Dog Breeds

Maltese Terrier Grooming Gold Coast

9 min read

White Maltese with its tongue out on the grass

Walking marshmallows with attitude

Maltese Terriers are basically walking marshmallows with attitude, fluffy and fiercely loyal, and born to be adored. But in a coastal spot like Miami QLD, where salt air, beach breezes and backyard dust are part of daily life, keeping that coat pearly white and knot-free is no small task.

Small white and grey fluffy dog in a pink bandana after a groom at Pets Juicy, Miami, Gold Coast
Small, fluffy and freshly groomed.

We're here to take your cloud-on-legs from scruffy to sparkling, minus the drama and those "uh-oh" moments when brushing turns into a wrestling match.

Understanding the Maltese coat

Don't let the size fool you, because a Maltese coat is high maintenance. Long, fine and prone to tangles faster than a pair of headphones in your pocket, that white fluff picks up everything: sand, grass, food, dust, and whatever your dog rolled in at the park five minutes ago.

The coat is a single layer (no undercoat) of silky, straight-to-slightly-wavy hair that grows continuously, like human hair. It doesn't shed much, which sounds like a win until you realise that means dead hair stays trapped in the coat, wrapping around live strands and forming mats close to the skin. In Gold Coast humidity, this happens fast. A coat that was brushed and tangle-free on Monday can have mats forming at the skin by Wednesday.

The white colour is the other challenge, because every stain shows, from tears and saliva to grass and food. Keeping a Maltese white on the Gold Coast is a real commitment that requires the right products, regular cleaning and consistent professional grooming.

What a professional Maltese groom involves

Full body brush-out and detangle. We work through the entire coat before the bath, checking for mats at the skin level. Maltese coats mat worst behind the ears, under the armpits, between the back legs, around the collar area, and anywhere harness straps sit. The fine hair tangles easily in these friction zones, and Gold Coast humidity accelerates the process. We use a slicker brush and metal comb, working from the skin outward because surface brushing misses the mats forming underneath.

Warm bath with whitening and nourishing products. The right shampoo makes a visible difference on a white coat. We use Melanie Newman salon products that brighten without bleaching, followed by a conditioner that nourishes the fine hair and makes detangling easier. On a Maltese the conditioner is a must, because it keeps the coat silky and manageable between grooms.

Professional blow dry and brush to finish. A proper blow dry with a slicker brush lifts the coat, separates the strands, and creates that flowing, silky finish that makes a well-groomed Maltese look like a living cloud. Air-drying leaves the coat flat, damp at the roots and tangling within hours. The blow dry also reveals any remaining tangles the bath may have hidden.

Clip or scissor to your chosen style. We'll discuss what works for your dog's lifestyle, your brushing routine and the time of year.

Tear stain cleaning. Those reddish-brown marks under the eyes are caused by a pigment in tears called porphyrin, and they're more visible on a white coat than any other colour. Some Maltese barely get staining, others look permanently sad despite being perfectly happy. We use tear-stain safe cleansers and gentle tools to clean around the eyes and trim any stained or crusty hair. At home, daily wiping with a damp cotton pad keeps staining minimal. Diet can also play a role, and some owners see improvement switching to filtered water.

Ear cleaning. Maltese have drop ears covered in long, heavy hair that restricts airflow to the ear canal. Many also grow excess hair inside the canal from their Terrier genetics. The combination makes them prone to ear infections, especially on the Gold Coast where humidity keeps everything damp. We clean ears thoroughly and manage excess ear hair at every appointment.

Nail trim. Every three to four weeks. Maltese are tiny, light dogs that don't wear their nails down on pavement.

Grooming styles for Maltese Terriers

Puppy cut. The most popular option by far. Coat trimmed to a uniform 1 to 2 centimetres all over, face rounded, ears shaped, done as a Full Groom. It's practical and still undeniably adorable. Dries fast after beach days, mats less in humidity, and needs brushing two to three times a week. If you want cute and comfy without constant maintenance, this is the one.

Teddy bear cut. Slightly longer than a puppy cut with extra fluff on the face, ears and legs to create a soft, rounded, teddy bear look, scissored as a Style Groom. The extra length does mean more frequent brushing (every two to three days) to keep it tangle-free. Best for dogs who love attention and owners who enjoy the brushing routine.

