When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Here’s how it works.
Thinking a Maltese mix breed might be the perfect dog for your home? There are many different Maltese crossbreeds, and each of them has a different personality, look, and temperament. The advantage of adopting a Maltese mix is that it will most likely inherit the easy-going traits of their Maltese parent without any of the health concerns. Some of these pups have simply ridiculous-sounding names, which is part of the fun of owning one.
The Maltese are a beloved and bold toy breed that has become a top choice for small dog lovers. This little, white-coated companion loves to snuggle next to their owner and shower them with affection. Their indisputable popularity and stunning white coats have made them a top choice to mix with other breeds. Lucky for us, this has produced many adorable Maltese mixes.
The practice known as designer dog breeding, which is the deliberate mixing of two purebred parents of different breeds, has risen in popularity over the last few decades. There are now countless new and improved designer dog breeds for families to consider. In this article, we will look at some of the most popular Maltese mixes that might make the perfect companion for you and your family.
If you are not certain of your dog’s genetic makeup, you can use an at-home DNA test kit to find out.
Bologmalt: Bolognese Maltese Mix
The Bologmalt, also known as a Molognese is a cross between the Bolognese and the Maltese. This tiny pup has a big personality. They are spunky and curious by nature. They love to explore, play, and when they are tuckered out, just want to curl up in the lap of their loved ones. In fact, the Bologmalt has been climbing the charts in the designer dog world – and for good reason.
The Bologmalt can be cautious of strangers if they are not introduced often to people outside of their family. Even still, they can sometimes remain suspicious of strangers and children – making them a better choice for adult-only families. Any Bologmalt owner should be diligent in training and provide them with boundaries, so they don’t become spoiled and dominant. Overall, they are extremely loving and devoted companions.
Boston Malterrier: Boston Terrier Maltese Mix
This Maltese and Boston Terrier crossbreed, known as a Boston Malterrier, is a fun-loving and well-mannered little hybrid pup. They are very sweet and tolerant of children and make excellent family dogs. However, this mix has a high probability of suffering from separation anxiety. They can become very agitated and even destructive if left alone for too long.
The Boston Malterrier does well with positive reinforcement training and generally loves learning new tricks. They are known for their devotion and intelligence – both traits make them a very trainable and loyal breed. As with any dog, we recommend ample socialization to help tame the Maltese’s more suspicious and snappy nature, which can sometimes be present in this breed.
Cairmal: Cairn Terrier Maltese Mix
The Cairmal, also known as the Malticairn, is a small breed hybrid between a Cairn Terrier and a Maltese. This mix is known for being cheerful and big-hearted, making them an excellent choice as a companion dog. While many Maltese mixes on our list are unfortunately too fragile for young children, the Cairmal is one exception.
This loving pup is very tolerant of kids and can make excellent playmates. They should still be introduced to children slowly, always supervised, and socialized as much as possible from a young age. If proper steps are taken, the Cairmal will make the perfect addition to families of all ages. However, this breed prefers being the only dog in the house – they love to be the center of attention.
Cav-A-Malt: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Maltese Mix
The Cav-A-Malt is an affectionate hybrid resulting from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Maltese. They are a lively breed with moderate energy levels and average exercise requirements. This little dog is certainly not short on intelligence or bravery. They should be trained only using positive reinforcement techniques, as they are sensitive pups. This will help make sure they will keep you smiling with their joyful personalities.
The Cav-A-Malt should not be left unsupervised with small children who may accidentally play too rough. They have a delicate bone structure and can be easily injured without much force. The Cav-A-Malt is a very adaptable companion and thrives in apartment settings as long as they are given plenty of affection. With a breed this cute, that shouldn’t be difficult.
Cortese: Welsh Corgi Maltese Mix
Meet the Cortese. A sweet yet strong-headed dog, which is the result of a Corgi mixed with a Maltese. This pup is very playful and bright. The Cortese is full of personality in a tiny body. As mentioned, they can be quite stubborn and will need consistent, positive training to overcome this trait. In general, however, they are eager to please and just want to make you happy.
A Cortese has never met a stranger. They make friends instantly and with almost anyone. While this admirable trait will make them popular at the dog park, it’s not so great for protecting the house. The Cortese may not make a great watchdog, but they will be a wonderful addition to a loving family. They even get along well with children of all ages and animals of all species. What more could you want from a canine companion?
