Hair Curly or Straight

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Archived Message

Hair Curly or Straight
by Bernadette & Bee Bee
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
Hair Curly or StraightI was of the impression that the Maltese's hair was supposed to be straight. Yet, when you give them a puppy cut, their hair seems to curl up. Does the Maltese's hair actually curl or does that mean the line was mixed with a Bischon (I am not sure of the spelling) Does anyone out there know the answer.

DISCUSSION:

I think the coat of a Maltese does look a little curly when cut real short. This doesn't necessarily mean it will be curly or wavy when long! It is not supposed to have a tight curl like a Poodle or a Bischon though, but its not uncommon for it to have a slight curl or wave to it for most coats. The true silk coats never seem to look curly no matter what length.
Jay

When Cubbie had the floor length coat, it was straight and silky. Now he had a much shorter cut, not quite a puppy cut, but it is a little curly, especially on the rear end, where it is a little shorter than the rest of his coat.
Felicia & Cubbie

Both of girls have puppy cut and you are right it looks curly. I never noticed this before because they never had a full coat in their life. I always liked the puppy cut. I think all Malteses look soo cute with puppy cut. Have a great day!
Zeyneb

We have had two maltise puppies and kept them short with puppy cuts...I think in the south that it is way too hot for the long hair. It is like with any hair, the longer it is the heavier it is and straighter is becomes. They are soooooo cute with the puppy cuts. Cute and perky! Boo and Emily
emiy price

Thank you Jay and all the rest of you for your reply. Bee Bee's coat is as you stated Jay slightly curly when short. It was never really long, because at a year old it all of a sudden started to Mat and I had to cut it short. I think it is best to keep the coat short unless you are going to show the dog. The long hair is beautiful but very difficult to keep. These little ones always look like puppies anyway because they are so small. They are all so cute.
Bernadette & Bee Bee