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Best Collars for Maltese Dogs | Safe & Custom Fit

Posted on by Carlton Clark
03
Aug

The best collar for a Maltese is flat, lightweight, and made from smooth, non-matting materials. Their delicate necks need gentle gear, so many owners use a harness for walks, or a collar if it fits well. Most Maltese wear 8–12″ collars; always measure for safety and comfort.

If you’re looking for the best collar for your Maltese, you’re in the right place. These tiny pups need gear that’s soft, safe, and fits just right.

Maltese have delicate necks and fine, silky coats. The wrong collar can lead to matting, irritation, or even pressure-related injuries. But that doesn’t mean collars are off the table.

Many Maltese wear collars comfortably every day, especially for ID. Some even use them for walks, if the fit and materials are spot-on.

Harnesses are also a great option. They reduce pressure on the neck and give added control on walks. But they’re not required for every dog, and not every Maltese tolerates them well.

At Mimi Green, we make collars and harnesses for dogs who are more than just pets. They’re family. Every piece is made to order in the USA, designed for comfort, safety, and style.

Want the quick answer? You can use either a collar or harness for your Maltese, just choose one that’s lightweight, gentle, and fits perfectly. If you want help picking the best option, keep reading.

Why Choosing the Right Collar for a Maltese Really Matters

Maltese dogs may be tiny, but they’re not low-maintenance. Their necks are narrow, fragile, and protected by soft cartilage instead of thick muscle.

The wrong collar can do more than irritate. It can lead to long-term damage.

Maltese are already sensitive in this area. That makes them especially vulnerable to poorly made gear.

Big-box collars made for larger breeds aren’t a match for a Maltese. These dogs need softer materials, lighter hardware, and a collar that was actually made with their size in mind.

Should Maltese Dogs Wear Harnesses?

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A soft, lightweight collar is great for ID tags or casual indoor wear. Some dogs can even use collars for walks if the fit is perfect and the dog walks calmly.

But harnesses are a great option too. They move pressure away from the neck and onto the chest, which helps protect the trachea and thyroid. This matters most if your Maltese pulls, lunges, or startles easily.

You don’t have to pick one over the other. Many pet parents use both. A flat collar with an engraved buckle for ID, and a step-in harness for leash walks.

Just skip retractable leashes. They encourage pulling and can fail under tension.

So, should your Maltese wear a harness? Absolutely. 

Collar vs Harness: Which Is Better for Maltese?

For walking, many Maltese do better in a harness. Collars can tug at the most sensitive part of the body. Harnesses spread out the pressure, which makes walks easier and safer.

But collars still have a role. They’re perfect for keeping ID tags in place. And they’re a great option for dogs who don’t like bulky gear.

At Mimi Green, we offer two harness styles built for small dogs:

  • Step-In Harness: Ideal for pups that tend to squirm or dislike gear slipping over their head.
  • Easy-On Harness: A lower-profile, super lightweight option for dogs who don’t love bulk.

Every harness is available in our full fabric lineup. You can match your style from collar to leash without settling for stiff, store-bought gear.

Avoid harnesses labeled “escape-proof” or “chew-proof.” These often sacrifice comfort in favor of buzzwords.

What Size Collar Does a Maltese Need?

Most adult Maltese need collars in the 8–12″ range, but don’t go by breed charts alone. Measuring your dog’s actual neck is the only way to ensure a proper fit.

Here’s how:

  1. Use a soft measuring tape to wrap around the base of the neck, where the collar will sit.
  2. Follow the two-finger rule: you should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.
  3. For puppies, expect to size up quickly as they grow. Check the fit weekly.

At Mimi Green, every collar is made to order, so you’re not stuck guessing between too-big or too-small. 

Our sizing approach prioritizes fit, not just weight, which means you get gear that actually stays secure, feels comfortable, and looks great.

Best Collar Types for Maltese

When choosing a collar for your Maltese, softness and safety come first.

Rough edges or stiff materials can cause matting, itching, or even skin damage. Big hardware built for large breeds just doesn’t work here.

Avoid thick nylon, metal chains, or oversized buckles. Go for gentle materials that match your dog’s size and coat.

Every collar at Mimi Green is made to order in the USA. We use only soft, safe materials that hold up to daily wear without irritating your pup’s neck.

5 Top Collar Picks for Maltese at Mimi Green

If your Maltese could scroll through a collar shop, here’s what they’d add to cart.

