Many times, writing one article will trigger the beginning of another. That is exactly what happened with the most recent article about Martingale collars and half check collars. The article discussed the debate over the various types of choke collars. It mentioned the proper fit and position of these types of collars but did not address it. Indeed, this is a crucial aspect of using a Martingale or Half Check collar.

In summary, Half check collars and Martingale collars are variations of choke collars that are considered to be more humane that the chain choke collar. These two types of collars were originally designed for sight hounds, such as Greyhounds, Whippets, Italian Greyhounds, Bolzoi, Saluki, etc., which are breeds that have necks larger than their heads, but prevents any dog from backing out of a regular collar.

Half check collars, or half choke collars, are typically manufactured of leather or nylon webbing and chain, while Martingale collars are made entirely of nylon webbing. Both collars have a dual-loop design which functions by tightening around the dogs neck when it is attempting to remove its head from the collar, yet it will loosen when the struggling dog stops fighting. The distinctive, restricted closing of the half check collar and the Martingale collar averts it from becoming too snug. Nonetheless, proper fit and positioning is crucial when using these types of collars.

The Martingale collar, which is usually made of nylon webbing, has two loops. The small loop, also called the control loop, has the dee ring which is the attach point for the leash. The Martingale collar is adjusted with the second loop which allows the collar to be tightened or loosened to fit the dog perfectly. A buckle can be added to the collar so it can be buckled around the dog’s neck.

To properly fit and position the Martingale collar, slip it over the dog’s head and pull the collar up right behind the ears of the dog. The collar is adjusted here because this is the point where a normal collar slips over the head. The control loop should close when the dee ring is pulled. The two hardware pieces attached to the control loop should be a minimum of two inches apart or the standard two-finger allowance. The two pieces should never touch. If the two pieces touch, your collar is too loose.

The Half Check Collar is comparable to the Martingale except part of this collar is made with chain. Similar to the Martingale, it has two loops which work the same way. The control loop on this type of collar is made of chain. The dee ring is attached to this circle of chain and is used as the attaching point for the leash. The chain is connected to the webbing or leather part of the collar with metal rings

The half check collar is placed in the same location as with the Martingale collar. If the dog tugs or attempts to slide the collar over its head, the chain tightens the webbing around the dog’s neck. The chain itself never comes in contact with the dog. The unique chain tightening noise also acts as a training tool as the dog pulls against the collar.

When experimenting with these two types of collars, it becomes obvious how comparable the two collars really are. Essentially, these collars function in the same fashion to control dogs that would more often than not be able to slide an ordinary collar over its head. In addition, it is evident that these two collars are a more humanitarian way to manage dogs while on a leash. The owner of the dog ought to be well-informed about these types of collars and how to use them properly as to not inflict injury to the dog.