Cotonese: Coton de Tulear Maltese Mix
This Coton de Tulear and Maltese mix, known as a Cotonese, is a little white dog who loves to please. A companion pup in the truest sense of the word, this tiny breed will be your shadow, following you from room to room and curling up next to you for a nap. Because they are so eager to make their owners happy and proud, the Cotonese should not give you any trouble with training. They live for positive reinforcement.
Laid back and quieter than many toy breeds, the Cotonese can give small dog lovers who don’t like “yapping” the best of both worlds. They are an adaptable breed and do well in both homes and apartments. However, they should still be given opportunities to burn off some of their fun-loving energy. A thoroughly exercised Cotonese will be well-behaved and cuddly, making these pups the ideal lap dog.
Havamalt: Havanese Maltese Mix
A Havanese and Maltese can be bred together to create the Havamalt. This bubbly companion pup is both mild-mannered and sweet-tempered. While the Havamalt can be shy and even suspicious of strangers, if they are introduced properly, they warm up quickly. Lots of positive introductions started from a young age will do wonders for this breed.
The Havamalt is not always the most patient with young children who can pet and pull too rough. They flourish more in adult-only homes or families with older children. This mix is smart and loves to learn new tricks. It’s an added bonus that they look absolutely adorable doing it. The Havamalt is bound to steal your heart.
Highland Maltie: West Highland White Terrier Maltese Mix
The Highland Maltie is a somewhat rare mix between the West Highland White Terrier and the Maltese. While both parent breeds are very popular small dogs, mixing the two is a relatively new concept. Luckily though, this sweet-tempered and intelligent breed is gaining in popularity. Despite their small size, this pup will require both mental and physical stimulation. They love training and agility exercises.
This breed makes for a wonderful family companion who gets along well with children and other animals, although they should still be supervised when together. The Highland Maltie is a very sensitive breed and, as with all dogs, should never be spoken to harshly, or they will become sullen and anxious. Firm but gentle and positive corrections are the way to go with this breed.
Jatese: Japanese Chin Maltese Mix
The Jatese, also known as the Malti-Chin, is a pocket-sized hybrid resulting from the breeding of a purebred Japanese Chin and a purebred Maltese. Both parent breeds have been companion favorites for centuries – meaning this little mix is bound to inherit some very desirable traits. Playful, cuddly, affectionate, and bright are just a few.
It’s important not to spoil a Jatese. We understand this can be hard to do with a breed so cute, but if this breed is not given proper boundaries, they can become defiant and difficult to deal with. They are also prone to separation anxiety and can become very distraught if neglected. Anyone looking to adopt a Jatese should consider these behaviors and commit to providing them with an environment where they are given structure and made a priority.
Lhatese: Lhasa Apso Maltese Mix
The Lhatese is a clever and friendly mix between a Lhasa Apso and Maltese. They are small canines, generally weighing between 7 and 15 pounds. They are highly intelligent and very eager to please their owners. These attributes make the Lhatese an exceptionally trainable breed who is likely to succeed in both agility and obedience skills.
The Lhatese are generally quite laid back. However, this mixed breed is not the biggest fan of strangers. This can make them excellent watchdogs but should be socialized so this inherited trait does not become a nuisance. This mix enjoys playtime but would rather cuddle up on the couch with their owners in most circumstances. They are prone to separation anxiety, and potential adopters should be committed to making their Lhatese a central part of the family.
Malchi: Chihuahua Maltese Mix
The Maltese and Chihuahua mix is known as a Malchi. Malchi’s are energetic and love to play. They get along great with kids, but due to their smaller stature, shouldn’t be left alone with younger children. They also are very sensitive and can become fearful if handled too roughly.
The Chihuahua can be feisty and bold. They won’t hesitate to vocalize or even nip if something is distressing them. Similarly, the Maltese tend to be suspicious of strangers and quite vocal. Socialization and training will be super important for this breed to be friendly with visitors and other animals. Given the proper structure, they can be well-behaved and genial. Despite their reservations about strangers, the sun rises and sets with you – you won’t find a more devoted breed.
Malshi: Shih Tzu Maltese Mix
This sweet little mix between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese goes by many adorable names: Malti-zu, Malt-Tzu, and our favorite: the Malshi. With parents as popular as the Shih Tzu and Maltese, it’s no wonder this lovable breed is a fan favorite. They are known for being lively and playful with a cheerful disposition. the perfect combination for any pup.
