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9 Best Martingale Dog Collars in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

A Martingale Dog Collar When looking to purchase a martingale dog collar, you’ve probably noticed that there are tons of options and that some brands have different features than others. You want this type of dog collar to help train your pup, but you aren’t sure where to start.

Did you know the martingale collars were originally designed for sighthounds? Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, and Borzoi all have small heads compared to their necks, which allows them to easily slip from a traditional dog collar. The martingale collar was invented to prevent this.

We have put together a review list of our top 10 favorite martingale collars, highlighting their pros/cons. For those who would like more information about sizing a martingale collar and its features, read through the best martingale dog collars buyer’s guide.


A Look at Hepper’s Favorites in 2024:

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar
  • Cheap
  • Made from durable nylon
  • Good range of colors
  • Best Value
    Second place
    PetSafe PetSafe
  • Quick snap buckle
  • Able to attach tags
  • Affordable
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Max and Neo Stainless Steel Max and Neo Stainless Steel
  • Stainless-steel chain
  • Durable D-ring
  • Lockable snap buckle
  • Country Brook Petz Country Brook Petz
  • Soft
  • flexible nylon
  • Durable hardware
  • Affordable
  • Blueberry Floral Blueberry Floral
  • Traditional collar
  • High-density webbing
  • Affordable
  • The 9 Best Martingale Dog Collars:

    1. Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar – Best Overall

    Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar

    Check Price on Chewy

    The Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar is made from woven nylon so is durable. It comes in a good variety of sizes so it will fit almost any breed and at age.

    The Martingale design means that the collar has two loops: one loop fits around your dog’s neck, as standard, while the second loop tightens humanely if they pull. This prevents them from pulling forward or backward, so can stop them from slipping out of their leash while also making walking easier and more pleasurable for both of you. As well as a D ring to attach the leash itself, there is a second D ring that you use for attaching ID and other tags, which prevents you from having to cram everything on one ring. There’s also a good range of designs and colors for you to choose from.

    The Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar is the best overall martingale dog collar. It is, however, bigger than expected, so consider ordering a smaller size, and consider something tougher and more rugged for very strong pullers.

    Pros
    • Cheap
    • Made from durable nylon
    • Good range of colors
    • Martingale design
    Cons
    • Bigger than expected
    • Not suitable for very strong dogs

    2. PetSafe Martingale Dog Collar – Best Value

    PetSafe

    The PetSafe is the best martingale collar for the money because it is made from high-quality nylon and recommended by vets and trainers as the best design for daily wear. We like the quick-snap buckle to allow for easy application and removal. There’s also a plastic loop on the collar to attach tags.

    It comes in a variety of colors, and the medium size will fit neck sizes from 11 to 15 inches. Though there is confusion with the actual sizing of the collar, keep in mind that the choke portion adds another 5 inches to the circumference. In other words, the collar runs on the large size, so you may need to purchase a size smaller.

    This did not make the number-one spot since finding the right size is confusing, though it is a well-made collar.

    Pros
    • Great for daily wear
    • Quick snap buckle
    • Able to attach tags
    • Variety of colors
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Sizes run big

    3. Max and Neo Martingale Collar – Premium Choice

    Max and Neo

    This is a chain martingale collar that is 1 inch wide and made with 2mm nylon. We like that the chain is stainless steel, so it will resist rusting, and the D-ring is 5mm thick. There is a sturdy snap buckle with a lockable tab to prevent accidental release, and it comes in a variety of colors.

    Another nice feature is the reflective stitching along the collar that will increase visibility when on nighttime walks. The medium size will fit a 14- to 17-inch neck size. The company donates one collar to a dog rescue for every collar purchased.

    On the downside, the chain doesn’t move as smoothly across the tension loops as one would expect. The Max and Neo collar is at the third spot on our list because it is more expensive, and the other two offer great features at a more affordable price.

    Pros
    • Stainless-steel chain
    • Durable D-ring
    • Lockable snap buckle
    • Reflective stitching
    • Variety of colors
    • Donations with each purchase
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • Resistance on chain

    4. Country Brook Petz Martingale Dog Collar

    Country Brook Petz NM1-BLA-L

    The Country Brook martingale collar comes in a 1-inch width on the large size, with an adjustable neck from 18 to 26 inches. This is a traditional martingale collar, so it does not feature a buckle. The nylon has a silky texture, and there is a large color assortment to suit any personality.

    We like that the hardware is made from nickel-plated steel for great durability and strength. These dog collars are made in the U.S.A. and are available at an affordable price. On the downside, the seams have a slightly rough edge, which could be irritating to your dog.