Summer clip. When the Gold Coast heat rolls in, many Maltese owners go short. A close trim all over keeps your dog cool, reduces matting risk dramatically, and means less sand and salt clinging to the coat after beach days, and it grows back within weeks.

Show or natural length. The full, floor-length coat that you see in breed rings. Absolutely stunning when maintained, but requires daily brushing, regular baths, and a level of coat care that most pet owners find unsustainable long-term. We can maintain this style, but we'll be upfront about the commitment it requires.

Gold Coast life with a Maltese

Living on the Gold Coast with a white, fine-coated, small dog means adapting your grooming routine to the environment. This is what we've learned from grooming Maltese every day in Miami:

Sand equals Tangle City. Beach sand works into the fine coat and creates knots within hours. Always brush after a beach visit, once the coat is dry. Rinsing with fresh water immediately after swimming removes salt and sand before they cause damage.

Salt water dries the coat out. That silky, glossy finish disappears fast if your Maltese swims in the ocean regularly without being rinsed and conditioned. Fresh water rinse after every swim, and a leave-in conditioner spray at home between grooms helps keep the coat hydrated.

Humidity equals fast matting. The fine hair absorbs moisture from the air, swells slightly and begins wrapping around itself. Brushing every two to three days at home is non-negotiable on the Gold Coast, regardless of which style your dog is in.

Grass seeds and pollen collect under the belly. Maltese sit low to the ground and their belly hair picks up everything. We keep this area tidy to avoid skin irritation, but between grooms, checking the belly after walks through long grass prevents seeds from working into the coat and skin.

Sun exposure on pink skin. Maltese with shorter clips expose more of their light, sometimes pink skin to direct sunlight. The Gold Coast sun is brutal from October to March. If your Maltese is clipped short and spends time outdoors, talk to your vet about pet-safe sunscreen for the nose, ears and belly.

The matting conversation

If your Maltese arrives with significant matting, we'll talk it through before we start. Fine Maltese hair mats tight against the skin, and once that happens, brushing it out pulls on the skin, causes pain and can even tear the delicate skin underneath. We won't do that to your dog.

In these cases, we recommend a reset clip: taking the coat shorter than your usual style to remove the mats humanely, then starting fresh. It's not what anyone wants to hear, but it's the kindest option for the dog. The coat grows back within weeks. With a regular grooming schedule (every six to eight weeks) and consistent brushing at home, it doesn't need to happen again.

Home maintenance between grooms

Brush every two to three days. Slicker brush and metal comb. Work in small sections from the skin outward. The comb is your quality check: if it glides through, the section is clear. If it catches, there's a tangle the brush missed. A five-minute session every couple of days prevents a 30-minute dematting ordeal at the next groom.

Key areas to never skip: Behind the ears, under the armpits, around the collar or harness, between the back legs, and the belly. These are the friction and moisture zones where mats form first.

Wipe under the eyes daily. Damp cotton pad or unscented eye wipe. Removes tear residue before it stains and crusts.

Check ears weekly. Lift the ear flap, look inside and have a sniff. Healthy ears are pale pink and odourless. Red, waxy, smelly or itchy ears need professional attention.

Rinse after salt water. Every time. Fresh water, paying attention to the belly, paws and ears.

Nails every three to four weeks. If you hear clicking on hard floors, they're overdue.

Grooming schedule

Every six to eight weeks for a full professional groom. Longer styles do best at six weeks, and puppy cuts and summer clips can stretch to eight. Between grooms, brushing every two to three days at home is what keeps the coat manageable and your appointments pleasant rather than emergency dematting sessions.

Puppies and seniors

Maltese puppies should start grooming from 12 to 14 weeks. The puppy coat is softer and shorter than the adult coat, but early exposure to bathing, drying, brushing, ear cleaning and face grooming builds the foundation for a lifetime of cooperative grooming. Maltese that start young are almost always calmer and happier on the grooming table as adults.

Senior Maltese may develop drier, thinner coats and more sensitive skin. Tear staining sometimes worsens with age. Lumps and bumps need monitoring. Dental issues are common in small breeds and we flag bad breath, tartar and gum redness during grooms. We handle senior Maltese with extra patience, shorter sessions and gentle hands.

