All about Maltese Husky dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Maltese Husky" Breed (parent breeds: "Maltese" × "Siberian Husky")

The average Maltese Husky weight for an adult typically ranges from 20 to 45 pounds. While there can be some overlap, males often fall into the higher end of this range, while females tend to be on the lower to mid-end. This makes the Maltese Husky a medium-sized dog. Maintaining a healthy weight for Maltese Husky is crucial for their well-being, so regular exercise and a balanced diet are recommended to ensure they stay within their ideal size.

Curious about the Maltese Husky height? This delightful designer breed, a cross between a Maltese and a Siberian Husky, typically falls into a fascinating size range that reflects its diverse parentage. Understanding their average adult height is key for potential adopters or buyers comparing breed dimensions.

• Smaller End (10-14 inches): A Maltese Husky whose genetics lean more towards the Maltese parent will likely be on the smaller side, closer to the height of a typical Maltese.
• Larger End (15-18 inches): If the Siberian Husky genes are more dominant, your Maltese Husky will be taller, approaching the lower to mid-range height of a Siberian Husky.

The Maltese Husky, a delightful mix of the Maltese and Siberian Husky, exhibits a wide range of coat colors. Due to its mixed heritage, official breed standards for colors don't exist in major kennel clubs like the AKC. However, we can look at the typical colors inherited from its parent breeds.

Maltese Husky Personality & TemperamentThe Maltese Husky, a delightful mix of the Maltese and Siberian Husky, typically combines the playful affection of the Maltese with the spirited intelligence of the Husky. Expect a friendly and loyal companion with a sociable disposition. They are generally warm and welcoming to strangers once they've had a chance to assess them. This breed is known for its loving nature and desire to be part of the family, often forming strong bonds with their owners.Regarding adaptability, while their size can vary, many Maltese Huskies can adapt to apartment living provided they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation. Without enough activity, they may exhibit boredom behaviors.When it comes to children and other pets, the Maltese Husky typically has a good temperament, especially if socialized early. Their playful nature often makes them excellent companions for respectful children. With other pets, they tend to be amicable, though individual personalities and proper introductions are always key. Their intelligence means they are generally eager to please but can also inherit a stubborn streak, so consistent, positive reinforcement training is essential. They thrive on interaction and can become lonely if left alone for extended periods.

Maltese Husky Temperament: A delightful blend of its parent breeds, the Maltese Husky, also known as a Malusky, offers a vibrant and loving personality, making it an excellent companion dog. Owners can expect a friendly and sociable canine that thrives on human interaction. These dogs are typically very loyal to their families, often forming strong bonds and enjoying being at the center of attention.

Maltese Husky Care: Essential Daily Maintenance and Health Tips

Maltese Husky Activity Level: How active are Maltese Huskies? This unique crossbreed blends the spirited nature of the Siberian Husky with the gentle charm of the Maltese, resulting in a fascinating mix of energy levels. While they can exhibit short bursts of playful energy, Maltese Huskies typically balance these with longer periods of rest and relaxation. They are not as intensely active as a purebred Siberian Husky, nor as sedentary as some purebred Maltese can be.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Maltese Husky a 5.This rating reflects the inherent unpredictability of a crossbreed like the Maltese Husky. While the Maltese parent is undeniably small (often weighing under 7 pounds), the Siberian Husky is a medium-to-large breed, typically weighing between 35 and 60 pounds and standing around 20-23 inches tall. A Maltese Husky could inherit more characteristics from either parent, resulting in a dog that ranges from a compact, sturdy medium size to a more substantial, athletic build.On average, you'd likely see a Maltese Husky falling into the medium-sized category, perhaps weighing anywhere from 20 to 45 pounds and standing around 12 to 20 inches tall. They'll be significantly larger than a purebred Maltese, but rarely as massive as a fully-grown Siberian Husky. Their body structure will also be a blend, potentially having the more refined bone structure of the Maltese but with the longer limbs and deeper chest of the Husky.Given this variability, a Maltese Husky is generally suited for a variety of living situations, though their size dictates some considerations. While a smaller individual might manage in a spacious apartment, a larger one would definitely benefit from a house with a yard. For travel, their medium size means they might be too large for in-cabin air travel and would likely need to fly as checked baggage. Households with significant space constraints might find even a smaller Maltese Husky a bit much due to their potential energy levels and need for exercise, which is another inherited Husky trait. Therefore, a 5 signifies a mid-range size that, while not extremely small or large, requires owners to be prepared for the potential for a dog on either end of that spectrum.

