How to Comb a Maltese Dog

Maltese dogs are known for their silky and soft white coats. These coats require a significant amount of care, depending on the length and condition. Ideally, a Maltese with hair longer than a half-inch should be combed every other day to keep its hair healthy and free of mats and tangles, and to remove dead hairs. Combing should be done gently to ensure that it does not hurt the dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Detangling spray
  • Metal long-tooth comb
  • Slicker brush
  • Grooming scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stand your Maltese on a table so that you can groom the dog comfortably at arm level.

    • 2

      Spray detangler over your Maltese's coat. Lift the hair to ensure that you reach both the outer and inner layers of hair with spray detangler. Never try to groom a Maltese while the coat is dry. Its hair is very fine and is prone to breakage and damage. If the coat is brushed when dry, it will become even more difficult to manage because of this damage.

    • 3

      Lift the top layer of the Maltese's coat and begin to gently brush the hair closest to the skin with a metal long-tooth comb. Brush small sections at a time and regularly reapply spray detangler as needed. Continue combing over the body, neck, top of the head, legs and tail in this manner, brushing first from the innermost layer of hair closest to the skin, then to the outermost layer.

    • 4

      Remove tangles and mats with great care. Removing the mats may be a time-consuming process. Do not brush through the mats or attempt to pull or rip them out, because this will harm the dog. Begin by gently working the mats out with your fingers or the tip of the metal comb to loosen the knot, one hair at a time. Spray detangler over the mat to assist you. If you cannot remove the tangled hair, cut it carefully from the dog's coat with grooming scissors.

    • 5

      Part the Maltese's hair after combing is complete and all tangles have been removed. Stand behind the dog and use the tip of the metal comb to part the hair, beginning at the base of the neck and continuing down the spine. Comb hair to either side of this part with the slicker brush.