The Whippet Martingale Collar is a unique and effective training tool designed specifically for Whippets, but can be used for other breeds as well. It's essential to choose the right size and style for your Whippet to ensure a comfortable and safe fit.
A Whippet Martingale Collar is typically made of nylon or leather and has a distinctive martingale loop that tightens when the dog pulls on the leash. This design helps prevent the dog from slipping out of the collar.
Whippets are known for their slender necks and athletic build, so a Whippet Martingale Collar should be chosen based on the dog's neck size, rather than its head size. A good rule of thumb is to measure the dog's neck circumference to ensure a proper fit.
To determine the correct size, you'll need to measure your Whippet's neck, taking care to wrap the tape measure around the narrowest part of the neck, just behind the ears. This will give you an accurate measurement to choose from.
What Is a Martingale Collar?
A Martingale collar is a type of dog collar designed to prevent escape and choking. It works by tightening when the dog pulls, but not constricting their neck.
The Martingale collar is particularly useful for breeds like the Whippet, which are prone to pulling on their leashes. They can easily slip out of a regular collar if they get excited or see something interesting.
The collar's design features a loop that forms when the dog pulls, which helps to distribute the force of the pull across the dog's neck. This prevents the collar from constricting the dog's airway or causing discomfort.
If this caught your attention, see: Should I Take My Dog's Collar off at Night?
Benefits and Features
Martingale collars are a game-changer for Whippet owners, providing numerous benefits for both you and your furry companion.
Using a Whippet martingale collar comes with numerous benefits for both you and your furry companion.
A well-designed martingale collar will only allow the collar to tighten a small amount - enough to stop it slipping over your Whippet's head, but not enough to cause discomfort.
Martingale collars are constructed to only tighten to a certain degree, making them a far safer alternative to choke collars.
A martingale collar will only tighten to the size of your Whippet's neck, preventing it from escaping or losing its harness, without choking them.
For a Whippet, a collar at least 1" wide, possibly 1.5" for larger Whippets, is recommended to ensure comfort and protection.
The primary difference between a martingale collar and a traditional flat collar is the second loop on a martingale collar, which allows it to tighten.
Martingale collars can be extremely helpful when training a dog, as the gentle tightening encourages a dog to pull less and ultimately learn better leash manners.
It's difficult for Whippets to slip out of a martingale collar, unlike traditional flat collars that can slip over their head.
For another approach, see: Slip Collar vs Martingale
Choosing and Fitting
Choosing a martingale collar for your whippet is a decision that will benefit both you and your dog. Investing in a whippet martingale collar will give you enhanced control, safety, and comfort, making your walks more enjoyable and worry-free.
Whippets typically have a neck size ranging from 10″ – 14″, though there may always be some differences from dog to dog. Measuring your whippet's neck is easy with a soft tape measure or a piece of string and a yummy treat to keep them in place.
To measure your whippet's neck, wrap a soft tape measure around the narrowest part of the neck, usually just behind the ears and under the chin at the top of the neck. Make sure the tape measure is snug against the fur.
A good martingale collar should fit snugly but not too tightly, allowing you to slip two fingers comfortably between the collar and your whippet's neck. Look for an adjustable martingale collar that can be customised to your whippet's neck size.
Here's a size guide to help you choose the right collar:
Adjust the collar to its widest measurement to slide it over your dog's head, and then readjust it to fit comfortably around their neck with 2-3 finger-widths of space between their neck and the collar. This will ensure a comfortable and secure fit for your whippet.
Worth a look: How to Fit a Martingale Collar
Materials and Quality
Durable materials are a must for a whippet martingale collar. The fabric should be able to withstand wear and tear.
Opt for machine-washable collars or those that can be easily wiped clean for minimal maintenance.
Sturdy hardware, such as D-rings and loops, is essential to ensure the collar can withstand your whippet's movements.
High-quality materials ensure the collar's durability and longevity even with regular use.
Return
If you're looking for a return policy, many online retailers offer a 30-day return window, but it's always best to check the specific store's policy before making a purchase.
Martingale collars are designed to be adjustable, so if your whippet grows or loses weight, you can simply adjust the collar to fit their new size.
The medium martingale collar adjusts from 10 inches to 13 inches, fitting the majority of sighthound breeds, making it a great option for whippets.
If you're unsure about the size of your whippet's martingale collar, you can always contact the manufacturer or check the sizing chart provided by the retailer.
The small martingale collar is sized for Italian Greyhounds, Whippet puppies, and toy breed dogs, making it perfect for smaller whippets.
You can also consider purchasing a plain lead with matching hardware to create a coordinated look with your martingale collar.
Consider reading: How to Size a Martingale Collar
Whippet Specific
Martingale collars were created for dogs whose heads are smaller than their necks, making them a great fit for Whippets.
They also work well for talented escape artists, as the no-slip function allows the collar to tighten only to the size of the dog's neck, keeping the collar in place.
Properly fitted martingale collars should not be uncomfortable or harmful to your Whippet.
Suitable for Whippets?
Martingale collars are specifically designed for Whippets and other sighthounds. They were created for dogs with smaller heads and larger necks.
Not only are martingale collars suitable for Whippets, but they also work well for talented escape artists. The no-slip function of martingale collars allows the collar to tighten only to the size of the dog's neck.
Properly fitted martingale collars should not be uncomfortable or harmful to your Whippet.
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Whippet Size
Whippets typically have a neck size ranging from 10″ – 14″, though there may always be some differences from dog to dog.
To measure your Whippet's neck, wrap a soft tape measure around the narrowest part of the neck, usually just behind the ears and under the chin at the top of the neck. Make sure the tape measure is snug against the fur.
Note the measurement carefully, as this will help you choose the right collar size for your Whippet.
Worth a look: How to Measure for Martingale Collar
Sources
- https://snootifulhound.co.uk/blogs/blog/whippet-martingale-collar
- https://www.brindleandwhyte.com/shop/atacama-olive/
- https://northwindcatalog.com/product-page-new/martingale-collar-master/
- https://petiquettecollars.co.uk/choosing-the-right-whippet-collar-a-complete-guide/
- https://www.mydearwhippet.com/martingale-whippet-collars/
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