Some greyhounds Can’t Wear a martingale Collar — and Why That’s Okay
When greyhounds first arrive in care, they can sometimes present with a hoarse throat due to their collars being pulled tight.
Memphis arrived wearing a collar so tight it was clearly causing him to cough. We were told it was to control him, to stop him from slipping away from his handler. But instead of keeping him safe, it left him with a very coarse, irritated throat. A well-fitted harness can offer better control, more comfort, and far less risk of injury.
Some greyhounds are strong on the leash.
When they pull like a tank, it’s usually just the enthusiasm for the world. They want to explore every bush, sniff every tree, and lead the way like they are on a mission. Even with a harness, we can see that pressure across the chest can cause gasping. So, for Memphis, the answer was clear: no collar. Not now, not until he learns to walk more gently.
In the early days, we have found that giving them time to investigate, to allow them to follow their nose in more open, forgiving spaces before we ask them to handle the structure of street walks. It’s better for his health and, honestly, better for everyone involved.
What About Martingale Collars?
Martingale collars are wonderful when used appropriately. For greyhounds — with their slender necks and Houdini-like ability to slip out of regular collars — martingales provide a safe, gentle solution if the dog isn’t pulling.
That’s the key: if.
Because if your greyhound is pulling, any collar — even a martingale — is going to cause discomfort, if not injury. It’s all about common sense. If your dog is gasping, hacking, or sounding like they’ve just run a marathon when they haven’t, it’s time to rethink your setup.
Training your greyhound to walk.
We’ve found that most greyhounds who raced tend to be quite well-behaved on the leash, and they usually handle martingale collars without any issues. It’s often the younger, non-racing kennel dogs who are more likely to pull and be a bit unpredictable. Using treats and positive reinforcement is a great way to train your greyhound—check out our other training tips for guidance. If you need extra support, consider consulting a reputable greyhound behaviorist or professional dog trainer.
Grace Over Force
A well-fitted martingale collar, when used with the right dog, in the right way, isn’t going to cause the irritation, chokehold-type breathing that Memphis arrived with.
If your greyhound walks with grace — like a balloon on a string — light, calm, and effortlessly in step beside you, a martingale collar is perfectly fine. It’s designed to sit comfortably and only tighten slightly if needed, offering gentle control without pressure.
But if your greyhound is charging ahead, pulling like a freight train, or getting overexcited on every walk, then any collar can become a hazard. In these cases, a harness is the kinder, safer option — especially while they’re still learning.
Loose-leash walking on a long line can also be a fantastic training approach once your dog has settled in. It gives them freedom to explore while reducing tension and stress for both of you.
The truth is, martingales are not the problem when used correctly. The real issue often lies in how they’re used. If a dog is choking, gasping, or constantly pulling, it’s not a collar issue — it’s a training opportunity. No dog should be allowed to hurt themselves.
With a bit of patience, and a shift in perspective, even the most enthusiastic walker can learn to move with grace.
Memphis Is Learning
The good news? Memphis is doing really well. With time, patience, and the right gear, he’s learning how to enjoy the world at a healthier pace. Every walk is a step toward comfort, confidence, and connection.
And if you're ever in doubt about what's best for your greyhound, start by listening to them — their body language, their breathing, their behaviour. They’ll tell you everything you need to know.
Guest Blogger Call: Share Your Expertise on the Best Greyhound Harnesses!
Are you passionate about greyhounds and knowledgeable about the best harnesses designed for their unique needs? We’re looking for a skilled writer to create an engaging, helpful article on the best greyhound harnesses.
The ideal post will cover:
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Top harness options specifically suited for greyhounds
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Features that make a harness safe and comfortable for this breed
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Tips on choosing the right harness based on activity and size
If you’re interested in sharing your expertise and reaching a community of greyhound lovers, get in touch with us! This is a great opportunity to showcase your writing and help owners make the best choice for their furry friends.
Drop us a message or submit your pitch — we’d love to collaborate!
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Comments
Thanks!
Thank you for taking the time to put this together and take some of the sting out of the learning curve for new owners