Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Maltese is one of the oldest decorative dog breeds, with references dating back to ancient times. Its origins are traditionally associated with the island of Malta and other Mediterranean regions, where these miniature dogs were prized for their beauty, grace, and devotion. They were mentioned by classical authors and depicted in mosaics and sculptures. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the Maltese became a favorite of the French and Italian nobility, a constant companion of aristocratic ladies. In the 19th century, the breed spread throughout Europe, gaining popularity as an elegant salon companion. The modern type with long, pure white hair was established in the 20th century. Today, the Maltese is recognized worldwide as one of the most refined and graceful toy breeds.
General Appearance
The Maltese is a small, compact, and graceful dog with a square body and harmonious proportions. Its defining feature is the long, dense, straight, pure white coat that flows to the ground, giving it a look of elegance and nobility. The head is proportional to the body, with a lively and intelligent expression. The eyes are large, dark, and expressive, radiating gentleness and friendliness. The ears are triangular, pendant, and covered with long hair. The neck is of medium length, elegant and well-arched, carrying the head proudly. The back is straight and firm, the chest deep, and the limbs straight with compact feet. The tail is set high, carried over the back, and covered with long flowing hair. Overall, the Maltese appears lively, cheerful, and refined, combining lightness with vitality.
Important Proportions
The Maltese has a square format: the length from the shoulder to the croup equals the height at the withers. The head length represents about one-third of the dog’s height. The muzzle is straight, about one-third the length of the head, ensuring correct jaw construction and breed expression. The skull is slightly oval, broad, and merges smoothly into the muzzle. The neck is medium in length, strong, and elegantly arched. The chest is deep, reaching the elbows, with rounded ribs. The back is straight, the loin short and muscular. The tail is medium in length, carried over the back in harmony with the silhouette. Limbs are strong, straight, and correctly angulated. All proportions emphasize balance, grace, and breed type.
Temperament and Character
The Maltese is cheerful, affectionate, and devoted. As a true companion breed, it forms a strong emotional bond with its owner and loves to be involved in family activities. It is sociable, playful, and good-natured, getting along well with children and other pets. Despite its small size, the Maltese is brave and alert, often serving as an excellent little watchdog. The temperament is well-balanced, without aggression or timidity, making it an ideal family pet. Intelligent and quick-witted, the Maltese learns easily, enjoys training, and adapts well to apartment life while remaining lively and active.
Head
The head is medium-sized, in proportion to the body, with a moderately broad, slightly oval skull. The stop is well defined but not abrupt. The forehead is flat or slightly rounded, covered with long, white hair that gives the breed a soft, intelligent expression. The overall head conveys harmony, refinement, and breed type.
Muzzle
The muzzle is of moderate length, straight, and about one-third the length of the head. The jaws are strong with a scissor bite; the teeth are white and well aligned. The nose is large, black, with well-opened nostrils. The lips are thin, tight, and evenly pigmented. The muzzle is elegant and framed by long hair, emphasizing the breed’s refined look.
Eyes
The eyes are large, round, and slightly prominent but not bulging, set straight. The iris is dark brown and rich in tone. Eyelids are tight, with dark rims and no wrinkles. The whites of the eyes should not be visible. The expression is intelligent, kind, and lively, reflecting the breed’s gentle temperament.
Ears
The ears are triangular, of medium length, set slightly above the eye line, and covered with long, silky hair. The tips are rounded, hanging close to the head and blending with the coat. In repose, they lie softly along the cheeks; in motion, they retain their natural position, maintaining balance and elegance.
Neck
The neck is medium in length, dry, strong, and slightly arched, smoothly joining the head and shoulders. It is long and strong enough to give the breed its proud head carriage. Covered with long white hair, it transitions gracefully into the body, emphasizing the dog’s refined elegance.
Body
The body is compact and square, with a straight, strong back and a short, muscular loin. The chest is deep, reaching the elbows, with rounded ribs. The abdomen is slightly tucked up. The topline is level and firm. The general impression is one of harmony, strength, and grace.
Tail
The tail is set high, of medium length, carried over the back or slightly to one side in a graceful arch, covered with long, silky hair. It completes the outline, adding elegance and balance to the silhouette.
Forequarters
The forelegs are straight, parallel, and strong. The shoulders are sloping, with close-fitting blades. The forearms are straight and fine-boned; pasterns are short and resilient with a slight slope. Feet are small, round, compact, with firm pads. Movement is light, confident, and free.
Hindquarters
The hind legs are strong and muscular, with well-defined angles. Thighs are medium in length and powerful. Hocks are well let down, strong, and correctly placed. Feet are compact and round with tight toes and firm pads.
Gait/Movement
The movement is free, light, and balanced. The forelegs move forward confidently, while the hind legs provide strong propulsion. The topline remains level and stable in motion. The gait is elegant and expressive, reflecting the breed’s cheerful temperament.
Coat
The coat is long, dense, and straight, falling evenly on both sides of the body down to the ground. There is little to no undercoat. The texture is firm yet soft, without waves or curls. The coat should be glossy, well-groomed, and form a flowing outline. Poor texture, curl, or lack of density detracts from the breed type.
Color
Only pure white color is permitted. Slight ivory shading is acceptable but less desirable. Any other color, patches, or markings are disqualifying. The coat should be clean, bright, and uniform, emphasizing the breed’s aristocratic appearance.
Size
Height at the withers for both males and females ranges from 20 to 25 cm. Weight is between 3 and 4 kg. Males are typically more compact and sturdy, while females are lighter and more delicate. The format is square, with proportions in perfect balance.
Faults
Faults include any deviations from the standard affecting balance or breed type: weak bone, coarse or loose structure, elongated or shortened body, flat chest, weak back, or an unsteady topline. Minor bite faults, incomplete dentition, lack of pigmentation on the nose or eyelids, light eyes, overly short or long muzzle, and poor coat quality (soft, curly, or dull hair) reduce evaluation. Low tail carriage or insecure, restricted movement are also considered faults.
Disqualifications
Disqualifying faults include aggression or extreme shyness, mental instability, serious bite defects (overshot, undershot, jaw asymmetry, multiple missing teeth), blue eyes, total depigmentation of the nose or eyelids, short, curly, or wavy hair that distorts breed type, and any coat color other than white. Also disqualifying are deformities, paralysis, deafness, blindness, cryptorchidism, amputations, or surgical alterations made to disguise defects. Any major deviation from the ICCF standard results in disqualification.
Important Notes
In ICCF evaluation, emphasis is placed on the square body format, balanced proportions, and coat quality. The white coat color is mandatory and must be uniform. Only a slight ivory tint is acceptable. Faults are judged according to their degree and impact on health and type. Males should appear stronger and more compact, females more elegant and lighter. Grooming must maintain natural appearance—artificial coloring or alteration is forbidden. The Maltese should show no aggression or fear, though alertness to strangers is acceptable. Balance, movement, and breed character are key elements of assessment.
Conclusion
The Maltese is an ancient decorative breed that embodies elegance, loyalty, and refinement. With its harmonious square build, long white coat, and joyful temperament, it represents the essence of the toy companion group. The ICCF standard sets strict requirements for structure, behavior, and color, ensuring purity and type preservation. Only dogs with official ICCF documentation proving pedigree and standard compliance may participate in breeding and exhibitions. The Maltese remains a true symbol of grace, devotion, and aristocratic charm, admired and beloved worldwide.
