At Von Schaaf Haus DuPree Dobermans & Danes, we prioritize not only the health and temperament of our dogs but also the tools we use to guide their training and well-being. One of the most essential tools we’ve adopted into our program is the martingale collar—a collar with a rich history and unmatched functionality that has stood the test of time.
The Origins of the Martingale Collar
The martingale collar originated in the UK, designed with a specific purpose: to provide Greyhounds, Whippets, and other sighthounds with a collar that wouldn’t easily slip off their narrow heads. These breeds, known for their slender necks and smaller heads, were prone to slipping out of traditional buckle collars. Thus, a collar that could gently tighten when tension was applied became a necessity.
The invention of the martingale collar is credited to British Greyhound breeders, who understood the specific needs of these fast, elegant dogs. While there isn't a single inventor recognized, its development was driven by collective ingenuity from breeders looking to enhance safety and control for their sighthounds.
How the Martingale Works
The design of a martingale collar is deceptively simple yet incredibly effective. It consists of two loops: a larger loop that goes around the dog’s neck and a smaller control loop that tightens when the dog pulls. This tightening action prevents the collar from slipping off but only tightens to a point—never enough to choke the dog. This feature makes the martingale collar a gentler alternative to choke chains while still providing control.
Evolution of the Martingale Collar
Originally crafted from leather or nylon to ensure durability, martingale collars have evolved to suit the needs of various dog breeds beyond the sighthound community. Today, they are available in an array of materials, from traditional leather to softer, more luxurious fabrics like velvet and padded cotton. The evolution of the collar design has allowed martingales to become a favorite among dog owners and trainers for their versatility and humane approach to training.
Styles of Martingale Collars
Standard Martingale Collar: This is the most common version, featuring the two-loop design. Available in materials like leather, nylon, and fabric, these collars provide a balance of control and comfort.
Martingale with Chain Loop: Some martingales have a metal chain instead of fabric for the smaller loop. The chain provides an audible cue when the collar tightens, which can be helpful for training.
Soft Fabric Martingale: These collars, often made from padded fabrics or velvet, are excellent for dogs with sensitive skin or who require a more gentle touch. While they still offer the same tightening mechanism, the material provides extra comfort, making them a favorite for both owners and dogs.
What Makes the Martingale Collar Superior?
At Von Schaaf Haus DuPree, we believe the martingale collar offers several advantages that make it superior to traditional collars. Here are some reasons why:
Enhanced Safety: Unlike buckle collars, the martingale’s tightening feature prevents dogs from slipping out, even if they have a narrow head or a tendency to pull back during walks. This makes it a top choice for breeds like Dobermans and Danes.
Gentle Control: The martingale collar provides a safe and effective way to control your dog without resorting to harsh methods. When the dog pulls, the collar tightens just enough to offer correction without causing harm or discomfort.
Versatility: Whether you’re training a young puppy or guiding a fully-grown dog, the martingale collar adapts to different sizes, temperaments, and training stages. It is particularly effective for large breeds like Dobermans and Danes, who require a balance of strength and sensitivity.
A Professional’s Choice: Our breeding program trusts the martingale collar for everyday use with our dogs. From training our puppies to leading our adult Dobermans and Danes, the martingale offers reliability, comfort and performance you can trust.