๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Dog Care Products

Dog Brush for Maltese Dogs, Ranked

Discover the best dog brush for your Maltese in 2026. We compare 5 top picks including the Chris Christensen Big G slicker brush for tangle-free, painless grooming of single-layer coats.

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Daily
Recommended brushing frequency
4 to 6 inches
Average Maltese coat length
4 to 7 lbs
Typical adult Maltese weight
Single
Coat type (no undercoat)
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush. This brush features fine, bent stainless steel pins that glide through the Maltese's silky.
  • Best Budget: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. An affordable option with fine bent wires that work well on Maltese coats.
  • Best for Finishing: Andis Premium Large Pin Brush. This pin brush has rounded tips that are gentle on the skin and perfect for smoothing the.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Grooming Brush. Made with natural materials and soft bristles, this brush is ideal for Maltese with sensit.
  • Best for Deshedding: FURminator deShedding Tool for Small Dogs. While Maltese are not heavy shedders, this tool can help remove loose hair from the topcoa.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best overall brush for Maltese dogs is the Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush. Its fine, bent pins glide through silky coats without scratching the skin, making daily grooming efficient. For a budget-friendly alternative, the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush works well but may not be as gentle on sensitive areas.

What to consider for Dog Brush For Maltese Dogs

Maltese dogs have a single-layer, long, silky coat that is prone to matting, especially behind the ears and under the legs. Unlike double-coated breeds, they don’t have an undercoat to remove, so deshedding tools are unnecessary. The key is to choose a brush that detangles without pulling or breaking the hair. Slicker brushes with fine, flexible pins are ideal. Pin brushes with rounded tips can also work for finishing. Avoid brushes with sharp or harsh bristles that can damage the delicate coat or irritate the skin.

What to look for in a grooming product (shampoo, brush, clipper or wipe)

When selecting a brush for a Maltese, look for a match to the dog’s coat type: fine, long, and silky. Choose a brush with gentle, dog-safe materials such as stainless steel pins with polished tips to avoid scratching. For clippers, low noise is important for nervous dogs. Ease of use matters too: a self-cleaning feature can save time. Always prioritize products designed for sensitive skin, as Maltese are prone to skin allergies.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated brush design for suitability with long, silky single coats.
  • Considered pin flexibility and tip safety to avoid skin irritation.
  • Checked for ergonomic handles to reduce hand fatigue during daily grooming.
  • Read verified customer reviews focusing on Maltese owners’ experiences.
  • Compared price points to include options for different budgets.
  • Ensured all picks are widely available on Amazon.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Human shampoo: wrong pH for dogs and can strip natural oils.
  • Harsh fragrances on sensitive skin: can cause allergic reactions.
  • Dull clipper blades that pull: cause pain and discomfort.
  • Brushing a matted coat without detangling first: leads to breakage and pain.

For more tips, check out our dog guides, dog care products, and dog health sections.

Why this matters

Maltese dogs have a single-layer coat that lacks an undercoat, making them prone to matting but not heavy shedders. Daily brushing with a slicker brush is essential to prevent painful tangles.

The Options

Types Explained

Slicker Brush

A brush with fine, bent wire pins set in a cushioned base. Ideal for detangling and removing loose hair from long coats.

Best for: Daily detangling of Maltese coats, especially behind ears and under legs.

Pin Brush

A brush with widely spaced, rounded-tip pins on a cushioned pad. Used for smoothing and finishing the coat.

Best for: Final grooming to add shine and remove static after detangling.

Bristle Brush

A brush with natural or synthetic bristles. Distributes natural oils and removes surface dirt.

Best for: Maltese with sensitive skin, as bristles are gentle and non-irritating.

Deshedding Tool

A tool with a stainless steel edge that removes loose hair from the topcoat. Not for undercoat removal.

Best for: Seasonal shedding in Maltese, used sparingly to avoid over-grooming.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Best Overall

Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush

View on Amazon

This brush features fine, bent stainless steel pins that glide through the Maltese's silky coat without scratching the skin. It effectively removes tangles and loose hair while being gentle on sensitive areas. The ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue during daily grooming. However, it is more expensive than other options, and the pins may be too soft for heavy matting.

#2
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Best Budget

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

View on Amazon

An affordable option with fine bent wires that work well on Maltese coats. The self-cleaning mechanism retracts pins for easy hair removal, saving time. It is lightweight and comfortable to hold. A limitation is that the pins are not as durable as premium brands, and the brush may not be as effective on very thick mats.

#3
Andis Premium Large Pin Brush
Best for Finishing

Andis Premium Large Pin Brush

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This pin brush has rounded tips that are gentle on the skin and perfect for smoothing the coat after detangling. It adds shine and reduces static. The cushion base provides flexibility. However, it is not designed for removing tangles or mats, so it works best as a finishing tool rather than a primary detangling brush.

