The Maltese breed tends to be playful and very active, both indoors and outdoors. They love to take walks and exercise.
Maltese generally do not like the cold-cold weather and prefer a sweater to keep the chill off of them. Many owners love to put cute sweaters on them for a fashion statement…I personally think they are adorable either way.
The hair of a Maltese is white or light ivory. It is silky and very soft. Many styles can be achieved by either letting their hair grow long and groomed like a show dog with the hair lying flat and having over the sides of the body (almost to the ground). Shorter cuts are easier to care for and tend to the popular choice.
They shed little to no hair and are good for allergy sufferers (see ‘Hypoallergenic Dogs’ page).
Maltese are a small breed but are very hardy. They are part of the ‘Toy’ group. The body is compact, fine-boned yet sturdy. They typically weigh between 6 ½ – 9 pounds and tend to be 8-10 inches in height.
AKC show weight requirements are under 7 pounds. Overall quality is to be favored over size.
AKC states
“The Maltese is a toy dog covered from head to foot with a mantle of long, silky, white hair. He is gentle-mannered and affectionate, eager and sprightly in action, and, despite his size, possessed of the vigor needed for the satisfactory companion.”
Reference:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/maltese