All about Malti-Aussie dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Malti-Aussie" Breed (parent breeds: "Australian Terrier" × "Maltese")

Malti-Aussie Weight: The average healthy weight for an adult Malti-Aussie is typically between 8 to 15 pounds. While individual size can vary, males often fall into the higher end of this range, generally weighing 10-15 lbs, with females usually being slightly smaller at 8-12 lbs. This provides a good guide for the average size and healthy weight for Malti-Aussie.

Wondering, "how tall is a Malti-Aussie" or what the "Malti-Aussie height" typically is? Here's what you can expect regarding the "average size" of this delightful designer breed, combining the spirited Australian Terrier with the elegant Maltese.

The Malti-Aussie, a charming cross between the Australian Terrier and Maltese, exhibits a delightful range of Malti-Aussie colors. While not an AKC-recognized breed, its coat colors are derived from its parent breeds.Common and widely accepted Malti-Aussie colors include black, tan, sandy, red, blue and tan, and brindle (inherited from the Australian Terrier). You'll also frequently see white and cream coats, often with lemon or fawn markings, reflecting the Maltese influence. These solid colors and combinations are generally considered standard and are often seen in Malti-Aussie puppies.Rare Malti-Aussie coat types and exotic Malti-Aussie variations are less common but can occur due to recessive genes or less frequent parent breed color combinations. These might include chocolate (a rich brown), silver, or a more prominent blue or lilac hue (often seen as a dilute black or brown). While striking, these rare Malti-Aussie colors are not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, as the Malti-Aussie itself is a designer breed.When comparing Malti-Aussie colors and pricing, remember that standard colors are generally more readily available. Rare coat types or exotic Malti-Aussie variations may sometimes command a higher price due to their uniqueness, but their health and temperament should always be the primary consideration. Always inquire about the parent breeds' color genetics for a better understanding of potential puppy colors.

The Malti-Aussie personality is a delightful blend of its parent breeds, resulting in a charming and adaptable companion. Expect a friendly and loyal dog that forms strong bonds with its family. This breed typically exhibits a cheerful and affectionate disposition, making them wonderful lap companions. Their sociability is generally high; they love being involved in family activities and tend to be quite outgoing with new people once comfortable.The temperament of the Malti-Aussie also includes a good degree of intelligence and a willingness to please, which aids in training. They are quite adaptable to apartment living, especially with regular walks and playtime, as their exercise needs are moderate. While generally good-natured, early socialization is key to ensuring they are well-adjusted. With children, they can be playful and tolerant, particularly with respectful, older children. Supervised interactions are always recommended. When it comes to other pets, especially if introduced early, Malti-Aussies typically get along well, though their terrier lineage can sometimes manifest as a playful chase instinct with smaller animals. They thrive on companionship and prefer not to be left alone for extended periods.

The Malti-Aussie temperament is a delightful blend, creating a charming and adaptable companion dog behavior. They are generally very friendly and sociable, often forming strong bonds with their families, making them incredibly loyal. This hybrid inherits the Maltese's gentle nature and the Australian Terrier's spirited zest for life.

Malti-Aussie Care: A delightful cross between the Australian Terrier and Maltese, the Malti-Aussie is generally a low-maintenance companion. For daily maintenance, expect moderate grooming needs. Their coat, varying from the silky Maltese to the wiry Aussie, typically requires brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent mats and tangles. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a trim will keep them looking their best. Bathing should be done as needed, usually monthly, with a gentle dog shampoo to maintain skin and coat health. Exercise limitations are minimal; the Malti-Aussie is a low-energy dog breed, content with daily short walks (20-30 minutes) and indoor play. They adapt well to apartment living.

