How to Size a Martingale Training Collar

Originally used for dogs with heads narrower than their necks, such as Salukis and greyhounds, martingale collars have fast become the humane training collar of choice. Martingales are a gentle form of choke collar, made entirely of nylon webbing with one large loop (the actual collar) that is tightened by a smaller loop connected to the leash. If your dog tries to slip out of her collar or resists a leash correction, the collar gradually tightens. Unlike chain choke collars, martingales will tighten only to a point. They also exert even pressure, minimizing the odds of injury.

Things You'll Need

  • Sewing tape measure or length of string
  • Yardstick
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your dog, using the tape measure or a length of string that you will later measure against a yardstick. Note measurements for the widest part of your dog̵7;s head, around the neck directly behind her ears, and then around her neck where the collar will be seated.

    • 2

      Select the smallest dog collar size that fits all three measurements. If your dog̵7;s neck measures 16 inches and that's the widest measurement, a medium-sized collar is probably the best fit. (Different companies have different size ranges, however, so double check.) But if your dog̵7;s neck is 16 inches around yet her head measures 21 inches, you̵7;ll want to buy a large collar.

    • 3

      Adjust your martingale dog collar before heading out. Put the collar on your dog then slide it up to her neck̵7;s narrowest part. Pull up on the small loop, from just behind the D-ring. Both metal slides should come together without touching, leaving a space of 2 inches between them. When it̵7;s adjusted properly the collar won̵7;t choke your dog but will keep her in hand.