If you’re new to martingale dog collars, we've put together an easy to follow guide to help you understand what they are, how they work, and how to fit one properly.
The exact origin of the martingale dog collar isn’t clearly documented. While the term “martingale” dates back to the 17th century in horse equipment, its use as a dog collar is much more recent, most likely emerging in the mid-20th century. What’s certain is that its simple, clever design has stood the test of time. It was developed with sighthounds like Greyhounds and Whippets in mind, as their narrow heads make it easy to slip out of standard buckle collars. The martingale’s anti-slip design uses a small control loop that gently tightens when the dog pulls, helping prevent escape without choking or causing discomfort. The result? A safe, practical collar that gives owners a bit more confidence on walks, especially with dogs who have a talent for backing out of their gear.
Can you use one if your dog isn’t a sighthound?
Yes. Martingale collars aren’t limited to sighthounds, in fact they are becoming popular with many breeds of dogs. They really can be helpful for any dog that tends to back out of a regular collar or needs a bit of extra security on walks.
That said, they’re not a training tool by themselves, they simply provide more control and reduce the risk of escape.
How does a martingale collar work?
The design of a martingale collar is simple, but very clever in the functionality it provides with just to loops to providing a secure, balance alternative to standard buckle collars.
- A larger loop (Main loop) that goes around the dog’s neck which is also adjustable so it can clear your dog's ears comfortably.
- A smaller loop (Control loop) with a D-ring where the lead attaches
When your dog pulls, the lead tightens the smaller loop, which gently tightens the larger loop around the neck. The key feature is that it only tightens to a certain point, if fitted correctly, it won’t keep tightening indefinitely.
The two tri-glides connecting the main loop to the control loop should never touch when tightened so getting the right fit is important.
How to measure your dog for a martingale collar
To effectively measure your dog for a martingale you should use a soft flexible measuring tape.
A) Measure the widest part of your dog’s head so the collar can slide over the head and ears comfortably.
B) Measure the middle of your dog’s neck where the collar will comfortably sit.
Taking the first measurement for A and the second measurement for B you can now cross reference this against our standard martingale sizes.
Our standard martingale sizes
Small: Adjustable length from approx 270mm (27cm) to 370mm (37cm).
Medium: Adjustable length from approx 350mm (35cm) to 500mm (50cm).
Large: Adjustable length from approx 450mm (45cm) to 660mm (66cm).
All our martingale collars are a standard width of 38mm (3.8cm).
Our sizes may not be right for every breed of dog so feel free to reach out to us for additional advice should you need to.
How to fit the collar
Once you do it once you'll get it right every time.
- Adjust the collar (Main loop) to its largest size.
- Gently slip it over your dog’s head.
- Once it’s around the middle of your dogs neck, tighten it to fit snugly.
- Attach your lead to the D-ring, and you’re ready to go.
A good fit means:
When pulled tight, the collar does not keep tightening endlessly and the two tri-glides never meet. For best practice the martingale collar should fit perfect flush with no sagging.
Do martingale collars have buckles?
Some martingale collars include a buckle, but many do not including our own. Buckle free designs are made to slip over the dog’s head and then adjust for a secure fit. They do not work the same way as a standard buckle collar. If you are unsure which collar is right for your dog then we are here to help.
In short, a martingale collar is a simple, practical option for improving safety on walks, especially for dogs that are good at slipping out of standard collars. The key is correct sizing and fit.
