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These 28 Maltese mixes are what happens when you cross the fluffiest dog in the toy aisle with everything from terriers to teddy bears.
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Some are hypoallergenic. Some are high-maintenance. And at least one looks like it has a standing weekly blowout.
If you’ve ever wondered what a Maltese mixed with a Chihuahua, a Shih Tzu, or even a Sheltie might look like… you’re about to find out.
Meet The Maltese
The Maltese might look like royalty with its flowing white coat, but don’t let the glam fool you—this tiny dog is packed with personality. Friendly, fearless, and just the right amount of sassy, the Maltese has been charming laps (and stealing snacks) for centuries.
It’s no surprise, then, that breeders have paired this classic companion with other breeds to create an entire lineup of designer mixes. From playful fluffballs to pint-sized watchdogs, Maltese mixes come in all shapes, coats, and levels of energy.
So which Maltese mash-up is right for you? Let’s meet the pups.
Small But Spicy: 7 Bold Maltese Mixes With Big Energy
These little dogs don’t know they’re little. From fearless watchdogs to pint-sized divas, these Maltese mixes might weigh under 15 pounds but still manage to steal the show.
They’re vocal, confident, and often a bit dramatic—in the best way. If you’re looking for a dog with both attitude and affection, start here.
1. Jatese (Japanese Chin × Maltese)
Also known as the Malti-Chin, this mix descends from two breeds long loved by royalty.
Jatese dogs are playful, cuddly, and emotionally attuned to their owners. They can become anxious or defiant if spoiled or left without structure. It is tempting to give them everything they want, but they need boundaries to stay balanced.
With clear expectations and lots of love, the Jatese will reward you with constant companionship and an uncanny ability to know when you need a snuggle.
2. Malchi (Chihuahua × Maltese)
The Malchi blends the boldness of a Chihuahua with the fluff and devotion of a Maltese, resulting in a tiny dog with a big presence. Energetic and playful, they adore their people and often do well with older kids, though their small frame makes them a bit too delicate for toddlers.
Don’t let the size fool you, this mix can be vocal, wary of strangers, and quick to let you know how they feel about anything from doorbells to delivery trucks. Rough handling or a chaotic home environment can lead to nervous behavior, so socialization is key.
But once you’re in their circle of trust? You’re their whole world. Expect fierce loyalty, endless cuddles, and a pint-sized shadow wherever you go.
3. Maltipom (Pomeranian × Maltese)
The Maltipom is a confident little lion in a fluffy package. They inherit the vocal sass of the Pomeranian and the affectionate nature of the Maltese, creating a watchdog with strong opinions and an even stronger attachment to their family.
Their boldness can get them into trouble around larger dogs, so you may need to step in when they try to take charge of the sidewalk. Their small frame also makes them fragile and prone to anxiety if handled roughly.
Early socialization helps them mellow out and feel more secure. With the proper structure, they become loyal and lively companions that never miss a chance to alert you or strike a pose.
4. Maltipoo (Poodle × Maltese)
Also known as the Maltedoodle, Malt-A-Poo, Maltesepoo, or Malt-A-Doodle, this mix has as many nicknames as it has fans. The Maltipoo is playful, doting, and usually hypoallergenic, making them a designer dog all-star.
These pups are intelligent, sociable, and eager to please, which makes training relatively smooth. That said, they may take a little extra time to grasp housebreaking fully. They love to be with their people and don’t do well being left alone too long.
Maltipoos thrive in homes that offer lots of attention and regular grooming. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic cuddle buddy with plenty of personality, this mix is tough to beat.
5. Morkie (Yorkshire Terrier × Maltese)
Also known as the Malkie, Yorkiemalt, or Yortese, this petite hybrid combines the silky glamour of the Maltese with the tenacious spirit of the Yorkshire Terrier. Morkies are lap lovers through and through, often forming intense bonds with their favorite person.
They can be vocal watchdogs, often alerting you to mail carriers, squirrels, and everything in between. Socialization and training are key to keeping their sass in check. Without, Morkies may develop a case of “small dog syndrome”—bossy, barky, and a little too big for their britches.
Morkies do well in apartments, but they require consistent grooming and daily attention. They thrive with owners who enjoy doting on their diva energy.
6. Papitese (Papillon × Maltese)
The Papitese is a cheerful fluffball who lives for cuddles, praise, and being the center of attention. These dogs are fine-boned and affectionate, with a gentle temperament that makes them lovely companions in calm households.
They may be too delicate for families with small children, but they thrive when treated with care and included in daily life. They want to be in the room, in the loop, and ideally, in your lap.
Their eagerness to please makes training relatively smooth. A consistent routine and positive reinforcement bring out the best in their sweet and sociable nature.
