How to Let Hair Grow on a Maltese

A Maltese is a toy breed of dog that is recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is characterized by long, white, silky hair that grows to the floor. Because their hair drags the ground it can get dirty very quickly and needs constant care. Their hair is very thin and also must be groomed frequently to prevent tangled and breakage. Proper nutrition is also important in order to maintain a healthy coat. The Maltese is a high-maintenance breed.

Things You'll Need

  • Baby shampoo
  • Sponge
  • Conditioner
  • Hair dryer
  • Wire brush
  • Soft brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your Maltese at a young age so they will be used to the grooming process. Wash a four-week-old puppy with a gentle baby shampoo. Take care not to get the shampoo around their eyes; instead use a wet sponge to gently wash their face. Apply a small amount of conditioner to the hair to prevent tangles.

    • 2

      Blow dry your Maltese with a blow dryer on low setting. Use a soft brush to brush the hair as you dry.

    • 3

      Brush your dogs hair with a wide-toothed, wire brush. The coat should be brushed daily when it begins to grow to prevent the start of tangles. Your Maltese should be brushed daily while the hair is growing out to prevent mats.

    • 4

      Brush the lower part of the body first beginning with the feet. Use short strokes and avoid pulling when you come in contact with a tangle.

    • 5

      Use one hand to hold the tangle near the roots of the hair so you do not pull the hair and hurt the dog. Brush small amounts of hair at a time. Brush the tangle beginning at the ends of the hair. Slowly move up the tangle in small sections at a time with downward strokes until all of it has been removed.

    • 6

      Check for mats around their tail, under the arms, on their belly and around their ears. Carefully comb around the eyes and face. You may want to use a smaller comb. Brush downwards and do not pull the tangles. Work on them slowly and gently.