A martingale is a piece of equestrian tack designed to control a horse's head carriage and act as an additional form of control besides, for example, the bit. It prevents a horse from throwing its head so high that the rider gets hit in the face by the horse's poll or upper neck.

Are martingales cruel?

Are Martingale Collars Cruel? Martingale collars are specifically designed not to be cruel. ... But a Martingale collar is just a tool, and like all tools, it can be used in a positive or a negative way. This type of collar should be used to guide and protect your dog, and never as a form of punishment.

What are bib martingales used for?

A bib martingale works in the same way as a classic running martingale. The addition of a bib keeps the reins closer together and also prevents the horse from getting the neck straps in its mouth. It can be used to help prevent a horse from raising its head above a point where it can be controlled.