How to Measure Your Dog for a Martingale Collar
A martingale fits different than a standard buckle collar, in how it's constructed, how it sits on the neck, and what a correct fit actually looks like. Here's what you need to know.
WHAT MAKES A MARTINGALE DIFFERENT
A standard buckle collar sits at a fixed neck circumference. A martingale like our Finley Collar has a stainless steel chain where the leash attaches. When the leash is slack, the collar drapes loosely. When tension is applied, the chain tightens and creates a gentle, even pressure around the neck.
This is why martingales are considered the safest collars for dogs, especially for sighthounds, dogs with narrow heads, dogs who back out of a traditional collar. It's also why the fit works differently. You're measuring for a collar that has two states: resting and engaged.
HOW TO MEASURE
Use a soft measuring tape, wrap it around the mid-point of your dog's neck. This is where the collar will actually sit in wear. Note that number. That's your neck circumference.
If you don't have a soft tape, a piece of string works — wrap it, mark where it meets, then measure the string against a ruler.
WHAT A CORRECT MARTINGALE FIT LOOKS LIKE
A well-fitted martingale looks looser than you'd expect at rest. When the collar is on and the leash is slack, it should drape loosely around the neck and not be able to slip over the head.
When the leash applies tension, the collar should tighten to a snug point and stop — never tight enough to restrict breathing or cause discomfort. If you're seeing the chain fully close (both sides of the D-rings touching), the collar is too large. If the collar can't tighten at all because it's already taut at rest, it's too small.
A NOTE ON COAT AND BREED
If your dog has a thick double coat, measure over the coat as it normally lies — not against the skin. The collar will sit over that coat in wear.
Martingales are particularly well suited to breeds with heads that are smaller than their neck — greyhounds, whippets, Italian greyhounds, Salukis. If you have one of these breeds, pay close attention to the circumference measurement over the weight range when consulting any size guide. The shape of the neck matters more than the number on the scale.
For ami nali sizing, visit our full size guide — with measurements for the Finley Collar, Theo Harness, and Benni Leash. If you're unsure between sizes, reach out before you order.
