Best Dog Brush for Malteses (2026)
Malteses are renowned for their signature long, silky white coat—a defining feature that requires dedicated grooming to prevent matting, tangling, and skin irritation. Without proper brushing, their fine hair easily becomes knotted, which can trap moisture and lead to skin infections. Regular brushing with the right tools not only maintains their glamorous appearance but also protects their skin health and keeps them comfortable.
The ideal brush for a Maltese should have fine, closely-spaced bristles or pins capable of gliding through their delicate coat without pulling or causing irritation. Since Malteses have a single coat rather than a heavy double coat, you'll want tools designed specifically for long, silky hair—not heavy-duty deshedding tools meant for dense undercoats. Look for ergonomic designs that won't fatigue your hand, since daily or near-daily brushing is essential for this breed.
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Our Top Pick
Wahl Professional Animal Stainless Steel Comb
A professional-grade finishing comb used after brushing to check for remaining mats — the dual tooth spacing covers both thick undercoat and fine topcoat.
Wahl
Wahl Professional Animal Stainless Steel Comb
Best finishing comb for long coatsEssential finishing tool for Malteses that catches remaining tangles after brushing, ensuring their signature flowing white coat stays mat-free and silky.
- Stainless steel — lasts decades
- Dual-spacing teeth (wide + narrow)
- Essential final step after brushing for mats
How to Choose the Right Brush for Malteses
Malteses have a unique single coat structure that differs from double-coated breeds, making brush selection crucial. Unlike breeds with thick undercoats, Malteses benefit from slicker brushes and pin brushes with fine, gentle bristles rather than aggressive deshedding tools. The goal is detangling and mat prevention, not bulk undercoat removal. A brush that works through their silky hair without creating static or pulling will keep their coat lustrous and their skin healthy.
Since Malteses are toy dogs weighing only 4–7 pounds, brush size and weight matter significantly. A large or heavy brush can be awkward to handle and uncomfortable for your small companion during grooming sessions. Look for lightweight, compact slickers or pin brushes designed for toy breeds, which will be easier to control and less intimidating for your playful, affectionate pup.
Due to their prone-to-matting coat and small stature, investing in a quality finishing comb is essential. After using a slicker or pin brush, running a fine-toothed comb through their coat catches any remaining tangles and ensures a smooth finish. This two-step approach—brush first, comb second—is the gold standard for Maltese grooming and prevents the mats that can develop between professional grooming sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my Maltese's coat?
Malteses require brushing at least 4–5 times per week, ideally daily, to prevent matting and tangling in their long, silky coat. Their single coat is prone to forming knots quickly, especially in areas like behind the ears, armpits, and hindquarters. Consistent brushing maintains coat health, distributes natural oils, and allows you to catch mats early before they require professional intervention.
What's the best way to brush a Maltese without hurting them?
Start with a slicker brush using gentle, short strokes in the direction of hair growth, never against it. Work in small sections and hold the skin taut to prevent tugging. Always use a light hand—Malteses have sensitive skin. Follow with a fine-toothed comb to catch any remaining tangles. Avoid brushing a dry coat; lightly mist with water to reduce friction and prevent breakage.
Do Malteses need a deshedding tool like the FURminator?
No, Malteses don't need aggressive deshedding tools designed for double coats. Their single coat sheds minimally, and heavy-duty deshedders can damage their delicate hair and irritate skin. Instead, focus on a quality slicker and pin brush paired with regular combing. These tools are sufficient for managing the minimal shedding Malteses experience while keeping their coat healthy and intact.
Maltese Full Breed Profile
Temperament, health conditions, care guides, and adoption resources.