Rating: 8Explanation: The Maltese Husky, or Maltihusky, is likely a very high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. The Maltese parent contributes a long, silky, non-shedding coat that is prone to matting and requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent tangles and maintain its pristine appearance. The Siberian Husky parent, on the other hand, boasts a dense double coat that sheds heavily twice a year and requires frequent brushing to manage the loose undercoat. Combining these two will likely result in a dog with a medium to long, dense coat that sheds moderately year-round and potentially heavily seasonally. This coat type will be highly susceptible to matting and tangles, requiring daily brushing to prevent knots and regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks for trimming and de-shedding. Ear cleaning will be important due to the potential for floppy or semi-floppy ears, and nail trimming will be a regular necessity. While not typically prone to skin folds, the density of the coat could increase the risk of skin issues if not properly maintained and dried after baths. Overall, the Maltese Husky will demand significant time and effort for grooming, far more than the average companion dog, due to the blend of demanding coat characteristics from both parent breeds.

Rating: 7Explanation: The Maltese Husky, or Maltesky, is a hybrid that brings together two very different exercise profiles, resulting in a dog with moderate to high energy levels. The Siberian Husky parent contributes a strong need for sustained physical activity and mental stimulation, being a breed originally bred for pulling sleds over long distances. They possess remarkable endurance and a desire for a "job." The Maltese, while smaller, is also a lively and playful dog that enjoys walks and interactive playtime, but doesn't require the same intensity or duration of exercise.A Maltesky will typically lean more towards the Husky's energy, needing more than just a casual stroll around the block. They thrive on daily, structured exercise routines that could include long walks (at least 60-90 minutes, potentially split into two sessions), vigorous playtime in a secure yard, or even activities like hiking. Their tolerance for sustained movement will be good, inheriting the Husky's stamina. While the Maltese heritage might slightly temper the extreme energy of a pure Husky, it won't eliminate the need for significant physical exertion. They are generally well-suited for various types of exercise and would likely enjoy agility or canine sports to keep them mentally and physically engaged. Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored, destructive, or develop behavioral issues. They definitely require structured routines to stay healthy and mentally stimulated, rather than thriving with minimal activity.

I'd rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the "Maltese Husky" (Maltipoo Husky) a 6 out of 10.This hybrid would likely inherit a moderate level of watchdog ability, offering meaningful early warnings without being overly aggressive. The Siberian Husky parent brings a strong sense of alertness and a tendency to bark at unfamiliar sights and sounds, which would be a significant contribution to the watchdog role. They are also quite vocal and can have a booming bark. However, Huskies are generally not known for strong territorial aggression or a willingness to physically deter intruders; their primary role as a watchdog is often limited to alerting. The Maltese, while small, is surprisingly alert and will often bark at anything perceived as unusual. They are known for being quite vocal and will definitely let you know if someone is at the door or if a squirrel is in the yard.Therefore, a Maltese Husky would likely be highly alert and prone to barking at unfamiliar sounds or people, making them good at providing early warnings. Their combined vocal tendencies mean they would definitely make noise to signal an intrusion. They would likely respond with barking and perhaps some posturing to unfamiliar individuals, but their small to medium size and the Husky's generally friendly disposition mean they are more of a "bark and alert" system rather than a physically intimidating deterrent. They would likely be capable of providing meaningful early warnings in a home environment, but less likely to escalate to aggressive deterrence, making them more than a passive companion but not a formidable guard dog.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Maltese Husky at a 6.5 out of 10.The Maltese Husky inherits a mixed bag of predispositions from its parent breeds. The Siberian Husky is generally known for its pack mentality and can be quite sociable with other dogs, often enjoying canine company and play. However, they also possess a strong prey drive and can exhibit more dominant tendencies if not properly socialized or if they perceive another dog as a threat. The Maltese, on the other hand, while often affectionate with their own family, can sometimes be more prone to "small dog syndrome," displaying bossiness or shyness around larger or more boisterous dogs, especially if not adequately exposed to them from a young age.Therefore, the Maltese Husky's compatibility with other dogs will heavily depend on which parent's temperament is more dominant in the individual dog and, crucially, on early and consistent socialization. A well-socialized Maltese Husky will likely enjoy the company of other dogs and can adapt well to multi-dog households, especially with dogs of compatible energy levels. However, without proper introductions and ongoing training, there's a moderate potential for them to be either overly shy or, conversely, to display dominant or reactive behaviors, particularly towards unfamiliar dogs or those that challenge them. They thrive in canine company when given the right foundation, but careful introductions and continued positive reinforcement are essential for them to consistently coexist peacefully, especially with dogs of very different sizes or energy levels.

