A Maltese’s snow-white, flowing coat is its crowning glory—and also its biggest grooming challenge. With their delicate skin, fine hair texture, and signature straight locks, Maltese dogs need a tailored approach to grooming that balances beauty with health. But don’t worry—once you know what to look out for and how to set up a consistent routine, it becomes second nature.

Whether you’re caring for a show-worthy coat or keeping things tidy for your lap-loving companion, this Maltese grooming guide will walk you through everything you need for silky coat maintenance. From choosing the right tools to understanding your dog’s unique needs as a small breed, you’ll gain practical insight that’s easy to follow and grounded in expert advice.

Get ready to brush up on your skills and bring out the best in your pup’s glossy coat—because a well-groomed Maltese is a happy, healthy Maltese.

Understanding the Maltese Coat

Two fluffy Old English Sheepdogs with playful expressions cuddle on a stone step surrounded by vibrant flowers and a red door.

Maltese dogs have a single-layered, long, and silky coat. Unlike breeds with undercoats, Maltese hair grows similarly to human hair—straight and fine, with no seasonal shedding. This makes them ideal for allergy sufferers, but it also means their grooming needs are more intensive.

Characteristics of the Maltese Coat

  • No undercoat: More prone to tangling and matting
  • Fine, straight strands: Easily damaged by harsh brushing or poor-quality products
  • Pure white colouring: Shows dirt and tear stains quickly
  • Continuous growth: Requires regular trims or maintenance

Understanding your dog’s coat type is the first step to effective grooming. Every brush stroke, product choice, and technique should respect the delicate nature of their hair.

Daily Grooming Habits That Keep the Coat Shiny

Grooming a Maltese isn’t a once-a-week affair. A few minutes a day can prevent major issues, keeping your dog comfortable and coat pristine.

Brushing Tips for Tangle-Free Hair

Daily brushing helps remove debris, prevent mats, and distribute natural oils. Here’s what works best:

  • Use a pin brush or metal comb with rounded tips to protect sensitive skin
  • Start from the ends of the hair, working your way up toward the skin
  • Section the coat if it’s long, making brushing more manageable
  • Apply a leave-in conditioner spray to reduce static and improve glide

Focus on areas that tend to mat more quickly—behind the ears, under the legs, around the neck, and at the base of the tail. These spots can knot overnight if left unchecked.

Bathing a Maltese Without Damaging the Coat

The Maltese coat, though fine, tends to pick up dirt easily, especially due to its white colour. Bathing regularly is essential, but overdoing it or using the wrong products can strip the coat and irritate the skin.

Bathing Frequency and Products

  • Frequency: Every 1–2 weeks is ideal
  • Shampoo: Choose a gentle, sulphate-free formula designed for dogs with sensitive skin
  • Conditioner: Use a rich, moisturising conditioner to strengthen the strands

Make sure you rinse thoroughly. Residue from products can lead to itching or dullness. Finish with a low-heat blow dryer, brushing as you dry to prevent tangles from forming.

This step is particularly important if your dog enjoys playtime outdoors or tends to lounge on carpets, as fibres and grime can easily catch in the coat.

Trimming and Styling Options for Small Breed Hair Care

A person in a white shirt uses a clippers on a resting dog, gently grooming its fur.

While some Maltese owners love the look of the full-length show coat, many opt for practical cuts that reduce grooming time while still looking adorable.

Popular Maltese Haircuts

  • Puppy Cut: Short, even coat all over—easy to maintain and less prone to tangles
  • Teddy Bear Cut: Fluffy face with trimmed body—charming and manageable
  • Show Coat: Long, flowing hair with centre parting and careful trimming

Trims around the eyes, paws, and sanitary areas should be done regularly, regardless of the style. Use blunt-tip scissors and a calm approach to avoid accidents.

If you’re not confident in your trimming technique, a professional groomer can help you shape the perfect style for your Maltese’s lifestyle and personality.

Tear Stains and Face Grooming

Tear stains are one of the most noticeable grooming issues with Maltese dogs due to their white coats. These rusty-brown streaks under the eyes can develop due to genetics, blocked tear ducts, or environmental triggers.

How to Manage and Reduce Tear Stains

  • Clean the eyes daily using a damp cotton pad or dog-specific eye wipes
  • Trim hair around the eyes to prevent irritation
  • Use a whitening shampoo occasionally to gently reduce discolouration

Diet can also influence tear staining. Low-quality food or allergies may exacerbate tear production, so speak with your vet if stains persist despite regular care.

Grooming for Skin Health

Grooming isn’t just about appearance. Regular brushing and bathing also keep your Maltese’s skin in top condition. This is particularly important for a breed with fine, close-to-skin hair.

Key Signs of Skin Trouble

  • Flaky or irritated skin
  • Persistent itching or licking
  • Unusual odours

Choose hypoallergenic grooming products, and never use human shampoos. Ingredients like artificial fragrances or parabens can disrupt your dog’s skin barrier.

For more targeted care, explore how brushing promotes healthy dog skin and contributes to long-term coat and dermal wellbeing

Creating a Grooming Routine That Works

Consistency is the secret to keeping your Maltese’s coat healthy. Without a plan, it’s easy to fall behind, and mats, dullness, and discomfort can follow.

Sample Weekly Routine

  • Daily: Light brushing and eye cleaning
  • Weekly: Full-body brushing, checking for knots and trimming as needed
  • Bi-weekly: Bathing and conditioning
  • Monthly: Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and sanitary trim

Keep your grooming supplies in one organised space, ideally part of your home grooming station, so it’s easy to maintain consistency without stress or clutter.

Nutrition and Coat Quality

The look and feel of your Maltese’s coat are directly tied to what goes into their bowl. A balanced diet supports strong, shiny hair and healthy skin.

Nutrients That Matter

  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: Found in fish oils and flaxseed, these support shine and reduce inflammation
  • Biotin and vitamin E: Key for hair strength and skin resilience
  • Protein: Essential for healthy coat regrowth

Many high-quality commercial dog foods include these nutrients, but supplements can be helpful if your dog has specific coat issues. Always speak with a vet before adding new supplements to their diet.

When to See a Professional Groomer

Sometimes, a grooming routine at home isn’t enough—especially if mats develop or your dog becomes resistant to brushing. Professional groomers offer not only aesthetic results but expert handling and early detection of issues.

Situations That Call for a Groomer

  • Severe tangling or matting
  • Show grooming and competition prep
  • Skin conditions or coat abnormalities

Groomers trained in small breed care know exactly how to approach the Maltese coat, ensuring your dog looks their best without unnecessary stress.

Conclusion: A Shiny Coat Starts with Loving Care

Grooming your Maltese isn’t just about looking good—it’s a daily act of care and connection. Each brushstroke, bath, and trim is a chance to check in on their health, strengthen your bond, and boost their confidence.

By setting up a manageable grooming routine, using the right tools, and staying in tune with your dog’s needs, you’ll not only achieve a silky, healthy coat—you’ll help your Maltese feel their absolute best.

Start small, stay consistent, and let your love for your dog shine through—just like their coat.