  1. Engraved Buckle Collar: Lightweight and tag-free. No jingling, no fuss. Ideal for nervous pups or quiet homes.
  2. Lightweight Waterproof Biothane Collars: Dirt-resistant and quick-dry. This collar is made for dogs who love adventure or hate bath time.
  3. Flat Nylon Buckle Collar Our soft nylon is nothing like the scratchy stuff you find in stores. Smooth on the neck and built to last.
  4. Fi-Compatible Buckle Collar: Keep tabs on your pup with GPS. Add a Fi tracker to your Mimi Green collar without giving up comfort.
  5. Easy-On Harness and Collar Set: Match your Maltese’s collar and harness in any of our fabrics. Coordinate from head to tail with a custom fit.

Because every Mimi Green collar is made to order, your Maltese gets gear built just for them, not pulled from a warehouse shelf.

How to Avoid Collar Problems in Maltese

Even the right collar can cause problems if it’s used the wrong way. Here’s how to keep your Maltese safe and comfortable:

  • If the collar causes problems, use a harness instead. This avoids neck pressure and keeps your dog’s airway protected.
  • Rotate collar types to reduce wear and friction. For example, alternate between nylon and Biothane.
  • Brush under the collar daily. Maltese coats mat easily, especially around friction points. A few minutes with a slicker brush can prevent big grooming bills.
  • Remove collars at night or during solo play. This helps avoid accidental snagging, chewing, or matting while your dog is unsupervised.

Smart habits make all the difference, and at Mimi Green, we design gear that works with your daily routine, not against it. 

When to Replace a Maltese’s Collar

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Maltese may not weigh much, but their collars still see wear and tear, especially if you rotate between walks, daycare, and daily lounging. We suggest checking your dog’s collar every month for signs like:

  • Frayed stitching or stretched fabric
  • Bent or rusted buckles
  • Tightness from seasonal coat growth
  • Unpleasant odors (especially if your dog plays hard)

Most owners find they need a new collar every 6–12 months, depending on use and activity. 

Puppies? Even faster. Growth spurts can sneak up fast, so it’s smart to measure their neck often and upgrade before the fit becomes unsafe.

Mimi Green collars are made to last, but like any wearable gear, regular checks help ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable.

What Maltese Parents Are Asking

What is the best collar for a Maltese puppy? Soft, lightweight collars like Mimi Green’s engraved buckle models are ideal. For growing pups, opt for adjustable collars that won’t tug on delicate necks or cause matting.

Are harnesses safe for small dogs? Absolutely. In fact, they’re very safe for walks. Harnesses reduce pressure on the trachea and are easier to control without harming your Maltese’s spine or throat.

Can collars cause seizures or hypothyroidism? Yes, if misused. Pressure on the neck vertebrae can increase seizure risk in neurologically sensitive breeds like the Maltese. Repeated collar pressure can also inflame the thyroid gland. A properly fitted harness avoids both issues.

Should I choose a buckle or no-buckle martingale? Both work, but if ease matters, go with a buckle martingale. Mimi Green offers buckle martingales in soft materials that are easier to take on and off while maintaining gentle control.

What if my dog hates their harness? It’s common at first. Start slow, use treats, and try a step-in style. Our breathable harnesses are designed to be fuss-free, even for picky pups.

Final Checklist – Gear Every Maltese Owner Needs

Snippet: Get your dog walk-ready with these essentials tailored for Maltese comfort and safety.

  • ✅ A soft, adjustable collar (Nylon or Biothane)
  • ✅ Step-in harness (avoids trachea pressure and rubbing)
  • ✅ Engraved ID buckle, quiet, secure, and visible
  • ✅ Matching leash (lightweight, soft grip)
  • ✅ Poop bag holder (because let’s be honest, it’s always needed)
  • ✅ Flexible tape measure to check neck fit monthly

This setup is designed for your Maltese’s comfort, safety, and day-to-day lifestyle.

Ready to Upgrade Your Maltese’s Collar Game?

When your dog is as unique as your Maltese, generic gear just won’t cut it. At Mimi Green, we handcraft every collar and harness with your pup’s size, coat, and personality in mind.

All our gear is made-to-order in the USA using premium, pet-safe materials. No guesswork. No scratchy nylon. Just beautiful, secure designs made by real people who love dogs as much as you do.

Looking for a collar that fits like it was made for your Maltese? That’s because it was.

 👉Find Your Maltese’s Perfect Collar Today

Carlton Clark