Maltese dog

Maltese
Maltese groomed with overcoat
Origin	Italy[1]
Traits Height Males 21–25 cm (8–10 in)[1] Females 20–23 cm (8–9 in)[1] Weight 3–4 kg (7–9 lb)[1] Coat white Litter size 1 to 3
Kennel club standards ENCI standard Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard
Dog (domestic dog)

Maltese dog refers both to an ancient variety of dwarf, white-coated dog breed from Italy^[1] and generally associated also with the island of Malta, and to a modern breed of similar dogs in the toy group, genetically related to the Bichon, Bolognese, and Havanese breeds.^[2] The precise link, if any, between the modern and ancient breeds is not known. Nicholas Cutillo suggested that Maltese dogs might descend from spitz-type canines, and that the ancient variety probably was similar to the latter Pomeranian breeds with their short snout, pricked ears, and bulbous heads.^[3][4] These two varieties, according to Stanley Coren, were perhaps the first dogs employed as human companions.^[5]

The modern variety traditionally has a silky, pure-white coat, hanging ears and a tail that curves over its back, and weighs up to 3–4 kg (7–9 lb).^[1] The Maltese does not shed.^[6] The Maltese is kept for companionship, ornament, or competitive exhibition.