The Maltipoo is a mixed breed of the Poodle and Maltese that provides big fun in a small package. They’re a light shedder with a coat that’s easy to maintain, but many people search for grooming tips for these dogs because they aren’t sure how frequently to brush or trim them. The Maltipoo also tends to develop tear stains around the eyes that many people want to remove. If you need help keeping your dog looking their best, keep reading as we provide several tips for grooming a Maltipoo.
Before You Get Started
The Maltipoo is a low-shedding dog that doesn’t require much maintenance. However, they can still produce dander that can trigger allergies. For many people, this is a sign that the dog needs a bath, but dander is still produced even after bathing, and cleaning the coat too frequently can remove important oils that can cause the skin to become dry, so only bathe the dog when you smell an odor or see dirt.
Image Credit: Rob Hainer, Shutterstock
Gather your supplies
Since the Maltipoo is easy to groom, you will not need many supplies. If you intend to give your dog a bath, we recommend a hypoallergenic dog shampoo that will be easy on the skin and eyes. You will also likely need a detangling spray, slicker brush, fine comb, puppy eye wipes, nail clippers, and an electric hair trimmer.
Your dog will need a bath every few months unless they get into dirt or contaminants; most people will wait about 3 months. Since the dog is so small, you can wash them in the sink or the tub. Take time to perfect the water temperature, and don’t move too quickly. Instead, stay relaxed and playful so your dog will feel more at ease in the water. Use a hypoallergenic shampoo that won’t hurt the dog’s eyes but produces a nice lather to see where you need to clean. A hypoallergenic shampoo can also help moisturize your pet’s skin and has beneficial ingredients like honey and omega fats. Rinse the dog by carefully pouring water over them with a cup or using a gentle sprayer, but be careful not to startle your pet. Wipe the dog dry with a soft cotton towel to remove moisture quickly.
2. Use a Detangling Spray
The Maltipoo usually doesn’t mind if you groom them, but they’re not fond of getting their hair pulled. Your dog might have a thick curly coat that can get tangled from time to time, so we recommend using a detangling spray before you begin combing or brushing your dog. Many detangling sprays are available, and most are inexpensive and work well. We recommend choosing a brand that does not contain alcohol, dyes, or parabens. Spray it over the dog’s entire body, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, ears, and mouth.
Image Credit: Olena Yakobchuk,Shutterstock
3. Use a Slicker Brush
A slicker brush is usually square or round, with thin pin-like bristles on one side with or without plastic tips that make it more comfortable for your dog. Some people like to start with the feet and work their way up the body; others do the opposite. We recommend doing what comes naturally as long as you can brush the entire dog. Use gentle strokes, as the Maltipoo is sensitive, and run your fingers through the coat first so you are aware of any tangles and are ready to brace the dog as you attempt to remove them.
4. Use a Fine-Tooth Comb
Once you get the slicker brush through the fur to remove all the tangles with the help of the detangling spray, you can use a fine-tooth comb to help remove any loose hair and check for other tangles while straightening out the coat. This comb is also a good tool for cleaning up discharge around the eyes.
Image Credit: Olena Yakobchuk, Shutterstock
5. Trim the Coat
If you have a long-haired Maltipoo or one with a thick curly coat, many people like to trim it down so their pet stays cooler and cleaner. Most people recommend trimming it so it’s about 1/2 inch long during the summer and a little longer in winter. Short hair is also cooler and will tangle less frequently. The easiest way to trim your dog yourself is with electric trimmers using the appropriate guard.
6. Groom the Maltipoo’s Eyes
The Maltipoo breed tends to tear up frequently due to the amount of hair around their eyes. The moisture build-up can lead to bacterial growth and other problems, so it’s a good idea to wipe down the eyes frequently with a safe and gentle eye wipe specifically for dogs. Many brands are available, and you can even find ones specifically for treating tear stains. Always choose a brand without harsh chemicals or dyes, and switch to another brand if you notice it irritating your pet’s eyes. Gently wipe down the fur around your pet size frequently, especially when you see a large amount of moisture or staining.
Image Credit: Olena Yakobchuk, Shutterstock
7. Trim the Nails
Since you are already performing a makeover on your pet, it’s a good time to check the nails to see if they need trimming. Most experts recommend manually trimming the nails if you hear them clicking on the floor when the dog walks around. Trimming the nails is easy with inexpensive clippers, but if you trim them too short, it can lead to bleeding and can upset your pet, so many people prefer to take their dogs to a professional groomer. That said, nail trimming, assuming your dog’s compliance, does not have to be so difficult. Feel free to watch a few YouTube videos to see it in action.
8. Brush the Teeth
Use a pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrush to clean your dog’s teeth as often as possible. Doing so can help prevent the progression of dental disease, which affects all breeds of dogs, including the Maltipoo.
Image Credit: Olena Yakobchuk, Shutterstock
9. Provide Plenty of Treats
Providing plenty of treats before and after the grooming process is always a good idea, so your pet will associate it with having fun. When you combine positive reinforcement with an early start, many pets will get into a routine that helps them enjoy the grooming process.
How Often Should I Groom My Maltipoo?
Most experts recommend grooming your Maltipoo every 6 to 8 weeks to clean up the eyes and remove any tangles from the fur. Since the Maltipoo spends most of their time in the house, their nails often need trimming, and a quick daily brush can help keep your dog’s fur looking neat and prevent any loose strands from winding up on the couch or floor.
Other Tips and Tricks
Groom your dog when they’re relaxed in order to have an easier time. Many pet owners suggest waiting until after a good walk or playtime, so your pet will be tired out and not as easily distracted. Brushing your dog at the same time every day can also help create a routine that your dog gets used to and expects.
The thicker and curlier your pet’s hair is, the more often you will need to brush it.
If your dog doesn’t like getting wet or is afraid of the detangling spray, apply it to the brush instead.
Brushing your dog the same way every time will help them get used to the routine
Remaining playful while you brush will help your dog feel more comfortable.
Cleaning under the eyes twice daily will help prevent tear stands from forming on your Maltipoo. Veterinarian-prescribed eye drops can also help.
Summary
The Maltipoo is extremely easy to maintain because they don’t shed much, and since they’re usually indoors, they don’t get too dirty. However, their curly coat can easily get tangled, requiring frequent brushing. They also tend to produce tear stains, which can create an environment where bacteria can grow, so cleaning them frequently with dog-safe eye pads or contacting your vet to acquire eye drops is a good idea. Brushing the teeth can help slow dental disease, and trimming the nails will make it easier for your pet to walk around and make quick turns while running.
Featured Image Credit: Bokehboo Studios, Shutterstock
Ed Malaker is a veteran writer who has contributed to a wide range of blogs that cover tools, pets, guitars, fitness, and computer programming. When he’s not writing, Ed is usually performing DIY projects around the house or working in the garden. He’s also a musician and spends a lot of time helping people fix their guitars and composing music for independent films.
