How to Groom a Maltipoo: 10 Effective Tips
By Jordyn Alger
Updated on
Maltipoos are adorable and glamorous dogs. But without proper grooming care, a lot of their visual charm fades. The dog’s health and well-being will be negatively impacted if they are not groomed and cared for.
If you are planning on bringing a Maltipoo into your home, you may want to know the steps for properly grooming them. In this article, we go over 10 tips and tricks for successfully grooming Maltipoos. If you are curious to learn more, keep reading below.
How to Groom a Maltipoo
1. Use the Right Tools
The tools you use will play a significant role in the grooming process. Since the Maltipoo is part poodle, their coat can be curly and challenging to groom. This means that one single comb won’t be enough for your Maltipoo.
When brushing your Maltipoo, you will want to invest in detangling spray, a slicker brush, a pin and bristle brush, and a stainless-steel comb. You can check any product’s breed specifications, usually listed on the back of the package, to ensure it’s suitable for your Maltipoo.
2. Make Bath Time a Pleasant Experience
Bath time is as essential as it is inevitable. If your Maltipoo naturally loves bath time, you are all set. But if your dog needs a little more encouragement, plenty of cuddles and treats can go a long way.
Introduce your Maltipoo slowly to the water, and make sure the temperature is not too hot or too cold. Wash your dog gently, and be sure to use extra care when washing sensitive areas. Human shampoos, conditioners, and soaps should not be used to clean your dog. The dogs’ skin has a much different pH than humans, and regular hair products are too acidic for dogs.
Eventually, your Maltipoo will grow accustomed to bath time and will be less skittish. But in the meantime, offering soothing words and plenty of praise will help to settle your dog down.
3. Bathe Your Maltipoo Regularly
Maltipoos, like all dogs, should be bathed on a regular schedule. Unless your dog gets into a mess or smells bad, there shouldn’t be much reason to stray from the schedule.
Bathing your Maltipoo too often may strip its coat of natural oils. This will dry out his fur and make his coat brittle and unhealthy. On the other hand, not bathing your Maltipoo enough can lead to oil build-up, tangles, or clogged pores.
4. Brush Your Maltipoo’s Coat in Sections
When brushing your Maltipoo, it is best to brush in sections. Start at the root of the hairs, close to the skin, and work your way to the ends. This will ensure that no mats are hidden at the base of the coat.
To use detangling spray, spray it onto the brush you plan to use. Oversaturating your Maltipoo’s coat may cause the fur to tear, so it is best to limit the use of the spray to the brush. It is advised to start with a slicker brush or a pin and bristle brush.
Once the coat is brushed out, use the stainless-steel comb to look for more fine mats.
5. Clip Your Maltipoo’s Nails
Clipping your Maltipoo’s nails is a vital part of grooming. You will need a canine nail trimmer for this task, and you should avoid using human nail clippers on your dog.
File the nails gently to smooth them down, then trim them carefully. Don’t be afraid to take your time and move forward in small steps. If your Maltipoo is anxious about having his nails trimmed, start by holding his paw without trimming. As he grows more comfortable, trim one or two nails until he is fully adjusted.
Give him treats and praise throughout the process to encourage him to sit still during the trimming. Also, don’t be shy about taking breaks if your dog is growing restless.
6. Clean Any Tear Stains
It is not uncommon for Maltipoos to have tear stains that discolor the fur around their eyes. If you are uncertain whether your Maltipoo has tear stains, gently feel the fur around his eyes. If it feels brittle or crisp, you may use a canine eye wipe to clean the area.
This area should be cleaned regularly. Wipe your Maltipoo’s eyes each morning and after each meal. This is a quick and easy way to maintain your dog’s hygiene.
7. Properly Clean Your Maltipoo’s Teeth
Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth and using dental chews are two great ways to keep your Maltipoo’s oral health in top shape.
You will need a canine toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth. Do not use human dental products on your dog; the brush bristles are not designed for canine teeth, and the pastes sometimes contain harsh chemicals. Verify that the toothbrush’s bristles are soft before using it, then make gentle circular motions against your dog’s teeth.
8. Trim Long Hairs
If you have experience cutting dog coats, feel free to trim areas that need extra maintenance. For Maltipoos, the fur will grow a little longer around the eyes, paws, arms, and ears. Since your dog’s skin is so delicate, your pet must be calm when you attempt to trim his fur. If anything goes wrong, you may end up seriously injuring your dog.
For full-body cuts, reach out to a professional groomer. They can trim your Maltipoo’s fur to a proper length.
9. Manually Clean the Ears
Checking your Maltipoo’s ears frequently is an excellent way to monitor him for any signs of an ear infection. Lay your dog on his side and carefully pour the canine ear-cleaning solution into his ear.
Your Maltipoo will likely shake his head, which will help break up any ear wax. After that, use a cotton ball to remove the excess wax and moisture.
10. Know When to Ask for Help
The most important part of grooming your Maltipoo is knowing when you need help. When some grooming tasks are too daunting, reach out to a professional groomer. Most pet parents can accomplish everyday grooming tasks and minor trims, but full cuts should not be attempted unless you’re skilled at trimming the Maltipoo’s challenging coat.
Also, if you notice any injuries or signs of an ear infection on your dog, do not try to treat the issue with commercial products. Reach out to your vet instead.
Conclusion
Grooming our dogs is vital to keep them healthy and clean. If you’re having difficulties grooming your Maltipoo, even regarding everyday tasks, you can contact your veterinarian and a professional groomer for assistance. At the end of the day, we all want our dogs to feel their best, and maintaining a grooming routine is a crucial step in accomplishing that.
Featured Image Credit: Olena Yakobchuk, Shutterstock
