The 5 Best Martingale Dog Collars Australia: Tested & Reviewed 2024

Stop me if this sounds familiar. You are training your adopted dog or puppy to walk with you. Things seem to be going well at first. They are obediently stuck to your heels, looking to you for guidance.

What a breakthrough. And then, they catch a whiff of a compelling wee-mail across the road. All of a sudden, your dog develops super canine strength to heave your weight to where the sniff site can be found. Perhaps not quite the win for walk training you were hoping for after all.

If your dog is a puller or a supreme escape artist, a martingale collar is for you! But what is a martingale collar? They are not the same as normal flat collars or as inhumane as choke collars. To provide you with the most comprehensive information available, we teamed up with veterinarians and canine behavioursists to form a team of independent experts.

In doing so, we’ll define what a martingale collar is, who they are for, and what makes a good martingale collar. If this type of collar seems like the right option for you, then you are going to love our top recommendations for martingale collars in Australia. In fact, our expert panel spent months researching and testing dozens of options to suss out the best of the best.

Hopefully, in the end, you’ll find the best dog collar for your pup!

Australia's Best Martingale Collars 2023 Australia

Woof, that was a long buying guide right? Well, I wanted to be as thorough as possible when it comes to martingale collars as they aren’t very common. In fact, it’s likely your veterinarian recommended it and that’s what brought you here.

Now that we have established the form and function of a martingale collar and the qualities of a good product, let us dive into the best martingale collars for dogs Australia has to offer. Our panel of independent experts tried to cover a range of sizes and designs so that there is something for everyone!

When it comes to martingale collars, this model by Rogz is a tough one to beat. It’s durable, affordable and comes in many sizes and colours. What more could you want?

Starting with the materials, the collar is made of thickly woven nylon, which makes it extremely sturdy. Yet, I love how the material is soft to the touch, so I didn’t have to worry about it irritating my pooch’s neck. The collar comes in nine colour options, and each of them features reflective stitching for better visibility in night conditions. 

Sizing is one of the most important factors when it comes to dog collars, and that’s yet another great thing about this model. Unlike our second choice ahead, you have six sizes to choose from, but each of them could be further adjusted by 10 cm to fit your dog’s neck better.

Finally, the price tag is simply too good not to mention it. Our independent team of experts are happy to say that this collar is not only the best one on this list, but also one of the most affordable ones, thus setting the standard for other products. 

The runner up in this category is the CollarDirect martingale, a really top-quality collar with a unique design.

This model has a stainless-steel chain D-ring loop rather than a fabric one our number one choice comprises. If you prefer the chain look, then you may prefer this one.

The designs are much plainer but therefore more universal. You can get this collar in purple, black, blue, orange, pink, red, lime green, and mint green. Amazing range of options!

As for sizing, there are three sizes. The smallest is 30 cm in length and the largest is 55 cm in length. I'm sad to say that extra-large dogs are not catered for here again. Neither are toy dogs. As you can imagine, this made the collar a no-go with some of independent expert team members who have large or tiny breed pups.

We wish they would expand their sizing to be more inclusive of all breeds because we just love this collar! If more sizes is what you need, we definitely recommend our first choice or even our number three option next.

These collars are made of woven nylon and have reflective strips interlocking the block colour. Therefore, they shine brightly in low-light conditions for night and dawn walkers.

With CollarDirect’s typical high-quality finesse, we are happy to recommend them for this slightly plainer style.

The PetSafe Martingale Collar is ideal for those on a budget.

The design is very simple with a fabric D-ring loop, similar to our first choice. It is constructed of durable nylon and fastened with a quick release plastic buckle for ease of use. Your dog will love how lightweight and comfortable these collars are.

Similar to our second option, this model comes in a wide range of colours; black, red, apple green, deep purple, raspberry, and royal blue.

In terms of sizing, PetSafe offer their martingales in 5 distinct sizes. This is an excellent range for the category and definitely sets it apart from our last choice by CollarDirect. We love that there are two medium sizes with differing widths. You can customise your purchase for your pup. There is a petite size measuring just 17 cm in length and under 1 cm in width. However, the largest size isn’t that big at 50 cm in length at its longest point which still excludes extra-large dogs.

Overall, the PetSafe collars are a fantastic price point for their quality. If you are looking for the cheaper options, you can’t go wrong here!

