Are Collars Safe for Dogs?

The answer to this question is yes, collars are generally considered safe for dogs. However, if they are fitted and used incorrectly, they have the potential to cause harm.

For example, if a dog pulls on the lead or is pulled back suddenly, a collar will put excessive pressure on the trachea, neck muscles, or cervical spine. Also, if the collar is too tight, it can cause choking or damage to the skin beneath, while a loose collar may slip off and put the dog at risk of getting lost.

One way to alleviate any of these risks is to use a martingale collar. This is a type of dog collar that provides more control without the choking effect of traditional collars, and they’re also designed to help prevent a dog from slipping out of the collar when on the lead. 

They are often used for dogs with narrow heads, like Whippets and Greyhounds, as well as for dogs that tend to back out of regular collars. 

Let’s dive a little deeper into why they’re considered safer…

Why Are Martingale Collars Better​ than Normal Collars?

1. They Don’t Excessively Tighten Around the Neck

One significant advantage of getting a martingale collar for your dog is their safety.

While they tighten under tension, they have a built-in limit to prevent excessive tightening and constriction, unlike choke chains or normal collars that can cause injury or pain to your dog if, for example, they pull or jerk suddenly.

This style of collar has no buckle, but instead slips over the head and sits loosely on the neck. 

2. They Offer Better Control When on a Lead

Another reason why martingale collars are considered better than normal collars is that they offer better control when on a lead.

Unlike regular flat collars, martingale collars have a dual-loop structure that tightens gently when the dog pulls or tries to slip out, providing more control without causing choking or discomfort.

3. They’re Ideal for Dogs With Smaller Heads and Necks

The dual-loop structure makes them especially effective for certain dog breeds with narrow heads, as they prevent the collar from sliding off over the dog’s head (which is pretty common in smaller breeds). 

Some breeds that would most benefit from using a martingale collar might be:

• Sighthounds - these are breeds which have heads narrower than their necks, such as whippets, greyhounds, Italian greyhounds and Salukis.
  
  
• Beagles, Huskies and Basenjis - these breeds are clever and determined, and often skilled at slipping out of regular collars.
  
  
• Long-necked breeds - Dogs with long necks, similar to sighthounds, would also benefit from the martingale’s secure fit, such as Doberman Pinschers and Weimaraner's. 

The dual-loop structure that tightens gently when the dog pulls or tries to slip out.

Check out our range of stylish easily-adjustable Martingale collars, including the Spaced Out and Bee Calm collar, available in 4 sizes to suit all dogs. 

And if you’re looking for advice or simply have a question about one of our products, please contact our friendly team today.

4. They Distribute Pressure More Evenly Around the Neck

Last but certainly not least, martingale collars distribute pressure more evenly around the dog’s neck. 

Regular flat collars apply pressure to a specific point on the dog’s neck (usually where the 

collar rests), and if the dog pulls on the lead, all the force is concentrated on that small area. Martingale collars on the other hand feature a two-loop design, meaning that if your dog pulls, the pressure is spread more evenly around the neck, as the collar tightens evenly in a circular way. 

Is a Martingale Collar Better Than a Harness​?

There’s no right or wrong way to answer this question, because it all really boils down to your dog’s specific needs, behavior, and the purpose of use. 

Martingale collars are the ideal choice for dogs like Whippets or Greyhounds who have really narrow heads, as they provide gentle control while on the lead and prevent them from slipping out. As touched on above, unlike traditional collars, martingales tighten gently without choking, offering both safety and control while out on walks. 

However, for dogs with neck or tracheal issues, they might not be as suitable. And this is where harnesses come in handy. Harnesses would typically be a better option for dogs prone to more aggressive pulling or those with respiratory or neck problems.

This is because, with a harness, the pressure is distributed across the chest and shoulders rather than the neck.

This makes them a better option for brachycephalic breeds (like pugs or Frenchies) or those with delicate airways.

Are Martingale Collars Safe for Small Dogs​?

For a small-headed dog wearing a regular collar, all they have to do is make a sudden stop when on lead and they’re out of their collar in a blink of an eye. Fortunately, martingale collars are especially designed to stop that. 

That said, small dogs often have delicate necks and are more prone to tracheal issues, so it’s absolutely crucial that the martingale collar is properly fitted and used appropriately.

There we have it! Learn more about what martingale collars are here, and for more pet advice, check out our anxious dog blog, including articles such as ‘How to keep your dog calm during fireworks’ and ‘Signs your dog is anxious’.

You can shop our range of stylish Martingale collars here. We also stock a collection of other products for anxious and reactive dogs, designed to provide comfort and calm during stressful moments, such as our huff muffs and wheat bags.