Top 5 Dog Shampoo For Maltese: In-Depth Review

Peter Armani | 22-12-2025

Maltese dogs are known for their beautiful, silky white coats, but keeping them bright and healthy takes the right shampoo. Choosing a formula that gently cleanses while enhancing coat brightness can make grooming much easier. This guide compares several shampoos suited for Maltese, highlighting their feel, everyday practicality, and what sets each apart.

Editor's Choice
Healthy Breeds Maltese Bright Whitening Shampoo
Healthy Breeds Maltese Bright Whitening Shampoo
Premium Pick
Wahl 4-in-1 Calming Dog Shampoo (Lavender Chamomile)
Wahl 4-in-1 Calming Dog Shampoo (Lavender Chamomile)
Budget Pick
Alpha Dog Series Bright White Grooming Shampoo and Conditioner
Alpha Dog Series Bright White Grooming Shampoo and Conditioner

Top 5 Dog Shampoo For Maltese

We researched and compared the top products in the Dog Shampoo For Maltese category to provide you with these recommendations.

1. Healthy Breeds Maltese Bright Whitening Shampoo

Enhances White Coats
Healthy Breeds Maltese Bright Whitening Shampoo
9.8

Healthy Breeds

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This shampoo has a creamy texture and a light pina colada scent, making bath time pleasant for both dogs and owners. It's designed for white and light-colored coats, helping bring out natural shine while leaving fur smooth and manageable. The formula is gentle enough for regular use, making it practical for Maltese prone to matting and tangles.

What We Like:

  • Noticeably brightens white coats
  • Helps control matting and tangling
  • Pleasant, not overpowering scent
  • Leaves hair soft and shiny

What Could Be Improved:

  • Scent may not appeal to everyone
  • May require extra rinsing on longer coats

2. Wahl 4-in-1 Calming Dog Shampoo (Lavender Chamomile)

Calming Scented Formula
Wahl 4-in-1 Calming Dog Shampoo (Lavender Chamomile)

This shampoo features a thick, silky lather and a calming lavender chamomile scent, ideal for anxious dogs or relaxing bath routines. It's pH balanced and free from harsh additives, making it suitable for Maltese with sensitive skin. The concentrated formula means you only need a small amount per wash, adding to its practicality.

What We Like:

  • Calming fragrance for anxious dogs
  • Highly concentrated, lasts longer
  • Free from alcohol and parabens
  • Easy to rinse off
  • Suitable for various coat lengths

What Could Be Improved:

  • Scent may be strong for some owners
  • May not fully detangle severe mats without extra brushing

3. Alpha Dog Series Bright White Grooming Shampoo and Conditioner

2-in-1 Whitening Care
Alpha Dog Series Bright White Grooming Shampoo and Conditioner
9.1

Alpha Dog Series

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This 2-in-1 formula combines a gentle shampoo and conditioner, streamlining bath time for busy pet owners. It has a mild, musk scent and a creamy consistency that works well through the Maltese's fine fur. The natural ingredients, including aloe vera and chamomile, make it a practical option for frequent grooming and sensitive skin.

What We Like:

  • 2-in-1 formula saves time
  • Tear-free for easier bathing
  • Natural extracts for gentle care
  • Long-lasting mild fragrance
  • Moisturizes and soothes skin

What Could Be Improved:

  • Musk scent may not suit everyone
  • May require extra product for thick coats

4. BioSilk Silk Therapy Whitening Dog Shampoo

Silky Whitening Effect
BioSilk Silk Therapy Whitening Dog Shampoo
8.9

Biosilk

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This shampoo has a lightweight, silky feel that spreads easily through the coat. It's formulated to enhance brightness in white fur while helping maintain moisture balance. The gentle ingredients are suitable for Maltese puppies and adults, making it a versatile choice for multi-dog households.

What We Like:

  • Lightweight, easy-to-rinse formula
  • Helps maintain coat moisture
  • Suitable for puppies and adults
  • No parabens or sulfates

What Could Be Improved:

  • May need follow-up conditioner for extra dry fur
  • Subtle scent may fade quickly

5. Wahl USA Whitening Shampoo White Pear Scent

Brightening Deep Clean
Wahl USA Whitening Shampoo White Pear Scent

This shampoo offers a thick lather and a refreshing white pear scent, making it pleasant to use during regular grooming. Its brightening formula is designed for white and light coats, helping to enhance color and remove dullness. The concentrated nature means less product is needed per wash, which is convenient for frequent use.

What We Like:

  • Brightens and enhances white coats
  • Concentrated formula lasts longer
  • Free from alcohol and parabens
  • Easy to rinse out

What Could Be Improved:

  • Scent may not appeal to all owners
  • May not address severe matting alone

How to Choose Dog Shampoo for Maltese

Look for shampoos designed for delicate, light-colored fur and avoid harsh chemicals that could cause dryness or irritation.

Whitening vs. Sensitive Formulas

If your Maltese has tear stains or dull fur, whitening formulas may help. For dogs with allergies or frequent baths, sensitive options reduce irritation.

Scent and Fragrance

Choose a scent that both you and your dog tolerate well. If your dog is sensitive, opt for milder or fragrance-free formulas.

Conditioning and Detangling

A shampoo with built-in conditioner can simplify grooming, but some coats may still require separate detangling sprays or tools.

Ingredients and Safety

Check labels for gentle, dog-safe ingredients. Tear-free and pH-balanced formulas are especially helpful for frequent grooming sessions.

FAQ For Dog Shampoo For Maltese

1. What type of shampoo is best for a Maltese with sensitive skin?

Look for shampoos labeled as gentle, hypoallergenic, or formulated for sensitive skin. These typically avoid harsh chemicals and include soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

2. How often should I bathe my Maltese?

Most Maltese benefit from a bath every 2 to 4 weeks, but frequency can vary based on activity level, coat condition, and sensitivity. Regular brushing helps reduce the need for frequent baths.

3. Are whitening shampoos safe for regular use on Maltese?

Many whitening shampoos are designed for regular use and contain gentle brightening agents. Always check the label for suitability and avoid products with harsh bleaching chemicals.

4. Can I use human shampoo on my Maltese?

It's best to avoid human shampoos, as they are formulated for a different skin pH and may cause dryness or irritation in dogs.

5. What should I do if my Maltese develops mats or tangles?

Use a detangling spray or conditioner in addition to shampoo, and gently brush the coat before and after bathing to help prevent and remove mats.

Peter Armani

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