatese Looks
They stand eight to 12 inches tall and weigh about 10 to 15 pounds. They are small toy dogs with a medium coat which comes in three colors: black, white and beige.
They do not shed a lot but a beautiful coat means that it needs to be brushed every day. They live till the age of 13 to 15 years but only when you take good care of them.
Lhatese Temperament
They are friendly, playful and get along with everyone if they are socialized properly. They are good companion dogs for anyone searching for a loving pet.
They are small but are good watchdogs. They are patient and can wait for their owners but it is best to keep them with families that have time to care for them.
Maltese Miniature Pinscher Mix (Malti Pin)
The Malti Pin is a charming designer dog. It is the petite offspring of two toy dog breeds.
It has a personality that is great for seniors and single people who live in an apartment setting. It is also called a Maltese Pin and does not need a whole lot of exercise.
Malti Pin Looks
They stand nine to 13 inches tall and are about eight to 10 pounds heavy. They live for 13 to 16 years and prefer smaller families.
They are designer dogs with unpredictable looks. Maltese have a white and long coat and Miniature Pinschers have short and dark hair.
So the offspring could look either way. The coat could be black or brown or cream or anything in between.
Malti Pin Temperament
They don’t like to share attention with others so they might not be the best dogs if you have children or other pets. But they are energetic and intelligent dogs.
They are strong willed and can be stubborn. But train them well and that should not be a problem.
Maltese Miniature Schnauzer Mix (Mauzer)
This is a small dog with two smart parents. So the puppies will likely be the same. Like with all designer breed dogs, there are some surprises. But for the most part, these are happy and friendly small dogs.
Mauzer Looks
They are eight to 14 inches tall and weigh about seven to 20 pounds. With its signature element of surprise, the Mauzer can have a beard like a human or be refined like its Maltese parent.
The same logic applies to its coat. So its grooming needs could vary depending on which parent has the stronger genes and passes them on to the puppy.
Mauzer Temperament
They are pups of the playful Maltese and intelligent Schnauzer dogs. So they have a lot of love but are also protective companion dogs.
They are happy dogs that love spending time with their owners. But be sure to socialize them with others while they are still pups.
Maltese Papillon Mix (Papitese)
This is a lovely cross of two friendly breeds of dogs. They are great with kids and other pets but are wary of strangers. So, you might need that “beware of dog” sign on your front gate.
Papitese Looks
They are eight to 10 inches tall and weigh about 6 to 10 pounds. Their average lifespan ranges from 14 to 15 years and make good pets for first-time dog parents.
Their coat is curly and doesn’t shed all that much. Brush it twice or thrice a week and they are good to go.
Don’t give them too many baths because that ends up drying out their skin. I bet you can see why they are great pets for first timers.
Papitese Temperament
They like spending time with humans and love to play with kids. They are very loyal dogs which makes them suspicious of strangers.
They are good watchdogs and will bark whenever something seems bothersome. They are small but know how to use it as a strength.
Maltese Pekingese Mix (Peke-A-Tese)
They are fun and spirited dogs. They like kids and other pets so they are a good fit for families of any size. This is one of the gentler variations of two popular parents.
Peke-A-Tese Looks
They are 10 to 13 inches tall and weigh about seven to 12 pounds. They live until they are 12 to 16 years of age.
They have a long and dense coat and don’t shed a lot. But the coat itself is considered high maintenance because it needs daily brushing.
They are hypo-allergenic which is great news for any owner, new or experienced. They are usually healthy but keep checking their eyes, nose and teeth.
Peke-A-Tese Temperament
They are independent and have a loyal personality. They are feisty and hence can be quite stubborn if not trained accordingly.
They are protective and have the potential to be a good watchdog. They love to play with children and are generally playful dogs.
Maltese Pomeranian Mix (Maltipom)
These are tiny toy dogs that have the best of both worlds. They have the face and ears of a Pomeranian and the coat of a Maltese.
It doesn’t have a long history like its parents but that just adds to the enigma that is a Maltipom.
Maltipom Looks
They are 8 to 12 inches tall and weigh about three to nine pounds. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
The size, of course, depends on the percentage of each parent used by breeders. It has a long coat with soft hair but again, that depends on the breeder.
However, it does not shed a lot and is a hypoallergenic dog. Which is why it is a great pet if you don’t like to vacuum the house every day.
Maltipom Temperament
They are friendly with children but can try to dominate the other dogs in the house. They tend to be territorial and might end up barking if there are a lot of knocks on the door.
It is best not to let kids too young near this dog, only because they might play rough with this toy-looking dog. They don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. And plenty of exercise keeps them happy.
Maltese Poodle Mix (Maltipoo)
These are cute, cuddly and congenial dogs. They are great companion dogs and it is no surprise that they are a popular mix.
They are irresistible and it’s difficult to get used to any other pooch once you fall in love with these. With a soft coat and funky attitude, they will steal your heart.
