How to Fit Martingale Semi-Choke Collars

Martingale semi-choke collars are a useful alternative to traditional flat buckle collars. Martingale semi-choke collars are constructed of two separate sections to help keep your dog from slipping out of his collar. The larger loop fits around the neck while the smaller loop connects the two ends of the larger loop and tightens the collar when pulled on. Knowing how to correctly fit a martingale semi-choke collar is vital to keep your dog from slipping his collar and escaping your control.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Martingale semi-choke collar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the circumference of your dog's neck. A properly fitted martingale semi-choke collar sits midway between the base of the neck and your dog's ears, so measure at this location to make sure you get the right size collar.

    • 2

      Find a collar that corresponds to the measurement of your dog's neck. Martingale semi-choke collars come in a variety of sizes to fit most breeds and will list the size range in inches. Most martingales are made of flat strips of fabric and are made in many colors and patterns, so choose one that suits your preferences.

    • 3

      Hold the collar in your hand and look at it to decide which loop needs to go around the dog's neck. The collar should have one large loop with buckles or sliders to adjust the size and one small loop with a D ring for your leash. The largest loop is the one designed to fit around the dog's neck.

    • 4

      Slip the collar over your dog's muzzle and head, sliding it down to the middle of his neck with the smaller control loop at the back behind the dog's ears. Pull up gently on the control loop to see how close the ends of the smaller loop come. There should be 2 inches of slack between the ends of the small loop.

    • 5

      Adjust the larger loop if it is too big. Slide the excess material through the adjustment buckle so that the collar fits snugly and you can fit two fingers between the collar and the neck. This will give you plenty of control over the dog while preventing the collar from slipping off his neck.