Maltese Haircut Styles

Which Style Is Right for Your Maltese?

Your Maltese has a long silky single coat coat that requires significant maintenance. Choosing the right style can make a huge difference in your daily grooming routine.

Our recommendation: Puppy Cut — easy to maintain, comfortable, and practical for most owners.

All Maltese Styles

Puppy Cut

Even length all over (usually ½–1 inch), clean face and feet. Simple, practical, and comfortable — ideal for active dogs or warm climates.

Maintenance: Low Add-on Cost: +$0

Teddy Bear Cut

Uniform 1–2 inch length all over, rounded face — the most popular pet cut. Gives a cuddly, puppy-like appearance that's easy to maintain between grooms.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on Cost: +$0–$10

Show Coat

Full-length coat maintained for the show ring. Requires daily brushing, wrapping, and professional conditioning. Not practical for most pet owners.

Maintenance: Very High Add-on Cost: +$30–$50

Bob Cut

Chin-length trim for small breeds — neat, tidy, and keeps hair out of eyes and food bowls. Quick and easy to maintain.

Maintenance: Low Add-on Cost: +$0–$5

Top Knot

Body trimmed short with longer hair on the head tied or bowed up. Keeps hair out of eyes while maintaining a cute look.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on Cost: +$0–$5

Choosing Based on Your Lifestyle

If you...	Best style	Why
Want minimum brushing	Puppy Cut	Short, even length is easiest to maintain
Want the cutest look	Teddy Bear Cut	Rounded, fluffy appearance that everyone loves
Have an active dog	Puppy Cut	Practical and comfortable for adventurous pets
Want the breed-standard look	Puppy Cut	Classic look that showcases breed characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best haircut for a Maltese?

The most popular Maltese haircut is the Puppy Cut — easy to maintain, comfortable, and practical for most owners. However, the best style depends on your lifestyle and how much time you can dedicate to at-home grooming.

Can I get my Maltese a Teddy Bear Cut?

Yes! The Teddy Bear Cut is one of the most popular styles for Malteses. It gives a soft, puppy-like appearance with uniform length all over.

How do I maintain my Maltese's haircut between grooms?

Between professional grooming sessions (every 4–6 weeks), brush your Maltese daily or every other day. Focus on areas prone to matting like behind the ears, armpits, and belly. A slicker brush and metal comb are essential tools.

How short can I cut my Maltese's hair?

Most Maltese styles can go fairly short. A Puppy Cut typically leaves 1/2 to 1 inch of length. Going shorter than 1/4 inch risks razor burn. Talk to your groomer about the shortest safe length for your dog's coat type.