Most Malshi are highly intelligent animals. They are also extremely loyal and enjoy the company of their favorite humans. They can become anxious if left alone, meaning they should be made a priority within their family and never ignored for too long. The Malshi can make an excellent companion for a family willing to give them the love they desire and deserve.
Malteagle: Beagle Maltese Mix
This dynamic cross between a Beagle and a Maltese is known as a Malteagle. The Malteagle is a small breed that is quite curious and extroverted. They are a blast to be around and make a wonderful addition to many different kinds of families. Thanks to their Beagle heritage, the Malteagle has a very high prey drive and is therefore not suited for households with cats or other small animals. They should also never be let off the leash as they could chase after an animal at any moment.
Luckily, the Malteagle does not shed much and is a fairly low-maintenance mix. However, they should not be left alone for long periods of time as they can suffer from separation anxiety and become considerably distressed if neglected for too long. A stressed Malteagle can act out in destructive ways and even become defiant to instruction. However, when they are made a part of the family, the Malteagle will flourish as a playful and entertaining pup.
Malti-Pin: Mini Pinscher Maltese Mix
If you mix two beloved breeds like the Mini Pinscher and the Maltese, the results will surely delight you. This little pup is known as a Malti-Pin and usually weighs under 10 pounds – making them an absolutely adorable toy breed. If you are looking for a compact and portable companion, the Malti-Pin may just be the perfect fit for you.
They are usually a very outgoing and jolly breed. The Malti-Pin is less suspicious of strangers than other Maltese mixes on this list, although they should still be given opportunities to socialize frequently. This is a sharp mix that should not be too difficult to train. However, they can be a bit stubborn, so consistency will be key. This pup really just wants to please.
Malti-Pug: Maltese Pug Mix
Meet the Malti-Pug: a clever, committed mix with a Pug with an enormous personality. This silly breed is a bit of a clown and will be sure to keep you laughing and entertained. They are likely to sport the distinctive short snout, a dominant characteristic most often associated with Pugs. However, this mix’s snout is likely to be slightly longer than your average pug and, therefore, can help mitigate some of the breathing and health concerns associated with this flat-faced feature.
Providing a Malti-Pug with proper boundaries will be especially key in raising a well-mannered pup. This breed, if given too many liberties, can become awfully willful and even defiant. Still, positive and frequent training sessions will not only mentally stimulate your dog and strengthen your bond, but they will also result in a wonderfully affectionate MaltiPug.
Maltichon: Bichon Maltese Mix
This Maltese and Bichon Frise mix is a sensitive and intelligent companion dog – perfect for lounging in their favorite person’s lap. They will mature into small canines that are likely to require frequent grooming. This mix is very sensitive and should never be spoken to or handled roughly. Because of this, we do not recommend them in a home with young children who may unwittingly play too gruffly for the delicate Maltichon.
The Maltichon is a very adaptable dog and does well in many different living environments, including apartments. It may take some patience to train a Maltichon. They can be quite obstinate but, in general, just want to make their owners happy. They are very steadfast and enjoy nothing more than the company of their family. This time can be spent cuddling on the couch or playing a game of tug-of-war.
Maltipom: Pomeranian Maltese Mix
The Maltese and Pomeranian are both very popular toy breeds. While not as famous as other Pomeranian crossbreeds, the Maltipom is incredibly charming. Both parent breeds have a tendency to bark, which can be great if you’re looking for an alert watchdog but may not be best suited for quiet apartment buildings. Despite their tiny stature, the Maltipom is full of courage. While this quality is endearing, their bravery should be monitored around larger dogs to ensure they don’t unwittingly start a fight they can’t win.
Even though the Maltipom loves children and is extremely gentle, they are extremely fragile and can become easily anxious if handled roughly. Because of this, we suggest looking at other mixes if you have smaller children. The Maltipom can, at times, be suspicious of strangers and protective of their family. Socialization from a young age can help create a friendly and mellow Maltipom.
Maltipoo: Poodle Maltese Mix
The Maltipoo goes by many different names: Maltedoodle, Malt-A-Poo, Maltesepoo, Malt-A-Doodle, and the list goes on. While there might not be a consensus on a name, one thing everyone can agree on is how charming this hybrid is. Just like other doodle crossbreeds, they are doting, cuddly, and sociable. Did we mention they are also hypoallergenic? This pup is pretty close to perfect.