#4
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Grooming Brush
Best for Sensitive Skin

Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Grooming Brush

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Made with natural materials and soft bristles, this brush is ideal for Maltese with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. It gently removes loose hair and distributes natural oils. The wooden handle is eco-friendly. A downside is that it may not be effective on tangles or mats, and the bristles can wear out faster than synthetic options.

#5
FURminator deShedding Tool for Small Dogs
Best for Deshedding

FURminator deShedding Tool for Small Dogs

View on Amazon

While Maltese are not heavy shedders, this tool can help remove loose hair from the topcoat without damaging the undercoat (which Maltese lack). The stainless steel edge is sharp, so it must be used gently to avoid skin irritation. It works well for seasonal shedding but should not be used daily to prevent over-grooming.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Pin Material and Tips

Look for stainless steel pins with rounded or polished tips to prevent scratching the Maltese's sensitive skin. Bent pins are more effective at grabbing loose hair without pulling.

02

Bristle Type

Slicker brushes with fine, flexible wires are best for detangling. Pin brushes with widely spaced pins are good for finishing. Avoid brushes with harsh plastic bristles.

03

Handle Ergonomics

Daily grooming requires a comfortable, non-slip handle. Ergonomic designs reduce hand strain, especially for owners with arthritis or during long sessions.

04

Self-Cleaning Feature

A brush that retracts pins for easy hair removal saves time and keeps the brush clean. This is especially useful for Maltese that shed moderately.

05

Size and Weight

Choose a brush size appropriate for a small dog. A brush that is too large may be unwieldy, while a small brush allows precise grooming around the face and legs.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Brushing Routine

Brush your Maltese daily to prevent mats and tangles. Start with a slicker brush to detangle, then follow with a pin brush for a smooth finish. Be gentle around sensitive areas like the face and belly.

Bathing Schedule

Bathe your Maltese every 2 to 4 weeks using a dog-specific shampoo with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, so adjust based on activity level and coat condition.

Mat Prevention

Check for mats daily, especially behind ears and under legs. Use a detangling spray and a slicker brush to gently work out tangles. For stubborn mats, use a dematting tool or seek professional grooming.

Pro tip

Use a detangling spray before brushing to reduce breakage and make the process gentler on your Maltese's delicate coat.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Maltese?
Brush your Maltese daily to prevent mats and tangles. Their long, silky coat can mat quickly, especially behind the ears and under the legs. Daily brushing also distributes natural oils, keeping the coat healthy and shiny. If you miss a day, use a detangling spray before brushing to avoid pulling.
What type of brush is best for a Maltese coat?
A slicker brush with fine, bent wires is best for daily detangling. It effectively removes loose hair and works through tangles without damaging the coat. For finishing, a pin brush with rounded tips adds shine and reduces static. Avoid brushes with sharp bristles that can scratch the skin.
Can I use a deshedding tool on my Maltese?
Yes, but sparingly. Maltese have a single coat without an undercoat, so deshedding tools are not necessary. However, a gentle deshedding tool can help remove loose topcoat hair during seasonal shedding. Use it no more than once a week and with light pressure to avoid skin irritation.
What should I look for in a dog shampoo for sensitive skin?
Choose a shampoo labeled for sensitive skin with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, which is dog-friendly. Look for natural ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile that soothe irritation. Avoid artificial fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. Always dilute the shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
How do I choose a clipper for my Maltese?
Select a clipper with low noise and vibration to keep your Maltese calm. Look for adjustable blade lengths and a sharp, ceramic or stainless steel blade that won't pull hair. A clipper with a cordless option offers more maneuverability. Start with a longer guard to avoid cutting too close.
How do I safely remove mats from my Maltese?
First, apply a detangling spray or conditioner. Use a slicker brush to gently work through the mat from the edges inward. For stubborn mats, use a dematting tool or carefully cut the mat with blunt-nosed scissors, keeping the blade parallel to the skin. If the mat is too tight, seek professional grooming.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog grooming products?
Avoid products with parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and dyes, as these can irritate sensitive skin. Also avoid alcohol, which can dry out the coat. Stick to natural, hypoallergenic formulas with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E.
Can I use human shampoo on my Maltese?
No, human shampoo has a different pH (around 5.5) that is too acidic for dogs. It can strip natural oils, leading to dry, itchy skin and a dull coat. Always use a shampoo specifically formulated for dogs, ideally one for sensitive skin.
How can I make grooming less stressful for my Maltese?
Start grooming early in life to build positive associations. Use treats and praise during sessions. Keep sessions short (5 to 10 minutes) and gradually increase. Use a non-slip mat and ensure the brush is gentle. If your dog is anxious, try calming aids like pheromone sprays or consult a trainer.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.