Why Galgos Need a Special Collar
Galgos and other sighthounds have a unique anatomy that sets them apart from other dog breeds. Their elegant, slender build is characterized by a narrow head, slender neck, and graceful shoulders that are almost the same circumference. This anatomical feature poses a specific safety concern: regular dog collars are simply not safe for these breeds.
A Galgo can easily slip out of a standard collar because their head circumference is often equal to or even smaller than their neck. This makes escape surprisingly easy for these intelligent animals, especially when they're startled or want to chase something.
The Galgo collar is therefore not a luxury but a necessity. Greyhounds are known for their sudden sprints and high speeds – they can go from calm to full speed in a split second. Without the right collar, this can lead to dangerous situations, such as runaways or traffic accidents.
In addition, Galgos have a relatively fragile neck and trachea compared to other dogs. A regular collar can put pressure on these sensitive areas when pulled suddenly, which is painful and potentially harmful to your four-legged friend.
Martingale collars: the safe choice for your galgo
Martingale collars, also called half-check collars, are specifically designed for the unique needs of sighthounds such as Galgos, Greyhounds, and Whippets. These ingenious collars feature a double loop system: a larger loop that goes around the dog's neck and a smaller control loop where the leash attaches.
When your galgo pulls or tries to escape, the martingale collar tightens evenly around the entire neck, without the constricting effect of a choke chain. The clever design ensures that the collar tightens just enough to prevent it from slipping over the head, but never so tight that it pinches the trachea.
During normal walking, the collar sits comfortably loosely around the neck, but as soon as tension is applied to the leash, the smaller loop pulls the headband evenly. This distributes the pressure around the entire neck instead of just at the front, as with conventional collars. This is crucial for Greyhounds, as their necks are particularly vulnerable.
The martingale collar offers the perfect balance between safety and comfort. Although originally designed for greyhounds, they are ideal for all dog breeds with a narrow head in relation to their neck. With a width of approximately 5 cm for adult Galgos, these collars provide optimal pressure distribution during walks.
The perfect fit: sizing advice for galgo collars
Finding the perfect fit for your Galgo collar is essential for both safety and comfort. Start by measuring two crucial dimensions: the neck circumference and the head circumference. For the neck circumference, measure the base of the neck where it meets the shoulders—this is where the collar normally sits. For the head circumference, measure the widest part of the head, usually just behind the ears and over the cheeks.
It's important that the martingale collar is loose enough to be comfortable, but can be adjusted tight enough to prevent it from slipping over the head. For a small whippet, you might start with size XS, while an adult galgo often needs a M or L.
The ideal width of the collar is also important – for adult Galgos, we recommend a width of 4-5 cm. This width ensures optimal pressure distribution and prevents pressure from being concentrated on a single point of the neck. A narrower collar can cut into the skin during sudden movements, while one that is too wide can be uncomfortable when turning the head.
A correct fit means you can comfortably fit two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck when relaxed. When the collar is tightened (with tension on the leash), it should be tight enough not to slip over the head, but never so tight that it restricts breathing.
Materials and quality: what should you pay attention to?
When choosing a Galgo collar, the quality of the materials is crucial for both durability and safety. After all, a collar is not just a fashionable accessory; it's primarily a safety tool. Our collection offers various material options:
- Leather collars: offer excellent durability and become more beautiful and supple over time. They are ideal for everyday use.
- Cotton collars: softer and lighter, perfect for dogs with sensitive skin or for hot summer days.
- Satin variants: combine elegance with comfort and are particularly suitable for greyhounds who like to stand out during their walks.
Besides the basic material, the hardware is crucial. Always look for collars with welded D-rings and strong, durable buckles. These components are subject to the most stress, especially during the sudden movements that greyhounds are known for. A broken ring or loose buckle can literally mean the difference between safety and a runaway dog.
The width of the collar also plays a significant role in comfort. A wide collar, approximately 5 cm (2 inches), distributes pressure over a larger area, which is essential for a greyhound's delicate neck. This prevents damage to the sensitive skin and underlying structures.
Also pay attention to the finish: sharp edges or rough seams can chafe and cause irritation, especially in dogs with thin coats like Galgos. Look for collars with rounded edges, often padded for extra comfort.
Galgo collars in our webshop: our collection
In our webshop, you'll find a carefully curated collection of galgo collars specifically designed for the comfort and safety of greyhounds. Each product is selected with one goal in mind: the well-being of your beloved four-legged friend. Our martingale collars are available in various styles, colors, and materials, but all share the same high quality standard.
What sets our collection apart is the combination of functionality, durability, and aesthetics. We collaborate with specialized craftspeople who understand the unique needs of greyhounds. Many of our collars are handcrafted from premium leather, ensuring excellent workmanship and attention to detail.
The buckles and rings are of the highest quality to ensure years of use, even for the most active dogs. Whether you choose an elegant, narrow collar for your whippet or a more robust, wider version for your galgo or greyhound, you'll find the perfect accessory with us.
All collars are adjustable, allowing them to be perfectly tailored to your greyhound's unique size. This ensures a comfortable yet secure fit, even during the most exuberant playtime.
By purchasing a collar from us, you're not only ensuring the safety of your own greyhound but also helping other greyhounds in need. We strongly believe in this mission and are grateful that our products can contribute to a better world for these special dogs.