The Maltipoo is growing rapidly in popularity in the Designer dog community, and we aren’t surprised. This little pup is eager to please, making them quite trainable. Nevertheless, they may need extra time to be properly housebroken. While the Maltipoo loves to curl up on their owner’s lap for a nap, they are also always down to play. The Maltipoo is truly the best of both worlds.
Mauxie: Dachshund Maltese Mix
The Mauxie – also known as the Dachtese – is a mix between the Dachshund and the Maltese. Both breeds are very popular in their own right. The Mauxie is easy-going and very adoring, making them a great choice for novice dog owners. They are quite easy to train, although they have a fearless attitude and should be monitored around other dogs.
The Mauxie will generally have a friendly disposition and get along well with others. With that said, they can be a bit territorial and should be properly socialized to help curb this instinct. They love attention and can become upset if left alone for too long. If you are willing to show this breed the love they deserve, you will have a fiercely committed companion at your side.
Mauzer: Mini Schnauzer Maltese Mix
The Mauzer is an attentive and faithful hybrid, the result of mixing a Miniature Schnauzer and a Maltese. Both the Miniature Schnauzer and Maltese lend their small stature to the build of this crossbreed. This compact pup weighs between 10 and 15 pounds at maturity. They are known for being affectionate and social, which makes them the perfect companion to adult-only families. Because this small breed is known for having fine bones and a fragile frame, we don’t recommend them for families with young children.
It is not uncommon for a Mauzer to bond more intensely with one person, another reason they are better suited for singles or adult families. If you wish your Mauzer to be a companion for the whole family, we suggest all family members share in the responsibilities of caring for them. Socializing a Mauzer as much as possible can also help bring them out of their shell and prevent them from becoming attached to just one person.
Morkie: Yorkshire Terrier Maltese Mix
The Morkie – known by many different names such as Malkie, Yorkiemalt, and Yortese, to name a few – is a Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier mix. This is a small and fragile-framed pup that bonds very closely with their owner. Due to their timidness and tiny size, they tend to be wary of children who play rough, strangers, and other animals. Socialization can help them open up and thrive.
Any Morkie owner should be sure to train this breed properly, so they don’t become spoiled and dominant. They can quickly develop small dog syndrome if they are not provided with established boundaries. In general, they are extremely adoring and steadfast companions who just want to be curled up on their favorite human’s lap.
Papitese: Papillon Maltese Mix
This spunky hybrid known as a Papitese is a Papillon and Maltese mix. This pup is all about cuddles and physical attention. They are very eager to please and have a genial disposition. This petite dog is sure to keep you smiling. They will be small and fine-boned, meaning they must be handled delicately and with care. This makes them not a great choice for families with young children, like many other Maltese mixes on our list.
They are known for being very gentle and quite curious. The Papitese loves to be the center of attention and flourish when they are included in family activities and made to feel a part of their “pack.” This mix is fairly easy to train. While they can be somewhat strong-headed, if they are provided with firm but kind and consistent training, they will mature into a well-mannered and adoring companion.
Peke-A-Tese: Pekingese Maltese Mix
The Peke-A-Tese hybrid is a small canine – generally weighing no more than 10 pounds – that is a mix between a Pekingese and a Maltese. While this breed is not considered to be difficult to train, they are known for being somewhat bull-headed and will require patient and consistent training. They clearly have no idea how small they are. They live in tiny bodies and, because of this, can develop “little dog syndrome.”
The Peke-A-Tese is a faithful shadow that will follow their beloved owner everywhere. However, they are not always the biggest fans of strangers and those stealing away their owner’s attention, so they should be socialized frequently to become less suspicious of outsiders. Due to their brittle frame and tendency to attach to one person, they may not be a suitable companion for households with children. However, they are wonderfully affectionate, dutiful, and a great fit for adult-only families.
Ratese: Rat Terrier Maltese Mix
What do you get when you mix the American Rat Terrier and the ever-popular Maltese together? The feisty Ratese. This small-to-medium breed usually weighs around 15 pounds when fully grown. Their coats tend to be a beautiful blend of many different colors. Ratese owners report a curious and lively breed with an amiable disposition.
