Maltese care: combing, company and a familiar routine

A Maltese’s white coat is immediately noticeable, but their need for company matters just as much when planning care. Daily combing, enjoyable walks and a predictable routine all matter. Look for a sitter with whom you can discuss both grooming and the daily routine in practical terms.

The Raad van Beheer describes the Maltese as lively and affectionate; LICG also highlights their need to learn and play. This does not mean every Maltese responds to a new environment in the same way. Explain how your dog lives at home and which habits help them feel comfortable.

Did you know? Maltese dogs once worked in harbours

The Raad van Beheer describes how the Maltese’s ancestors tackled rats and mice on ships and in harbour warehouses. That long white coat belongs to a dog with an unexpected working history.

A simple idea for home or the sitter’s house: hide a few pieces of kibble from the agreed daily portion in easy-to-find places and let your dog search under supervision. Keep it familiar and manageable. Alongside walks and combing, this gives the sitter a specific shared activity to discuss with you.

Set aside time for grooming every day

The long, silky hair needs daily combing. Work carefully through the coat and check harder-to-reach areas, such as the armpits. Brushing only the surface can leave tangles beneath unnoticed. A Maltese with a short trim still needs grooming, although sessions may be simpler.

Ask your groomer to demonstrate the technique that suits your dog. Leave your own brush and comb ready for the sitter and identify areas needing extra attention. Choose a calm time when your dog is not in the middle of a game. If it takes too long, agree how to divide grooming into manageable sessions.

Keep an eye on the face and teeth

Long hair should not hang uncomfortably in front of the eyes. Show how you normally keep it out of the way and explain your usual daily checks. Discuss existing eye problems with your vet and pass on the agreed care instructions; do not experiment with new products during a stay.

Teeth also deserve attention in small dogs. Bring a familiar toothbrush and dog toothpaste if brushing is part of the routine. Make sure the sitter knows what your dog calmly accepts. If your dog seems uncomfortable, stop and discuss what to do next.

Balance company with quiet time

Maltese dogs like being with their person, and long periods alone often do not suit their needs. Discuss what your dog is actually used to. The time they can spend alone at home may be different in an unfamiliar house.

During the meet and greet, ask what a typical day with them looks like. When does the sitter go out, who is at home, and where can the dog sleep quietly? Bring a familiar blanket if it helps. Arrange a short trial stay if you first want to see how your dog and the sitter get on.

Give them something to do as well

Regular walks, sniffing and play keep a Maltese active. Short training exercises can be an enjoyable shared activity. Use familiar words and keep exercises brief and pleasant. Small size is no reason to do everything for your dog.

Tell the sitter which games your dog enjoys and how you finish them. That is more useful than simply saying they like attention. It helps you alternate rest and activity in a familiar way.

Agree feeding and handover arrangements

Choose complete food for the appropriate life stage and measure normal portions. Include training treats and do not change food without discussion. The right amount depends on the individual dog; ask your vet if you are unsure about body condition or weight.

Three questions for the sitter

• Is there time every day to comb the coat thoroughly?
• What does your schedule look like when my Maltese needs company?
• Which familiar searching game can we demonstrate together, using treats from the daily food allowance?

Read the sitter preparation checklist and browse dog sitters. Discuss grooming experience during the meet and greet.

Sources

• Raad van Beheer: Maltese — harbour history, long silky coat and lively temperament.
• LICG: Maltese — daily combing, company, exercise, learning and dental care.
• LICG: feeding your dog — general guidance — complete food, life stage and individual nutritional needs.
• LICG: holidays when your pet stays at home — preparing care, introductions and care arrangements.