One distinct feature of a Mal-Shi is its long, flowing coat. This is why when it comes to Maltese Shih Tzu grooming, many dog owners wonder if a haircut is needed. While the short answer is no, a haircut can make this crossbreed even more adorable.

If you are thinking of giving your Mal-Shi a makeover, here are some cool cuts to choose from:

#1 The Puppy Cut

This is a type of cut wherein the fur of a dog is trimmed evenly all over the body and legs. The length of the coat is usually one to two inches. What makes the puppy cut a good choice is it makes brushing quick and easy. It is recommended for Maltese Shih Tzus that tend to become matted.

#2 The Teddy Bear Cut

A variation of the puppy cut, the teddy bear cut is a style where the fur of the dog is the same length in all parts of the body and legs. The hair on the face is shaped in a way that the pooch has round and full features similar to that of a teddy bear. What makes this cut popular is that it is easy to maintain.

#3 The Top Knot

This is a type of hairstyle wherein the hair of a dog is pulled up into a small ponytail at the top of its head, and the rest of its hair is down to the floor. It is perfect for a Mal-Shi that has long hair because it shows off the eyes and keeps stray hair out of the face. If you want to keep your dog’s hair lengthy but still want to keep it looking neat and clean, this style is a great choice.

#4 The Lion Cut

As the name implies, the lion cut gives the Mal-Shi a lion-like appearance. It is ideal for all coat lengths and most coat types. It is also recommended for heavy-bodied dogs. This haircut is a favourite because it requires less brushing, dries fast, is easy to care for, and keeps pooches cool in hot weather.

#5 The Full Shave

Just as the name suggests, this is a type of cut where the fur is clipped close to the skin. Because the hair is almost completely shaved, the possibility of matting, knotting, and tangling is zero. Another advantage to this haircut is it is easy to clean and dries very fast. The downside to it is it isn’t a good option for the cool months.