How to Groom a Maltese Dog With a Full Coat

The coat of a Maltese pet is often kept short to cut down on grooming time but show dogs are required to maintain a full coat. The single layer, long coat of a Maltese is one of its most distinctive features in the show ring and part of the judging standard for the breed. A full coat of Maltese hair can grow to the ground. Because of the silky texture of the hair, it can tangle easily and needs daily grooming.

Things You'll Need

  • Pin brush
  • Slicker brush
  • Dog shampoo
  • Dog conditioner
  • Blow dryer
  • Bow or no pain rubber band
  • Comb
  • Spray conditioner or detangler
  • Coat finishing spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Part a section of hair starting in the back of the body and spray conditioner or detangler on the coat. Start at the roots of the hair and brush in one long, continuous stroke through to the very end of the hair using the pin brush. Stopping short of the ends of the hair can cause breakage.

    • 2

      Brush through the entire coat from roots to ends, spraying conditioner or detangler as you go to protect from split ends and breakage.

    • 3

      Comb through the coat before washing to remove any tangles or knots. Dilute shampoo with water and agitate to create lather before pouring over the wet coat. Do not use circular motions or agitate the hair when shampooing. Massage the already soapy shampoo in gently as if you are petting the dog. Rinse thoroughly and do not leave any shampoo residue that may irritate the skin.

    • 4

      Dilute dog conditioner and pour over the dog. Massage into the hair and rinse thoroughly.

    • 5

      Pat down the dog with a towel and then blow dry using a pin brush.

    • 6

      Part the coat down the middle of the body and spray with a finishing spray. Use the slicker brush to style the hair so that it is silky and smooth on both sides.

    • 7

      Part a section of hair on the top of the head from the top of the eyes to in between the ears and tie it in a top knot with a bow or rubber band to keep the hair out of the eyes.