If you want to breed a better Maltese, then you need to do it right. We have a huge pet overpopulation problem in the US so breeding just because is not a great reason.
1. Show your dog to get outside opinions about how well he meets the breed standard.
2. Health test your dog for knees, eyes, and liver disease.
3. Research your dogs pedigree to find out about health issues produced, structure produced, what lines it mixes well with, major faults, temperament, etc.
4. Get a mentor, preferably the breeder of your dog as show quality breeding potential dogs are kept on a tight leash by their breeders. Breeding is an art, not just putting 2 dogs together. It takes years to learn about structure, evaluating dogs, etc.
5. Be prepared to be responsible for what you breed. That means assisting the bitch owner in paying expenses if the litter produces a serious health problem like liver shunt. It may also mean taking responsibility for any puppies produced by your stud if the bitch owner for some reason cannot do it. It takes 2 to tango and both are responsible for the outcome.