    Pros
    • Soft, flexible nylon
    • Large assortment of colors
    • Durable hardware
    • Affordable
    • Traditional dog collars
    Cons
    • Rough seams
    • No buckle

    Another useful post: Indestructible & Chew-proof Dog Collars


    5. Blueberry Martingale Collars

    Blueberry Martingale Collars

    This is another traditional collar that slips over the head and is made from nylon with high-density webbing to add durability. The company sells a matching leash separately, and they also offer personalization if you want to have your dog’s name embroidered onto the dog collars. Otherwise, there is no place to apply tags.

    There are a multitude of colors to choose from, and the medium size will fit a 14.5- to 20-inch neck width. Unfortunately, the stitching does not appear to be as tightly woven and may not hold up as well over time. Certain owners may prefer a buckle rather than having to slip the dog collars on and off.

    Pros
    • Traditional dog collars
    • High-density webbing
    • Option to personalize
    • Multitude of colors
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Poor stitching
    • No buckle

    6. Dazzber Martingale Dog Collars

    Dazzber D-SL-C-MG-L

    The Dazzber is a heavy-duty martingale collar that is 1-inch wide, and the large size fits a 17- to 25-inch neck. We like the silky touch of the material, which is a polyester webbing. It is machine or hand washable in cold water. The patterns and designs on these dog collars are a unique and attractive feature.

    This is a traditional martingale collar that does not offer a buckle. The company offers a 100% guarantee, so if you are not satisfied, they will exchange or return your money. Unfortunately, the material is somewhat stiff and non-flexible, and the plastic adjustment is bulky and difficult to adjust.

    Pros
    • Heavy-duty
    • Silky touch
    • Washable
    • Different designs and colors
    • Traditional design
    • 100% guarantee
    Cons
    • Non-flexible material
    • Bulky adjustment

    Other collars to consider: Rolled leather collars for dogs


    7. Friends Forever Martingale Collars

    Friends Forever PET66-0017

    This medium-size martingale collar is ideal for neck sizes of 16 to 22 inches, and it is made from high-quality nylon and offers reflective stitching. This collar also has an iron chain for control of the tension around the neck of the dog.

    We like that the company offers a 100% guarantee with no questions asked if you are not satisfied with this collar. On the negative side, the plastic buckle is not the most durable, especially compared to the rest of the product.

    The chain slip slides easily and provides the right amount of tension that it does not become uncomfortable for the dog, though it’s not made from rust-free material.

    Pros
    • High-quality nylon
    • Reflective stitching
    • 100% guarantee
    • Plastic buckle
    • Chain slides easily
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Buckle flimsy
    • Potential for the chain to rust

    8. Mighty Paw Martingale Nylon Collar

    Mighty Paw

    This collar offers a unique two-in-one feature in that you can switch from a training (martingale) collar to a standard (non-cinch) collar by using separate D-rings. It is made of heavy-duty waterproof nylon, with extra stitching to add strength.

    We like that the company is a family-owned business that prides itself on making quality dog products. The medium size will fit a 14- to 17-inch neck circumference and has a buckle for easy release when needed. The nylon is firmer but will loosen up with use and is easy to adjust.

    On the downside, it is only offered in two colors, and the tag ring does not appear to be durable, since it is made of plastic.

    Pros
    • Two-in-one collar
    • Heavy duty
    • Weatherproof
    • Buckle
    Cons
    • Only in two colors
    • Plastic tag ring

    Other useful doggie reviews:


    9. EXPAWLORER Martingale Collars

    EXPAWLORER EDC003BLK02

    This martingale collar is made of polyester webbings and will fit a neck girth of 11 to 19 inches. It comes in different prints that resist fading. This is a traditional martingale, so it does not have a buckle and you have to slip it on and off your dog’s head.

    This collar is not durable, being made of thin material that has a plastic feel to it, and it is stitched together poorly. It’s also too wide to be comfortable on most dogs. The sizing is not accurate, running larger than expected, and the company does not offer anything smaller.

    Pros
    • Polyester webbing
    • Different prints
    Cons
    • Not durable
    • Poor stitching
    • Too wide
    • Inaccurate sizing

    Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Martingale Collar for Your Dog

    If you are buying a martingale collar, chances are that you know what they are for and how to measure your dog and determine the size you need. This buyer’s guide will go over tips and features to consider when buying a martingale collar that is just right for your dog.

    Types of Martingale Collars 

    Considered both a training and safety collar, martingale collars are good for dogs who like to pull or are unruly on a leash. They offer more control so you will be walking your dog, instead of the dog walking you.

