PEPPER - MALTESE / SHIH TZU / MIXED (LONG COAT) DOG FOR ADOPTION
Des Moines, IA, 50265, USA
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PEPPER - MALTESE / SHIH TZU / MIXED (LONG COAT) DOG FOR ADOPTION
Mal-Shi Dogs For Adoption in Des Moines, IA, USA
For Adoption
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Nickname:
Pepper
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Breed
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Gender
Female
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Age
Adult
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Location
Des Moines, IA, 50265 USAUSA
Description
Dog Breed: Maltese / Shih Tzu / Mixed (long coat). PEPPER HAS RECENTLY WEANED A LITTER OF PUPPIES AND HAS NOT BEEN SPAYED YET. SHE WILL BE SCHEDULED IN APRIL FOR HER SPAY ONCE SHE IS READY. DUE TO THIS, SHE WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION OUTSIDE A 30 MINUTE RADIUS OF DES MOINES. Pepper is a female, possible Maltese/Shih Tzu mix, weighing 12.5 lbs. She came into rescue from Oklahoma while pregnant. She delivered her litter in early February. Pepper is a sweet girl that loves people and does well with other dogs. She is a bit shy when first meeting new people, but quickly warms up. She has not met a cat. She is house trained and kennel trained. She can be somewhat vocal at times so living in an apartment or townhome would not be a good fit for her. She will require a daily brushing to keep her coat looking its best. Pepper was diagnosed with pigmentary keratitis, a chronic eye condition where dark brown or black pigment accumulates on the cornea, often leading to reduced vision or blindness. We believe this is a result of her having dry eyes with reduced tear production. She is on eye medication called Optimmune twice a day and it may be required for her life. The cost is $70 a tube so potential adopters should be prepared to afford up to 2 tubes per month. Pepper does not have any vision problems right now but if she is not treated as prescribed she could loose her sight at some point in her life. Gave birth in rescue to Hattie, Lottie, Sylvie, and Elsie on February 5, 2026 in Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa foster home. If you are interested in meeting Pepper, please complete an online application at hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $250 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age appropriate vaccines.
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Physical Attributes
Coat Length: Long Likes to Vocalize: Some Shedding Amount: Moderate Altered No -
Behavioral Characteristics
OK with Kids: Yes OK with Dogs: Yes Energy Level: Moderate Activity Level: Moderately Active Exercise Needs: Moderate Fence Required: Any Type Obedience Training: Has Basic Training Owner Experience Required: None Other: - Yard Required
- Housetrained
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Additional Information
Was the Dog Found No
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CREATE A WANTED ADRescue Information
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Organization name
Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa
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Location:
Des Moines, Iowa, 50310 USAUSA
Breed overview
Mal-Shi
A.K.A.: Maltese Shih Tzu, Malshi, Malti-Zu, Malti-Tzu, Shih-tzu Maltese, Shih Tzu-Maltese, MaltiZu, MaltiTzu, MalShih, Mal-Shih, Malt-Shih, Shih-tese, Shih Tese, Tzu-Maltese, Mal-Tese, Malt-Tese, Shima, Maltishi, Shihmaltese, Malshi Poo, Malshi-Poo, Malshies, Malteshih, Malshi Maltese, Malshi Shih Tzu, Malti-zu Poo, Mal-Shih Poo, Mal-shi Poo
More About Mal-Shi Breed
Overview:
The Mal-Shi, a charming designer breed, is a delightful cross between the gentle Maltese and the affectionate Shih Tzu. Originating from the desire to combine the best traits of both parent breeds, the Mal-Shi is typically a small, sturdy companion dog, rarely exceeding 15 pounds. Their physical characteristics often include a soft, wavy to curly, hypoallergenic-friendly coat that sheds minimally, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. Common coat colors range from white, cream, and black to various shades of brown and brindle. Temperament-wise, Mal-Shis are renowned for being incredibly sweet, playful, and intelligent, making them highly trainable and eager to please. They thrive on human companionship and are generally excellent with children and other pets, making them a fantastic choice for families and individuals alike. Their adaptability, coupled with their moderate exercise needs, makes them well-suited for apartment living. While generally healthy, potential health considerations include respiratory issues common to brachycephalic breeds (if the Shih Tzu parent has a very flat face), patellar luxation, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining their well-being.
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