The "Energetic" trait of the Maltese Husky would be rated a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a blend of its parent breeds' energy levels. The Siberian Husky is renowned for its incredibly high energy, endurance, and need for intense physical activity, rating easily a 9 or 10. The Maltese, while playful and active indoors, is a smaller companion dog with a generally moderate energy level, perhaps a 4 or 5. The Maltese Husky, being a mix, will likely inherit a significant drive from the Husky side, making it much more energetic than a typical companion dog. It will possess a strong inclination for activity, requiring daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They are naturally active and playful, enjoying outdoor excursions and having the stamina for moderate athletic activities.However, the "brachycephalic anatomy" mentioned in the prompt, if present, would be a critical limiting factor for its energy and exercise tolerance. While the Maltese is brachycephalic, the Siberian Husky is not. If the Maltese Husky inherits a significantly shortened muzzle, this would impact its ability to breathe efficiently during exercise, potentially leading to overheating and respiratory distress. This would effectively *lower* its practical endurance and ability to participate in strenuous activities, despite an underlying high energy drive. Owners would need to be very mindful of overexertion, especially in warm weather. Assuming a moderate inheritance of brachycephaly (i.e., not as extreme as a Pug, but potentially shorter than a Husky), the dog would still be eager to play and run, but its actual capacity for sustained, intense exercise would be somewhat compromised compared to a non-brachycephalic breed of similar energy, thus preventing a higher rating like an 8 or 9. Therefore, while possessing an energetic spirit, their physical capabilities might be somewhat restricted, landing them firmly in the "moderately high energy" range.

I'd rate the "Training Requirements" of the "Maltese Husky" (Maltesky) a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects the likely blend of intelligence and stubbornness from its parent breeds. The Siberian Husky contributes a high degree of intelligence, but also a notorious independent streak and a strong prey drive, making them quite challenging to train consistently. They can be very bright, learning commands quickly, but often choose whether or not to obey. The Maltese, while intelligent, can sometimes be a bit more focused on their owner and eager to please, but also prone to small dog syndrome if not properly socialized and trained.A Maltesky will likely be intelligent enough to understand commands, but their attention span can vary, and their responsiveness might be inconsistent, especially if they inherit a strong Husky drive. Consistency will be absolutely paramount; any lapse in routine or expectations will be quickly exploited. Positive reinforcement will be effective, as with most dogs, but patience and a variety of high-value rewards will be necessary to maintain their interest and overcome potential stubbornness.This breed is generally not beginner-friendly and would benefit greatly from experienced handling and structured routines from an early age. While not as demanding as a purebred Husky, a new owner might be surprised by the independent nature and the need for consistent, firm-but-fair training to prevent undesirable behaviors from taking root. Early socialization and puppy classes are highly recommended to shape a well-adjusted companion.

I'd rate the Playful trait of a "Maltese Husky" a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects the likely blend of its parent breeds. The Siberian Husky contributes a significant amount of energy, a love for activity, and a playful, sometimes mischievous nature, which would naturally lean towards higher scores. They are known for their zoomies, their enjoyment of games, and their desire for interaction. The Maltese, while smaller and perhaps less overtly energetic in terms of needing long runs, is still a very spirited and often playful companion. They love attention, enjoy engaging with their owners through games and toys, and can have surprisingly energetic bursts.Therefore, a Maltese Husky is likely to be a naturally spirited and enthusiastic dog, enjoying games, responding well to toys, and seeking interaction. They wouldn't be as intensely driven for long periods of high-octane play as a pure Husky, but they'll certainly be more active and fun-loving than many truly laid-back companion breeds. They'll likely enjoy daily playtime and walks, showing enthusiasm in their daily life and generally being up for a good time with their family.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Maltese Husky a 9 out of 10.This hybrid is likely to be an incredibly loving and people-oriented companion. Both parent breeds contribute significantly to this high rating. The Maltese is renowned for its strong desire for human companionship, often described as a true lapdog that thrives on physical closeness and being doted upon. They are highly sensitive to their owner's emotions and will readily offer comfort. The Siberian Husky, while sometimes perceived as more independent, is also a highly social and loyal breed that forms strong bonds with its family. They enjoy being part of the "pack" and will follow their loved ones around, though perhaps with a bit less intensity than a Maltese. The combination creates a dog that will crave interaction and physical affection, happily snuggling on laps and staying close to their human companions. While they might inherit a touch of the Husky's independent streak, the overwhelming desire for connection from the Maltese side will ensure they are extremely devoted and thrive on consistent affection and attention from their family.