Malti-Aussie Activity Level & Exercise NeedsHow active are Malti-Aussie? The Malti-Aussie boasts a moderate activity level, a delightful blend of their Australian Terrier and Maltese heritage. They are not hyperactive but possess a surprising amount of energy for their size, enjoying short bursts of playful activity followed by ample rest.Typical Energy Levels: Expect your Malti-Aussie to have periods of playful exuberance, often involving chasing toys, short sprints in a secure yard, or engaging in interactive games with their family. However, these bursts are typically followed by long periods of relaxed napping or cuddling. They are well-suited to indoor living and can adapt to various household energy levels.Daily Exercise Needs: To keep your Malti-Aussie happy and healthy, aim for 30-60 minutes of daily exercise. This can be broken down into a few shorter walks throughout the day, indoor playtime, or a combination of both. Leash walks in the neighborhood are perfectly adequate.Playtime Preferences: Malti-Aussies love engaging with their human companions. They enjoy fetch, tug-of-war (with soft toys), and puzzle toys that challenge their minds. Their intelligence makes them quick learners for basic obedience and even some fun tricks.Limitations Due to Brachycephalic Anatomy: It's crucial to be aware that Malti-Aussies, due to their potential to inherit some brachycephalic (short-nosed) features from the Maltese side, can be sensitive to heat and overexertion. Always monitor them during exercise, especially in warm weather, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Short walks in the morning or evening are ideal. Watch for any signs of labored breathing or discomfort.Suitability for Families: Malti-Aussies are wonderfully adaptable. They can thrive in active families who enjoy regular, moderate play sessions and walks, as well as in low-energy households that appreciate a calm companion happy to snuggle on the couch after a short walk. Their balanced temperament makes them a versatile and charming choice for many lifestyles.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Malti-Aussie a 3.This breed is a clear example of a small companion dog. Its parent breeds, the Australian Terrier and the Maltese, are both firmly in the toy/small terrier category, and their offspring will reflect this. You can expect a Malti-Aussie to typically weigh between 8 to 15 pounds and stand around 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a compact, sturdy yet delicate body structure. Compared to other companion dogs, they are definitely on the smaller end, similar in size to a Shih Tzu or a Bichon Frise. This makes them exceptionally well-suited for apartment living, as they don't require a vast amount of space to be comfortable. Their portability also makes them excellent travel companions, fitting easily into airline carriers and being manageable in various environments. They are ideal for households with space constraints, offering all the joy of dog ownership in a very compact package.

I would rate the grooming requirements of the Malti-Aussie a 7 out of 10, meaning it's a moderately high-maintenance breed. This rating considers the blend of its parent breeds' coats. The Australian Terrier contributes a wiry, double coat that sheds moderately and can mat if not brushed, while the Maltese's signature long, silky, single coat is non-shedding but prone to tangling and requires daily brushing to prevent matting, as well as professional grooming to maintain length.The Malti-Aussie will likely inherit a coat that, while possibly less prone to heavy shedding than the Aussie Terrier, will still be a blend of these textures. It could be wiry and require stripping or regular trimming, or it could be soft and fluffy, prone to matting like the Maltese. Regardless, it will almost certainly demand frequent brushing, likely daily or every other day, to prevent tangles and mats that can lead to skin irritation. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for trims and dematting will be essential.Ear cleaning will be important due to potential hair growth inside the ear canal, and nail trimming will be a regular necessity as with all breeds. While not specifically prone to skin folds, the potential for allergies (common in both parent breeds, especially the Maltese) could mean needing specialized shampoos and careful monitoring for skin issues. Overall, the Malti-Aussie is not an easy-care breed and requires consistent and dedicated grooming efforts, often involving professional help, to keep its coat healthy and free of mats, placing it on the higher end of grooming needs compared to many other companion dogs.

I'd rate the Malti-Aussie's exercise requirements a 6 out of 10.This hybrid leans towards a moderate energy level, inheriting the Australian Terrier's spunky enthusiasm while being tempered by the Maltese's slightly lower drive. They thrive on daily walks of at least 30-60 minutes, which can be broken into two sessions, and appreciate regular playtime in a secure yard or home. Their agile nature, a gift from the Aussie Terrier, means they're suitable for activities beyond just walking, such as fetch, short bursts of running, and even beginner-level agility or obedience training, which provides vital mental stimulation. While they don't possess the extreme physical demands of a working breed, they are far from a couch potato and will become bored and potentially destructive without a consistent outlet for their energy. They are generally not brachycephalic, meaning respiratory limitations are unlikely to be a significant concern, allowing for sustained movement. This breed requires structured routines to stay healthy and mentally stimulated; simply minimal activity will not suffice for their well-being.

I'd rate the "Malti-Aussie" (Australian Terrier × Maltese) at a 7 for watchdog ability.This hybrid is likely to be a very capable early warning system, leaning more towards meaningful alerts than being a passive companion. Both parent breeds contribute positively to watchdog traits. The Australian Terrier is known for its bold, feisty terrier nature, which includes alertness, a tendency to bark at perceived threats, and a general awareness of its surroundings. They are naturally territorial and will readily voice their concerns. The Maltese, while smaller and often perceived as more delicate, is surprisingly vigilant and possesses a high-pitched, insistent bark. They are also quite responsive to unfamiliar sounds and people entering their space.Therefore, a Malti-Aussie would likely inherit a good blend of these qualities. They would be highly alert to unusual noises or strangers approaching the home, and their barking would be consistent and attention-grabbing. While their small size means they aren't likely to be physically intimidating to an intruder, their persistent vocalizations would certainly serve as a significant deterrent and an excellent early warning for the household. They wouldn't be silent, and their territorial instincts, particularly from the terrier side, would ensure they are willing to make their presence known. They might not be a guard dog, but they would definitely be a highly effective alarm.

