7 Best Shampoo for Maltese Dogs in 2024 (Buying Guide & Reviews)

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A fearless and gentle dog breed, the Maltese, is simply irresistible. But one of the qualities that makes them charming can also make them a bit more challenging to care for.

Maltese white coats can be tough to keep looking white and healthy. Whether it’s because of their persistent tear stains or simply a play in the dirt, the beautiful white fur of your Maltese can tend to become dull and lose its shine.

One method to help protect your Maltese coat and keep it looking white and fresh is to use a whitening shampoo. So what’s the best whitening shampoo for Maltese dogs?

In this guide, I’ll talk about some considerations for using a whitening shampoo for Maltese dogs and examine various best shampoo for Maltese dogs recommendations that could potentially make an excellent fit for your dog.

Best Shampoo for Maltese Dogs – Our Top Pick

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo, Vanilla & Almond

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What is the Best Dog Shampoo for Maltese?

  1. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo, Vanilla & Almond
  2. Sofee & Co. Natural Dog Puppy Shampoo
  3. Veterinary Formula Solutions Snow White Shampoo for Dogs
  4. Buddy Wash Lavender & Mint 2-in-1 Dog Shampoo
  5. Burt’s Bees for Puppies Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner
  6. Healthy Breeds Bright Whitening Dog Shampoo for White & Lighter Fur
  7. Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo

What are the distinct types of Maltese shampoos?

Skin Care Shampoos

The Maltese are a breed that sadly suffers from quite a vast range of skin problems. Their thin single coat makes them very fragile, and redness, dryness, and other common irritations are all too popular with the breed. The Maltese aren’t alone in this problem, and as such, there’s quite a significant need for shampoos and conditioners that take care of a pup’s skin.

Because of this, it’s pretty easy to find shampoos that include some active skincare ingredients– but they are not all made equally. For example, you’ll find products plastering big “Aloe Vera!” stickers on their bottles, but when you see the ingredient list, the quantity in the bottle is nearly negligible.

Make sure that any shampoo you are purchasing has a significant amount of skincare infusions in its formula and ensure that the brand is trusted and reliable.

I know this is easier said than done, but unless you know what you’re doing, I suggest sticking with the brand I will consider later in this guide instead of shopping around by yourself.

Deodorizing Dog Shampoo

A dog usually produces natural oils from his pores to keep his coat shiny, skin soft, and parasite-free. Sometimes though, those skin oils can create an unpleasant odor.

Failing to brush your Maltese as much as he requires can also produce a smelly accumulation of doggy smells. And if your dog rolls in something icky, he will smell in between grooming sessions.

Fortunately, you can use deodorizing shampoos on the dog that are strong sufficient to get rid of offensive odors but mild enough for a dog’s sensitive skin.

Soothing Shampoos

The Maltese are known to be a reasonably nervous dogs in certain situations, and as you may already know– grooming time is one of them.

There’s nothing you can do to get your dog, like hopping in the bathtub and getting all wet and soapy. But where there’s an issue, the market usually finds a solution, producing soothing shampoos.

The way they function is very comparable to how aromatherapy functions in humans. Many of the soothing substances in dog shampoos are the same substances we humans use ourselves. The combination of numerous relaxing smells calms your dog down and makes him a little less stressed about the grooming experience.

The efficacy of these compounds is the subject of much debate, and despite unscientific experiences, dog parents notice an important improvement in their Maltese’s mood while being bathed. I consider that soothing shampoos with relaxing aroma compounds work to a certain extent, and they’re a bonus to an otherwise premium shampoo.

Just keep in mind, these compounds aren’t some magic potion straight out of Midsummer; they’re not going to make your Maltese immediately enjoy grooming sessions, but they can help at least a little bit.

Antifungal and Antibacterial Dog Shampoo

Your Maltese has helpful yeast growing on his skin. That’s natural, and a moderate amount of yeast on the dog is good and typical for the health of his coat and skin.

Sadly, yeast can get out of control if the circumstances are right. If you are in a humid and hot climate, your Maltese can get a yeast infection.

Also, having surgery or being sick can lower the Maltese’s immune system and give the yeast a chance to develop. Feeding a cheap dog kibble or sugary foods can also cause yeast overgrowth.

Excessive licking, rubbing, and scratching are symbols of a yeast infection. Luckily, there are antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoos you can use on your dog if he has a skin infection.

However, check with your veterinarian first if he is showing signs of a yeast infection so you can rule out a more severe problem.

Also Read: 5 Best Dry Dog Food for Yeast Infections in 2020

Whitening Shampoos

The final type of shampoo that’s favored with Maltese parents is whitening shampoos.

Whitening shampoos have got a bad reputation because of the harsh chemicals that its added historically in dog whitening shampoos, But nowadays, things have changed. 

It’s likely to find soft whitening shampoos on the marketplace that include no peroxide or other hash nasty components; they’re more wholesome and much gentler. 

