Martingale collars, likewise called no-slip or limited-slip collars, provide more control than a typical flat collar to prevent dogs from backing or slipping out. They seem to be flat collars, but about a third of their length is a smaller circle of fabric with a D-ring attached.
“They are designed to tighten when a dog pulls on the leash, providing gentle control and preventing the dog from slipping out of the collar,” explains Dr. Alex Crow, MRCVS, a veterinary surgeon practicing in the UK.
1. Country Brook Petz Nylon Collar
According to Dr. Crow, dogs with limited heads, like Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, and other sighthounds, can benefit from a martingale collar. “These dogs can easily get out of regular collars, making martingale collars a safer option,” he says.
This Country Brook Petz nylon collar offers gentle control and prevents dogs from slipping their heads out — without becoming too tight. Made with velvety soft nylon webbing, these collars are comfortable for sighthounds with sparse fur.
2. Ruffwear Web Reaction Martingale Collar
For determined Houdini dogs or nervous puppies who might try to escape while on a leash, a martingale offers extra security.
With its limited-cinch function, the Web Reaction helps prevent dogs from backing out. Ruffwear is known for its durable and enduring dog gear; this collar is no exception. It’s crafted with sturdy materials, including a strong aluminum leash attachment. It likewise integrates tubelok webbing for reflectivity in low light.
3. CollarDirect Reflective Martingale Collar
Martingale collars are safe for puppies, and they can be a convenient training tool — provided they’re fitted properly and used under supervision. “Puppies develop quickly, so regular adjustments would be necessary to ensure the collar remains comfortable and effective,” says Dr. Crow.
Size adjustments are easy with this nylon martingale, making it a safe option for growing puppies. In addition, the nylon is soft and hypoallergenic, so it’s gentle on puppies with sensitive skin. Lastly, this collar has reflective stitching and comes in several bright colors to keep your puppy visible.
4. Max and Neo Nylon Martingale Dog Collar
For your dog’s safety and comfort, a martingale collar needs to be fitted correctly, says Dr. Crow. “It ought to tighten just enough to prevent the dog from slipping out, but not such a lot that it causes discomfort or restricts breathing,” he explains.
Sizing a collar for a bigger dog can be challenging, but this Max and Neo martingale ought to function admirably for most large breeds. The large size ranges from 19″ to 25″, and the XL runs from 21″ to 33″, so it can fit even the biggest dogs. These collars have a width of 1 inch.
5. PetSafe Martingale Collar
Little dogs that can wriggle free from a standard collar may likewise benefit from a martingale, says Dr. Crow.
This nylon PetSafe collar is just right for a Toy Poodle, Mini Dachshund, or Chihuahua. It’s available in several smaller sizes, including Petite (7″-9″), Little (9″-11″), and Medium (11″-15″). The width is likewise suitably sized for smaller dogs: the Petite is ⅜” wide, and the Little is 2/4″ wide.
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