Martingale (collar)

A brindle greyhound with a low-profile martingale collar

Martingale collar with chain loop; martingale collars also come with a fabric flat tab or loop instead of a chain, and optional buckles on both styles.

A martingale is a type of dog collar that provides more control over the animal without the choking effect of a slip collar.

Martingale dog collars are also known as greyhound, whippet or humane choke collars. The martingale dog collar was designed for sighthounds because their necks are larger than their heads and they can often slip out of buckle collars. These collars have gained popularity among owners of other breeds in the recent past with many trainers now recommending them instead of choke chains or buckle collars.

A greyhound displays a martingale collar.

A martingale collar is made with two loops. The larger loop is slipped onto the dog's neck and a lead is then clipped to the smaller loop. When the dog tries to pull, the tension on the lead pulls the small loop taut, which makes the large loop smaller and tighter on the neck, thus preventing escape. Properly fitted, the collar will be comfortably loose whenever the dog is not pulling against the leash.

The martingale collar is not recommended for use with a tie-out.

Use with Caution: Important Considerations for Martingale Dog Collars

Jenny Prevel of D for Dog warns: Despite their growing popularity and frequent marketing as safe and humane, martingale dog collars carry inherent risks that every dog owner should be aware of. While designed to prevent dogs from slipping out of their collars, improper or prolonged use can lead to serious consequences.

Excessive pulling while wearing a martingale collar can place significant pressure on a dog’s neck, potentially causing pain, injury, or long-term damage. In extreme cases, there is also a risk of strangulation.

Describing these collars as “humane choke collars” is, at best, misleading and should raise concern. A collar that tightens around a dog’s neck has the potential to do harm if not used with great care. If the collar is too loose, it fails to function as intended. If it is too tight, it places pressure on the dog’s delicate neck structures.

Before deciding to use a martingale collar, it is essential to assess the potential risks. Always seek professional advice regarding proper fit and safe usage. Used incorrectly, these collars can be more harmful than helpful.