Martingale Collars
What is a martingale collar? How do you know which one to buy? Martingales can be a life changing tool when used properly—but safety is key. Read through this page before using your martingale to ensure you’re using it safely as improper use or fit could lead to hazards for both you and your dog.
A safe alternative to choke or prong collars.
A martingale collar is designed to tighten when a dog pulls on the leash so that it does not slip over the dog’s head. A martingale has a large loop that goes around the dog’s neck, and another smaller loop that tightens the collar when pulled. They’re a safe alternative to other types collars that tighten because martingales are unable to tighten enough to harm your dog when used properly. In fact, a number of countries have outlawed prong collars because of the physical and physiological harm they can cause to dogs. New Zealand, Austria, Australia, Switzerland, parts of Canada, and many other countries have made prong collars (and in many cases choke and shock collars) illegal (SFSPCA). Prong and choke collars can harm your relationship with your dog, and martingales are a perfect alternative to ensure a healthy bond free of pain association. They’re perfect for skittish dogs who back out of their collars when spooked, though many users also report greater control over their dog when walking them using a martingale. Keep in mind that pulling on leash will always require consistent training to overcome.
DO NOT USE with brachycephalic breeds or dogs who have trouble breathing.
This can expedite the process of tracheal collapse and be very dangerous. These include squishy-nosed breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Boston Terriers, Mastiffs, and Pekingese, among others (HSVMA). Talk with your veterinarian if you’re unsure if a martingale is right for you and your dog.
Get the right fit.
1. Measure as if for a regular collar. This is where the martingale will sit at rest. 2. Measure behind the ears at the base of the skull. On many dogs, this is the widest part of the head that a slip-on martingale will need to fit over. On other dogs, this part of the head may be narrower than the first measurement. Use the bigger measurement to select your collar size.
If choosing a martingale with a buckle, you can omit step 2.
To buckle or not to buckle?
It comes down to the ears. Big ears? Go with a buckle. Little ears? Slip-on will do. With a traditional slip-on or chain, you’ll have to adjust the collar each time you use it. With a buckle, you only have to adjust it once (though check it periodically, as it may stretch over time). Choosing between a traditional slip-on and a chain is simply personal preference.
How to purchase: 1. Choose the collar you would like to have made as a martingale and add it to your cart. 2. Go to the Martingale Add-on and select your preferences, then add it to your cart. You’ll be asked to specify which collar you’ll be modifying, and if you need custom sizing.
Once you get your martingale:
It’s important to make sure you’re using your martingale correctly once you've got it. If your martingale doesn’t have a buckle, loosen it so it slips comfortably over your dog’s head and ears, then tighten it once in place. The martingale should fit snugly while at rest, and you should be able to fit 2-3 fingers underneath. When the collar is tightened, the two metal pieces (or the buckle and the metal piece) should be 2-3 fingers apart. They should NEVER touch, as this would mean the collar is too loose and could slip over the dog’s head.
Martingales are intended to be used only while walking on leash with an owner. Never leave your dog unsupervised while wearing a martingale collar. The extra loop poses a hazard because it could potentially get caught on something, such as a fence post, which can harm your dog. Always keep a regular collar on hand for everyday wear.
When attaching your dog’s tags, attach them to the side pieces of the smaller loop rather than the leash ring. This is another safety precaution to prevent the collar catching on something and tightening on your dog.
Watch this video for a comprehensive how-to of using your new martingale.