Maltipoo Looks
They are about 8 to 14 inches tall and weigh from five to 20 pounds. They live until the age of 10 to 13 years.
Their coat is the surprise element. It could be straight or wavy or curly. Brush it several times a week to make sure mats aren’t formed.
Shampoo and conditioner treatment is needed once a month. So take them to the groomers. It’s obviously worth it.
Maltipoo Temperament
They are intelligent and eager to please their owners which is the best combination ever. So it is really easy to train them.
They are hypoallergenic dogs and love to play but not so much that you have to take time out to keep them happy.
Maltese Pug Mix (Maltipug)
They are playful like the Maltese but alert and protective like pugs. They have a big personality and are quite the hit with such popular parents.
But they are prone to dental issues so take them to the groomers whenever you see that there is a need.
Maltipug Looks
They are 10 to 14 inches tall and weigh about 10 to 20 pounds. Their average lifespan ranges from 10 to 15 years.
Since the parents have different coats, Maltipugs tend to be heavy shedders. If your pup has long hair then you will need to make regular trips to the groomers.
Maltipug Temperament
They are outgoing and love them some family time. But they are cautious in the presence of strangers which makes them a good watchdog.
They are a fun companion dog with a strong will and independent thinking. But that can be rough if you are inexperienced or a first-time pet owner.
Maltese Shih Tzu Mix (Malshi)
For starters, they are also known as Malti Tzu, Mal-Tzu, Shih-tese and Shima. This is a hybrid They are easy to train and love being around families.
But if things get out of hand, they can gain weight easily and develop health problems. So don’t be reckless with them.
Malshi Looks
They are 10 inches tall and weigh from six to 12 pounds. They live until a maximum age of 14 years. So can be pocket puppies.
And precisely because of their size, they do better with older children who understand that these pets are living things and not toys that can be handled roughly.
Malshi Temperament
They are intelligent and happy puppies. So it’s easy to train them.
They are obedient and look for challenges in training. They are good therapy dogs as they are social and loving.
Malshis can be stubborn but nothing a little training can’t fix. If you treat them like a little baby because of their size, they will turn into brats. And that’s on you.
Maltese Silky Terrier Mix (Silkese)
They look like plush toys and have a big heart. They are the result of two toy breeds which makes them fun and playful.
Socialize them at the right time and they will give you no trouble at all, even in a small apartment.
Silkese Looks
They stand about eight to 10 inches tall and weigh until 12 pounds. They live for a maximum of 16 years.
True to their name, they have silky strands of hair and it is a matter of pride for them as both parents have lovely coats. But as a result, they need daily brushing and are a little high maintenance in the grooming section.
Silkese Temperament
They do great with the elderly, singles and families with older children. They are a good companion dog, especially for the elderly and single people.
If you have kids who know how to behave with pooches, Silkese dogs can be quite entertaining. Positive reinforcement works very well with them because they are eager to please.
Maltese Yorkshire Terrier Mix (Morkie)
These are tiny and affectionate dogs with a teddy bear look. They love people and will get along just fine with your other pets.
They are petite but can be bull headed. So a little prior experience with small dogs will come in handy.
Morkie Looks
They are six to eight inches tall and weigh about 4 to 8 pounds. Yeah, they’re tiny. They live up to 13 years of age.
This dog was created with the view of a small dog that doesn’t shed a lot. They have a soft and long coat that is hypoallergenic. It could be in any color ranging from white to tan to black.
Every litter is different and this seems to amuse a lot of dog lovers.
Morkie Temperament
They are happy dogs with a lot of spirit. They love to run around playing fetch.
They can be fragile because of their size so even well-behaved kids could end up accidentally hurting them. The same logic should be applied if you want to leave your Morkie with a larger dog. Simply put, don’t.
Maltese Chow Chow Mix (Maltchow)
Whether you have a huge house or a small apartment, this guy will do just fine.
This is a cross of two affectionate parents so they are mostly easy-going dogs.
Like their Chow Chow parent, they like mingling with everyone, well, except strangers. But Maltchows are not hunting dogs.
Maltchow Looks
They grow about eight to 14 inches tall and weigh around 10 to 25 pounds. They live up to a maximum of 15 years.
Their coat requires a lot of maintenance so take them to the groomers as often as you can. They need a bath twice a month unless they intentionally dirty themselves.
Maltchow Temperament
They are easy to train and not good at hunting prey. They are affectionate and compassionate pets that will get along with your whole family.
It has intelligent parents and has inherited that quality. But don’t expect it to sniff anything out. It’s not made for that.
DOs and DON’Ts
Designer dogs can be very amusing and most of them are bred with a goal in mind. If you want to get one of these, be sure to do enough research on each of them and understand if that works for you, your family structure and your living conditions.
It is important to understand what the dog wants and think hard about whether or not you can give it that home before you take it on. Being a dog parent can be very rewarding when you do it right.
They don’t call them man’s best friend for nothing.
