Martingale and Adjustable Dog Collars: What's the Difference?

Is your dog a well-trained good boy or a sneaky escape artist you have to keep your eye on? Maybe a little of both? Shopping for dog collars can be daunting, with so many types and styles available. There really is something for every dog and his human! You might be tempted to buy a waterproof rubber collar for an adventurous, beach-loving pooch, a GPS / smart collar for a born explorer or a heavy-duty collar for a big boy with some heft in his pull. Yet two of the most popular styles of dog collars are the standard adjustable and Martingale designs. Between them, these styles can meet the needs of most dogs and dog owners- and you can buy both from Arctic Sammy. 

Wondering what the main differences are between these two popular collar types and which (if any) is most appropriate for your furry friend? Arctic Sammy can help. Our Martingale and adjustable collars, as well as our dog harnesses and wide range of other dog accessories, give you and your pup everything you need for a walk around the neighbourhood, a training session, some bonding time or even a weekend getaway or camping trip. 

Here are some of the similarities and differences between these two types of collars: 

Adjustable collars

Also commonly known as “flat collars”, adjustable collars lay flat across your dog’s neck and provide a secure place to attach his ID details. These collars typically come with buckles or clasps that make them easy to take on and off, and are suitable for everything from your daily walk with your best friend to a longer adventure into the wilderness. Because adjustable collars can easily be resized for a range of different neck sizes and breeds, they’re pretty much the standard when it comes to dog collars and provide a comfortable choice for most furry friends. 

Adjustable dog collars come in many materials, colours and styles. Nylon collars are common, easy on your dog’s skin and suitable for all kinds of breeds, while materials like leather can provide a lofty look to posher pooches with impeccable hygiene. It’s important to always make sure your precious pup’s collar is well-fitted, and the “two-finger” rule is a good rule to live by. 

Martingale collars

Some types of dogs find it easier than others to give their collars the slip. Greyhounds and other breeds with narrow heads, anxious pups who try to make a run for it on walks, and cunning canines with skills in the art of escaping can all benefit from the extra security of a Martingale collar. Martingale dog collars are often used as training tools. They’ll gently tighten around your dog’s neck when he tries to escape without choking him or causing him discomfort. The typical Martingale design consists of two loops at the end of each piece of fabric: a large one that goes around your dog’s neck and a smaller one that tightens when he pulls. 

A Martingale collar lets you maintain greater control over your dog without putting too much pressure on his neck. To make sure your best friend has everything he needs to get around safely and comfortably, it’s a great idea to have both an adjustable and a Martingale collar as well as a harness. 

Every dog needs both collars and leashes and matching the right collar and leash is an art in itself. Arctic Sammy’s long-line training leash gives your dog a feeling of freedom on outdoor adventures while allowing you to stay in control. 

Arctic Sammy’s adjustable and Martingale collar choices

Here on the Arctic Sammy website, you’ll find a variety of Martingale and adjustable dog collars in a range of different styles. Made in our Christchurch workshop from high-quality NZ climbing rope, these collars are designed to complement the form and function of our other dog accessories and products like our dog harnesses. 

Our adjustable dog collars are the perfect everyday collars for most walks and most occasions. Strong and tear-resistant but also gentle on your dog’s neck, these collars are fitted with stainless steel D-rings and ID tags adjustment points. 

Made for dogs that have mastered the art of escape, our Martingale collars are comfortable, durable and can prevent even the wiliest dog from slipping away. These collars slip easily over your dog’s head and comfortably fit around his neck – no need to fiddle with buckles. Made from strong, weather-resistant double-braided rope, our Martingale dog collars are gentle on your dog’s skin while remaining robust.