Browse ›
An older man in red flannel gently washes a soapy white Maltese with a blue sponge in a galvanized tub in the yard. 20 / 35

Grandpa Filled the Old Washtub With Suds. Pearl Knew Exactly What That Meant.

AI imagemaltesebath timebackyard

An old galvanized washtub sits in the yard, filled to the brim with sudsy water, and Pearl is right in the middle of it. Her usually fluffy coat is soaked flat, making her look half her normal size, and she peers out with an expression of patient resignation. Grandpa Gus leans over the tub in his red flannel, gently scrubbing her back with a bright blue sponge and watching her closely. Behind them, the yard is a happy jumble of garden hoses, potted plants, sandals, a woven basket, and tools leaning against the house under a porch light.

Maltese typically need a bath every few weeks, or more often if they love to play outside. Use a gentle shampoo made for dogs, since human products can dry out or irritate their skin. Lukewarm water is best, and it helps to place cotton balls loosely in their ears and avoid getting soap in their eyes. Rinse thoroughly, as leftover shampoo can cause itching. Because Maltese have long, fine hair that tangles easily, brushing before and after the bath prevents mats from tightening. Dry them completely with a towel and a low-heat dryer to keep them comfortable and prevent skin issues.

Pearl isn't thrilled, but she's tolerating it with impressive dignity. Gus is gentle and slow, and she knows a warm towel and a treat are waiting at the end.

Bath day may not be anyone's favorite, but a sparkling clean Maltese is definitely worth the splash.

More from this collection

All 35 →
An older man in glasses and red flannel holds a bowl of popcorn on the couch while a white Maltese gazes up at it.Grandpa Popped a Big Bowl for Movie Night. He Forgot About His Little Critic.A laughing older man in red flannel holds out his hand in a kitchen as a small white Maltese stands up on its hind legs.Grandpa Started Swaying to a Song in the Kitchen. Pearl Rose to the Occasion.
An older man in glasses hand-sews a blue patchwork quilt on the floor while a small white Maltese sleeps on top of it.Grandpa Laid Out His Quilt Squares to Start Sewing. Pearl Had Other Plans for Them.An older man in glasses reads a worn folded letter on the couch while a white Maltese rests its head on his knee.Grandpa Unfolded an Old Letter He'd Kept for Years. Pearl Moved a Little Closer.An older man in red flannel sprays a silver car with a hose as a small white Maltese jumps up at the stream of water.Grandpa Only Wanted to Rinse Off the Car. Pearl Turned It Into a Water Park.An older man in plaid holds a leashed white Maltese at a busy farmers market with produce stalls behind them.Grandpa Went to the Farmers Market for Tomatoes. Pearl Was There for the Smells.