The "Good with Other Dogs" trait for a Malti-Aussie would likely rate a 6 out of 10.While the Maltese parent generally brings a friendly and adaptable nature that can extend to other dogs, the Australian Terrier contributes a more spirited, sometimes tenacious, and occasionally dominant personality. Australian Terriers, while not inherently aggressive, can have a strong prey drive and may be less tolerant of boisterous or pushy unfamiliar dogs, especially if they perceive a threat to their resources or status. This can manifest as a tendency to "tell off" other dogs. Therefore, a Malti-Aussie would likely be sociable with familiar canine companions, particularly if raised with them, and could coexist peacefully in a multi-dog household with proper introductions and management. However, they may require careful introductions to unfamiliar dogs, especially those of different sizes or energy levels, and might not always appreciate overly playful or dominant overtures. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to encourage a more tolerant and adaptable demeanor. Without it, there's a potential for them to be somewhat selective in their canine friendships, or even to display a degree of territoriality or bossiness towards other dogs in certain situations. They can thrive in canine company, but often require their owners to facilitate peaceful coexistence rather than being inherently and universally dog-friendly without effort.

I would rate the Energetic trait of the Malti-Aussie as a 7 out of 10.The Australian Terrier parent contributes a significant amount of "go" to this mix. Australian Terriers are known for being lively, playful, and possessing a surprising amount of endurance for their size. They were bred to hunt and work, so they have an inherent need for activity and mental stimulation. The Maltese, while a smaller and often more companion-focused breed, isn't entirely a couch potato; they also enjoy play and short bursts of activity.Consequently, the Malti-Aussie is typically an active and engaging dog that enjoys playtime, walks, and can keep up with a reasonably active family. They aren't likely to be content with just lounging around all day and will benefit from regular exercise and opportunities to explore. They are naturally more active than many other small companion dogs.However, the Maltese parentage introduces the potential for brachycephalic tendencies, particularly if the Maltese features are more prominent in a given individual. While the Australian Terrier has a normal muzzle, a shorter snout inherited from the Maltese can affect stamina and exercise tolerance, especially in hot weather or during intense physical activity. Dogs with brachycephalic anatomy may pant more heavily and be prone to overheating. Therefore, while the Malti-Aussie has the *desire* and a good general energy level for activity, owners must be mindful of their individual dog's breathing and avoid over-exertion, particularly during warmer months. This potential limitation on extreme endurance, despite the high energy drive, brings the rating down from a higher score. They thrive on regular, moderate activity rather than marathon-like endeavors.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the Malti-Aussie as a 4/10.The Malti-Aussie generally falls on the easier side of training, making them quite beginner-friendly. Both parent breeds contribute to their intelligence, with the Maltese being eager to please and the Australian Terrier possessing a good head for learning. This combination means they can pick up commands relatively quickly and respond well to consistent positive reinforcement. They typically have a decent attention span, especially when engaged with fun and rewarding methods like treats and praise. However, the Australian Terrier influence can bring a touch of stubbornness and independence, particularly if they perceive a task as boring or if there's something more interesting to investigate. This means while they are responsive, they do benefit from a clear and consistent routine, and owners need to be patient and avoid letting bad habits form. They don't typically require highly experienced handling or extremely structured routines, but a casual or inconsistent approach might lead to some minor behavioral quirks. Overall, they are trainable with moderate effort and consistency, rewarding their owners with a well-behaved companion.

