Facts & Origin
Chihuahua and Maltese in one
The Malchi is a designer hybrid breed that is the result of crossing a Maltese with a Chihuahua. The aim of this mix was to combine the affectionate, friendly nature of the Maltese with the liveliness and alertness of the Chihuahua - and thus create a small, charming companion dog.
The deliberate breeding of the Malchi probably began in the late 1990s in the USA, when interest in small designer dogs with a special character and easy-care format was growing rapidly. The Malchi was intended to combine the advantages of both breeds: compact size, low shedding (depending on coat type) and a friendly but alert nature.
Criticism of the Malchi
As with many hybrid breeds, there are also critical voices regarding the Malchi. Firstly, because there are no fixed breeding standards for health, appearance or temperament. Puppies can therefore vary greatly in appearance and character - some are more like Maltese, others like Chihuahuas.
Another point of criticism concerns responsibility in breeding: Especially with smaller mixed breeds, too little emphasis is sometimes placed on health care, temperament and socially compatible parents. The expectation that a Malchi is automatically particularly easy to care for or hypoallergenic can also be misleading - depending on the coat type and individual disposition.
Suitability of the Malchi
Despite the points mentioned above, the Malchi is a lovable, smart and affectionate companion if raised and kept well. It is particularly suitable for:
Couples or singles who want a lot of closeness and interaction with their dog
Older people who are looking for a small, manageable dog
Small families with older children who treat the dog with respect
Apartments or smaller households, as Malchis need little space but love attention
Typically, the Malchi has a friendly, cheerful nature, is very people-oriented and loves to be the center of attention. At the same time, however, it can also be alert and stubborn - especially if the Chihuahua character dominates.
Early socialization, loving but clear training and a willingness to actively engage with the little four-legged friend are therefore important.
The Malchi needs moderate exercise, regular grooming (especially if it has a long coat) and lots of human contact in order to feel completely at ease.
| Alternate Name | Malti-Chi, Maltese-Chihuahua-Mix |
| Origin | Mexico - Malta |
| Life expectancy | 12 - 20 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance - high-maintenance |
| Activity level | low |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of the Malchi
The Malchi is usually a lively, affectionate and charming little dog that likes to live closely with its people. It often combines the friendly, gentle nature of the Maltese with the alert, sometimes cheeky nature of the Chihuahua.
Typically, the Malchi:
Strong attachment to its caregivers
Enjoys play and exercise without being overly active
Vigilant towards strangers, sometimes a little suspicious
Adaptability, especially in a calm, structured everyday life
Intelligence and eagerness to learn, with occasional stubbornness
Depending on his disposition, the Malchi can be both a cheerful clown and a cautious observer. With loving consistency and clear rules, he will develop into a reliable little companion.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Possible diseases of the Malchi
Like all mixed breeds, the Malchi can inherit health risks from its parent breeds. Responsible breeding with health checks of both parents is crucial.
Possible health problems in the Malchi:
Patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap) - typical for small breeds
Dental problems, e.g. tartar build-up or premature tooth loss
Lacrimation or eye inflammation, especially with shorter muzzles
Heart problems (occasionally in Chihuahuas)
Allergies or skin sensitivities
Sensitivity to cold, as small dogs can freeze quickly
With regular veterinary check-ups, good dental care and an appropriate diet, the health of the Malchi can be well supported.
This is what a Malchi can look like
The appearance of the Malchi varies greatly depending on which parent type dominates. In general, the Malchi is a small, petite dog with a shoulder height of around 18 to 28 cm and a weight of between 2 and 5 kg.
Typical characteristics are:
Round or slightly wedge-shaped head
Large, expressive eyes
Standing or semi-standing ears, depending on the Chihuahua or Maltese influence
Compact build, yet graceful and elegant
The coat can be either short, medium-length or long - usually soft and silky. Depending on the coat type, a Malchi may shed little or require regular brushing and trimming.
Coat colors are varied: from white, cream, brown, black, beige to multi-colored combinations.
Overall, the Malchi is a small, lively and affectionate companion whose lively charisma and close bond with its humans make it an ideal everyday companion.
| Fur length | medium - long |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears - Triangle |
| Tail | lang - fanned out |
| Anatomy | slim, dainty |
| Size ♀ | 15 - 23 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 2 - 4 kg |
| Size ♂ | 15 - 25 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 2 - 4 kg |
| Suitable For | Children, Seniors, Beginner, Seniors |
Known Diseases
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Hypoglycemia
If an insulin dose was overdosed or accidentally administered twice, the dog may experience hypoglycemia.
Tartar
If dogs don't get a good food or sugary food, tartar can quickly appear.
Eye infections
Chronic eye infections can be very painful in dogs and can be treated with medication. In rare cases, the cornea must be treated.
Patellar problems
Problems with the Patellar can be a displacement or weak kneecap, which is one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs, also because of overweight.
Skin inflammations
Can be hereditary in certain breeds.
Heart disease
Can occur frequently in dogs and can sometimes be treated with medication.
FAQ
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A Malchi is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Chihuahua with a Maltese.
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A Chihuahua-Maltese mix typically looks like a small, fluffy dog with large ears. They may inherit the round head and large eyes of a Chihuahua or the longer muzzle and straight ears of a Maltese.
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Chihuahua and Maltese mongrels usually weigh between 2 and 4 kg and have a shoulder height of 20 to 30 cm
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Chihuahua-Maltese mixes are generally lively, playful and affectionate dogs. They can inherit the independent streak of a Chihuahua or the people-friendly personality of a Maltese.
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Malchis generally get along well with children and other pets, making them good candidates for family life. If they have inherited the shyness of a Chihuahua, they may need a little more socialization, but overall they make great companions.
