Martingale Collar size and purpose. A Practical Guide
Martingale collars—sometimes called limited-slip or humane choke collars—were originally designed for sighthounds with narrow heads and thick necks, but their gentle, no-escape design has made them popular for every breed. Below you’ll find clear instructions on measuring, sizing, and how to use a martingale collar, plus a look at the pros and cons, so you can decide whether this training tool is right for your dog.
Why pick a martingale collar?
Advantage | What It Means for You & Your Dog |
|---|---|
Escape-proof fit | When the dog pulls or backs up, the collar cinches just enough to prevent slipping over the head. |
Gentle, even pressure | Unlike a traditional choke chain, a martingale stops tightening at a preset limit, protecting the trachea and coat. |
Smooth control for training | The quick, audible “tighten-and-release” cue can sharpen leash skills without harsh corrections. |
Broad style options | You can choose a classic or decorated leather martingale collar or a martingale collar with buckles for easy on-off convenience. |
Possible Drawback | How to Mitigate It |
|---|---|
Must be fitted precisely | Follow the measuring steps below and check adjustment before every walk. |
Not for unsupervised wear | Remove the collar when crating, leaving alone or during active play to avoid snagging. |
How to measure your dog
Grab a soft measuring tape, a few treats, and a calm pup! Use this guide to measure your dog for handcrafted martingale collar from Lazypony workshop.
Martingale collar
– Pull the tape snug but not tight where the collar would normally sit, add 3-4 cm (1.5 – 2″) to this length;
– Now you need to measure a head size. Measure the widest area of your dog’s head—usually just in front of or behind its ears. Add 3-4 cm (1.5 – 2″) to this length;A correctly selected martingale collar must be able to slip over the dog’s head, but not slip back over when the small ring is taut. So choose the smallest collar size (B) that will slip over the largest part of the head.
If you need a custom size, measure your dog as written above and tell us what total length (B) you want. We recommend using the length of your dog’s head at its widest part plus 5-6 cm, so the collar will slide easily over the head. You can also specify the length “C” separately if you want to change it. By default, for custom-size collars, it will be 10 cm.
Selecting the right size
What You Measured | Order This Size |
|---|---|
Most dogs (neck | Use the head measurement + 3-4 cm. |
Neck wider than head (e.g., some bulldogs) | Use the neck measurement + 3-4 cm; confirm the collar still slips over the head. |
Custom order | Send exact numbers for B (full collar length) and, if desired, a different C. |
Fit Test: Slip the collar over the head, clip the leash to the D-ring, and pull gently. The two slides on the control loop should approach but never quite touch; you should still fit two flat fingers between collar and neck when the loop relaxes.
How to use a martingale collar
- Adjustment before every walk: With the dog standing, tighten the collar so, when the control loop is pulled, it just reaches full closure without choking.
- Leash handling: Apply light tension and then release—think of it as a “tap on the shoulder,” not a yank.
- Training sessions: Pair the pressure-and-release with a verbal cue (“easy” or “heel”) and reward the instant the leash slackens.
- Supervision: Never leave a dog unattended in a martingale, especially during rough play or in a crate.
Everyday care tips
- Weekly fit check: Dogs gain or lose weight; collars stretch and shrink.
- Cleaning: leather martingale collar needs wipe-down and conditioning. Read here how to do quick leather care routine.
- Storage: Hang collars flat, untwisted, to keep the control loop from creasing.
A martingale collar for dogs blends security and gentleness—no slipping, no choking—when it’s sized and used correctly. Whether you opt for handsome leather martingale collar or a convenient martingale collar with buckles, follow the measuring protocol above, choose the correct length, and enjoy safer, more controlled walks together.
Our leathercraft saddlery workshop Lazypony makes leather martingale collars of all sizes (including made to measurements!)! We have a large selection of colors and decorations! Stainless steel and brass top-quality solid hardware! We make all items to order, so you can choose any combination of your choice!