Why Pets Juicy for your Maltese

We're a local Miami crew who get it. We know the climate, the lifestyle and the way these little dogs carry sand home like it's their job. We're gentle and slow-paced with Maltese because they respond to calm, not rush. We know the tear staining needs attention every time and the coat mats if you look at it sideways, and most Maltese are convinced they're the most important creature in the building, which we don't argue with.

Between full grooms, a hygiene clip keeps your Maltese's eyes, paws and back end tidy.

We're at 1/22 Mountain View Ave, Miami QLD 4220, easy access from Burleigh Heads, Palm Beach, Robina, Mermaid Waters and surrounding suburbs. Book your Maltese's groom online or book a wash and blow dry to keep them fresh between grooms. Afterpay available on all eligible services.

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Straight from Google

Five stars from the people holding the leads

Rated 5.0 on Google (opens in a new tab)
★★★★★

We took our two toy poodles in for grooming today and couldn’t be happier with the experience. From the moment we walked in, the team was warm, welcoming, and clearly passionate about what they do.

They took the time to listen and treated our boys with such care and patience throughout and they came out looking absolutely beautiful! Perfect cuts, soft coats, and so happy & relaxed.

It’s obvious they genuinely care about the dogs, not just the end result. The attention to detail and level of professionalism really stood out. We’ve already rebooked, will definitely be coming back regularly and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality groomer.

Thanks so much guys!

Lots of love from Lenny & Boo 🐕 🐕

Maya S.Google review
★★★★★

OBSESSED

Mitch R.Google review
★★★★★

Got my senior queen Lady (husky x GSD) groomed here when her regular groomers couldn’t fit her in (they would often cancel as well due to her size and hair type). Pets Juicy did an incredible job - Lady came back happy, smelling fresh and well de-shedded. Really happy with the service and kindness of the staff here, this will be the new go-to spot for our dogs. Thank you for being so accommodating to bigger dogs, which are often seen as a chore by many places. I can see based on reviews you have many larger regulars. Thank you team!

Elle W.Google review
★★★★★

Excellent service and care

Jason M.Google review
★★★★★

HIGHLY RECOMMEND FOR COCKER SPANIEL OWNERS 🤍

Had such a good experience at Pets Juicy. My dog Monty had the worst mats in his ears and I was honestly so stressed about it. The team were so patient and gentle with him, especially because he’s a bit silly and crazy They really took their time and made sure he was comfortable, and did an amazing job. I honestly wish I took before photos of how matted his ears were because the difference is crazy. So grateful for how kind they were with him. Definitely recommend!

Sasha D.Google review
★★★★★

Great job on my mini groodle Coco

Julie S.Google review
★★★★★

Such an amazing place and team. The environment was very calming and relaxing for our dog. It was his first ever professional groom and wow, he looked fantastic. From booking to confirmation to reminder to collection was absolutely brilliant. Our dog didn’t want to leave at the end of his groom leaving with a big smile on his face and one very happy one at that. We have found our forever groomers for our large dog!!

Thanks Pets Juicy

Troy B.Google review
★★★★★

Best haircut in 16 years for my spoodle

Simone M.Google review
★★★★★

I’ve brought my two pups to Pet’s Juicy a few times now, and every visit has been such a positive experience. The team is incredibly gentle, caring, and clearly loves what they do! My dogs are always excited when we arrive! Their grooms are beautifully done, and they come home smelling amazing and happy every time. I feel completely at ease leaving them in such capable, loving, kind hands. Highly recommend!

Daniella T.Google review
★★★★★

Always amazing & professional a great team

Ann S.Google review
★★★★★

Sami looked and felt absolutely fabulous after her long haired deshedding service. The team did an awesome job with my golden girl who hates her nails being trimmed. Our vet couldn’t manage trimming Sami’s nails without sedation but the team ensured she had a proper and perfect dogicure. Being a water lover, Sami had some matting which the team were able to also tidy. 10/10

Ben H.Google review
★★★★★

Awesome open space, needed for our local area

Anthony P.Google review
★★★★★

This was our first time at Pets Juicy and we were very impressed with our visit. It’s a very friendly space and I liked how my pup was able to hang out with the day care dogs while he waited for his cut. Also the staff was very accommodating, booking was easy and prices were very reasonable. We will definitely be back!