7. Ratese (American Rat Terrier × Maltese)
The Ratese is a spunky little firecracker, usually weighing around 15 pounds. They are smart, curious, and packed with energy, often showing off a unique coat pattern and a love of action.
They may be wary of strangers or rough play, so it is important to socialize them early and consistently. This mix tends to be sensitive and can become defensive if they feel threatened or overstimulated.
They shine in homes that provide plenty of stimulation and structure. A well-trained Ratese is alert, affectionate, and always ready for the next adventure.
Fluffy Lap Dogs: 11 Maltese Mixes That Live For Snuggles
These Maltese mixes are all about the soft life. While some enjoy a bit of play, their true calling is snuggling, relaxing, and soaking up affection.
Most are gentle, calm, and tuned in to their humans’ moods. If your dream dog is soft in every sense of the word, these breeds will fit right in.
1. Bologmalt (Bolognese x Maltese)
Also known as the Molognese, this tiny mix brings a lively spark to the lapdog world. Bologmalts are curious, playful, and always down for an adventure—until nap time rolls around and they melt into your arms.
They’re becoming more popular in the designer dog space, thanks to their mix of sass and snuggles. While they adore their people, they can be wary of strangers and are not always the best match for homes with small children.
Set boundaries early and focus on positive socialization. With consistent training and a loving environment, Bologmalts make incredibly loyal companions.
2. Cavamalt (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Maltese)
Equal parts regal and cuddly, the Cavamalt is known for being adaptable, affectionate, and easy to live with. They tend to be moderate in energy but high in charm, making them ideal for apartment life.
Their small frame and delicate bone structure mean they need to be handled gently. They may not tolerate rough play, but they will gladly follow you from room to room and settle in for a cozy nap.
These pups are sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement. Train with kindness, and you will have a joyful, loyal companion who never wants to leave your side.
3. Cotonese (Coton de Tulear x Maltese)
The Cotonese is the kind of dog who wants to be everywhere you are. These white-coated charmers are people-pleasers to the core and thrive on praise, treats, and together time.
They tend to be quieter and more laid-back than many other toy mixes, which makes them a great option for small dog lovers who aren’t fans of yapping.
Cotoneses are highly adaptable and do well in homes or apartments, as long as they get a bit of daily exercise. A happy, tired Cotonese is a perfect lap companion.
4. Havamalt (Havanese × Maltese)
The Havamalt is a mild-mannered sweetheart with a love of routine and comfort. They are naturally shy with new people, but once they warm up, their affectionate nature takes over.
Because they are small and sensitive, they are not the best fit for households with young kids who play rough. Instead, they thrive in quieter homes where cuddles and calm are the norm.
Smart and eager to please, the Havamalt enjoys learning tricks and being the center of your attention. Bonus: they usually look like a plush toy while doing it.
5. Lhatese (Lhasa Apso x Maltese)
The Malti-Tzu, also known as the Lhatese, is a mellow mix that balances brains with loyalty. They typically weigh between 7 and 15 pounds and tend to form tight bonds with their people.
Highly intelligent and eager to please, this mix is known for being easy to train. They often do well in obedience and agility work but are just as content lounging at home.
While they enjoy affection, they may be wary of strangers. With early socialization and a secure home base, the Malti-Tzu makes a gentle and dependable companion.
6. Malshi (Shih Tzu x Maltese)
The Malshi (also called Malti-zu or Malt-Tzu) is what happens when you cross two of the most beloved lapdogs on the planet. With their rounded faces, silky fur, and bright eyes, these pups look like living plush toys.
They’re lively, playful, and thrive on companionship. Malshis are smart, loyal, and happiest when their people are nearby—leaving them alone too long can lead to anxiety or mischief.
If you’re looking for a snuggle buddy that can also keep up with a short burst of play, the Malshi might be your perfect match.
7. Maltichon (Bichon Frise × Maltese)
This soft and sensitive mix is a lapdog through and through. The Maltichon thrives on attention and bonds deeply with their family. They’re highly adaptable to different home environments, including apartments, as long as they feel safe and loved.
Their delicate frame and gentle nature make them a poor match for young kids, who may unintentionally play too roughly. Maltichons require frequent grooming and a quiet home where they won’t be overwhelmed.
They can be a bit stubborn during training, but they genuinely want to please. With time and patience, the Maltichon blossoms into a loyal, cuddly companion who would happily spend all day by your side.
8. Peke-A-Tese (Pekingese x Maltese)
The Peke-A-Tese may be small in size, but their personality fills the room. These pups are devoted, confident, and sometimes a little bossy. They often form close bonds with one person and may be wary of strangers or anyone they believe is taking their attention away.
