The hard part of a long coat is the little daily work
The Maltese has fine, white hair that tangles. AKC recommends gentle daily brushing and combing through to the skin, alongside regular bathing and conditioning. Keep a comb where you relax together. A few minutes there is easier than trying to rescue a mat later.[1][2]
Check the area around the eyes as well. More tear staining, red skin, or unusual discharge deserves a closer look. Take a photo, note when it began, and let a veterinarian look for the cause instead of relying on cover-up products.[1]
Teeth belong in the same routine as the coat
Dental care is easy to leave for another day with a tiny dog. AKC and the American Maltese Association both stress regular brushing and dental cleaning. Store a dog toothbrush and toothpaste beside the grooming kit, and the work feels like one routine instead of another large task.[1][3]
Begin with brief handling. Let the dog get used to touch around the mouth, then gradually brush more surfaces. A sudden strong odor, one-sided eating, or discomfort around the mouth calls for veterinary advice.[3]
A tiny body benefits from simple house traffic rules
A Maltese can disappear near feet or the edge of a sofa. Look down before opening a door, carrying hot drinks, or moving a chair. Teach children to sit first, support the dog calmly, and return it to the floor with an adult close by.[1][2]
The dog still needs activity and time with people. AKC says a daily walk, a fenced play session, or indoor movement can help it stay fit. Let weather, age, and that day's energy set the pace.[1]
Health records should name the test and the dog
AKC lists patellar, cardiac, and serum bile-acid checks for Maltese. The American Maltese Association discusses the same areas. When you see a record, match the dog's identity, date, and result. Keep the original or a clear copy.[1][3]
DNA test lists can change with research. AKC names several DNA items associated with the breed. Discuss those records with the breeder and veterinarian, while continuing regular care for the individual dog who joins your home.[4]
Look past the coat when you check body condition
Small treats can add up quickly for a toy dog. The WSAVA body-condition tool uses nine stages and looks at ribs, waist, and abdomen. Write meals, treats, and that day's activity in the same note. Your veterinary team can then see the whole pattern.[5]
Once a month, feel the ribs and waist in the same light and record appetite and outings. Bring a change to your veterinarian first, then adjust food or activity with their guidance.[5]
Wondering what the long coat is hiding? Our body check follows the WSAVA international nine-point standard through the ribs, waist, and abdomen.[5]
A Maltese suits people who enjoy the small daily details
Enjoy the small daily tasks as much as the small companion
Want to know whether a Maltese's coat care, dental routine, and small-dog safety fit your life? Start a smart match and put your home, schedule, and care habits into one view.[1][2]
Common questions
Does a Maltese need daily brushing?
The long, fine white coat benefits from gentle daily brushing to prevent mats. Regular baths, ear checks, and nail care also belong in the schedule.[1]
Does a Maltese need daily tooth brushing?
Sources
Sources used in this article
- [1]Maltese Dog Breed InformationAmerican Kennel Club
- [3]Maltese Health StatementAmerican Maltese Association
- [2]Is the Maltese a Good Fit for Your Lifestyle?American Kennel Club
- [4]Breed-Specific DNA Testing RecommendationsAmerican Kennel Club
- [5]Body Condition Score: DogWorld Small Animal Veterinary Association