They use optical whiteners and other natural techniques and tips to make your Maltese shine and sparkle.

I’ve reviewed one whitening shampoo later on in this article. I’m sure that a few others out there are good, but this is the one I came across that I’m comfortable staking my reputation on by recommending.

The 7 Best Shampoo for Maltese Dogs – Reviews

1- Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo, Vanilla & Almond

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Our Top Pick– Earthbath is a soap-free formula and includes natural aloe vera with oatmeal. Combining these two elements helps your Maltese have a solid but soft coat while being mild enough on their skin to make sure they do not develop any skin irritations or allergic reactions.

It’s also an excellent choice if your Maltese is prone to dry skin which is popular in Maltese breeds with short trimmed fur.

This shampoo is 100% biodegradable and contains no phosphates or parabens. When you check the ingredients in this product, you understand why it’s my top pick for this breed because it’s natural, and the combination of ingredients works well on long-haired Maltese that requires more attention.

Pros:

  • Aloe and oatmeal are suitable for long hair
  • It helps cracked and dry skin
  • Includes no artificial colors or fragrances
  • All-natural

Cons:

  • Not safe to use on puppies
  • Scent less than desirable

2- Sofee & Co. Natural Dog Puppy Shampoo 

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Sofee & Co. is gentle and excellent for Malteses with allergies and sensitive skin.

This non-toxic formula softens, soothes, moisturizes, and detangles your Maltese skin efficiently. Once the fur dries, you will see it’s incredibly silky and smooth.

This shampoo is cruelty-free and doesn’t contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial dyes, or mineral oils. Malteses with dry, itchy skin will feel relief when using this shampoo regularly.

Skin allergies can cause a rash, and swelling which create a sensitive area. It relieves and nourishes the skin as it soothes itchiness and dryness.

This refreshing formula creates a luxuriously gentle, silky, and glossy coat that is easy to maintain. It makes detangling mats, knots, and tangles easier.

Pros:

  • Suitable for dogs with skin allergies
  • Leaves a silky coat
  • Non-toxic
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Relieves itching

Cons:

  • Only available in one size
  • Some Maltese don’t like the smell of the shampoo

3- Veterinary Formula Solutions Snow White Shampoo for Dogs

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Best Whitening– This formula has vitamins and patented brighteners to help Malteses with white coats shine bright. There is no peroxide or bleach used in the shampoo, and the manufacturer says it does not hurt your pup’s skin.

With the whitening comes deodorization through citrus and floral aroma, and you can use this shampoo alongside any topical tick and flea treatments, and it won’t wash them away.

Upon checking the list of components, it has coconut oil as a base which is excellent for the skin and coat, but it does include several artificial dyes and fragrances. I do not suggest using this as your core shampoo; it might be better off as an additional wash if you notice your Maltese hair is getting a yellow tint.

Pros:

  • Whitening formula
  • Coconut oil-based
  • Includes no peroxide or bleach
  • Good scent

Cons:

  • Not appropriate for frequent use
  • It consists of artificial fragrances and dyes

4- Buddy Wash Lavender & Mint 2-in-1 Dog Shampoo

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For the sensitive dog, Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a convenient, two-in-one shampoo that will keep your Maltese smelling and looking her best.

The formula is tested on humans but is safe for pets, and it won’t leave your skin irritated and dry when you wash your Maltese. The Buddy Wash brand also offers matching spritzes that are required for grooming the Maltese.

Pros:

  • All-natural ingredients
  • Smells good
  • Soap-free
  • Shampoo and conditioner

Cons:

  • The fragrance could be too strong
  • Includes tea tree oil

5- Burt’s Bees for Puppies Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner

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Best for Pups– This formula is tearless and soft, ideal for use on puppies. The manufacturer claims you can use Burt’s Bees at any stage of life, beginning right from birth, and it’s safe on pup skin. The shampoo uses honey and buttermilk to relieve and promote healthy hair growth in Maltese pups.

Upon looking at the list of components, there are not too many identifiable names. As a user, you would not recognize any of the ingredients listed, which is not good, but other consumers never noticed any adverse responses to the shampoo.

Pros:

  • Good for puppies
  • No artificial fragrances or parabens
  • Mild on skin

Cons:

  • No fragrance
  • Complicated list of ingredients

6- Healthy Breeds Bright Whitening Dog Shampoo for White & Lighter Fur

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The Healthy Breeds Bright Whitening Dog Shampoo brand provides a variety of excellent shampoo choices geared toward the requirements of particular dog breeds. This specific formula is designed to serve as a whitening improvement for Malteses.

This shampoo is made to brighten the look of your Maltese coat without bleaching it. Besides its brightening features, it also makes an excellent multi-use shampoo.

The formula contains gentle ingredients, such as natural colloidal oatmeal, which can help to moisturize and nourish your Maltese skin and coat while also being soft on dogs who deal with skin irritation or allergies.

