What is a Martingale Collar?

As someone who regularly volunteers with dogs, a martingale collar is a tool I’m very familiar with. But recently, I realized that many people haven't heard of this product. Rather than being worn frequently like a regular collar, these collars are for special cases like training and containing escape artists. So, what is a martingale collar? And how do you use one?

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What is a Martingale Collar for Dogs?

A martingale collar is a dog collar that tightens when your dog pulls. However, unlike a slip lead, it can only tighten to a certain point to protect your dog’s neck.

Martingale collars look like regular dog collars with a loop on one side. Your dog’s leash clips to the loop, allowing the loop to change sizes when your dog pulls or relaxes. These collars are typically made of fabric, but the loop is sometimes a chain. The Edmonton Humane Society has a great guide to the different styles and parts of martingale collars.

When to Use a Martingale Collar for Dogs

Martingale collars aren’t designed for everyday wear since the loop could get caught on things if your dog is left unattended. Instead, these collars are perfect for specific scenarios, such as the following.

Training

When I took my dog in for training classes, they highly recommended a martingale collar for leash training and other basics. This is because when your dog pulls while wearing a martingale collar, they’ll feel it tighten around their neck. You can teach them that the tightening feeling means to stop and check in with you instead of pulling.

The trainers used the martingale collar to help get my dog’s attention during training sessions. Whenever she didn’t listen, they would tug slightly on the leash to tighten the collar and get her attention. She’s normally a stubborn dog, so this technique helped her pick up on basic commands better.

Preventing Escape

Another great purpose for martingale collars is security. Some dogs can easily slide out of collars if they’re nervous or have a small head. Since martingales tighten when a dog pulls, that makes it harder for a collar to slip off while walking. 

I’ve used martingale collars for several foster dogs who were escape artists, and it made me feel a lot more confident that they wouldn’t get away. Secure harnesses are a great alternative if you don’t want to apply pressure to your dog’s neck.

How to Fit a Martingale Collar

Since martingale collars adjust while dogs wear them, finding the right size isn’t as straightforward as a regular dog collar. Here are the steps to take to ensure the collar fits properly:

1. Adjust the martingale collar’s loop so the collar is big enough to slide over your dog’s head.

2. Position the loop on the back of your dog’s neck.

3. You should be able to slide two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck when it’s at its tightest.

4. When it’s time to take the collar off, loosen it and slide it off your dog’s head.

If the collar can’t slide on and off your dog’s head or if it’s too big or small when it’s fully tightened, you’ll need to get a different size for your dog. Martingale collars often have recommended neck measurements that you can check before buying them. If you’re shopping in person, consider trying the collar on your dog first to make sure it’ll fit.

How to Use a Martingale Collar

Dogs should always be supervised while wearing a martingale collar. So, you can put them on for training sessions and walks, but this collar type shouldn’t be worn 24/7.

When using a martingale collar, keep the loop on the back of your dog’s neck when walking them. If you’re using the collar for training, keep training treats and/or a training clicker with you while walking to reward your dog for good behaviors. If they stop to check in with your when their collar tightens, reward them.

Pros and Cons of Martingale Dog Collars

Like all dog training equipment, martingale collars have pros and cons. Consider both sides to decide if this collar type is beneficial for your dog.

Martingale Collar Pros

• Prevents dogs from slipping out of their collars

• Only tightens to a certain point to prevent choking

• Can be used as a training tool, especially for leash walking

• Available in a variety of sizes and styles

Martingale Collar Cons

• Could be a choking hazard if not used properly

• Only helps with pulling if paired with training techniques

• Should not be worn unsupervised

Where Can I Buy a Martingale Collar?

Many pet supply stores sell martingale dog collars, but if you can’t find what you’re looking for in-person, there are lots of options online. Here are some great martingale collars that you can order online:

• Joytale Martingale Collar for Dogs

• Ruffwear Web Reaction Martingale Dog Collar

• Plutus Pet Martingale Dog Collar with Stainless Steel Chain

• Hikiko Martingale Collar for Dogs Reflective

• CollarDirect Martingale Dog Collar Heavy Duty

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Consider Using a Martingale Collar for My Dog?

You should consider using a martingale collar during walks if your dog is an escape artist and/or for training sessions. This collar type is a helpful tool, but it shouldn’t be worn without your supervision.

How Do Martingale Collars Prevent Dogs from Slipping Out?

Martingale collars tighten slightly to prevent the collar from sliding over your dog’s head. When using one, you clip the leash to the ring that’s attached to the collar’s loop. So, when your dog pulls, the loop causes the collar to become smaller and tighter for security.

What are the Most Durable Martingale Dog Collars?

Martingale collars made with reinforced stitching and/or chains are typically the most durable. Ruffwear’s martingale collars are usually a great option for durability.

What are the Benefits of Using a Martingale Collar Over a Regular Dog Collar?

A martingale collar tightens slightly, which can be used to help with training or to secure escape artists. They’re beneficial in these specific situations, but for general wear, a regular dog collar works better.

Consider a Martingale Collar for Training

If you’re looking for a training tool that doesn’t apply too much pressure to your dog’s neck, a martingale collar is a safe solution. It can be helpful for teaching your dog not to pull, and it’s also great at preventing dogs from escaping their collars. While it’s not a collar that should be worn all the time, it’s a great pet product to have around, especially for walks and training sessions.

Please consult a professional trainer if you need help finding the best approaches to leash training. They can offer advice based on your dog’s unique behaviors and needs.