Maltipoo Coat Types and How to Care for Them

Maltipoos are great family dogs, particularly for first-time dog owners. But the Poodle Maltese cross comes in a few different coat types that require different grooming commitments. So before getting a Maltipoo it’s essential’s a good idea to understand the different Maltipoo coat types and how to care for them.

straight coat bicolor maltipoo — *Straight coat Maltipoo*

Maltipoos come in three main coat types: straight, wavy and curly.

Let’s find out more about each coat along with factors that can influence the type of coat a Maltipoo will inherit.

Factors That Influence Maltipoo Coat Type

Parents

The coats of the parents are one of the biggest factors that can influence the coat of your Maltipoo. While the Maltese are known for having straight, silky fur and Poodles for having tight curls, there are some cases where they may differ slightly.

Poodles, in particular, can have varying coats. Some Poodles have looser curls with a softer texture, while others have tight, coarse curls.

Depending on the parents used, your Maltipoo’s coat will vary greatly,

Generation

Generation is another thing that can influence the coat type of the Maltipoo. This is largely because varying generations will have varying percentages of each parent’s genetics.

For example, an F1 Maltipoo will have 50% of each parent and the coat types present in the litter will represent that. But, an F1b generation, or one backcrossed with a Poodle, will have 75% Poodle genetics and 25% Maltese genetics. This means that their coats will more closely resemble the curls of the Poodle, rather than the long, straight locks of the Maltese.

All Maltipoos Have a Single-Layer Coat

Before we delve into the differences between the different types of Maltipoo coats, it is important to understand their similarities.

Both the Poodle and the Maltese are single-coated dogs. This means that no matter what kind of coat your Maltipoo ends up with, it will only have a single-layer coat. This is particularly sought after by those who suffer from allergies, but it does require a fair bit of grooming.

Regardless of your Maltipoo’s coat type, be prepared to brush them often.

Maltipoo Coat Types

Straight Maltipoo Coat

straight coat white maltipoo outdoors — Straight coat Maltipoo

The straight coat is the easiest of all the Maltipoo coats to care for. These Maltipoos have straight and silky fur, which is quite soft to the touch. This fur often has a small curl towards the end and can appear slightly wavy.

Caring for a straight-coated Maltipoo requires brushing a few times a week. There is no clear guideline as even small variations in the fur can change the frequency that you need to groom your Maltipoo. But, in most cases, giving them a brush two or three times a week should be adequate.

I’ve found running a comb through my dog’s hair once every evening can greatly lengthen the time required between thorough grooms.

Preferably, use a pin brush. Make sure that you are careful about scratching your Maltipoo’s skin though. Following up with a slicker brush will give them an especially silky appearance.

You should bathe your straight-coated Maltipoo at least once every six weeks, but more is acceptable too.

Wavy Maltipoo Coat

improper coat bicolor maltipoo sitting on a chair — Wavy coat Maltipoo sitting on a chair

The wavy coat Maltipoo is a common result of mixing the Poodle and Maltese and is a very pretty coat type.

If you have a wavy-coated Maltipoo, you will need to brush them every day to prevent mats.

A lot of people end up giving their wavy-coated Maltipoo regular, close shaves to manage their fur (this is also true for the curly coat below). But, even then, you may find problem areas such as behind the ears.

Bathing every six weeks usually works well or more often if your dog needs it.

Curly Maltipoo Coat

black curly coat maltipoo standing behind a dog gate — *Maltipoo standing behind a dog gate*

The curly coat is very popular with the Maltipoo. But it does require more grooming.

You may find that you need to comb your Maltipoo daily to prevent mats. Their thick curls also gather a lot of dirt, so they should be bathed more frequently. Depending on where your Maltipoo goes, every four to six weeks will be fine.

A pin brush is ideal for the curly Maltipoo coat. Slicker brushes may help remove dirt, but keep in mind that your Maltipoo’s curls will turn into a mass of frizzy fluff.

The Importance of Caring for Your Maltipoo’s Coat

Now that we have looked at the different Maltipoo coat types, why is it important to care for them? There are two main reasons.

Your Health

Brushing your Maltipoo’s coat regularly helps remove any dust and pollen that may be trapped in the coat. This means that it will not irritate your lungs. It also means that your Maltipoo will not spread as much dirt through your home, keeping it more sanitary.

Your Maltipoo’s Health

Brushing your Maltipoo regularly is also important for their health. If mats form they can tug at the skin, causing pain and irritation. This may lead to other issues.

You Maltipoo is also affected by the additional allergens stored in their coat. You may notice large tear stains form if their eyes water excessively because of these allergens.

Brushing your Maltipoo will help prevent discomfort in your furry friend.

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