My Maltese's fur

My dog keeps matting (clumps of fur) and we have to keep cutting him down. What can I do to prevent him from matting and how many times does a Maltese need to be brushed a day?
Eric Carver

• My 21 month old female has curly fur. She matted so bad I had her shaved at 12 months, she has been short haired (about 1 1/2" long) since and I use a matting comb once a day. When I find a mate I cut it out because she is short haired it does not look bad. I have her face long, the longer it gets the straighter her fur is and she has a beautiful top not/pony tail. Her tail is also very long, it is straight and beautiful. She is very tall and everyone thinks she is a poddle. I don't care because she is happier without long hair and we could not love her more.
  Shelley

• In response to Eric Carvers question regarding matting coat. Daily bushing and a bath at least every 2 weeks should help. If your Maltese goes out into wet weather and grass this will also contribute to your matting problems.
  Cherie Eno

• BTW, no offense, but Malteses' have hair not fur. I can sympathize with you on the matting, it is hard to keep at bay. I haven't brushed my sweet dolly in 2 weeks because she's having trouble with low blood platelet count & the vet didn't want me to do anything that would traumatize her skin, poor little thing is just a matted mess! good luck!
  Patty