Maltese Shih Tzu Grooming: How Do I Properly Care for My Small Dog?

While Mal-Shis are generally easygoing, their grooming needs can demand significant effort. Establishing a consistent grooming routine is essential to keep your small dog looking and feeling its best. 

Here are some grooming tips to guide you:

Coat Brushing

A Mal-Shi’s coat, long and silky with a slight wave, requires regular attention. Though they shed minimally, daily brushing prevents mats and tangles from taking hold. A slicker or pin brush works best for combing their hair. For stubborn knots, apply a detangling spray or conditioner to ease the process.

Clipping

To simplify Maltese grooming, trim their hair every six to eight weeks. Use high-quality clippers, and always ensure their coat is dry before cutting. Choose from various styles, including the puppy cut, teddy bear cut, top knot, lion cut, or a full shave, depending on your preference.

Bathing

Bathe your Maltese Shih Tzu every three weeks to maintain clean, healthy skin and a gleaming coat. Use lukewarm water and a gentle dog shampoo or baby shampoo. Stick to the same tub for consistency, creating a comforting routine for your pooch.

Teeth Brushing

Brush your Mal-Shi’s teeth at least twice a week to curb tartar and bacteria buildup. If possible, brush daily to fend off gum disease and bad breath. Aim for a thorough three-minute session each time. If your dog isn’t used to a toothbrush, start with a finger brush to ease them into the habit.

Nail Trimming

Trim your Mal-Shi’s nails once or twice a month to prevent splitting or cracking. Exercise caution to avoid cutting into the blood vessels within their nails, which can cause bleeding. A telltale sign their nails are too long is the clicking sound they make on the floor.

Removing Tear Stains

Mal-Shis often develop tear stains, making daily cleaning around their eyes necessary. Use a cotton ball dipped in lukewarm water to wipe the area. Alternatively, apply a commercial tear stain remover to treat stubborn discoloration.

Ear Cleaning

Check your Mal-Shi’s ears weekly for redness or odor, which may signal infection. Clean the outer ears gently with a cotton ball dampened in a pH-balanced ear cleaner. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal to prevent injury.

Summary

Introduce your Mal-Shi to grooming while they’re still a puppy to help them acclimate to the process. Handle them with care to ensure they associate grooming with positive experiences. Don’t forget to reward or praise them for cooperating during their sessions.