I’ve mentioned a few times that extra large dogs have been left out so here is a dog collar recommendation for the giant pups out there!

RC Pet Products has an overall fantastic size range. The smallest size is 23 cm at its smallest and the largest size is 69 cm at its largest. This is beautifully inclusive and adaptable.

As for the design, this is the first on the list that is not made from woven nylon. This time a soft webbing is used for a gentler, sleeker look. The model comes with a reflective label that can be seen at night.

Speaking of looks, our team of experts raved that the range of designs here is second-to-none. There is something for everyone. Twenty-one designs are available in all three sizes, so I am certain you’ll find a cool design for your pooch.

To top it off, the manufacturer promises to return and replace any damaged or broken collars. This is the ideal option for your extra-large and strong doggy!

A good puppy martingale collar needs to be durable, comfortable and easy to put on. But since your puppy will probably quickly grow out of it, a low price tag is also a great trait. Well, this model by Yudote definitely checks all the boxes.

This collar comes in four sizes, with the smallest one being 26 cm long. While not the smallest collar out there, it’s highly adjustable so it should fit your pup without an issue. Made of nylon, the collar is very durable but also comfortable to wear. Unlike our number four choice that features a reflective label, this collar features reflective stitching, which makes your pooch more noticeable during night walks.

As for the design, the collar comes in 10 colours and patterns, so it’s definitely a fashion accessory. From floral motifs to vivid colours, your puppy will be very stylish wearing this. A separate tag ring is also a nice touch, allowing you to further customisze your Fido’s collar with a unique ID tag.

Now for the luxury choice. Though the RC Pet Products model in slot four has an element of high-quality, care and handmade precision, it doesn’t rival the craftsmanship of this gorgeous number.

Handmade to perfection, this collar is completely unique. It is made with Greyhounds, Salukis and Whippets in mind who are perfect candidates for the martingale collar. As I mentioned before, their skinny heads make them mega escape artists, so it is common for owners to dress their dogs with martingale collars for their safety.

The embroidery on this collar is divine. So very intricate and high quality. You can tell that a lot of time and care went into making such a beautiful item. Luxury is taking it lightly.

Best of all, our team of independent experts were amazed the price point is not too high for the care and attention taken to make it. It’s the perfect luxury item - luxe quality for half the cost.

What Is A Martingale Dog Collar?

So what is a martingale collar to begin with? We asked our team if independent experts to explain what sets this collar apart from the pack. A martingale collar is a flat collar with one key difference - the final third of the fabric making up the length of the collar is placed into a D-ring loop. 

This means there are two loops that make up a martingale collar. One goes around your dog’s neck. The other is integrated into the collar and attaches to the lead at the back of the neck. The D-ring loop is either made of the same fabric as the main part of the collar, or a stainless-steel chain. Rest assured that the chain does not rub against your dog’s skin if the collar has been fitted correctly.

When pulled, the collar tightens around your dog’s neck but not in a restrictive way. It just fits more snugly than it did before.

What does this do? It hinders a dogs ability to back out of their collars to get loose. It is also sometimes used as a corrective tool when training your dog to walk nicely. Think of it as an added fail safe that gives you more control as you explore the world together.

Because the D-ring loop is often a stainless-steel chain, martingale collars often get mixed up with choke chains. Choke chains are made entirely of metal, with a slipping mechanism that tightens the chain around your dog’s neck like a hangman in his noose.

Choke chains are a very outdated, cruel, and ineffective way of training your dog to walk. The answer to a pulling dog is not to strangle them. A martingale collar is a gentler, kinder alternative that still gives you the control you are looking for.

When Should A Martingale Collar Be Used?

Martingales are often advertised to be made for sighthounds. We’re talking the slinky headed breeds out there. Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Afghans all fit this description. The reason martingales are used so often with these breeds is because these cheeky devils are big fans of the great collar escape.

They use their thin heads to slip out of collars easily, simply by backing out of them. If you own a Greyhound, you know how dangerous it can be for them to be let loose during a walk. If they catch their eye on something appealing in the distance, they can take off quickly, crossing roads and fading out of sight in an instant.

It’s a Greyhound owner’s worst nightmare to have them chasing some unknown entity that you can’t see! A martingale collar gives you slightly more control. It is a backup so that your dog cannot escape you so easily.

