Maltese dog

[ mawl-teez dawg, dog, -tees ]

noun

1. one of a breed of toy dogs having a long, straight, silky white coat.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Maltese dog¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

When he arrives home in the afternoon, Mr. Oonami usually fixes himself a stir-fried dinner, feeds his two Maltese dogs and falls asleep by 6 p.m.

From New York Times

After that, Maltese dogs were sometimes crossed with poodles, and some are said to show poodle traits now.

From New York Times

Since March, Sgroi has barely left a house where she lives alone but for her Maltese dog, Cassie.

From Washington Post

“So are you saying you are a new owner looking for a guide to Maltese dogs?”

From Los Angeles Times

A Philadelphia police officer was charged with robbery and other crimes in New York City Saturday after a dispute with his girlfriend's brother over a Maltese dog.

From Fox News