Maltese dogs require frequent and consistent grooming due to their long, silky, non-shedding coat. Without regular care, their fur can quickly become tangled and matted, leading to discomfort and potential skin issues.

Recommended grooming routine:

Brushing: Daily to prevent knots and matting

Bathing: Every 2–3 weeks using a gentle dog shampoo

Haircuts: Every 4–6 weeks (a puppy cut is easier to maintain)

Nail trimming: Every 2–4 weeks

Ear cleaning: Once a week

Eye cleaning: Daily to reduce tear stains

Keeping your Maltese in a shorter haircut can significantly reduce grooming time while still keeping them looking clean and healthy.

The best brush for a Maltese dog is one that is gentle yet effective on their fine, silky coat.

Top grooming tools:

Slicker brush: Ideal for removing tangles and preventing matting

Pin brush: Great for maintaining longer coats and adding a smooth finish

Steel comb: Perfect for removing deeper knots and finishing the grooming process

Important tips:

Always brush gently to avoid damaging the coat

Use a detangling spray before brushing to prevent breakage

Avoid hard or low-quality brushes that can pull or damage the hair

Using the right tools consistently will keep your Maltese’s coat soft, shiny, and mat-free.

Tear stains are common in Maltese dogs, but they can be managed with a consistent daily routine and proper care.

Effective prevention methods:

Clean your dog’s eyes daily with a soft cloth or dog-safe wipes

Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed short

Provide filtered or bottled water instead of tap water

Feed a high-quality, balanced diet

Use stainless steel bowls to reduce bacteria buildup

Additional considerations:

Persistent tear staining may be caused by blocked tear ducts, allergies, or infections. If the issue continues despite regular care, consult a veterinarian.

Yes, Maltese dogs are generally considered high maintenance, primarily due to their grooming requirements.

Reasons why:

Daily brushing is necessary to maintain their coat

Regular grooming appointments are required

They are prone to tear staining

Their coat and skin can be sensitive

However, they also offer benefits:

Minimal shedding (great for allergy sufferers)

Small size, making them suitable for apartments

Loyal, affectionate, and companion-focused

With a consistent routine and the right grooming approach, caring for a Maltese becomes much more manageable.

The most popular haircut for Maltese dogs is the puppy cut, where the coat is trimmed evenly to a shorter length (typically 1–2 inches).

Benefits of a puppy cut:

Easier daily maintenance

Reduced matting and tangles

Cleaner and more practical for everyday life

Long coats are beautiful but require significantly more time and effort to maintain.

Maintaining a Maltese’s signature silky white coat requires consistent grooming and proper nutrition.

Key tips:

Brush daily to prevent tangles

Use conditioner after bathing

Avoid over-bathing, which can dry the coat

Feed a high-quality diet rich in omega fatty acids

Keep the coat clean and free from stains

Consistency is more important than expensive products when it comes to coat care.

Maltese dogs can be a good choice for first-time owners, provided you are prepared for their grooming needs.

They are:

Friendly and affectionate

Intelligent and relatively easy to train

Well-suited for apartment living

However, they require regular grooming, attention, and care, so commitment is essential.