American Kennel Club Standard

General appearance: The Maltese dog is a toy dog that is covered from head to foot with long, silky, white hair.� It is
�� gentle mannered and affectionate, eager and sprightly in action.
Head: The head is of medium length.� The skull is slightly rounded on top.� The drop ears are rather low set and heavily
�� feathered with long hair that hangs close to the head.� The eyes are not too far apart.� They are very dark and round.� The
�� muzzle is of medium length.� The nose is black.�
Body: Compact. Shoulder blades are sloping.� The elbows are well-knit and held close to the body.� The back is level in
��� topline.� The ribs are well sprung.� The chest is fairly deep.� The loins are taut, strong, and just slightly tucked up underneath.
Tail: A long-haired plume.� The tail is carried over the back.� It's tip lying to the side over the quarter.
Legs and feet: Legs are fined boned and nicely feathered.�� Forelegs are straight, their pastern joints are well-knit and devoid
��� of appreciable bend. Hind legs are strong and moderately angulated at stifles and hocks.� The feet are smalland round.
Coat and Color: The coat is single with no undercoat.� It hangs long, flat and silky over the boddy.�� It's color is pure white.
Size: Weight under 7 lbs, with from 4-6 lbs preferred. Overall quality is to be favored over size.
Gait: The Maltese moves with a jaunty, smooth, flowing gait.
��� Temperament: The Maltese seems to be without fear. It's trusting and affectionate.� It is among the gentlest mannered of
��� all� little dogs.� It is lively and playful as well as vigorous.

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