Mark P.Google review
★★★★★

Awesome groom - our Labradoodle looks so handsome!

Sarah W.Google review
★★★★★

Our big beautiful GSD loves this place. Hes very anxious at groomers but the whole vibe is just chill, welcoming and loving. He immediately relaxed and blended in well.

I struggle to take him in public to dog parks as he gets very unhappy, but id happily leave him here as long as needed. Well managed and run.

Drew R.Google review
★★★★★

Love this place .

The best dog groomers on the Gold Coast .

Nick N.Google review
★★★★★

Our 15yold Moodle has lots of bumps and lumps. Had been avoiding groomers due to fear of distress. Had been recommended Pets Juicy and couldn’t be happier. Easy to book, lovely reception on arrival and felt very comfortable. And in picking up our dog, he was happy calm and looked wonderful.

Katrina C.Google review
★★★★★

Great experience and a lovely groom for my cavoodle- I didn’t recognise him!

Michelle G.Google review
★★★★★

My little Archie seemed to instinctively love this place.

A chilled welcoming venue, very nice staff, and they did a really great job on grooming, I passed by at one point while he was being groomed & saw for myself the care and attention that was taken.

Would definitely recommend.

J.K.Google review
★★★★★

Pet Juicy have been amazing for our little Luna. Highly recommend their services.

Tracey D.Google review
★★★★★

The team at Pets Juicy were amazing! They did such a good job helping with our Border Collie’s matted coat and took really great care of him the whole time. He came home looking so much better and seemed super happy and comfortable. Couldn’t recommend them enough :)

LexGoogle review
★★★★★

Very friendly service, 100% recommended. You can really tell they love and care for animals

Lorena P.Google review
★★★★★

I took my dog for his very first grooming today and I honestly couldn’t have chosen a better salon! The staff were so lovely, everything was done really quickly, and my pup looks absolutely adorable. They did such a great job 👏🏼 highly recommend!

Monika B.Google review
★★★★★

Love coming here. The team genuinely love what they do and always take the best care of my Baxter.

Nicky F.Google review
★★★★★

Had my dog groomed today and they did amazing job, they were gentle and made my dog comfortable before starting. Will definitely be coming back, and i recommend going as they prices are affordable and staff are so friendly.

Elouise N.Google review
★★★★★

Absolutely highly recommend.

My pup Ava looks great and the service and price was great.

Barry

Robina

Barry M.Google review
★★★★★

Everyone at Pets Juicy is amazing. They gave our gorgeous 3 month old labradoodle Barry, his very first grooming session and we were so impressed by their patience and care. Thank you! Barry will be back.

Shaun S.Google review
★★★★★

Highly recommend absolutely amazing service thank you Teddie looks insane look forward to his next pamper 💙

Samijo C.Google review
★★★★★

Phenominal service, they took care of my queenie she looked absolutely gorgeous ❤️❤️💜💜 thank you so much for helping us out we appreciate you and we are beyond grateful ✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️

Tania F.Google review
★★★★★

Amazing place! Staff were super friendly and caring with my dog! My dog looks happy and amazing! 100% would recommend

Mia C.Google review
★★★★★

2nd time we send our swiss shepherd for deadheading and the results are fantastic. The team is super helpful and friendly and the location is convenient. Highly recommended.

Ron S.Google review
★★★★★

Friendly local dog groomer, used for first time and happy with the cut and service all around. Will be back again next time

Alex S.Google review
★★★★★

Bath time at pet Juicy is marvellous for us. We have two cavoodles and to have the care and service from Pet Juicy works a treat. It's clean, friendly and homely.

Charlotte M.Google review
★★★★★

Fabulous team at Pets Juicy. Obviously love their work and customers!!!

Did a great job on our old boy he looks so handsome now.

Marian B.Google review
★★★★★

Amazing service!! So happy with how the dogs looked I accidentally stuffed up my booking and they were so kind to still accommodate me can’t recommend enough 🙏🏻

Linda C.Google review
★★★★★

Honestly, couldn’t be happier! The team are so lovely, kind and accommodating. They went above and beyond for our pups. Highly recommend!