I would rate the Malti-Aussie's "Playful" trait a 9 out of 10.This hybrid, combining the spirited nature of the Australian Terrier with the affectionate and lively Maltese, is naturally very energetic and fun-loving. They typically exhibit a high activity level, delighting in games of fetch, chasing toys, and engaging in interactive play with their owners. Their strong desire for attention often manifests as playful nudges and a readiness to initiate games, responding to toys and playtime with immense enthusiasm and a wagging tail. Compared to many other companion dogs, the Malti-Aussie is definitely more spirited than laid-back, bringing a constant zest for life and an infectious enthusiasm to daily routines.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Malti-Aussie at a 9 out of 10. This hybrid is likely to be a highly loving and people-oriented companion, thriving on affection and human interaction. Both parent breeds, the Australian Terrier and the Maltese, are known for their strong bonds with their families and desire for companionship. You can expect a Malti-Aussie to consistently seek out your presence, enjoying physical closeness like cuddling and lap-sitting. They are likely to be very loyal, sensitive to your emotions, and prone to following you from room to room. While not overly clingy to the point of separation anxiety for most, they certainly prefer being with their people and will flourish in a home where they receive ample attention and affection, being much more dependent on their human family for emotional fulfillment than many other companion breeds.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Malti-Aussie a 6 out of 10.The Malti-Aussie is a mix of the Australian Terrier and the Maltese, and this blend brings both potential benefits and challenges to multi-pet households. The Maltese side typically contributes a more gentle, affectionate, and less confrontational demeanor. They are generally known for being good with other pets, especially if introduced properly and raised together. This influence helps to soften the potentially more assertive terrier traits.However, the Australian Terrier parentage introduces elements that bring the rating down from a higher score. Australian Terriers, like many terriers, can possess a notable prey drive, which might manifest as an inclination to chase or harass smaller, faster-moving animals like cats or rabbits. While not as intense as some other terrier breeds, it's still a factor to consider. They can also exhibit a more independent and sometimes feisty personality, which, without proper socialization and training, could lead to resource guarding tendencies over toys, food, or attention. They may also be more prone to challenging other dogs, especially if they perceive themselves as the "alpha" or if the other dog isn't deferential.Therefore, a Malti-Aussie's success in a multi-pet household will largely depend on early and consistent socialization. They are not *naturally* extremely pet-friendly in all aspects; the terrier genes can introduce complexities. While they can certainly learn to coexist peacefully, especially with other dogs, careful introductions, ongoing positive reinforcement, and supervision will be crucial, particularly with cats or smaller exotics, to manage any inherent prey drive or potential for bossiness. Training to prevent resource guarding is also essential. With dedicated effort, they can be wonderful companions to other animals, but it won't always be a completely effortless endeavor.

Rating the "Good with Children" trait of the Malti-Aussie, I'd give it a solid 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a generally positive disposition towards children, but with important nuances. The Maltese parent brings a gentle, affectionate, and sometimes delicate nature, often forming strong bonds with their human companions. This contributes to a natural tendency towards being loving and sweet, which is a great foundation for a family pet. However, the Australian Terrier influence introduces a more energetic, playful, and sometimes feisty streak. They are known for their lively personalities and can be quite vocal, which might surprise very young or sensitive children.Malti-Aussies are typically playful and enjoy interactive games, which is a big plus for older, more active children. They generally have a good level of patience, particularly when properly socialized from a young age. Their size is also a benefit – being small to medium, they are less likely to accidentally knock over a child, but they are also not so tiny as to be easily injured by rough play.Tolerance of noise and handling will largely depend on early exposure and individual temperament. While not inherently prone to extreme shyness or aggression, like many smaller terrier mixes, they can be sensitive to rough handling or loud, sudden noises if not accustomed to them. Therefore, training and supervision are crucial for them to thrive in a family setting, especially with younger children. Children need to be taught how to interact gently and respectfully with the dog, and the dog needs to be socialized to various sights and sounds of a busy household. With proper guidance and consistent positive reinforcement, the Malti-Aussie can be a wonderfully affectionate and playful companion for families, forming strong, loving bonds with all members. They are naturally gentle and affectionate with their trusted humans, but their terrier heritage means they benefit significantly from clear boundaries and respectful interaction from children.

The "Good with Strangers" trait for a Malti-Aussie would likely rate around a 6 out of 10.This rating reflects a blend of their parent breeds' tendencies. The Maltese is generally known for being quite affectionate and open with people, though they can sometimes be a bit timid or reserved initially. The Australian Terrier, while loyal and loving with their family, often possesses a more alert and watchful nature, which can translate to initial wariness or a tendency to bark at unfamiliar individuals until they've assessed the situation.Therefore, a Malti-Aussie is unlikely to be aggressively unfriendly, but they also won't typically be the type to immediately greet every stranger with unbridled enthusiasm. They will likely be adaptable in public or guest-filled environments, especially with good socialization, but their inherent alertness might lead to some initial barking or reserved observation. With proper training and consistent positive exposure to various people from a young age, they can certainly become more comfortable and even friendly with strangers, but it may not be an entirely natural, immediate inclination for all individuals of the breed.

