The Maltese was a breed owned by royalty and royalty only for about 28 centuries. They have always been about the same size as the breed is today. It is believed to have been developed in Italy.
Nicknamed "ancient dog of Malta"
Were sold for over $2,000 dollars in the 16th century.
http://www.akc.org/breeds/maltese/index.cfm
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/maltese.htm
http://www.gopetsamerica.com/maltese/maltese.aspx
