Tail Waggers' Blog

To properly size your dog for a collar, use a flexible measuring device such as a tailor’s tape. If you don’t have one or the measuring device you do have may potentially harm your dog, use a piece of string and measure it when you have determined the correct length.

Since Martingale collars do not have a buckle and must fit over the dog’s head, you will first need to measure the widest point on their head; this is typically around the back of the head over and including the ears as in line A in photo. Depending on your dog’s head it may be more like line B (click the photo for a larger view), then use the largest measurement.

Adjust the tape or string by the appropriate amount to ensure that it will easily slip on and off their head and neck; this will be about 1 inch on small dogs and 2 inches or more on medium and large dogs. This will differ between all dogs as it really depends on the size and shape of both the dog’s head and ears.

Once this has been done, this is the minimum size that you will need to order. Note that the collar may need to be adjusted once it slips over the dog’s head as you do not want it too loose around their neck. Once it has been adjusted on the dog it should have about 2 inches of play or 2 finger widths between the collar and dog’s neck for the most comfortable fit.

A martingale collar is a special dog collar also known as a humane choke collar or greyhound collar.

They are designed to slip over the dog’s head and comfortably fit around their neck.

They have a small loop attached to the main collar that contracts when tension is applied, thus tightening the collar around the dogs neck to avoid it from slipping back over their head.

They are also used to improve control during walks or training sessions.

There are two situations where martingale collars work best.

1) For those dogs and breeds that can easily slip their heads out of a collar that is properly fitted around their neck. This is mostly due to the little or lack of difference between the size of their heads and necks – typical breeds are Grey Hounds, Whippets, Beagles, and Jack Russels, just to name a few.

2) For those dogs or situations where a choke or pinch collar is used. The standard choke collar doesn’t limit the amount choking or pressure being applied to the dog’s neck and throat, which can easily and quickly harm the dog. Especially concerning is when the extra pressure is being applied unintentionally such as when the dog is pulling or there is over correction by the owner. Also, similar to the pinch collar the standard choke collar can easily pinch and potentially puncture the dog’s skin leaving permanent damage.

The martingale collar is an excellent choice for these specific dog breeds and is especially an excellent replacement for these types of training collars as they are safer and easier for both the dogs and owners.

The martingale collar is designed to comfortably sit around the dog’s neck and will only tighten when tension is applied and since the martingale collars are easily adjustable they can be adjusted to limit the amount of choking or pressure that is applied to the dog’s throat.

**Special Note**
Make sure when adjusting the martingale collar when you pull on the smaller loop that the two slip locks come together without choking your dog. Ideally, there should be a finger width or two when smaller loop is fully pulled to limit any potential choking.

These “humane” and pet friendly collars are becoming increasingly popular with trainers and pet owners alike.

Not to mention that you can now have one collar serving both jobs – what a money saver!