Isabella K.Google review
★★★★★

A great local dog groomer that is well priced, fast and takes great care of the dogs! Our groodle always looks just as we like him when we collect him!

Zoe D.Google review
★★★★★

Shane and the team were very kind to our beautiful Zara. First time we’ve used Pets Juicy for a groom and they were great! A very happy puppy!

Avibe M.Google review
★★★★★

I so happy and appreciative of the great job your team has done to make my miniature Poodle and Cobberdog looks so gorgeous.

Thanks heaps

Claudia

Claudia R.Google review
★★★★★

Highly recommend the Pets juicy team to look after your furry babies. I was so hesitant and nervous as I’d never had my dogs previously looked after but moving interstate and trying to take our family to theme parks left me no choice but to bite the bullet and try. I’m so glad I came across these guys. They put my mind at ease. My dogs were happy to go each day (they went for 3 days). I was updated on the first day with texts and photos to put my nerves at ease. Thank you for such a pleasant experience. Can’t recommend these guys enough. Thank you.

StaceGoogle review
★★★★★

Teddy loves pets juicy!!!

Ange C.Google review
★★★★★

We absolutely love this place! Odin and Scooby always come home happy, relaxed, and looking amazing after their grooming sessions. The team truly cares for the dogs as if they were their own, and I feel so comfortable leaving them here for daycare knowing they’re in safe hands. Grooming is always done perfectly—clean, tidy, and they smell incredible! Most importantly, both dogs actually get excited when we arrive, which says it all. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a professional and loving groomer/daycare.

Valeria T.Google review
★★★★★

Great service and great results!

Lena S.Google review
★★★★★

I would highly recommend Pets Juicy . I popped in this morning to see if they could possibly trim my 14 year old Boxers nail's.

I was in Awe... usually Ruby is a shaking mess and stressed in new situations.

Shane took Ruby through to the grooming room and tender to those nails while I waited.

What I witnessed was a serene/happy atmosphere in the doggy daycare area and Ruby was relaxed on the grooming table while her nails were attended to.

Extremely affordable, Kind and Professional experience.

Isabella L.Google review
★★★★★

Beautiful results, affordable for all.

Loren S.Google review
★★★★★

My 1 year old labradoodle Bryson had his first full groom this morning and couldn't feel more comfortable and pleased with this service. Very impressed with how patient and helpful Shane was. Bryson wasn't the easiest puppy to groom but with the guidance and advice given, I have no doubt it will get essier and he will be less nervous each time. Have definitely found our new grooming service! Very happy, thank you so much! 🙂

Ashleigh R.Google review
★★★★★

Great service and love the free bandana

Sally D.Google review
★★★★★

Extremely happy after collecting our Husky Sasha from his first visit. We really appreciate the extra time and care taken to de-fluff our adored fur ball and especially impressed we were not charged extra for the additional time taken. Have already started recommending you and looking forward to seeing you again next month! Thanks again from Sasha and the Spencer Family 🩷🩷🩷

Simone S.Google review
★★★★★

Thank u Dudley looks awesome after his groom

Melina H.Google review
★★★★★

It was our puppy’s very first grooming session and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! The staff was so gentle and patient, and made sure our little one felt safe and comfortable. He came out looking absolutely adorable — clean, fluffy, and happy! Thank you for taking such great care of him. We’ll definitely be back! 🐾💕

Yui H.Google review
★★★★★

They did a really great job with my dog's groom

Lewis M.Google review
★★★★★

Had such a lovely experience!

My Golden Retriever can be a bit nervous, but the team at Pets Juicy looked after her so well. Such lovely, caring people.

She looks amazing and their services are very well priced.

Bonus is that they post super cute photos of your dog on Instagram ♡

We'll be back, thank you!

Anna-Sophie F.Google review
★★★★★

Amazing service and an easy and user friendly website

Max W.Google review
★★★★★

Amazing service! After being told by multiple groomers across the GC they weren’t taking on anymore large breed clients, I came across Pets Juicy who were more than happy to help. Both dogs groomed the next day and was better priced than I expected! Will definitely be using them from now on.

