When selecting the ideal dog collar or dog leash for your precious pup, most of us probably think about nylon and leather, weighing up the pros and cons of a classic look over something a little more flashy and modern. However, there is another important element of such accessories that tends to get overlooked, and that is the trusty hardware. Specifically, we want to talk about brass hardware!
Brass isn’t just a pretty metal. It can be the backbone for many of the best high quality dog collars, dog harnesses and dog leashes on the market. Let’s look closely at some of the key reasons why brass hardware is the gold standard for collar and leash hardware.
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Brass Is Durable, It Can Handle Any Kind Of Adventure
As we are sure you are well aware, dogs are masters in the art of living life to the absolute fullest! They love to run zoomies in the pouring rain or diving head first into an all too mysterious patch of dirt so they definitely need gear that is going to be able to keep up with them. This is where brass can really shine, both figuratively and literally!
Brass is massively durable, as well as being resistant to hardcore wear and tear. This alone makes it a perfect choice for dog leads and dog collars. Your pup could be a gentle walker or a champion tug of war puller, but no matter their vibe, brass hardware is guaranteed to be able to handle the pressure without bending and breaking.
And if you happen to have a pup that thinks it is a mermaid, the good news is that brass does not rust! You won’t have to worry about horrible stains after a day at the beach or a tour through a rain drenched park. Brass will pretty much stay as sturdy as the day you purchased it.
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Style Meets Functionality, Brass Has Timeless Appeal
Let’s be honest, function might be the first thought, but it is closely followed by the desire to have your canine companion looking as cute as possible at all times! Whether a huge black lab or a fluffy little Maltese, brass hardware will always bring a touch of timeless elegance to your accessory setup.
When you pair it with quality leather dog collars, brass creates a really sophisticated, classic look that you can be sure is never going to go out of style. Think of it as the little black dress of doggy gear, always suitable, and always chic! Handmade leather dog collars with brass knuckles can be especially stunning, providing you with that perfect combination of exquisite craftsmanship and durability.
And even better, brass is a material that develops a natural patina over time, which helps to add more unique, vintage charm to your dog collars and dog leashes as time goes by. Just like your pup, the accessories will only get better with age!
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Brass Is Dog Skin Safe
Something we do want to mention is that brass hardware can occasionally discolor the fur of white-coated dogs. This happens due to a natural reaction between brass and moisture, like water or sweat. Fortunately, this discoloration is harmless and temporary. In most cases, a quick wipe with a damp cloth will reduce or remove the marks. For more stubborn stains, a gentle, pet-safe shampoo may be needed.
This minor issue is far preferable to cheaper plated metals, which are prone to flaking and can irritate your dog’s skin or even cause allergic reactions. In contrast, solid brass is hypoallergenic and much safer. So, if your pup ends up with a temporary golden glow, you can rest assured they are comfortable, stylish, and safe
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Brass Vs. Other Materials
Choosing the Right Material for Your Dog's Gear: Why Brass Stands Out
When picking out gear for your dog, the material is just as important as the design. While there are many options available, not all materials are created equal. Here’s an honest breakdown of common materials and why brass remains a top choice for quality-conscious pet parents.
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Stainless Steel: Durable but Not Invincible
Stainless steel is a tough and rust-resistant material, making it a common choice for dog hardware. However, over time, even stainless steel can corrode, especially when exposed frequently to water or scratches that compromise its protective surface. While functional, it lacks the warm, classic aesthetic that brass naturally provides.
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Aluminum: Lightweight but Easily Damaged
Aluminum’s light weight makes it convenient for small dogs or less active pets. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have the strength to withstand the wear and tear of daily adventures, especially for larger or more energetic dogs. Aluminum also scratches easily and loses its shine, leaving your gear looking dull and worn sooner than you’d like.
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Plastic: Inexpensive but Unreliable
Plastic may be the cheapest option on the market, but it’s also the least durable. It’s prone to cracking under pressure, and constant exposure to weather extremes accelerates its breakdown. While it might be fine for temporary or decorative use, plastic can’t compete with the longevity or reliability of metal options.