This formula also helps to smooth out your Maltese coat, leaving it soft and silky, as is so characteristic of the breed. It is also developed to help prevent mats and tangles, but you will also need to wash, dry, and brush your pooch correctly to avoid this too.

Pros:

  • Developed specifically with the Maltese dog in mind
  • Enhances the appearance of brightness in your dog’s coat but does not bleach the coat
  • It can help to soothe irritated skin and smooth your dog’s silky coat, as well as brighten it

Cons:

  • Does not remove stains in your dog’s coat
  • It may not be appropriate for use on all Maltese dogs; always consult your vet

7- Zesty Paws Oatmeal Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo

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 If your dog scratches a lot, it can cause matted hair and other inflammations, so you need to nip that problem in the bud. This formula includes necessary vitamins, quinoa, aloe, and almond extract to relieve dry skin and leave your dog looking and smelling amazing.

Oatmeal is among the most effective elements to add to dog shampoo because it treats cracked skin and enhances hair quality. The formula is also antibacterial and antifungal, so if your dog is prone to infections such as hotspots, this formula helps treat the area and bring skin health back.

The list of elements in this formula is long and complex, and the manufacturer does not say that the shampoo is organic or all-natural.

Pros:

  • Good for itchy skin
  • Aids with hotspots
  • Moisturizes hair and skin
  • Heals cracked and dry skin

Cons:

  • Pricey

5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Maltese Puppy’s Coat Shiny and Healthy

The breed is a show-stopper when his coat is clean and healthy. As a Maltese parent, you’ll require the right accessories and programs for grooming your Maltese, no matter if you let your dog’s coat grow to the floor or keep it short.

1- Bathe your dog with high-quality shampoos and conditioners.

A Maltese needs to be washed about every three weeks, and it’s ideal not to bathe him more often than that. You can use specifically formulated dog grooming wipes to keep your dog coat clean for maintenance between grooms. Additionally, there are conditioning spritzes you can utilize on your dog to keep him clean and his skin conditioned.

You can use grooming wipes daily, and you can use spritzes about every three days. Constantly ensure to use high-quality shampoos and conditioners on your Maltese that are free of artificial fragrances, dyes, and harsh soaps, as these can cause an allergic reaction on his skin.

2- Care for the Maltese’s coat every day.

You can’t save on grooming when you have Maltese. Daily, your canine will need his eyes and face wiped, his coat brushed, and his teeth cleaned. If you keep his hair long, he’ll require daily brushing and spritzing too.

3- Use the right grooming tools.

 The Maltese coat is delicate and sensitive. You’ll need a wire-pin brush for Maltese’s with medium-length or long coats. Pups and adult dogs with short hair need a soft, boar bristle brush. Use a comb for the hair on the Maltese’s face. Never use a slicker brush on the Maltese because these tools are too harsh for his sensitive, fine coat.

4- Feed your Maltese high-quality dog food.

If you binge eat a lot of convenience food over a weekend, you likely don’t look so good come Monday morning. The same idea applies to the look and health of your Maltese coat. High-quality food made with natural proteins and meats and is free of preservatives, artificial colors, and sugars will do wonders for your canine’s coat. Supplementing your Maltese nutrition with salmon or fish oil supplements that are safe for dogs will give him a soft, shiny coat.

Also Read: Wellness Core Puppy Food Reviews (High-quality food)

5- Get rid of mats asap.

If you notice a mat in your Maltese coat, you’ll need to remove it asap. Mats can damage the integrity of the coat and cause an infection or dog pain. If you see one, it’s best to remove it by hand with a little bit of dog conditioner. If you can’t untangle the strands, you will need to trim the mat with dog grooming scissors.

FAQ for Bathing a Maltese

How Often Should I Bathe A Maltese?

The Maltese are a dog that benefits from fairly regular grooming. Their white fur can quickly get dirty and dingy, and they are a reasonably stinky dog considering the breed’s small stature.

Ideally, it would help if you washed your dog around once every 7 to 10 days. Never bathe them more often than this because you’ll strip their natural oil, which they need for healthy skin and coat.

Also, you should pick a natural shampoo if possible. Constantly see the label on any shampoo you buy to ensure that it’s ideal for the regular grooming routine the Maltese need.

Can I use human shampoo on my Maltese?

It’s not an excellent idea to use human soaps on any pet, let alone a Maltese. Human soaps contain harsh chemical additives and are formulated for a human being’s skin pH levels. Also, using human shampoo on the white coat of the Maltese can dull the color of his fur.

Bottom Line

So there you have it, that’s all there is to know about bathing and brushing the charming Maltese.

If you follow the suggestions I’ve given in this article and combine them with any shampoos I’ve reviewed below, then I’m sure that you and your Maltese are going to have better grooming sessions than you ever thought possible.

Have you tested any one of the shampoos on this list? Or have you tried something not on this list? In the comments below, let me know your reflections on the Best Shampoo for Maltese!

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