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Mal-Shi vs Fourche Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Malshi or West Highland Yorkie?

Compare the Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Malshi or a West Highland Yorkie? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Malshi, Malt-Tzu, Malti Zu
West Highland Yorkie, Yorkie West

Weight

What is the average weight of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier?
7.0 pounds ( 3 kg )
47.5 pounds ( 22 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier
9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )
19.0 inches ( 48.3 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Mal-Shis or Fourche Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, the Mal-Shi is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Fourche Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier dogs?
Affectionate
Independent
Loving
Playful
Social
Alert
Intelligent
Going
Quiet

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Loyal

Shedding Level

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

Mal-Shi or Fourche Terrier will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

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

Mal-Shis are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Avoid Fourche Terriers as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Origin

What is the origin of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier dog breeds?
United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds?
Shih Tzu, Maltese

Yorkshire Terrier and Westie

Date of Birth

When were Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds first developed?
1990

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier dogs?
Hazel
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds?
White
Black
Brown

Black
White
Brown
Gray
Brindle

Coat Length

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

Mal-Shis are known for their coat length.

Fourche Terriers have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier?
Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

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

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Fourche Terrier can have a litter of 4-6 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

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

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

Health Issues

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

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

The Fourche Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds?
Patellar Luxation
Respiratory Problems

Patellar Luxation
Tracheal Collapse
Portosystemic Shunt
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier?
None Known

Seborrhea
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds?
X-Rays
Respiratory Tests
Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Ultrasound
Blood Tests
Hearing Tests
Complete Physical Examination

Energy

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

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

Fourche Terriers are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

Mal-Shi vs Fourche Terrier social needs comparison

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

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

Exercise Needed

Mal-Shi vs Fourche Terrier exercise need comparison.

The Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

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

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

Fourche Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Mal-Shis or Fourche Terriers bark more/less frequently?

Mal-Shi and Fourche Terriers 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.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Mal-Shi vs Fourche Terrier?

Roaming urge

Mal-Shi vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

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

Fetch, Walk, Long walk, Pool, Long walks, Walking, Brushing, Belly rub, Tug-of-war

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Mal-Shis or Fourche Terriers?

Medium

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.

High

Fourche Terriers 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.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

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

5 miles / week

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.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Fourche Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Mal-Shis or Fourche Terriers require more exercise?

60 minutes

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.

90 minutes

In general most Fourche Terriers 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.

Grooming

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

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

Fourche Terriers have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

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

Daily

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

Weekly

Fourche Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Mal-Shis and Fourche Terriers?
Pin Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

1 cups

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.

2 cups

For an average 13-15 pound (6 - 7 kg) Fourche Terrier feed 2 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, Mal-Shi or Fourche Terrier?

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

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

$1.40 - $2.80 / day

The average cost of a Fourche Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $2.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$35 - $42 / month

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.

$42 - $84 / month

The average per month expenses of a Fourche Terrier is between $42 - $84. This makes an average of $504 - $1008 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: Mal-Shis vs Fourche Terriers

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

Fourche Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

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

The Fourche Terrier is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

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

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

Fourche Terriers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

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

Mal-Shis are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Fourche Terriers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

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

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

Fourche Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

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

Stranger Friendly

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

Mal-Shis are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Fourche Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Mal-Shi and Fourche Terrier?

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

Fourche Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

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

Mal-Shis are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Fourche Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Common match-ups