Color/Marking?

Just wondering--recently bought my first Maltese. His registration papers show color: white 199 and marking/pattern: 019 black points. What exactly does that mean? We really don't plan on showing him--just wanted a beautiful sweet pet, which we have. Can someone answer re: the white/black scores, etc.? Thanks!
Pam

• The "black points" refer to the black "eye rims" that encircle his eyes and the black nose. The beautiful expression exhibited by a Maltese exists as much from the stark contrast between the extreme whiteness of the coat and the extreme blackness of these "points". This is not a negative but a positive. I have seen some Maltese without these "black points" - either a pinkish nose or incomplete or even non-existent eye rims - but their registration papers were still filled out the same way as yours. I just hope your dog DOES have the "black points" as all Maltese should.
  Larry Stanberry - Divine Maltese

• Maltese with incomplete eyerims or pink noses do not have "black points" and therefore the block which says white should be checked, and leaving black points unchecked. On a certified A.K.C. pedigree, you will sometimes find color, white and no mention of black points. If your maltese was purchased to be a loving pet, have her spayed and give her lots of love.
  Ruby Ann