Hard
Maltipoo
The Maltipoo is a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle, combining the Maltese's soft, silky coat with the Poodle's curly, non-shedding tendencies. The result is an extremely soft, wavy to curly coat that is highly prone to matting — particularly around the eyes, muzzle, ears, and armpits where friction is constant.
Coat Type
Soft, Wavy to Curly, varies by generation (F1, F1B, F2)
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
5 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Puppy Cut
Short and uniform all over the body and face. The easiest style to maintain and the most popular choice for pet owners.
2
Teddy Bear
Rounded, fluffy face with a medium-length body. Showcases the Maltipoo's endearing expression.
3
Short Summer Cut
Very short all over including the face. Ideal for hot climates or dogs that spend time outdoors.
4
Poodle Clip
Continental or Puppy Clip-inspired styling that honors the Poodle heritage, with a clean face and styled body.
5
Natural Wavy Look
Coat is grown out and lightly trimmed to maintain shape while the natural wave is preserved. Requires the highest level of home maintenance.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- The area around the eyes is the highest-priority mat zone — wipe daily with a damp cloth and brush carefully around the muzzle each day.
- Tear staining from the Maltese side is common and can be managed with daily cleaning and a whitening product formulated for sensitive skin.
- Brush at minimum every other day — the fine, soft coat tangles rapidly and mats form very close to the skin where they are not visible.
- Ear hair grows densely in the ear canal (inherited from the Poodle) — have the groomer remove this hair at every appointment.
- Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is critical; owners who go longer between appointments often find the dog needs a full shave-down.
- Use a metal comb after a slicker brush — if the comb does not pass freely from skin to tip, there is hidden matting.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
BrushThe gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
$60 - $75
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Bio-Groom Ear-Fresh Medicated Ear Powder
ToolHelps keep ears dry and reduces odor. Makes hair pulling easier for breeds that require ear plucking.
$10 - $15
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Deep Dives
Maltipoo Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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