Because of their brittle bones and tendency toward jealousy, this mix is better suited for quiet, adult households. They are not ideal for homes with children, but they are incredibly loving with their chosen person.
Peke-A-Teses respond best to consistent, gentle training. Treat them like a partner, not a pet project, and you’ll have a loyal shadow who follows you everywhere.
9. Silkese (Silky Terrier x Maltese)
The Silkese is a small, affectionate mix with a silky coat and a soft spot for snuggles. Usually weighing under 15 pounds, this pup may take after the Maltese in pure white or inherit the browns and silvers of the Silky Terrier.
They’re more laid-back than many other toy-sized mixes but still enjoy bursts of play and mental stimulation. A bored Silkese can become restless, and one who feels neglected may develop anxiety.
This breed thrives on companionship. If you’re often home and want a dog who balances calm cuddles with bright-eyed curiosity, the Silkese might be your perfect match.
10. Silky Cocker (Cocker Spaniel x Maltese)
The Silky Cocker is a friendly, attentive mix that forms strong bonds with its family. Often weighing under 20 pounds, this pup is small enough to snuggle but sturdy enough to enjoy playtime with children.
They are affectionate and intelligent, with a strong desire to please. That said, their Cocker Spaniel side may come with a prey drive, so it’s best to keep them leashed outside and cautious around small animals.
With moderate grooming needs and a balanced energy level, the Silky Cocker is a versatile companion who fits easily into family life.
11. Tibetan Spaltese (Tibetan Spaniel x Maltese)
The Tibetan Spaltese is a bit of a wild card. Some inherit the outgoing friendliness of the Tibetan Spaniel, while others lean into the Maltese’s more reserved side. Either way, this mix tends to be affectionate, mellow, and devoted once bonded.
They are not high-energy and prefer lounging around with their humans over intense activity. That makes them a great match for quiet households, especially those looking for a calm lap dog.
This breed does require regular grooming to keep their coat from matting. But for those willing to put in the brushing time, the Tibetan Spaltese delivers low-key companionship in a very fluffy package.
Designer Dogs With a Twist: 4 Unique Maltese Mixes
Not all Maltese mixes fit neatly into the toy group mold. These hybrids may be a little bigger, a little more unusual in appearance, or bring unexpected energy and temperament to the table.
Whether it’s a wiry coat, herding instincts, or a more independent streak, these mixes stand out in a crowd, and often surprise even seasoned small dog lovers.
1. Cortese (Corgi x Maltese)
The Cortese combines the long body and bold attitude of a Corgi with the sweetness of the Maltese. Playful, intelligent, and full of personality, this mix is known for being a bit stubborn, but also eager to please.
With consistent, positive training, they’ll learn quickly and happily show off their skills. Corteses are friendly to a fault and tend to greet everyone like a long-lost friend.
While they may not win awards for guarding the house, they excel at being affectionate, funny family companions. They usually get along well with kids, other pets, and just about anyone who will play with them.
2. Highland Maltie (West Highland White Terrier x Maltese)
This rare but rising hybrid brings together two classic small breeds: the bold Westie and the affectionate Maltese. Highland Malties are intelligent and energetic, with a strong desire to learn and stay busy.
They thrive on mental stimulation and benefit from training games, puzzle toys, or even agility work. This mix tends to get along well with other dogs and children, though supervision is still important due to their sensitive nature.
Like many terrier crosses, they need gentle discipline and plenty of positive reinforcement. Handled with care, the Highland Maltie is a loyal and fun-loving family member.
3. Malteagle (Beagle x Maltese)
The Malteagle is outgoing, curious, and a little mischievous. This cross between a Beagle and Maltese loves to explore, sniff, and entertain—though their prey drive can make them a handful off-leash.
They are not a good match for homes with small animals like cats or rabbits, and they should always be kept secure outdoors to prevent wandering.
While relatively low-shedding and easy to groom, Malteagles are prone to separation anxiety. They crave companionship and structure, and they may act out if left alone too long. With the proper attention and environment, they become lively, loving, and endlessly amusing companions.
4. Mauzer (Miniature Schnauzer × Maltese)
The Mauzer is a compact, loyal mix that tends to bond deeply with one person. Weighing in around 10 to 15 pounds, this cross between a Maltese and Miniature Schnauzer brings together two small but mighty breeds with big hearts and sharp minds.
They’re affectionate and social but may develop a favorite human quickly. This makes them an ideal match for single owners or adult-only households. If you want them to connect with the whole family, make sure everyone participates in training, feeding, and play.