Rating: 6/10Explanation: The "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Maltese Husky is a moderate 6, largely due to the contrasting natures of its parent breeds. The Maltese is generally quite adaptable and friendly, often getting along well with other pets, including cats, given proper introduction. However, the Siberian Husky brings a much stronger prey drive and can be more prone to resource guarding, especially if not well-socialized from a young age. While a well-socialized Maltese Husky can certainly coexist peacefully in multi-pet households, it's not a guarantee. There's a significant possibility of a higher prey drive surfacing, particularly towards smaller, faster-moving animals like cats or rabbits. Early and consistent socialization is absolutely crucial, starting from puppyhood, to help mitigate these potential issues and encourage a more tolerant disposition. Without dedicated training and supervision, especially during initial introductions and in unsupervised situations, the compatibility can be unpredictable. Owners should be prepared for potential challenges and invest in positive reinforcement training to ensure harmonious living with other animals.

Rating the "Good with Children" trait of the Maltese Husky is a complex task, but I'd place it at a 6 out of 10.The explanation for this rating lies in the significant blend of its parent breeds. The Maltese contributes a naturally affectionate, gentle, and often patient disposition, generally being quite tolerant of handling and less prone to aggressive behaviors. This side of the Maltese Husky would likely be very good with children, especially if they are taught gentle interaction. However, the Siberian Husky introduces a more boisterous, energetic, and sometimes less patient temperament. Huskies are known for their high energy levels, strong prey drive (though less relevant for child interaction, it speaks to their natural instincts), and a tendency to be playful but sometimes in a rougher, more rambunctious manner. They can be vocal and, while not inherently aggressive, their size and enthusiasm could easily overwhelm smaller children.Therefore, the Maltese Husky would likely be a playful and energetic companion, but their suitability heavily depends on the individual dog's dominant traits and the environment they are raised in. They would likely require significant training and supervision, particularly with younger children, to ensure proper interaction and to mitigate any potential for accidental knocks or over-exuberant play. Early socialization is crucial to help them tolerate noise and various forms of handling. While they can be affectionate, their patience might be more limited than a purebred Maltese. They are not naturally as gentle and inherently patient with children as some breeds, meaning consistent guidance from adults would be essential for them to thrive in a family setting with kids.

Rating the "Good with Strangers" trait of the Maltese Husky, I'd give it a 7 out of 10.This hybrid inherits a fascinating blend from its parent breeds. The Maltese is renowned for its affectionate and often outgoing nature, generally eager to greet new people, while the Siberian Husky, though friendly, can sometimes be a bit more aloof or independent with strangers, not necessarily seeking constant attention from them but typically not aggressive. The Maltese Husky often strikes a pleasant balance. They are generally friendly and approachable with unfamiliar adults, usually displaying a cheerful demeanor. They're not typically prone to excessive barking or guarding behavior with guests, and their adaptability in public or guest-filled environments is generally good, especially if socialized from a young age. While naturally outgoing thanks to the Maltese influence, early and consistent socialization is still highly beneficial to ensure they are consistently comfortable and welcoming rather than just tolerant. Without proper exposure, the Husky's more reserved tendencies could subtly emerge, making them polite but less effusive.

I would rate the "Maltese Husky" as a 5 for winter tolerance.While the Siberian Husky parentage contributes a thick double coat and an innate resilience to cold, the Maltese influence significantly pulls down the average. The Maltese, being a toy breed, has a single coat and very little body fat, making them highly susceptible to cold. The "Maltese Husky" will likely inherit a coat that is thicker than a purebred Maltese but thinner than a purebred Husky, and the degree of undercoat will vary greatly between individuals. Their size will also be a major factor; a smaller "Maltese Husky" will lose heat more quickly than a larger one. There's also the potential for some degree of brachycephaly if the Maltese genes lean that way, which can impact respiratory efficiency in cold air, though neither parent breed is typically brachycephalic. This breed, therefore, would require more special care during winter months than a dedicated cold-weather breed like a purebred Husky. Owners should be mindful of extended outdoor activity, especially in very low temperatures, and be prepared to provide sweaters or coats, limit exposure, and ensure a warm indoor environment, particularly for smaller individuals or those with a less dense coat. While they can enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates, these activities should be supervised, of shorter duration, and with an eye towards signs of discomfort or hypothermia.

