Dalmatian vs. Mal-Shi: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

4 / 5

Both the Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds have an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Dalmatians or Mal-Shis hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Dalmatian nor Mal-Shi are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi dogs?

Active
Friendly
Outgoing
Sensitive
Energetic
Intelligent
Playful

Affectionate
Independent
Loving
Playful
Social
Alert
Intelligent
Going
Quiet

Shedding Level

Do Dalmatians shed more than Mal-Shis, or which breed sheds more, Dalmatians or Mal-Shis?

5 / 5

Dalmatians shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

1 / 5

Mal-Shis shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

3 / 5

The Dalmatian and Mal-Shi dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi dog breeds?

Mediterranean

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds?

great dane, pointer

Shih Tzu, Maltese

Date of Birth

When were Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds first developed?

ancient times

1990

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds?

Pied
Black
Brown
White

White
Black
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds?

2 / 5

Dalmatians have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

5 / 5

Mal-Shis are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi?

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Dalmatian and Mal-Shi?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Dalmatian and Mal-Shi?

A Dalmatian can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Mal-Shi can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Dalmatians are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Dalmatian and Mal-Shi, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

Dalmatians typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

3 / 5

While the Mal-Shi breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds?

Deafness
Urolithiasis

Patellar Luxation
Respiratory Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Dalmatian and Mal-Shi?

Demodectic Mange
Cataracts
Laryngeal Paralysis
Dalmatian Bronzing Syndrome
Microphthalmia

None Known

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds?

Hearing
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skin Scraping
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Throat

X-Rays
Respiratory Tests
Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints

Energy

How do the energy levels of Dalmatians and Mal-Shis compare?

5 / 5

Dalmatians thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Dalmatian vs Mal-Shi social needs comparison

5 / 5

Dalmatian has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Mal-Shi has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Dalmatian vs Mal-Shi exercise need comparison.

5 / 5

Dalmatians need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

1 / 5

Dalmatians are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

1 / 5

The Dalmatian and Mal-Shi breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Dalmatians or Mal-Shis bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Dalmatian and Mal-Shis tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Dalmatian or Mal-Shi a better guard dog?

3 / 5

While Dalmatian dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

4 / 5

Mal-Shi dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Dalmatian vs Mal-Shi?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Dalmatian vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Dalmatian or Mal-Shi - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Dalmatian and Mal-Shi entertained?

Walk, Play, Sniffing, Walking, Exploring, Bird watching, His walk, Pets, Run, Tug-of-war, Chase, Hide & Seek, Fetch

Go to Beach, Go to Park, Run, Frisbee, Road trip, Tug-of-war, Chase, Fetch, Jumping, Shake, Walks, Play, Walk, Nap, Bath time, Brushing, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Walking, Sitting, Sleeping, Everything, Groom, Catch treats, Ride, Play ball

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Dalmatians or Mal-Shis?

Dalmatians are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Mal-Shis are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Dalmatian or Mal-Shi walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dalmatian, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mal-Shi, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Dalmatians or Mal-Shis require more exercise?

In general most Dalmatians usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Mal-Shis usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Dalmatians or Mal-Shis?

1 / 5

The Dalmatian is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Mal-Shi requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dalmatian and Mal-Shi dogs?

Ideally, both Dalmatian and Mal-Shi should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Dalmatians and Mal-Shis?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Dalmatian or Mal-Shi in cups?

For an average 55-70 pound (25 - 32 kg) Dalmatian feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 10-12 pound (5 - 5 kg) Mal-Shi feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

The average cost of a Dalmatian is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average cost of a Mal-Shi is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

The average per month expenses of a Dalmatian is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Mal-Shi is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Dalmatians vs Mal-Shis

4 / 5

Dalmatian is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

2 / 5

Mal-Shi has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Dalmatian and Mal-Shi compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Dalmatian and Mal-Shi need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Dalmatian vs Mal-Shi?

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

1 / 5

The Dalmatian is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Dalmatians or Mal-Shis have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Dalmatians make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

Mal-Shis are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Dalmatian or Mal-Shi breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Dalmatians and Mal-Shis are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

5 / 5

Dalmatians are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

4 / 5

Mal-Shis are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Dalmatian or Mal-Shi dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dalmatian or Mal-Shi?

3 / 5

Dalmatian and Mal-Shi are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Dalmatian and Mal-Shi?

5 / 5

Dalmatians are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

3 / 5

Mal-Shis have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Dalmatians and Mal-Shis compare?

3 / 5

Dalmatian and Mal-Shi dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.