When you bring a new dog home, one of the first things you buy is a collar. Seems simple, right? Just grab one that fits and you’re good to go.
But if you’ve ever had a dog pull, twist, or slip out of their collar—you know it’s not that easy.
There are all kinds of collars out there. Some work great. Some… not so much.
Let’s walk through the most common types, and then we’ll introduce one that many Twin Cities dog owners haven’t tried—but probably should.
Flat collars: basic, but easy to slip out of
Flat collars are the most common. They’re perfect for holding ID tags and for calm, well-trained dogs.
But here’s the issue: they can easily slide off if a dog backs up or panics. And they don’t offer much control if your dog pulls.
Prong collars: how they work
Prong collars distribute pressure around the neck when a dog pulls. They’re a training tool rather than an everyday collar, and they’re normally fitted and introduced with a trainer’s guidance — sizing and placement matter a great deal with this one.
If you’re considering one for a rescue dog, it’s worth talking it through with a trainer who has met your dog.
Choke chains: how they work
A choke chain tightens for as long as there’s tension on the lead, with no fixed stopping point.
That last detail is the mechanical difference from the collar this article is really about — and the reason that collar exists at all.
Head collars: steering control, with an adjustment period
Head collars like the Gentle Leader wrap around a dog’s nose and give you steering control.
They can reduce pulling, but many dogs need time to adjust. Some never fully get used to them.
Harnesses: good for some dogs
Harnesses reduce strain on the neck and are a solid option for dogs with medical issues. Front-clip harnesses help with pulling—but some dogs still find ways to power through.
Harnesses are great tools, but they’re not always ideal for training or leash manners. If you want structured leash training tips that pair well with any collar or harness choice, our guide on preventing overexcited nipping during heel training covers exactly that.
Here’s a collar most people overlook
It’s not flashy. It’s not expensive. And chances are, you’ve seen a rescue dog wearing one and didn’t even notice.
It’s called a Martingale collar.
Why martingale collars work so well
Martingale collars tighten slightly when a dog pulls—but only to a safe limit. They’re designed to prevent dogs from backing out or slipping free.
They’re especially helpful for:
- Dogs with narrow heads (like Greyhounds)
- Rescued dogs who are still learning leash manners
- Dogs who tend to get spooked or try to escape
- Foster dogs transitioning between homes
Martingales are often the go-to collar for rescue organizations across Minnesota. They offer gentle control, and they’re very hard for a nervous dog to back out of.
They’re also affordable—something to keep in mind when you’re figuring out how much it really costs to adopt a dog. Collars, leashes, ID tags, and training tools can all add up.
A smart tool for shelters and new adopters
When you donate to or volunteer with an animal shelter, consider bringing a few Martingale collars with you. They’re one of those simple tools that many rescues truly need but don’t always have enough of.
Curious what else shelters are always short on? Check out our guide on what animal shelters need the most—you might already have some of it at home.
One last thing
The right collar can make walks safer, training easier, and your bond with your dog stronger.
So before you grab another flat collar off the rack, look into a Martingale. You might be surprised how much difference it makes.
