For most pet owners, it would be fair to day that dog accessories are considered to be so much more than just stylish additions, they are truly everyday essentials. From harnesses to collars to tags to leashes and more, these kinds of items are in constant contact with your pup’s coat and skin, so why wouldn’t you want to pay more attention to what they are actually made from?
You might not realize that material choice and cleaning habits can have a direct impact on your pooch’s health, as well as their comfort and overall long term wellbeing. Any materials that aren’t up to scratch will not only break down faster, they can also be harmful and toxic over time!
Don’t worry, though. We’ve put together a guide that will take you through everything that you need to know about effective, safe care for all of your leather dog gear, as well as advice on what toxic tanning processes to avoid.
Think about this way, would you want to always be wearing a belt that was soaked in chemicals? Of course not, and neither should your pet!
Here at The Lille Bjorn, our range of vegetable-tanned leather dog accessories are a safer, more natural focused option. Let’s take a closer look at why materials matter so much.
Not All Leather Is Safe for Dogs
If you go into any pet store or do a quick search online, you will find an infinite number of leather accessories for your pup. However, if you scratch a little beneath the surface you will see that not all leather is created equal, to the extent that some examples can even pose serious health risks.
Chrome-Tanned Leather: The Hidden Danger
The truth is that most of the leather you see in mass-marker harnesses and collars is chrome-tanned leather, something that is produced using chromium salts. This is because it is a cheap and fast way to manufacture.
Be careful, though, there is a dark side.
When exposed to regular moisture (like rain and sweat), friction or heat, chrome-tanned leather can release something called chromium VI which is a carcinogenic, toxic compound.
Some of the biggest health concerns that have been linked with chromium VI in leather include:
- Respiratory issues when inhaled via off-gassing.
- Irritation, skin rashes and contact allergies.
- Long-term risks of carcinogenic exposure.
As you might imagine, all of these situations can arise from harnesses and collars when they are being worn tightly around your pup’s chest and neck!
A Safer Alternative: Vegetable-Tanned Leather
Thankfully, vegetable-tanned leather dog accessories are here to save the day! They are made using more traditional methods that rely on natural tannins found in things like leaves, tree bark and other plant matter. Though it is a process that takes more time and money, the benefits are undeniable:
- Free from harsh chemicals and therefore hypoallergenic.
- Breathable, and softens with age which makes it adaptable to any dog’s body.
- Safe to use for long-term contact with your dog’s skin.
The general rule to follow is this, if you wouldn’t want to put it on your skin, then don’t put it on your dog’s either! Sadly, a lot of brands don’t follow this rule because of cost and craftsmanship requirements, but any true dog lover knows that seeking out the best is worth it.
Leather Care 101: Keep It Clean, Naturally
So, you have made the decision to invest in the best materials, now all that is left to do is take proper care of it!
Proper care in this instance comes through ensuring that your accessories stay comfortable and safe, and the good news is that leather isn’t a complicated material to care for. All that is needed is an informed and gentle approach.
To make it easy for you, here is a quick guide on how to clean leather dog harness and collar products!
Cleaning Steps
- Spot clean when needed, such as after long muddy walks or especially wet weather.
- Use a soft, damp (not soaked) cloth to wipe down the gear, with a bowl of lukewarm water.
- If particularly stubborn, use a mild, natural soap sparingly, but avoid any alcohol based cleaners or harsh detergents.
- Leave items out to air dry, away from direct sunlight and heat. Don’t use a radiator or hairdryer.
Optional: Conditioning
If you want to maintain as much flexibility as possible and avoid premature cracking, then you can also apply a small amount of natural leather balm every 3 to 6 months. Make sure to pick a formula that is free from petroleum or synthetic chemicals.
The important thing to remember is that dog collar care isn’t just about making sure your pup is the best looking dog in the park, it is also about ensuring their comfort and safety.
And above all else, never machine wash leather accessories!
Store Smart to Protect Your Investment
The truth is that even the best quality accessories can get damaged if they aren’t stored properly. After all, leather is a natural material, so it still needs to breathe!
Some of the best tips to follow to protect your pup’s accessories when they aren’t in use are:
- Always store indoors in a dry, cool environment.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to heat (like radiators), direct sunlight and excessive humidity.
- Do not store in airtight containers, opt instead for something like a breathable cotton bag or just placing on an open shelf.
Most of the dog owners we talk to end up having their gear organized in a special drawer, or on a series of wall hooks. Both these options are super practical and ensure everything stays in great condition!
Give Your Accessories a Break
You wouldn’t wear the same pair of socks everyday, right? In the same vein, there are plenty of benefits from switching between collars and harnesses as doing so allows the leather to:
- Dry out fully after being exposed to moisture.
- Breathe and rest without fur and skin contact.
- Last much longer thanks to reduced wear and tear on any single piece.
The great thing is that this also improves overall dog harness safety because it ensures that your materials stay structurally sound and super comfortable.
What is generally recommended is the following:
- Having a soft, lightweight ‘home collar’ that your pup wears around the house.
- Having a ‘walk collar’ or ‘walk harness’ that is designated for adventures and outings.
City dogs in particular can benefit from this rotating system, all based on the terrain, activity or weather on any given day.
Function Meets Fit: Choose What Suits Your Dog
Don’t believe anyone that tells you one size or style fits all, that couldn’t be further from the truth! The very best accessories combine function, fit and form all based on things like the breed, lifestyle and activity level of your pup.
For Active Dogs
Select a durable collar for swimming, rolling and general playing, and use a harness for walks to help evenly distribute pressure.
For Sensitive Dogs
Long-necked breeds like greyhounds and whippets can benefit from wider, padded collars that reduce strain. Additionally, pups with allergies will need safe dog collar materials like the vegetable tanned-leather we have already mentioned.
For City Dogs & Owners
A hands-free leash is great for having fun on urban walks and multitasking.
At The Lille Bjorn, we have all these bases covered with the likes of the Vero Harness for non-restrictive movement, the Aeris Wide Collar for great pressure distribution and the Omni Hands-Free Leash for busy city strolling.
Take the time to find the gear that works best for both you and your pooch, it can make a world of difference!
The Small Detail That Can Save a Life
Something not to underestimate in all of this is just how important an ID tag is! When your pup manages to slip their leash or makes a dash through an open gate, their ID tag becomes the number one tool in a safe return.
No collar or harness is complete without a sturdy name take, and at The Lille Bjorn we think our solid brass options are ideal for a number of reasons:
- Rust-resistance, even the wettest, saltiest conditions.
- A stylish, timeless match with the best premium leather collars.
- All important long-term legibility thanks to deep engraving.
In terms of what to put on the tag, we think their name and your mobile number is a simple place to start.
Protect Their Skin. Preserve Their Style. Choose Wisely!
Ultimately, every single choice that you make for your dog matters, from food to toys to training and everything in between!
There is no doubt that leather dog accessories are a great investment for your canine companion’s safety and comfort. With so many different options on the market, it can be overwhelming, but here are some of the key things to remember when shopping:
- At all costs, avoid the potential health hazards of chrome-tanned leather dangers.
- Opt for safe dog collar materials like our favorite vegetable-tanned leather.
- Start better caring for leather dog gear in order to guarantee long-term use and safety.
- Always consider the issue of dog collar toxins when browsing products
When you decide to put your trust in us and choose The Lille Björn, you’re not just getting great accessories, you’re getting peace of mind that your pup is in the hands of people who really care! Head over to our website to check out everything we have to offer, from amazing hypoallergenic pieces to engraved name tags and more.
