Measuring Guide

Finding the correct fit is important for both comfort and safety. Every dog is different, so we always recommend measuring your dog before ordering.  If you are unsure about sizing, please feel free to contact us — we are always happy to help.

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Measuring For A Martingale Collar

Martingale collars are designed to sit comfortably when relaxed and gently tighten when needed to help prevent

dogs from backing out of their collar.  Because a traditional martingale collar slips over your dog's head rather than fastening with a buckle, getting the right size depends on two measurements.

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The collar needs to be large enough to pass comfortably over the widest part of your dog's head, including the

ears, but it must also adjust down to fit securely and comfortably around the neck.  For the best fit, take these two simple measurements using a soft measuring tape.

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Head Size — Widest Part

Measure around the widest part of your dog's head, including the ears.  This tells you how large the collar needs to open so that you can comfortably slip it over your dog's head when putting it on and taking it off.

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The collar needs to open wide enough to pass comfortably over this measurement.

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Neck Size — Just Behind the Ears
Measure around the narrow part of your dog's neck, just behind the ears. Keep the tape comfortably close

to the neck without pulling it tight.

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This is the important measurement when checking that a martingale can be adjusted securely enough that your dog cannot back out of it.

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​When relaxed, the collar will naturally sit comfortably lower around the neck.

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Martingale Collar Size Guide

Our size ranges refer to the adjustable circumference of the complete collar, including the front control loop, when there is no tension on the lead.

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Small: 10–14 inches
Medium: 14–18 inches
Large: 18–22 inches
XL: 22–26 inches

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​For example, a Medium measures approximately 14 inches at its smallest adjustment and 18 inches at its largest.

When choosing a size, the collar needs to do two things:

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Open wide enough to pass comfortably over your dog's head and adjust small enough to fit securely when checked just behind the ears.

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If you're between sizes or unsure which will work best for both your dog's head and neck, send me the two measurements and I'll be happy to help.

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Tips for the Best Fit

• The collar should slip comfortably over your dog's head without having to force it over the ears.

• Once adjusted, it should sit comfortably around the neck when relaxed.

• Gently lift the D-ring on the control loop to imitate tension on the lead.

• The collar should become secure before the hardware on either side of the control loop meets.

• There should still be a visible gap between the two pieces of hardware when the collar is securely tightened.

• When the tension is released, the collar should relax comfortably again.

• If your dog's head and neck measurements appear to fall across two sizes, please contact me before ordering.

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An Important Safety Note

A martingale collar is designed for supervised walks and shouldn't be left on your dog unattended, in a crate or during play where the control loop could become caught.

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Never use a martingale collar to tie your dog up.

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Standard Clip Collar Measuring Guide

To measure for a standard clip collar:

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• Use a soft measuring tape around the middle of your dog’s neck where the collar would naturally sit

• Ensure you can comfortably fit two fingers between the tape and your dog’s neck for a safe and comfortable fit

• Compare your measurement with the sizing information provided within each product listing

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If your dog is between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up for comfort.

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Snood Measuring Guide

To measure for a snood:

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• Measure around the widest part of your dog’s neck

• For sighthounds or longer-necked breeds, you may prefer our longer snood options for additional coverage and comfort

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All sizing information is included within individual product listings.

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Need Help?

If you are unsure which size to choose, please contact us before ordering and we will happily help guide you to the best fit for your dog.

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