If you’ve recently brought a Maltipoo home, then one of the first things you will need to buy is a brush. Besides, chances are you know the importance of keeping this breed of dog well-groomed. That likely came up time and time again when you first were researching the breed.
But with countless types, brands, and brushes on the market, finding what is best for your dog can quickly get confusing, often outright overwhelming.
It should be simple. But it isn’t.
Well, I am here to address that, hopefully.
That’s because I was once in your very position with my poodle hybrid, Bailey.
Having spoken with numerous professional groomers and spent considerable time testing different types of brushes and products, I gave up.
Instead, I worked with a manufacturer to create a brush that would tick all of the boxes for these dogs. It’s been a game-changer.
So without further ado, let’s walk through the different types of brushes available, the best one, and then some personal tips on how to best use it.
In a hurry, here is the type of brush and specific product I recommend:
- Comfortable and effective grooming - reduces shedding, detangles, removes dirt & debris, keeps coat looking shiny and healthy
- Easy and versatile use – great size, shape and weight.
- Automatic cleaning - Simply retract bristles with the push of a button, then wipe away collected hair
- Smart Efficient Design - Fine, angled bristles, ergonomic comfort grip, and push-button retraction make it easy to keep your dog looking happy & healthy
- Ideal for poodle and hybrid dog coats and doodles; Cockapoos, Cavoodles, Maltipoos, Bernedoodles, Goldendoodles, Shih Poos etc.
Learn more: Best Brush For Maltipoo [Best Options And Buyers Guide]
What Types of Dog Brushes Are There?
There are a variety of brushes and combs designed for different coat types, grooming needs, and even specific breeds.
Here’s a brief overview:
Slicker Brushes
These brushes have thin, short wires close together, making them ideal for removing loose hair and preventing mats and tangles.
They work well on dogs with curly or wavy coats, like Maltipoos and Poodles.
Bristle Brushes
These brushes have natural or synthetic bristles, and they’re great for removing dirt and debris from short-haired dogs.
Bristle brushes are not typically recommended for Maltipoos, as they may not be as effective at detangling and preventing mats.
Pin Brushes
Pin brushes resemble human hairbrushes, with long, widely spaced wire pins.
They are not as effective at detangling as slicker brushes, but they can be useful for light brushing and fluffing a Maltipoo’s coat.
Undercoat Rakes
These tools have long, widely spaced teeth designed to reach deep into a dog’s double coat to remove loose undercoat hair.
They are not recommended for Maltipoos, as their coat does not have an undercoat.
Combs
Combs come in various tooth widths and can be used to remove tangles and prevent mats in conjunction with a brush.
They can be helpful for Maltipoo owners as a supplemental grooming tool but should not be used exclusively.
What Type Of Brush Is Best For A Maltipoo?
Based on my experience with Bailey, research, conversations with professional groomers, and after trialing and testing a lot of brushes, Slicker brushes are the best option for this breed.
Maltipoos have a coat that is a mix of the Maltese’s soft, silky hair and the Poodle’s curly, dense fur.
This combination can result in tangles, mats, and a coat that requires regular grooming.
A Slicker brush is ideal for overcoming, and helping to prevent, these specific issues.
Additionally, Slicker brushes are designed to be gentle, which is important for Maltipoo’s sensitive skin.
Let’s continue to explore the benefits below.
Why A Slicker Brush Is Best For A Maltipoo
There are several reasons why a Slicker brush is the best choice for a Maltipoo.
Best For Removing Loose Hair/Prevent Tangles
First, the closely spaced bristles can effectively penetrate the curly, dense coat, which helps to remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
This is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your Maltipoo’s coat.
Best For Distributing The Coats Natural Oils
Second, Slicker brushes can help distribute natural oils throughout the coat, promoting a healthy, shiny appearance.
These oils also help to condition the coat and protect the skin from dryness and irritation.
Best For Reducing Shedding
Finally, using a Slicker brush regularly can help to reduce shedding.
While Maltipoos are considered low-shedding dogs, they do still lose hair, and using a Slicker brush can help manage this process.
Other Benefits
- Gentle on a dog’s skin,
- Versatile and practical to use,
- Affordable and cost-effective,
- Can be carried/stored easily,
- It can be cleaned quickly,
How To Use A Slicker Brush Optimally On A Maltipoo
Here are some steps to follow when using a Slicker brush on your Maltipoo:
Choose The Right Size
Slicker brushes come in various sizes, so make sure you choose one that is appropriate for your Maltipoo’s size.
A brush that is too small may not be as effective, while a brush that is too large may be difficult to handle.
Groom Regularly
To keep your Maltipoo’s coat in top condition, brush them at least once a week. If your Maltipoo has a longer coat, consider brushing more frequently to prevent tangles and mats.
Brush Carefully
Maltipoos have sensitive skin, so be gentle when brushing.
Use slow, gentle strokes, and avoid applying too much pressure.
This will ensure that you don’t cause discomfort or damage their skin.
Start At The Head And Work Your Way Down
Begin by brushing the hair on your Maltipoo’s head, then move down their body, working in sections.
Brush the hair in the direction of growth to avoid causing discomfort.
Hold The Hair Taut
If you encounter a tangle or mat, hold the hair above the tangle taut with one hand while gently working the Slicker brush through the tangle with the other hand.
This will help prevent pulling and discomfort.
Use A Comb For Finishing Touches (Only)
After using the Slicker brush, go over your Maltipoo’s coat with a comb to remove any remaining tangles and ensure a smooth, polished finish.
Clean Your Brush Regularly
To maintain your Slicker brush’s effectiveness, clean it regularly by removing any hair that has accumulated between the bristles.
Finally
A Slicker brush is best for grooming your Maltipoo’s unique coat.
With regular and consistent use, your Maltipoo’s coat should remain healthy, shiny, and tangle-free.
Remember to be gentle, patient, and consistent in your grooming routine.
Then, the benefits will truly pay off.
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I am a practiced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site I created to share everything I’ve learned about pet ownership over the years and my extensive research along the way.