aggression

Question
I have a 1 year old maltese and I'd like to know how I can stop him from growling at me and nipping at me when I'm brushing him.  I usually put him right on my lap and things are usually ok until i get to his legs.  I've checked to see if he has any cuts or something that's bothering him but theres nothing and I make sure I'm being gentle with the brush also. He has also crept into the bathroom a few times and went into the garbage to grab something and got extremely aggressive trying to bite me when I was getting it away from him. He's never like that when it comes to toys or other things he takes around the house.  These are really the only times he attempts to bite.

Answer
wow, i can understand the grooming issues as mine can be a a monkey when i groom him but make sure you nip the agression in the bud or it will escalate show him your the boss if he even shows a sign of agression put him on his basket and make him stay there do this every time.
as for the grooming mine nibbles me to move my hand away as he hates it but you must perservere to avoid matting etc you must get him used to it do it daily i know its a pain lol anyway it is advised to droom them on a table to avoid them moving etc it should be a high groomers table but try your ironing board talk to him throughout and  eventually he will come round try thr ironong board trick honest there a different dog but make sure you keep an eye on him.