How to Groom a Maltipoo Puppy

Maltipoo puppies are a mix of two breeds -- the Maltese and the poodle. Normally crossed with a toy or miniature poodle, the resulting dogs tend to weigh 10 pounds or less. Maltese dogs are known for their long, straight fur, while poodles are famously curly. A maltipoo's coat can therefore vary from straight to wavy to curly. The texture can also vary from rough to smooth, but a silky, wavy coat is the most common for this breed. Maintaining your maltipoo puppy's appearance is simple, but does require dedication. Proper grooming affects your puppy's health and happiness.

Things You'll Need

  • Pet nail clipper
  • Dog brush
  • Hair scissors
  • Dog fur clippers
  • Mild dog shampoo
  • Pet hairdryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Trim your maltipoo's nails at least once a month, using a clipper designed for pets. Long nails pose a danger not only to you and other people, but also to your maltipoo's posture. Gently stroke your dog's paw before trimming to put it at ease. Clip the nail to the desired length, keeping away from the quick that attaches to the dog's paw.

    • 2

      Brush your dog's teeth using toothpaste formulated for pets. Lift your maltipoo's muzzle to reach its back teeth and the interior surfaces. The earlier you begin the brushing process, the easier it will be on you and your pet.

    • 3

      Comb your maltipoo's coat every day. For puppies with wavy or curly fur, brushing prevents matting. Gently stroke its fur, taking care to work out knots without pulling too hard. Always brush your maltipoo before bathing to keep tangles from tightening in the water.

    • 4

      Trim the hair between your maltipoo's toes with scissors. Spread the toes apart slightly and carefully cut the hair even with its paw pads. This prevents dirt, snow, ice and other debris from collecting and hardening between your dog's toes.

    • 5

      Clip your maltipoo's coat down to 3/4 or 1 inch. Keep the fur on the rear and ears longer and clip the facial fur to your preference. An even cut around the face is common, but longer fur around the mouth is another option.

    • 6

      Bathe your maltipoo monthly to keep its fur and skin healthy. After a thorough brushing, place your puppy in the tub and put cotton just inside its ears to guard against excess water. Wet the dog's body completely and lather with a mild pet shampoo. Rinse the shampoo and follow with conditioner if your puppy's coat is coarse. Blow dry after bathing.