Neck
Enough length to support proud head carriage.
The Maltese, beautifully described
The AKC Maltese
Breed Standard
A guide to the qualities that make a Maltese a Maltese, with dogs from the Storybook family alongside the details.
Reading the standard
One breed. A complete picture.
The descriptions below are plain-language summaries, not the official wording. The American Kennel Club’s linked standard is the reference; it carries an approval date of March 10, 1964.
“Overall quality is to be favored over size.”
— AKC, Official Standard of the Maltese
The photographs invite a closer look at appearance. Movement, bite, and temperament require more than a still image.
Appearance & expression
Silky white coat.
Gentle, alert expression.
General appearance
A small, energetic companion with flowing white hair and an affectionate nature.
Head
A proportionate head, slightly rounded skull, moderate stop, low drop ears, dark round eyes with black rims, black nose, and a medium, tapered muzzle. Level or scissors bite.
Coat & color
A single, straight, silky coat without undercoat; white overall. Slight tan or lemon ear shading is allowed, though less desirable.
Balance, from head to tail
Structure beneath the coat
Body
Compact proportions, equal height and body length, sloping shoulders, close elbows, level back, deep chest, and strong loin.
Tail
A feathered tail arches over the back, ending beside the hindquarter.
Legs & feet
Fine-boned, straight forelegs; strong, moderately angled hind legs; small rounded feet with black pads.
See the original anatomy illustration
Size
Below seven pounds; four to six preferred. Quality matters more than weight alone.
Gait
Lively, fluid movement with straight tracking; inward or outward hind-foot turning is faulty.
Temperament
Trusting, affectionate, gentle, spirited, and playful.
Summary source: American Kennel Club — Official Standard of the Maltese. Checked October 5, 2026.
Barbara’s preferences
The Storybook Look
I enjoy showing our dogs in AKC conformation and aim to breed to the standard. I’m also drawn to the “baby-doll” expression—larger eyes and a shorter-looking muzzle—and to compact dogs that are easy to carry.
Those are my personal preferences, separate from the official requirements above. Temperament, early conditioning, and a lasting bond with a family matter deeply in my program.
I hope each puppy will grow up in a home committed to a lifetime together. You can explore our therapy and service-dog information or meet the Storybook dogs and see their records.