The Maltese is a breed of dog in the toy group. It is thought to have originated in south-central Europe from dogs of spitz type. It takes its name from the Mediterranean island of Malta.It traditionally has a silky, pure-white coat, hanging ears and a tail that curves over its back, and weighs up to 3.6 kilograms. The Maltese dog was a lapdog favoured by both the ancient Greeks and Romans, especially their children, and appears on amphorae. References to the dog can also be found in Ancient Greek and Roman literature. Aristotle mentions the dog around 370 BC.
Known for its long, silky white coat, the Maltese is gentle, playful, and one of the oldest toy breeds, beloved for its affectionate nature. They are lively and enjoy interactive play with their owners. Maltese dogs are also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.