Brhee Y.Google review
★★★★★

They took amazing care of my little pup will

Definitely be back !!

Andrew H.Google review
★★★★★

We take our two miniature groodles here for their grooming regularly & they do such a good job!!

We’ve had previous experiences at a large salon where our 3yr old would become anxious & distressed, but not here - both our doggies love going to Pets Juicy Miami. Definitely 5 ⭐️ from us!

Jodie D.Google review
★★★★★

Gorgeous people with my puppy she came home happy and looking and smelling great.

Kelly M.Google review
★★★★★

This was my first time here and I’m so happy with how they groomed my dog, he looks amazing and it’s perfect for his active lifestyle. I love how much everyone there cares for the dogs! It made me feel comfortable leaving him and knowing he will be well looked after. Will 100% be back!

Jessica M.Google review
★★★★★

They are amazing and very kind with my furry little baby!!! I strongly recommend!!!

Alexandra P.Google review
★★★★★

I took my 16 month old Border Collie (Ziggy) to Pets Juicy in Miami today for a warm bath and deshed. The staff are so friendly. You can tell that they really care about the dogs they look after. Ziggy looks amazing after his grooming session. Stella job guys!

Mark B.Google review
★★★★★

They have amazing staff and my dog came out smelling so clean with a fresh hair cut for spring.

Bridie P.Google review
★★★★★

My beautiful 15 year old, blind Shihtzu Stella has been here 3 times now and honestly the BEST grooming service we’ve ever experienced. Kind, caring, great grooming- very happy Shihtzu mum and most importantly an extremely happy pup. ❤️

Janet F.Google review
★★★★★

Alfred loved his experience at Pets Juicy. We can't thank them enough for looking after our little guy.

Steph M.Google review
★★★★★

Awesome!!! My little lady is always so happy to go for her beauty treatments. The guys always do such a fantastic job. It used to be such a stressful process but not since coming to Pets Juicy she is relaxed and happy.

MollyGoogle review
★★★★★

Pets Juicy did a great job of grooming our Groodle. Will return for sure.

Recommend to anyone in the area

JPGoogle review
★★★★★

Hi guys! After a missed booking (my bad) you guys managed to fit us in anyway. Franny was loved and cared for and looks great! So happy and many thanks. We will be regulars going forward. 10/10.

IcarusGoogle review
★★★★★

Took my shih tzu cross maltese Lou Lou here for a groom, she smelt lovely. They did a great job and were very nice.

Annalise M.Google review
★★★★★

Julius absolutely loves going to Pets Juicy! They always do such an amazing job grooming him. He comes home looking and smelling incredible every time. Would definitely recommend!

Alice N.Google review
★★★★★

Fantastic service, our wee girl was quite matted but she’s come back home feeling and looking wonderful. Highly recommend.

Deb B.Google review
★★★★★

A fantastic new doggy grooming company and doggy day care in the heart of Miami GC. Who doesn’t love local, especially when that local loves and cares for our fur babies!?

Shelley H.Google review
★★★★★

Stumbled across these groomers online

No wait time. Excellent job and surprisingly well priced. Very happy and will be returning

Karen R.Google review
★★★★★

Took my Border Collie for wash and deshed, my boy is looking as handsome as ever. They did an excellent job and the team was very friendly and great to deal with.

Sam F.Google review
★★★★★

I’m really impressed, honestly have done a really good job in grooming my dog exactly what I wanted. Very nice people and worth it.

Lara B.Google review
★★★★★

Our regular pet groomer and always a great experience with Pets juicy. Grooming of our labradoodle is always done professionally and with love and care.

Matt W.Google review
★★★★★

This place is awesome…super kind and friendly staff and a beautiful haircut and wash given to little Crème. 100% recommend this to everyone 🙌🏼

Adrian P.Google review
★★★★★

I went to Pets Juicy yesterday and the staff there where amazingly attentive, they took such care and time with our little puppy. I couldn't be happier

Thomas H.Google review
★★★★★

We were very impressed with Milly’s first groom since moving to the area. The staff listened to what we wanted and did a fab job. We’ll be back!

Annie L.Google review