How Often Should You Bathe Your Maltipoo? Vet-Approved Cleaning & Bath Tips

Maltipoos (Poodle Maltese mixes) are popular designer dogs. They're loving and have sweet rounded features, curly hair, and kissable ears. The breed is relatively small, with most only growing to 8–14 inches and weighing 5–20 pounds. Like Poodles, many Maltipoos don’t shed much, so they're great for allergy-prone people who can't live with other breeds.

Some have the curly coats of their Poodle ancestors, and others the silky locks of a Maltese. Maltipoos tend to be exceptionally smart and are usually relatively easy to train. They are happy cuddling up in your lap and don't demand extensive grooming; most need daily brushing as well as regular nail and dental care. As for baths, most Maltipoos only need a bath about once a month unless they get into something stinky!

What Happens if I Bathe My Maltipoo Too Often?

Dogs need baths, but much like humans, if they spend too much time getting clean, it can lead to dry skin. Water and shampoo can strip oil from your pet's coat and skin. Frequent bathing often causes dogs to have dull coats and increases the chance your pet will have itchy skin.

If your dog is particularly active and inclined to get into smelly things that need to be washed off, consider using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to prevent your pet’s natural oils from being stripped. Pet wipes are a great in-between solution. They allow you to clean your dog without exposing your buddy to water and shampoo.

Fewer baths are generally better, and dogs with allergies sometimes benefit from baths with oatmeal and other calming products. If your dog suffers from allergies and won't tolerate a full oatmeal bath, consider trying spot treatments.

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Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner makes the world of a difference when grooming your pup. Our favorite products are the duo by Hepper. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat. The Pet Conditioner works at eliminating tangles and taming frizz and static. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent. 

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How Often Should I Brush My Maltipoo?

Maltipoos are a mix of the Poodle and Maltese, and they almost always exhibit a combination of characteristics drawn from each of their parents. Some Maltipoos have the curly, wiry coats of their Poodle ancestors, and others have the silky hair of a Maltese.

Maltipoos generally need to be brushed at least three times per week. Consider investing in a quality pin and bristle brush to keep your buddy looking sharp. Look for a product with rounded bristle ends to ensure your pet stays comfortable while being groomed. Pets with thicker hair sometimes do better with slicker brushes.

How Often Should I Clip My Maltipoo's Nails?

Most dogs require monthly nail clipping. If you hear your dog's nails tapping on the floor, it's probably time for a quick trim to prevent ingrown toenails. Make sure to use a nail clipper specifically designed for dogs; clippers for humans have flat blades, which don’t work well with the rounded shape of canine nails.

Plier-style choices work with almost all dogs, and you can use a grinder if you're looking for a product that works well with extremely thick nails. Remember that some dogs dislike the vibrations and sounds produced by grinders.

Many groomers include nail clips as part of their basic package for dogs, and you can always take your pet to the groomer just for a quick nail clip if you don't feel comfortable taking care of it yourself at home.

What About Tooth Brushing?

Regularly brushing your Matipoo's teeth will help prevent plaque formation and the development of periodontal disease. Getting them used to having their teeth brushed at least every other day is ideal. Starting this process when they are still puppies will go a long way in how well they accept and allow it.

There are several different dog toothbrush designs to choose from, but whatever you do, please make sure you use a special enzymatic toothpaste for dogs and never a human toothpaste.

Do Maltipoos Need Any Special Care?

These dogs tend to be relatively healthy, with most living 10–15 years, but Maltipoos suffer from allergies and skin problems more often than some other breeds. Because they tend to be a bit anxious, providing sufficient exercise and mental stimulation is essential, or you risk ending up with a needy, depressed pet.

Maltipoos often become attached to their owners and respond well to routines. Try feeding, walking, and playing with your dog around the same time every day to give them a sense of security.

If you live in an area with frigid winters, you may need to invest in a sweater or some other type of warm protective gear for your dog, as smaller four-footers often have trouble staying warm when the mercury drops. If you need guidance on keeping your Maltipoo healthy, we suggest you speak to a vet.

If you have a question about your dog's health or behavior, why not Ask a Vet for free? Our veterinary team answers reader questions and provides trusted advice to help you better understand your dog.

Do I Need to Play Games Like Frisbee With My Maltipoo or Are Walks Enough?

Maltipoos don't require vigorous exercise. A few walks and a bit of playtime are generally all they need. Aim for at least two walks per day, totaling around 40 minutes of exercise. Maltipoos normally do fine with a short morning jaunt and a long walk in the evening.

Because they are a bit sensitive, they don't always enjoy dog parks. However, having them socialize with other dogs is always a good idea since it helps them to develop a sense of security.

In addition to regular walks, Maltipoos need mental stimulation. Try to provide your pet with around 20 minutes of training or interactive playtime daily. Training also helps keep these intelligent dogs happy. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, they often become anxious.

Are Maltipoos Good Family Dogs?

Maltipoos make fantastic family dogs. They're affectionate, smart, and easy to care for. They enjoy being around people and are incredibly adaptable. While they tend to be wonderfully flexible, they often do better in households with older children, as the breed can be a bit sensitive and sometimes becomes stressed when handled roughly.

Conclusion

Maltipoos are sweet, intelligent, and adaptable. They're just as happy heading to the park as cuddling at home on their owner’s lap. Because they often have their Poodle ancestors' curly, wiry coats, they must be regularly brushed to keep severe tangles at bay. When bathing your Maltipoo, you don't have much to worry about. Most are okay with once-monthly bath and beauty sessions.

Because they're reasonably small and don't require much strenuous exercise, Maltipoos make great choices for apartment dwellers. The breed doesn't shed heavily, so there's no need to vacuum daily to remove loose hair. Maltipoos often have facial tear stains that require attention and also require regular ear cleaning and twice-yearly coat trims. Also, plan on brushing your pet's teeth at least two or three times a week to encourage optimal dental health.

• See Also: The Benefits of Dog Parks for Pets & Humans

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