Collars for sighthounds: why width matters and how to fit one

A sighthound collar has to solve a problem most dogs never present: a narrow head on a long, strong neck. Greyhounds, whippets, salukis, and their relatives can back out of a collar that would hold almost any other dog. This guide explains why collars for sighthounds are wider, how to measure and fit one, and when a martingale makes sense.

Which dogs are sighthounds?

Sighthounds are hounds bred to hunt by sight and speed rather than by scent. The group includes greyhounds, whippets, Italian greyhounds, salukis, galgos, borzois, and many lurchers. They vary a great deal in size, but most share the same outline: a long, narrow skull, a long neck, a deep chest, and a lean frame.

Some other dogs with long, slim necks have similar needs. When it comes to collars, the shape of your dog matters more than the breed name.

Why a standard collar can slip

On most dogs, the head is clearly wider than the neck, so a collar fitted to the neck cannot pass forward over the skull. On many sighthounds the difference is small, and on some the neck is the wider of the two. Greyhound adoption programmes point to this as the reason an ordinary collar can slide over the head when a dog backs away from the lead.

That is why the fit of a sighthound collar is judged against two measurements rather than one.

Why sighthound collars are wider

A traditional sighthound collar is noticeably wider than an everyday collar. The width spreads contact across a larger area of the neck instead of concentrating it along one narrow line. It also suits the proportions of a long neck, where a thin collar can look and sit out of place.

Width helps, but fit matters more. A wide collar fastened loosely is no more secure than a narrow one, so the measuring below is the part to take most care over.

How to measure your sighthound for a collar

1. Measure the neck where the collar will sit. On sighthounds this is usually high on the neck, just behind the ears. Use a soft tape measure, snug against the coat but not tight.
2. Add room. You should be able to slide two fingers flat between the collar and the neck. Note this figure: it is the size the fitted collar will be.
3. Measure the head at its widest point, usually just in front of the ears.
4. Compare the two. The fitted collar should be clearly smaller than the head. If the two figures are close, a fixed collar may be able to slide forward, and a martingale is worth considering for walks.
5. Choose the size from the neck measurement. Our wide collar size guide lists neck ranges from XXS (18.5–23.5 cm) to XXL (48.5–53.5 cm).

Martingale or wide collar?

Many greyhound adoption programmes recommend a martingale collar for walks. A martingale has a second, smaller loop that closes a little when the lead is pulled, so the collar tightens towards the neck rather than sliding forward. Fitted correctly, it should never close smaller than the neck itself.

The same programmes generally advise against leaving a martingale on around the house, because the loose loop can catch on furniture and fittings. For home, they suggest a regular collar that carries your dog's details.

A wide leather collar is the other common choice, particularly for dogs whose head is clearly wider than the fitted collar. Many owners use both: a martingale for busy streets and unfamiliar places, and a wide collar for everyday wear. If you are unsure which suits your dog, your rescue or breeder will know how your dog behaves on the lead and can advise.

The Halo collar and other options

We designed the Halo collar with sighthounds in mind. It is 5 cm wide, with a cut-out through its centre that keeps the width while taking away visual bulk, so the collar does not overwhelm a fine neck. It comes in sizes XXS to XXL and in all five of our colours.

If your dog has a broader, more muscular neck, such as a heavier-built lurcher, the Atlas collar offers the same 5 cm width without the cut-out. Our guide to choosing between Grace, Atlas, and Halo compares all three side by side.

Every collar we make is cut from belt leather and carries our Lifetime Guarantee.

Living with a sighthound collar

• Check the fit regularly: Dogs change shape. A newly adopted greyhound, a young whippet still filling out, or any dog that gains or loses weight may need the collar adjusted or resized.
• Keep identification on the everyday collar: Whichever collar your dog wears most should carry their details. The Luna name tag is cut from brass and engraved with your dog's name.
• Look at the skin under the collar now and then: Many sighthounds have short, fine coats. If you notice rubbing, recheck the size and position before anything else.
• Exchange the size if needed: If the size is not right when the collar arrives, our free size exchange explains how to swap an unworn collar for another size.

Frequently asked questions about sighthound collars

• Why do greyhounds wear wide collars? A greyhound's head is often only slightly wider than its neck. A wider collar spreads contact over more of the neck and suits its length, but a close, careful fit is what keeps it in place.
• Do greyhounds need a martingale collar? Not always. Many adoption programmes recommend one for walks, especially with newly adopted dogs, while a well-fitted wide collar is a common choice for everyday wear. Some owners use both.
• How do I measure a greyhound for a collar? Measure the neck high up, just behind the ears, and add two fingers of room. Then measure the head at its widest point and check that the fitted collar is clearly smaller.
• Where should a sighthound's collar sit? High on the neck, just behind the ears, where the neck is narrowest and the skull sits directly in front of the collar.
• Which breeds need a sighthound collar? Greyhounds, whippets, Italian greyhounds, salukis, galgos, borzois, and many lurchers. Other dogs with long, slim necks and narrow heads can benefit from the same approach.

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