Hard
Maltese
The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds, treasured for millennia as a companion of nobility across the Mediterranean. Their flowing, pure-white, single-layer coat is silky to the touch and hangs to the floor in full show length — a dramatic contrast to their tiny, gentle frame. The Maltese coat has no undercoat, which means far less shedding than most breeds, but the silky hair tangles easily and requires daily attention to remain mat-free and brilliant white.
Coat Type
Long, Silky, Single Coat (No Undercoat)
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
3 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Puppy Cut
The coat is trimmed to an even 1–2 inch length all over. This is the most practical and popular style for pet Maltese — the shortened coat is much easier to keep clean and tangle-free while still displaying the breed's characteristic silky white coat.
2
Show Coat
The coat is grown to full floor-length and parted down the center of the back. The head coat is gathered into a topknot with a bow. Requires daily brushing, oiling, and protective wrapping, and represents a serious commitment for show competitors.
3
Teddy Bear Cut
A rounded, plush style with the coat scissored to 2–3 inches and the face shaped into a circular frame. Gives a soft, cuddly appearance while keeping the coat at a manageable length. One of the most popular pet trims for this breed.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- Brush daily with a soft pin brush and always use a conditioning spray first — the Maltese's single silky coat has no protective undercoat, and dry brushing causes fragile hairs to snap and the coat to look dull and frizzy.
- Tear staining is the number one cosmetic challenge for Maltese owners — keep the area around the eyes dry, trim the hair short where it contacts the eye corner, and use an eye-safe daily cleaning routine to prevent the reddish-brown staining from setting.
- Protect the coat from grass stains, food, and water bowl contact during meals — many Maltese owners use a snood to keep the beard and ear hair out of food and water, which dramatically reduces staining.
- Bathe every 2–3 weeks in a whitening shampoo formulated for white coats, and apply a leave-in conditioner after every bath — consistent whitening and conditioning is what separates a bright, brilliant Maltese coat from a yellowed, dull one.
- Check between the toes and around the paw pads at every grooming session — the long silky hair between the toes on a Maltese mats easily and can cause the dog to limp or chew at their feet if left unattended.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
TropiClean PerfectFur Whitening & Brightening Shampoo
ShampooNaturally whitens and brightens white coats without bleach or harsh chemicals.
$12 - $18
FURminator Long Hair deShedding Tool for Dogs
BrushThe professional-grade deshedding tool that reaches deep beneath the long topcoat to safely remove loose undercoat without cutting or damaging the guard hairs. Reduces shedding up to 90% with regular use. Essential for heavy seasonal shedders like Collies, Golden Retrievers, and Maine Coons.
$30 - $65
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Deep Dives
Maltese Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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