The Maltese Husky, also known as a Maltesky, would likely have a "Summer" tolerance rating of 3 out of 10.This rating reflects the significant impact of its Siberian Husky parentage on heat tolerance, despite the Maltese influence. While Maltese are generally more adaptable to warmer climates than Huskies, the Husky's thick double coat, bred for extreme cold, will be a dominant genetic trait. Even if the Maltesky inherits a slightly less dense coat than a pure Husky, it will still be significantly warmer than that of a typical short-coated dog. More importantly, the Siberian Husky is *not* a brachycephalic breed, so the Maltesky wouldn't inherit the extreme respiratory challenges often associated with brachycephaly. However, the potential for a dense undercoat from the Husky side would significantly hinder its ability to regulate body temperature in heat. The risk of heatstroke would be high, especially with moderate to strenuous activity. Therefore, this breed would absolutely require special care in summer months compared to many other companion dogs, necessitating climate control (air conditioning), very limited outdoor activity during peak heat, access to shade and water, and often specialized cooling products.

I would rate the "Maltese Husky" (Maltesky) at a 6 out of 10 for "Healthiness." This rating reflects a moderate health profile, influenced by both the potential benefits of hybrid vigor and the inherent health concerns of its parent breeds.On the positive side, the mix often benefits from hybrid vigor, meaning the genetic diversity can sometimes reduce the likelihood of inheriting specific breed-related conditions that are recessive. This can potentially lead to a more robust immune system and fewer issues compared to purebred dogs with limited gene pools. Both parent breeds are also generally considered fairly long-lived for their size, with the Maltese having a particularly impressive lifespan. Responsible breeding, where parents are screened for genetic health issues, would significantly contribute to a healthier puppy.However, neither parent breed is entirely without health concerns, and the mix can inherit predispositions from either side. From the Maltese, there's a potential for issues like patellar luxation, dental problems (common in small breeds), and certain eye conditions. The Siberian Husky, while generally robust, is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune thyroiditis. The size difference between the parents can also sometimes lead to unpredictable skeletal development in the cross, potentially increasing the risk of joint issues if not carefully bred. While the Maltesky isn't typically prone to extreme breathing difficulties like brachycephalic breeds, they can be high-maintenance in terms of grooming due to their coat. Compared to some extremely robust working breeds, the Maltesky is generally healthy but can be considered somewhat high-maintenance due to potential grooming needs and the combined genetic predispositions, requiring attentive preventive care and regular vet check-ups to maintain optimal health.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of a Maltese Husky at a 5.The Maltese Husky, or Maltesky, is a fascinating mix, blending the spirited, affectionate nature of the Maltese with the independent, intelligent, and often aloof Siberian Husky. This combination results in a dog that is likely to be quite alert and vocal, making them decent watchdogs. They will almost certainly bark at strangers approaching the home, alerting their owners to a presence. Their loyalty to their owners will be strong, a trait inherited from both sides.However, where they fall short of a higher protective rating is their actual capacity for meaningful protection beyond an alert. The Maltese parentage contributes a generally friendly and less aggressive disposition, and while a Husky is a powerful dog, they are not typically bred for guarding and can be quite friendly with strangers once properly introduced. A Maltesky is unlikely to exhibit strong territorial aggression or the drive to physically confront a threat. They are more of a companion dog whose "protection" largely manifests as an early warning system rather than a deterrent or an active guard dog. While their size could be anywhere from small to medium, they lack the inherent protective instincts and bite work potential of a true guard breed. They'd likely be more interested in a friendly sniff than a defensive stand.

I'd rate the "Life Span" trait of the Maltese Husky at a 6.This breed is likely to have an average lifespan compared to other companion dogs. The Maltese, a parent breed, is known for its impressive longevity, often living 12-15 years or even longer, placing it firmly in the long-lived category. However, the Siberian Husky, the other parent, has a more typical lifespan of 10-14 years. The Maltese Husky, as a hybrid, will likely inherit a mix of these genetic predispositions. While they might benefit from hybrid vigor, potentially reducing the incidence of some breed-specific issues present in either parent, they could also inherit sensitivities from both. Common health concerns in the parent breeds, like patellar luxation or dental issues in Maltese, and hip/elbow dysplasia or eye conditions in Siberian Huskies, could potentially be present, though good breeding practices can mitigate these risks. With responsible breeding and diligent care, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary check-ups, a Maltese Husky can certainly enjoy a full and healthy life, but it's unlikely to reach the extreme longevity seen in some purebred Maltese without inheriting that specific genetic advantage.