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Nickel-Plated Hardware: Short-Lived Shine
Nickel-plated hardware often looks polished and attractive at first glance, but the thin plating wears off with regular use, exposing the underlying metal to tarnish and rust. This short lifespan makes it less practical for dog gear that sees daily use. For dogs with sensitive skin, prolonged contact with nickel can also lead to irritation, making it a less suitable option for pets.
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Why Brass is the Superior Choice
Brass outshines other materials in durability, safety, and style. Unlike other metals, brass doesn’t rust, and its natural properties resist corrosion, even in challenging conditions. Over time, brass develops a beautiful patina, adding character while retaining its strength. Its warm, vintage look makes it a perfect fit for anyone seeking a blend of functionality and elegance in their dog’s gear.
The Final Word
While each material has its place, brass offers the best of all worlds: longevity, safety, and timeless style. For pet parents who want to invest in durable and stylish gear that lasts, brass is the clear choice.
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The Perfect Match For Leather
If you have ever admired the soft leather dog collars at the pet store, the chances are that they were fitted with brass hardware. There is just something about the way that brass complements the natural texture of leather that creates the dream pet accessory combination. Not only is it visually beautiful, but it is also built to last.
Brass hardware has the power to take a simple quality leather dog collar and turn it from basic to bespoke, adding those touches of luxury that your pup deserves without compromising an inch of functionality. And because brass has rust-resistant properties, it works in perfect unison with leather, which is naturally durable and breathable. Unlike stainless steel, brass ensures that you will never see rusty stains on your dog’s collar, keeping it pristine and stylish no matter the conditions. It’s the perfect match for stylish daily use.
Here’s a pro tip from the Lille Bjorn team: When choosing a handmade leather or soft-touch leather collar, inspect the hardware carefully—look for solid brass components like buckles, snap hooks, and D-rings, not just brass-plated alternatives, to ensure superior durability and timeless appeal.
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Long Lasting Investment
Only those of us who are entrenched in the lifestyle of a pet parent know just how much it can cost over time! Being a responsible pet owner isn’t a cheap task, and it can be tempting to buy the cheapest options at the moment, but deep down we all know that making bigger investments can lead to bigger savings down the line.
The worst thing you can do is get into the habit of having to replace repeatedly broken and worn-out plastic hardware. When you make the choice of brass, you can be sure that you are making a purchase that is going to last.
When you make the switch to brass, you can break free from the annoying cycle of having to replace your dog leash or dog harness every few months. Think of all the doggy treats you could spend that extra money on instead!
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Easy To Maintain And Clean
Let’s face it, dogs aren’t exactly known for staying fresh and pristine! The good news is that no matter how many muddy puddles your pet dives into on a walk, the brass hardware they’re wearing remains remarkably low maintenance.
To clean brass, all you need is a soft cloth and a mixture of vinegar and water or a gentle brass cleaner. After just a few minutes of light polishing, your hardware will look and feel brand new. And by the way, Lille Bjorn collars and leashes can be fully disassembled, making it easy to clean the brass if you prefer to remove the patina and restore its original shine. Unfortunately, we can’t promise that getting your pup clean and pristine again will be quite as simple!
Don’t forget though, that mud and water are not good friends of quality leather dog collars, so limit your dog’s involvement, even if you have brass hardware.
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Perfect For All Dog Gear
If you are the kind of pet owner who likes to create a matching style harmony across all accessories, then deciding on brass route is a great idea. Brass adds that beautifully cohesive and polished finishing touch to dog collars, dog leashes and dog harnesses.
For active dogs and more sedate dogs alike, the durability and visual appeal of brass is always going to be a winner, whether you are having your tenth nap of the day at home or tearing through the fields causing havoc! The strength and reliability of the material is unmatched, but don’t just take our word for it, get out to your local dog park and you will notice just how many of the coolest pups in town are rocking brass for themselves. Brass hardware truly is the best friend of man’s best friend!
Brass hardware does make a good choice on its own. It is important to consider all features when choosing the right quality collar for your furry friend.