That said, any breed can use a martingale collar. If they are strong pullers or like to escape, this style of collar will work for them. In fact, martingale collars are often used for training show dogs.

What I Look for In A Martingale Collar?

To find the best martingale collar, our panel of independent experts suggest you review these factors with great detail and care.

Size

Sizing is possibly the most important when it comes to martingale collars. If the collar doesn’t fit, it won’t function properly. However, the range of sizes offered by a manufacturer can be an issue sometimes.

As you'll see with our reviews ahead, companies often don’t account for the tiniest of breeds or the grandest. Make sure that the collar you choose will fit your dog snugly.

Comfort

Speaking of snug, collars are long-wear items so they need to be comfortable. There are a few aspects to this. The material is best if it is soft and strong. Anything scratchy will irritate your dog.

If your dog has long hair, like mine does, the chain D-loop is not for them. My dog's long hair has gotten stuck in the metal before and caused him obvious discomfort. Fabric loops are much better for long-haired breeds like him for that reason.

Another factor is the weight. You want your dog’s collar to be lightweight so that your dog acclimatises easily to wearing it. If you intend for this collar to be their daily use collar, the ease of wear is even more important.

Durability

So, you are likely in the market for a martingale collar because your pooch is a puller. It stands to reason, then, that the collar you choose will likely be put through the wringer over its lifetime. Collar durability is tested in the best of times, let alone with an exceptionally strong dog or keen escapee.

Look for strong fabrics like woven nylon to ensure the integrity of the collar over time. If there are any metal elements, stainless steel is much hardier than softer metals that may rust or bend with extended use.

Style

Yes, you can call me shallow but bear with me here. The look of a collar adds to the fun and enjoyment of it.

Through a brightly coloured pattern or sleek, classic design, you can show the personality of you and your pup. Manufacturers make collars in a gorgeous array of colours and patterns to enable dog owners to express their dog’s character to the world in a unique way. If you are going to invest in a long-term item like a dog collar, it might as well be cool to look at.

How To Fit A Martingale Dog Collar

To start, if the manufacturer has a guide to sizing always use that first. You know how you may be a size small in one clothing brand and a size medium at another? Well collars are similar in that sizing amongst brands varies. Follow their sizing guidelines first if they provide them. If not, this is a general guide to fitting a martingale collar.

If they don’t have a buckle, you need to measure the largest part of your dog’s head and the largest part of your dog’s neck. Whichever is the widest measurement is the one you will use for the collar fitting. From that measurement, you will add roughly 2.5 cm for small dogs, or 5 cm for large dogs. That final figure is the one you need for an effective martingale.

If the collar does have a buckle, you only need to measure the part of the neck where the collar will sit. (3) From that measurement, you add a further 2.5 cm or 5 cm depending on your dog’s size.

Once you receive the collar, you want the band to sit comfortably around the neck. You should be able to fit your index and middle finger between the collar and your dog’s neck comfortably.

It should be a snug fit, not tight.

My Final Thoughts

Overall, our team of independent experts were all in agreement that they top choice is definitely the Rogz HC11-A Obedience Dog Collar. They are well-fitting, great-looking, and reasonably priced - the ultimate trifecta.

We wish the sizing was a bit more inclusive but that is a criticism of the dog product world as a whole. If you have read any of my previous reviews, you’ll know that inclusivity is an issue I hold close to my heart. I believe no dog should be left behind!

As for those on a budget, PetSafe have an excellent range of martingale collars at a lower price point.

Want to learn more about dog collars? Check out our below guides:

• Best Flea Collar
• Best Puppy Collar
• Best Dog Training Collar
• Best GPS Dog Collar
• Best Leather Dog Collars
• Best Personalised Dog Collars
• Best LED Dog Collar

References

1. Jones, J. August 30, 2017. “What are Martingale Dog Collars?”. Orvis News. Retrieved April 26, 2023. https://news.orvis.com/dogs/what-are-martingale-dog-collars
2. Ellison, J. July 3, 2016. “Martingale Dog Collars – Types & Uses”. The Artful Canine. Retrieved April 26, 2023. https://blog.theartfulcanine.com/martingale-dog-collars/
3. “Guide to Measuring & Fitting Martingale Collars”. The Artful Canine. Retrieved April 26, 2023. https://www.theartfulcanine.com/guide-to-measuring-fitting-martingale-collars/