Melanie Martinez is catching serious heat online after fans noticed her dogs wearing prong collars, a controversial training tool many animal experts say can be painful and even dangerous—especially for smaller or flat-faced breeds. The pop star, known for her bold aesthetic and devoted fanbase, is now facing criticism from animal lovers who argue that her choice could put her pets at risk.
Prong collars, which use inward-facing metal prongs to apply pressure around a dog’s neck, have long been a divisive topic in the pet world. Critics say they’re outdated and unnecessarily harsh, particularly for dogs with sensitive necks or compact anatomy. In Martinez’s case, fans were quick to point out that her dogs appear to be breeds that experts consider especially vulnerable to injury from this type of collar.
Animal behaviorists warn that prong collars can pinch skin, damage the trachea, and trigger fear or anxiety when used incorrectly—which, they say, happens far too often. While some trainers argue the collars can be effective in very controlled situations with large, powerful dogs, most agree they are a poor choice for smaller or short-necked breeds. Many professionals now advocate for gentler alternatives like harnesses, head collars, and positive reinforcement training.
Social media reaction has been swift and intense. Fans have flooded comment sections urging Martinez to ditch the collars, with some calling the choice careless and others going further, labeling the devices cruel. Several posts stress that there are plenty of humane training tools that work just as well without causing discomfort, emphasizing that modern dog training should never rely on fear or pain.
Experts also note that celebrities carry added influence, whether they intend to or not. When high-profile figures are seen using controversial products, it can unintentionally normalize practices that animal welfare advocates are trying to move away from. That concern has only fueled the backlash, as critics argue Martinez should be more mindful of the message her actions send to millions of followers.
So far, the singer has not publicly responded to the controversy. Some fans are willing to give her the benefit of the doubt, suggesting she may not have been aware of the risks associated with prong collars. Others remain unconvinced, arguing that these tools are widely known to be unsuitable for small or flat-faced dogs and should be avoided altogether.
