For over twenty-eight centuries, the Maltese Spaniel has been the aristocrat of the dog world. The Maltese puppy is believed to originate from Malta, an island south of Sicily. It seems very appropriate that such a noble dog should have originated in Malta, whose civilization was characterized by its sophistication and opulence.

A noteworthy Maltese pup, Issa, was owned by Publius, the governor of Malta in the 1st century. A famous inscription described Issa as "mischievous […] purer than a dove's kiss, sweeter than a maiden [...] more valuable than Indian jewels". Many famous writers and academics, such as Pliny the Elder and Strabo, wrote about the beauty, delicacy and irresistible charm of the little Maltese puppy. The Greeks erected tombs for these animals, and since the 5th century, these ornate dogs have been depicted in Greek pottery art. Archaeological evidence has been preserved showing that the Egyptians kept Maltese dogs, a breed that they possibly adored.

The Maltese has been a prized animal in high society throughout history. In fact, there is talk of a Maltese puppy that was sold in the 16th century for the equivalent of $2,000. Apparently Maltese puppies were especially popular with women, who wore them on their bibs or sleeves. Scholars of the past consistently noted the diminutive size of this breed. In 1792, the botanist Linnaeus said, referring to Maltese dogs, that "they were rather the size of squirrels". The first Maltese shown in the United States was white and was registered as a "Maltese Lion Dog" at the first Westminster Dog Show in 1877. The American Kennel Club registered this breed in 1888.