    All martingale collars are constructed with two loops, a welded D-ring, and three plated slides. There are two types of martingale collars: no-slip and check.

    1. No-Slip Collar/Limited-Slip Collar

    This is the most popular style used today, since it is effective at preventing your dog from backing out of the collar. The same material is used for the whole unit, and it provides a limited choke action so it doesn’t get too tight around your dog’s neck.

    2. Check Collar/Half-Check Collar

    These have half of the collar made from fabric, and the other half from a small chain. The chain acts as another way to get your dog’s attention by the sound it makes when using the choke action. This is the reason this type is popular with dog trainers. Like the no-slip collar, this is adjusted so it can’t become too tight.

    Features of a Martingale Collar

    Material: Durable nylon is the top choice, but it can be made from leather or other fabrics. If a chain is present, the ideal material is stainless steel since it is light and rust-resistant.

    Buckle: If they come with a buckle, it could be made of plastic or metal, but keep in mind that this will add extra weight to the color. The buckle on traditional martingale collars is convenient, as it makes it easier to take on and off, and adds an extra degree of safety.

    Width: The larger the dog, the wider the collar should be to provide extra durability. If you have a collar that is too wide for your dog, it could cause choking, besides being too bulky and heavy for smaller framed dogs. Some collars are extra wide and ideal for sighthounds because of their elongated skulls and thin fur.

    Tag clip: There may or may not be a place to attach the tags — traditional martingale collars typically do not offer this feature. Other alternatives are to have identifying information embroidered on the collar or lasered into a buckle.

    How to Correctly Fit a Martingale

    It should fit like a regular collar: not too tight nor too loose. Remember that the collar will evenly tighten to a certain point when pulled. Fitting a collar is easy, but you do need to make sure to do it correctly or you may end up with a collar that doesn’t work effectively.

    Martingale Collar

    For Slip-On Collars:

    1. Measure the largest part of the dog’s head and the middle of the dog’s neck.
    2. The largest measurement is the one you will use for sizing. Now add two inches to the measurement for large dogs and 1.5 inches for smaller dogs.

    For Collars With Buckles:

    1. Measure only the size of the dog’s neck.
    2. As with slip-on collars, add two inches for large dogs and 1.5 inches for smaller dogs.

    When applying the new collar, you will need to adjust it to your dog. This is done by opening up the collar to the largest size, placing it around your dog’s neck, and then tightening it to where you can insert two fingers between the collar and the dog’s skin. Attach the leash to the D-ring; when tension is applied, there should be approximately three fingers’ width between the two O-rings. If not, the collar is most likely too tight and should be adjusted.

    Safety

    Unlike others, martingale collars are not meant to be worn at all times. They can be a choking hazard if left on unattended dogs, as it can snag on a branch, paw, or piece of furniture, making it difficult for the dog to free itself.

    Do allow your dog to become familiar with the collar, but do this when you are present. Keep in mind that if you have been using the collar with no improvement noted, then the added pressure may be too much for your dog, making the martingale collar act more as a deterrent to their learning. Martingale collars may not be appropriate if this is noticed.

    Tips & Facts

    • The nickel-plating on a chain can cause gray discoloring on light-colored fur.
    • Traditional martingale collars are made to slip over the head, which makes them lighter.
    • Martingale collars are recommended by vets as one of the safest and most efficient ways to train your dog, as they are much safer than choke collars.
    • Rescue organizations use these collars because they are effective and the safest way of preventing a dog from escaping while on a leash.
    • If your dog has thick fur, make sure that when you measure them, you get as near to the skin as possible.
    • You may like a collar that is washable, whether by hand or machine.
    • Not all materials will be comfortable for your dog. Usually, materials that are more flexible and softer to the touch are more enjoyable to wear.

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    Final Verdict

    Training your dog doesn’t need to be a difficult undertaking, and you especially don’t need to worry about how to choose the best martingale collar. We rounded up the 9 best collars in our review list, and the top three all have great features.

    Our top pick is the Frisco Solid Nylon Martingale Dog Collar, with reinforced stitching and a smooth surface that is comfortable for your pet. For an affordable yet durable option, you may want to opt for the PetSafe, since it is made for daily wear and the quick snap buckle will make taking it on and off a breeze. Our premium choice is Max and Neo, with its stainless-steel chain and reflective stitching.

    We hope our reviews list and buyer’s guide eases some of the frustration of picking a collar that will not only last but also fit your dog correctly and provide the best solution to your training and walking needs. We wish you the best of luck with finding the best martingale collar for your dog.

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