How to Groom a Maltese: Coat Care, Tools & Maintenance Tips
By Ashley MR · 5 minutes read
Last updated: July 9th, 2025
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 Task | Recommended Frequency |
---|---|
Brushing (Long Coat) | Daily |
Brushing (Puppy Cut) | 3–4 times per week |
Bathing | Every 1–2 weeks |
Professional Grooming | Every 4–6 weeks |
Ear Cleaning | Weekly |
Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks |
Teeth Brushing | 2–3 times per week |
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:
See more guides at mawoopets.com/blog
Related articles
Related puppies for sale
Any questions? Get in touch!
We are here to support you every step of the way. Our concierge service is here daily to answer your questions!
Chat or speak with our team Mon-Sat 9a-9p ET.