Making a martingale dog collar is a great DIY project, but it requires some attention to detail.
First, you'll need to choose the right materials, including a length of nylon or cotton webbing, a buckle, and two martingale rings.
The webbing should be at least 1 inch wide to ensure it's comfortable for your dog.
To calculate the length of the webbing, measure your dog's neck and add 6-8 inches to get the total length.
What is a Martingale Collar?
A martingale collar is a type of dog collar that provides a gentle, secure fit. It works by tightening when the dog pulls, but not choking them.
The Marty collar is a great example of a martingale collar, featuring a fast release buckle that makes it easy to put on and take off.
To ensure a good fit for your dog, you'll want to measure them correctly. Here's a quick guide to get you started:
A martingale collar is perfect for dogs that tend to slip out of their collars or pull on their leashes.
Choosing the Right Collar
The Marty collar is a game-changer for dog owners, combining the security of a martingale collar with a fast-release buckle.
To get the best fit for your dog, you'll need to measure them correctly. The size chart for the Marty collar is straightforward: size x-small is 1/2" wide, while small and medium straps are 3/4" wide, and large straps are 1" wide.
Here's a quick reference guide to help you choose the right size:
The materials used in the Marty collar are also worth considering. The recycled polyester tubular weave webbing strap is not only eco-friendly but also durable.
Measure Your Dog's
To get the right size for your dog's martingale collar, you'll need to measure their head and neck. This is because martingale collars are perfect for dogs with narrower heads, as they make it difficult for the dog to slip or back out of the collar.
The width of the collar will depend on the wider measurement between your dog's head and neck. Some dogs have necks that are wider than their heads, so take the wider measurement and add an inch or two to allow for growth.
Explore further: Horse Head
To measure, use a soft tape measure and wrap it around the largest part of your dog's head. Then, measure their neck. Take the wider measurement and add an inch or two to get the right size.
Here's a quick reference chart to help you choose the right size:
Remember to check the fit by slipping the loosened collar on your dog's neck, then sliding it up around their ears. The two metal rectangles should be about two inches apart for a perfect fit. If the smaller loop closes when you pull on it, it's fitted correctly; if it doesn't, you'll want to tighten it a bit more.
Check this out: How to Fit Martingale Collar
Training with a Martingale Collar
Training with a Martingale Collar is a breeze once you've got the right equipment. The martingale collar tightens when a dog pulls on its leash, discouraging the dog from pulling and preventing the head from slipping out of the collar.
You can use a gentle but firm tug on the leash to encourage good walking behavior. A traditional choke collar can be harsh, but a martingale collar is a gentler alternative.
Martingale collars are perfect for dogs whose heads are smaller than their necks, like greyhounds, whippets, and other sighthounds. These dogs can benefit from the martingale collar's unique design.
To use a martingale collar effectively, keep in mind that you should never yank extremely hard on your dog's neck - a gentle but firm tug should do the trick.
If this caught your attention, see: How to Put Prong Collar on
Applying a Dog Collar
To apply a martingale collar, start by threading the 2" d-ring through the 2" slider. The hardware can be a bit challenging to find, so be sure to look for heavy-duty hardware with welded seams.
Place the slider about 1-2 inches from one end of the collar, depending on the desired length. For a medium to large adjustable collar, the dimensions are indicated for an adult greyhound.
Related reading: 2 Martingale Dog Collar
Thread the ends of the collar through the 2" oval rings, making sure they are securely attached. The collar tightens when a dog pulls on its leash, discouraging the dog from pulling.
Adjust the slider to the desired length, making sure it's not too loose or too tight. A martingale collar is perfect for dogs whose heads are smaller than their necks, like greyhounds, whippets, and other sighthounds.
A different take: Cat Making Noises
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should martingale collar be?
For a martingale collar, choose a 5/8" or 1" width for optimal comfort and safety.
Sources
- https://www.instructables.com/Martingale-Dog-Collar/
- https://awoopets.com/products/marty-collar
- https://www.oscarandhooch.com/blog/what-is-a-martingale-collar-and-uses-for-them/
- https://pridebites.com/blogs/barking-post-blog/a-guide-to-applying-a-martingale-collar-on-your-dog
- https://marystack.com/marys-blog/how-to-fit-a-martingale-collar/
Featured Images: pexels.com