How to Put Bows in Maltese Hair

Maltese dogs are known for their striking white hair and the adorable bows that are placed in it. Whether your Maltese has hair that is long or short, it can be fairly simple to place bows in the hair. It will be easier to do so on a dog who is used to the process, rather than a puppy or adult who has never had the bows in their hair before. With some practice and compliance from your Maltese, putting bows in her hair can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Things You'll Need

  • Small pillow
  • Hair gel
  • Rat-tail comb
  • Small rubber bands
  • Dog bows
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your Maltese's head on a pillow, if possible. This will help your dog feel more comfortable during the process and will also put her at a level that is easier to work with. You want to be able to look straight at the head, so that you can properly place the bows right where you want them.

    • 2

      Brush the hair that you plan on putting into bows. Trying to place tangled hair into bows will not work well. Make sure the hair is smooth and knot-free.

    • 3

      Use the end of a rat-tail comb to collect the hair you want to put in bows. Typically, the hair used in bows is obtained from just above the corner of the eyes to about an inch back on the top of the head, making a shape that resembles a triangle.

    • 4

      Tease the collected hair by back combing it to give it extra volume. Back combing can be accomplished by holding the hair vertically, then using the comb to brush the hair toward the head. Once you are satisfied, secure the hair with a small rubber band. If you want two bows, split the hair evenly in half and secure each section. You can also use the end of the rat-tail comb to slightly pull out the secured hair to add more "poof" to the hair.

    • 5

      Wrap the band portion of the bow around the band that was already placed, so the bow faces outward. You may have to adjust the bow a little to make it perfectly straight.