If you are a dog-lover like me and you are always looking for ways to keep your dog safe, healthy and happy, then this review about Martingale Dog Collars might just answer some questions you have about choosing the right collar for your dog.

In the next few minutes, we are going to look at the benefits of Martingale dog collars for your dog. Initially, we will talk about how the Martingale dog collar works and the differences between Martingale dog collars and other collars. Next we will discuss factors that have to be considered when deciding on the right type of collar for your dog and finally we are going to finish up by talking about the breeds of dogs that can wear Martingale Dog Collars.

How Does a Martingale Dog Collar Work?

A martingale dog collar is made with two loops, one being the larger loop to be placed around the dogs’ neck, the other, which is smaller, is adjustable and is attached to the lead. The large loop that is placed around the dogs’ neck should be modified in size so that you can fit all of your fingers on one hand comfortably under the collar. The leash is then clipped to the D ring on the small loop.

The D ring described is either in the shape of  the letter 'D' or is circular like this example shown below.

If the dog tries to pull their head out of the martingale dog collar, the tension on the leash pulls the small loop taut, which makes the large loop smaller and tighter around the neck, without choking them.

When the dog is at rest, the collar should sit comfortably and without restriction. When you are using the martingale dog collar, it should sit snugly around the underside of the jaw (where the jaw line meets the neck) and just behind the ears. This will prevent the dog from being able to back out of the collar and it will have no restrictive pressure on the throat.

Martingale Dog Collars vs. Standard Collars.

Unlike the traditional choke collar, Martingale collars provide more control over your dog without the choking effect. This is more humane and comfortable for your dog, and this makes a happier dog! The other benefit is that they do not slip over the head like the Slip or Buckle collars, especially when the dog is trying to back out of their collar. If your dog is being trained or walked regularly and you find them hard to control, martingale dog collars will prevent your dog from being able to slip their head through and give you greater control over their movements, without hurting them or applying dangerous pressure to the throat. Martingale Dog Collars are a must for kennels and animal shelters in order to meet organizational safety standards, and dog trainers love them due to their versatility and ease of use.

What type of collar should I get for my dog?

Some dogs will only wear harnesses and hate the feeling of a collar due to the restriction and discomfort they may experience. The great thing about Martingale Dog Collars is that they are wider in width than the traditional slip collar and will be comfortably loose around their neck, without slipping off, when not in use. So, what type of control method do you go for? Well, I always look at the personality, temperament and breed of dog before making a decision. For example, I have a Chihuahua and she really struggles with collars (she had some trauma before we got her), so she goes for a walk with a harness and a lead, but many of my friends who have small and large dogs use collars and many of them swear by the effectiveness and safety of Martingale Dog Collars. It really is an individual choice.

Which breeds of dogs can wear Martingale Dog Collars?

These wonderfully versatile collars can be worn by any breed of dog, large or small. Like I said earlier, I have friends with Chihuahuas, Jack Russells, Maltese and other small breeds who benefit from the Martingale Dog Collar. This is also true of the larger breeds like bulldogs, some Labrador retrievers, Greyhounds and Whippets because their necks are slightly larger than their heads, and the Martingale dog collar will not slip off like the standard buckle collars.

Finally, when we make the decision to add a new member to our family of the four-legged kind, we build relationships with them for life. It is only natural that we would want to try and provide the best and safest control method for our dog. Martingale dog collars definitely tick all the boxes when it comes to safety, comfort, durability and value. So, when you are considering all the options and before making a choice, think of the personality and temperament of your dog, what you need the control method for and how your furry friend will benefit. Consider all these factors and you will have a very happy pooch!