How to Groom a Maltese: Coat Care, Tools & Maintenance Tips

The Maltese is known for its elegant white coat, affectionate personality, and regal charm—but beneath that silky exterior is a dog that needs regular grooming to stay healthy and mat-free. Whether you’re planning to show off that luxurious floor-length coat or prefer a practical puppy cut, proper grooming is essential for this beloved breed.

This guide will walk you through how to care for your Maltese at home, from daily brushing to professional grooming tips.

Why Grooming a Maltese Is Essential

The Maltese has a long, flowing, single-layer coat with no undercoat, which gives it a signature look—but also means it tangles and mats easily without proper care. Grooming your Maltese regularly helps:

• Prevent knots and painful mats

• Keep the coat clean, shiny, and soft

• Maintain healthy skin

• Reduce tear staining

• Spot irritations or parasites early

• Strengthen your bond through routine care

What Type of Coat Does a Maltese Have?

Maltese dogs have a fine, straight, silky coat. Unlike double-coated breeds, Maltese fur resembles human hair and continuously grows. Owners typically choose between two grooming styles:

Regardless of coat length, most Maltese dogs benefit from professional grooming every 4–6 weeks to maintain cleanliness, cut length, and overall hygiene.

Must-Have Grooming Tools for a Maltese

To keep your Maltese looking their best, your grooming kit should include:

• Pin brush – Gentle on long, fine hair

• Steel comb – For detangling and smoothing

• Detangling spray – Eases brushing and reduces breakage

• Blunt-tipped grooming scissors – For safe trimming around the eyes and paws

• Dog clippers (optional) – If maintaining a short haircut

• Tear stain remover – Helps prevent discoloration around the eyes

• Hypoallergenic dog shampoo & conditioner – For sensitive skin

• Ear cleaner – Keeps floppy ears clean and dry

• Nail clippers or grinder – For healthy paws

Step-by-Step: How to Groom Your Maltese at Home

1. Brush Thoroughly Before Bathing

Daily brushing is essential for long coats to prevent matting. Always detangle the coat before a bath to avoid worsening knots.

2. Use a Gentle, Whitening Shampoo

A sulfate-free, whitening shampoo can help keep their coat bright. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid residue, which can cause skin issues.

3. Condition and Dry

Apply a conditioner designed for long coats. Towel dry first, then use a blow dryer on low heat while brushing gently to avoid tangles.

4. Trim the Face and Feet

Use blunt-tipped scissors to:

• Trim hair blocking the eyes

• Shape the fur around the feet and paw pads

• Tidy up the beard or mustache

If you're going for a puppy cut or full trim, a professional groomer is your best bet.

5. Clean Ears and Clip Nails

Clean the ears weekly with a vet-approved solution and cotton pad. Trim nails every 2–3 weeks to prevent pain or posture problems.

Grooming Schedule for a Healthy Maltese

Grooming Challenges for Maltese Owners

• Matting behind ears and legs – Brush these areas daily

• Tear stains – Wipe the face daily and use a vet-approved stain remover

• Dry skin – Use gentle, moisturizing shampoos and avoid over-bathing

• Paw pad hair – Trim to avoid dirt buildup and slipping

When to Visit a Professional Groomer

Even if you’re brushing regularly at home, routine professional grooming ensures:

• Precision haircuts (show coat or puppy cut)

• Proper sanitary trimming

• Ear hair removal (if recommended by your vet)

• Nail grinding

• Coat conditioning

Schedule visits every 4–6 weeks depending on coat style and your maintenance preferences.

Helpful Grooming Tips From our Breeders

• Start grooming routines early in puppyhood

• Use treats and praise to create a positive association

• Invest in quality tools—they make a big difference

• Stick to a consistent grooming schedule to avoid stress and mats

Grooming Guidance from Trusted Experts

At Mawoo Pets, our content is carefully reviewed by licensed veterinarians and experienced breeders to give you pet care advice you can trust. Whether you're grooming your Maltese or researching other breeds, you’ll find expert-backed resources tailored to real-life pet parents.

Explore more helpful reads:

• Maltipoo Grooming Guide

• How to Groom a Toy Poodle

• Is the Maltese Right for You?

See more guides at mawoopets.com/blog