I'd rate the Winter tolerance of the Malti-Aussie breed a 3 out of 10.While the Australian Terrier parent contributes a bit more hardiness, the predominant influence of the Maltese, a very small breed with a single, silky coat and minimal body fat, makes the Malti-Aussie generally quite sensitive to cold. Their small size means a higher surface area to volume ratio, leading to rapid heat loss. They are at significant risk of hypothermia in cold climates, even during relatively short outdoor excursions. While not typically brachycephalic, their small stature and delicate nature override any potential slight advantage from the terrier's coat. They absolutely require special care during winter months compared to most other companion dogs. This includes protective clothing like sweaters and coats, very short outdoor times, and careful monitoring for shivering or other signs of cold. They are not built for safely enjoying extended outdoor activity in cold climates and are best kept warm and indoors during winter.

I'd rate the "Summer" tolerance of the "Malti-Aussie" (Australian Terrier × Maltese) at a 5 out of 10.While neither parent breed is brachycephalic, which is a major advantage for heat regulation, both are small dogs with coats that, while not extremely thick, can still contribute to overheating in hot weather. The Maltese has a single, long coat that offers some protection but can also trap heat if not kept well-groomed. The Australian Terrier has a wiry, double coat that provides insulation, which can be beneficial in cooler weather but a hindrance in summer. Therefore, their ability to regulate body temperature falls in the middle range. They are not as susceptible as brachycephalic breeds to immediate heatstroke, but their small size means they have a higher surface area to volume ratio, making them quicker to heat up and cool down. Recommended outdoor activity levels during summer should be limited to early mornings and late evenings, avoiding the peak heat of the day. They will definitely require climate control indoors during hot weather, much like most other companion dogs, and access to shade and water when outdoors. They don't typically require extremely specialized care beyond what's recommended for most small companion breeds in summer, but their combined coat types and size mean they aren't naturally highly tolerant of prolonged or intense heat.

I would rate the Malti-Aussie's "Healthiness" trait as a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a generally robust and healthy breed, benefiting from the genetic diversity of a crossbreed. Both parent breeds, the Australian Terrier and Maltese, are known for being relatively long-lived and sturdy small dogs, and their mix often results in a dog with fewer breed-specific genetic predispositions than many purebreds. They are generally not prone to the severe breathing difficulties seen in brachycephalic breeds or the widespread joint problems found in some larger breeds. Life expectancy is typically good, often in the 12-15 year range.However, they are not without potential health considerations. Like many small breeds, they can be prone to dental issues if not properly cared for, and patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) is a possibility, though often less severe than in some other toy breeds. Skin allergies can occasionally manifest, inherited from either parent. Responsible breeding, including health screening of the Malti-Aussie's parents, plays a significant role in mitigating these risks, as does preventive care like regular dental cleanings and a healthy diet. While not considered high-maintenance in terms of health, they aren't entirely free from the need for routine veterinary check-ups and attentive owner care, making them generally robust compared to other companion dogs but with typical small breed considerations.

Rating: 6The "Protective" trait of the Malti-Aussie generally lands in the middle range, largely due to the influence of the Australian Terrier. While the Maltese contributes very little in terms of actual protection, the Australian Terrier is known for its alertness and feisty nature. A Malti-Aussie will likely be a very vigilant watchdog, quick to bark at anything perceived as unusual or a stranger approaching the home. This strong alerting behavior, combined with their inherent loyalty to their family, makes them good at raising an alarm. However, their small size inherently limits their capacity for physical protection. They are more likely to deter with their persistent barking and assertive demeanor than to physically defend against a serious threat. Therefore, while they offer meaningful vocal protection and will undoubtedly alert you to an intruder, they are ultimately more of a companion dog with a strong watchdog instinct rather than a true guard dog capable of offering substantial physical protection in a household setting.

Rating: 8The Malti-Aussie is expected to be a long-lived breed, earning an 8. This rating is based on the robust longevity of both parent breeds. The Australian Terrier typically lives for 11-14 years, and the Maltese is known for its exceptional lifespan, often reaching 12-15 years, with many individuals living even longer. Both breeds are generally healthy with relatively few breed-specific severe genetic predispositions that significantly shorten life. While mixed breeds can inherit health issues from either parent, the combination of two generally healthy and long-lived breeds suggests a strong likelihood of a long lifespan for the Malti-Aussie. Responsible breeding practices, including health testing of parents for common issues like patellar luxation (present in both breeds) and eye conditions, along with excellent owner care (nutrition, exercise, regular veterinary check-ups), will further contribute to maximizing their longevity. Compared to other companion dogs, the Malti-Aussie is considered long-lived.