Their frame is delicate, so they are not a good fit for families with young children. With plenty of socialization and shared attention, the Mauzer becomes a friendly, alert companion who’s always in tune with their people.
Mischief Makers: 6 Sassy & Surprising Maltese Combos
These Maltese mixes have a little extra spice. Whether it’s a stubborn streak, a terrier’s boldness, or a sense of humor that borders on chaotic, these dogs keep life interesting.
They may not be the easiest to train, but they’re often the most entertaining. If you like a dog with quirks, confidence, and a bit of comedic flair, these mixes deliver.
1. Boston Malterrier (Boston Terrier × Maltese)
The Boston Malterrier is a spunky, social pup that thrives on attention and family life. They tend to be tolerant with children, eager to please, and quick to pick up tricks with the right motivation.
Despite their cheerful nature, this mix is prone to separation anxiety and may act out if left alone for long periods. Crate training and a steady routine can help them feel more secure.
With early socialization and consistent training, the Boston Malterrier blossoms into a loyal, well-mannered companion with a goofy side you’ll grow to love.
2. Cairmal (Cairn Terrier x Maltese)
The Cairmal, sometimes called the Malticairn, brings the cheerful energy of a terrier to the lapdog world. They’re affectionate, spirited, and one of the few Maltese mixes sturdy enough to handle life with children.
This mix thrives in family environments, especially when introduced to kids gradually and supervised during early interactions. They love attention and may prefer to be the only pet in the house so they don’t have to share the spotlight.
With the right socialization, Cairmals are playful, tolerant, and full of personality—a great match for homes that want a dog with both heart and humor.
3. Malti-Pin (Miniature Pinscher x Maltese)
The Malti-Pin is tiny but full of life. This mix between a Maltese and Miniature Pinscher typically weighs under 10 pounds but carries the confidence of a dog three times its size.
Outgoing and alert, Malti-Pins tend to be more welcoming to strangers than many Maltese mixes. They’re intelligent and love to learn, but may test the rules if training isn’t consistent.
With plenty of positive reinforcement and regular socialization, they become charming, sharp companions who are easy to carry—and hard to ignore.
4. Malti-Pug (Pug x Maltese)
The Malti-Pug is a natural goofball with a serious loyal streak. This clever mix combines the comic charm of the Pug with the velcro-like devotion of the Maltese, making for a dog that’s both entertaining and deeply affectionate.
They often inherit the Pug’s signature snout, but in many cases it’s slightly longer, which may reduce some of the breathing issues associated with flat-faced breeds. Still, moderate activity and good airflow are key to keeping them healthy.
Without boundaries, the Malti-Pug can grow stubborn or defiant. Regular training keeps their behavior in check and gives them the structure they need to thrive. If you’re consistent, you’ll end up with a cuddly, clownish companion who always keeps things interesting.
5. Mauxie (Dachshund × Maltese)
Also known as the Dachtese, the Mauxie is affectionate, confident, and just a little bit bossy. They tend to be friendly and easygoing, but that signature Dachshund stubbornness might show up from time to time.
This mix usually gets along well with others but may become territorial without proper socialization. They crave human attention and can get anxious or pouty if ignored.
For the right family—especially one that appreciates a dramatic flair—the Mauxie is a loving, loyal companion who never wants to leave your side.
6. Scottese (Scottish Terrier × Maltese)
The Scottese is a newer entry to the designer dog scene, but based on the parent breeds, you can expect a bold and independent spirit wrapped in a small, scruffy package.
They may not be as eager to please as some other Maltese mixes, but their independence can be a strength. Scotteses are often less prone to anxiety and do well in homes where they’re treated with respect and consistency.
Expect a mix of stubborn charm and playful mischief.
So… Which Maltese Mix Fits Your Vibe?
Whether you want a feisty little watchdog, a living teddy bear, or something a bit more offbeat, there’s a Maltese mix out there with your name on it. These dogs may come in different shapes, coats, and energy levels, but they all share the Maltese’s signature charm, loyalty, and people-loving nature.
Before bringing one home, make sure the mix matches your lifestyle in terms of grooming needs, temperament, and energy. And of course, don’t underestimate how many of these tiny dogs have very big opinions.
Thinking About Bringing Home a Maltese Mix? Read This First.
Maltese mixes can be full of surprises—in the best way. Thanks to their diverse genetics, many mixed-breed dogs are healthier, live longer, and avoid some of the inherited conditions that affect purebreds. But that same variety also means no two Maltese mixes are exactly alike.
Size, coat type, temperament, and health can vary widely, even within the same litter. If you’re considering a Maltese mix, talk with reputable breeders or rescue groups, ask to see the parents, and get to know what traits tend to come through most often.
