Grooming Your Maltese Dogs

Grooming Your Maltese

Grooming your Maltese can be a challenge in the beginning. The important thing is to make it fun for you and your dog.

These are a few of the necessary tools you will need to groom your Maltese. Have them ready at the table or area you will be grooming so when you take your dog from his bath, you are ready to get him dry.

I am not recommending this brand of coat spray. It was just something I had on hand. Actually any brand that you find works for you is fine. Just remember that over usage of anything can make your dog mat up instead of helping. So change often and make sure you use a clarifying shampoo occasionally to get rid of build up.

		I use a good dog moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. After I bathe my dog, I wrap him in a towel to dry. The more moisture you get out, the less time spent under the dryer. Once I towel dry, I spray the entire dog with a good moisturizing conditioning spray. Again there are many out on the market to choose from and it is difficult for me to tell someone which one to pick as it will depend on the dog's coat texture, your climate and living conditions. Every dog is different and I can't emphasize that enough. I use many different products both dog and human. The "SECRET" is whatever works for your dog.

		It's important to teach your dog to lay on his back so you can get those little knots that get on his chest and belly. When I start to dry, I always start on the belly and chest as it will make it easier. As you are drying, brush continuously straight downward. It will give your dog a smooth and straight look once you are finished.

		I like to part the hair when it's wet but many handlers and breeders part after it's all dry. Neither is right nor wrong so do whatever works for you. The important thing is to make sure the dog is entirely dry. Continue brushing while blowing the hair. I will have more pictures later and more tips on grooming your dog. This is a very basic lesson but useful once you start brushing your dog.