Both parent breeds can be suspicious of newcomers. This means it will be crucial to socialize a Ratese frequently so they do not become overly territorial. They also do not have endless patience for young children who play too rough. They can snap in defensiveness if they feel threatened. This means this particular mix shouldn’t be in homes with young children.
Scottese: Scottish Terrier Maltese Mix
Many people ask about a Maltese mixed with a Terrier, and this mixed doggo is just that. The Scottese is fairly new to the designer dog scene, meaning there is not much information on them. However, we can take a look at the parent breeds – a Scottish Terrier and a Maltese – and make inferences about temperament and appearance. They are likely to be bold and spirited, even mischievous at times. This pooch is full of life despite those tiny bodies.
Because Scottish Terriers are known for being quite independent, the Scottese may be slightly resistant to training. With consistency, this can be easily overcome. There are also upsides to this breed’s independence. They are less likely to be anxious, which is a common trait for many Maltese mixes.
Silkese: Silky Terrier Maltese Mix
The Silkese is a little pup who generally weighs no more than 15 pounds. A mix between a Silky Terrier and Maltese, this breed could sport the signature all-white Maltese coat or inherit the browns and grays of the Silky Terrier. The Silkese is generally pretty mellow in comparison to other small breeds. They are known for being dedicated to their owners and excellent cuddle buddies.
Despite being laid-back, the Silkese also enjoy being active and playful. They love to be stimulated and entertained. Because of this, you shouldn’t adopt this mix if you are frequently away from home or have an intense travel schedule. The Silkese can become sullen and suffer from separation anxiety if they feel they are being neglected.
Silky Cocker: Cocker Spaniel Maltese Mix
Meet the Silky Cocker, a hybrid breed produced by mixing a Cocker Spaniel and a Maltese. This pup can be anywhere from small to medium in size, usually falling under 20 pounds at maturity. They are a very attentive breed and bond closely with their family. They do wonderfully well with children of all ages, which makes them a versatile companion that could make an excellent addition to many different families.
The Silky Cocker will likely have a strong prey drive. This means they should not be left off-leash outside, nor should they be left unsupervised with other small animal pets such as cats or hamsters. They are very smart and pick up tricks quickly. They require moderate amounts of maintenance and exercise.
Tibetan Spaltese: Tibetan Spaniel Maltese Mix
The Tibetan Spaltese is a rare designer dog created by breeding a Tibetan Spaniel and a Maltese. Both parent breeds have quite a few opposing characteristics, so it’s really up to chance which a Tibetan Spaltese will favor. They could be outgoing and friendly like a Tibetan Spaniel or more reserved and suspicious like a Maltese. If you’re lucky, you will end up with a happy medium: a hybrid whose Spaniel side can temper some of the Maltese’s less desirable traits while still maintaining their beloved characteristics.
The Tibetan Spaltese has a rather high maintenance grooming requirement. They will need to be bathed and trimmed frequently. Otherwise, their gorgeous coats are likely to become matted and uncomfortable. They are considered to have moderate to low energy levels. This makes them mellow companions perfect for lounging around on the couch.
Reminders
People often ask about the health of mixed breeds like these Maltese crossbreeds. Mixed-breed canines often are larger, healthier, and longer lived than the purebred parents. Due to the more diverse genetics, they are less likely to develop some diseases that run in purebreds. This also leads to a wide range of unpredictability regarding the appearance and temperament of any Maltese mix. Mixed breeds are susceptible to conditions that affect their parents, though sometimes to a lower degree. There is almost no way to truly tell what a mixed breed will look like or what characteristics they might inherit from both parents. Working with reputable breeders, asking lots of questions, and looking at previous litters can help give you an idea of what to expect. You may find variations of the Maltese crossbreed in shelters or rescues around the country.
Final Thoughts
Maltese mixes can make delightful companions, and it’s no surprise, considering the popularity of the Maltese. Many of their off-shooting hybrids are compact, bold, and devoted – all highly sought-after traits Maltese are known for. If you’re in the market for a canine companion that’s portable and adaptable with big personalities and lots of love to give, look no further than these Maltese mixes.
As always, please check with your local shelters and rescue organizations before turning to for-profit breeders. This is especially true when adopting a crossbreed. Many Maltese mixes are in desperate need of loving homes and waiting in shelters for their forever families. Unfortunately, this adorable breed is often bought and then abandoned – for no fault of their own – in shelters because of irresponsible owners. You can save a life by adopting one of these pups in need.
