Grooming a Maltese Dog

Known for its cute cuddliness, the Maltese is a favorite among dog owners worldwide. Categorized as a toy breed, these dogs have been recognized by the American Kennel Club for over a hundred years. Characterized by its long white hair and friendly demeanor, the Maltese has captured the heart of millions.

As the proud owner of a Maltese, it is not an uncommon requirement that you groom your little one. To do this, some diligence may be necessary along with a few tools. Here we will discuss the different areas in need of grooming on the Maltese and the equipment you will need to do the job well.

MAINTAINING A SLEEK AND HEALTHY COAT

Whether you have chosen to keep your Maltese’s luxurious locks or cropped them for a shorter do; keeping his or her hair mat free is the key to a beautiful dog.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Pin Brush
• Grooming Detangler or Coat Oil
• Comb
• Sharp Scissors

STEP BY STEP:

1. To begin, have your Maltese lay flat on his side or back; whichever you prefer.
2. Begin by brushing the underside of your Maltese with the pin brush. The underside will be most likely to mat, as well as the hair ends.
3. While brushing through, use your comb to divide hair sections so that all areas are fully brushed.
4. If you encounter a mat, simply saturate with detangler and begin to work through it with your finger. Coat oil may be needed for more stubborn mats. It may also be necessary to cut the mat out with scissors if other attempts fail.
5. Once thoroughly brushed and conditioned, you may trim unsightly ends or add definition to the coat with your scissors.

KEEPING YOUR MALTESE CLEAN

Bathing your Maltese dog is a crucial component to responsible pet care. Keeping him or her clean helps to reduce odor and keep your dog’s skin healthy. Bathing for your Maltese should occur at least every 10 days.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Dog Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Towel
• Cup or Spray Nozzle

STEP BY STEP:

1. Gather your supplies and pre-fill your bathing tub. Water should be warm to the touch, but not hot.
2. Avoiding water in the ears and face, use your cup or spray nozzle to completely wet your Maltese’s fur.
3. Once saturated, shampoo and condition as you would your own hair. Be sure to cleanse all the nooks and crannies of your dog including the unsightly parts.
4. Rinse thoroughly and wrap with a towel. If you plan on taking your Maltese out after a bath, be sure that he or she is completely dry before leaving the house. Many suggest that longer haired Maltese’s should be a blow dried to help prevent matting. This is an optional procedure.

MANAGING A MALTESE’S NAILS

Taking care of your Maltese’s nails may seem like an intimidating task, but with a little guidance; you’re sure to have great success.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Dog Nail Clippers
• Nail File

STEP BY STEP:

1. After bathing your Maltese, set them in your lap and firmly hold the desired paw in one hand. If your Maltese refuses to stay still, you may want to turn him or her on their side and lay some of your body weight on them to steady the paw.
2. Determine where to clip by looking for the end to your dog’s quick. This is usually visible as a change of color towards the end of a dog’s nail.
3. Place your clippers at a 90 degree angle on the nail you want to trim.
4. Squeeze firmly and discard nail clipping.
5. Use your nail file to smooth the nail surface and remove any snags.