I like the heart. And since my parents had a mini-Maltese named Missy, although some of us referred to her as "Killer" I know the heart these dogs have. She was laying on my mother's lap when mom passed, I'd tell you to leave it on the front. Or maybe place it in the center square(s) in the border.
Any one who knows and loves those dogs will know why it's there.
Beautiful quilt.
Susan