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A grandmother in a floral apron brushes the coat of a white Maltese sitting on concrete back steps. 32 / 32

Every Evening on the Back Steps, Abuela and Copito Have the Same Little Ritual

AI imagemaltesegroomingback steps

Slow, steady strokes, and Copito stands perfectly still. Abuela Rosa crouches on the concrete back steps in a soft gray-blue shirt and her pink floral apron, running a wooden-handled brush through his long white coat. Her glasses have slipped down a bit as she leans in to check for tangles. Copito faces away from her with his dark eyes calm and his tail fanned out behind him, clearly used to this routine and maybe even enjoying it. A wicker basket with a folded towel sits on the step above, and a potted plant waits by the door.

The Maltese has a long, silky single coat that does not shed much, but it does tangle easily. Many owners brush their Maltese daily or every other day to prevent mats, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar. Working in small sections with a pin brush and then a fine comb helps catch knots before they tighten. Tear staining around the eyes is common in white breeds, and gently wiping the area keeps it clean. Some owners prefer a shorter puppy cut for easier care. A professional groomer or your vet can show you the right tools for your dog.

For Copito, brushing time means Rosa's full attention and a few minutes of gentle hands. For Rosa, it is a quiet ritual at the end of the day. Both of them come away a little calmer, and one of them comes away a lot fluffier.

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