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Are you an eco-friendly consumer looking for the best sustainable dog collars for your best good boy or girl?
Finding a genuinely eco-friendly product that will keep your dog safe and stylish can seem like a tall order. But don't worry, I've got you covered (with a bit of help from our loving Labradoodle, Mille)!
A lifetime of dog ownership and an obsessive approach to research and testing make me perfectly placed to dig into the market and sort the truly great sustainable collars from the rubbish!
Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there are plenty of options, so read on to find your dog's next ideal neckwear.
Why, you ask? Because our four-legged friends deserve nothing but the best, and Mother Earth deserves our respect.
✔ Organic Cotton
✔ Sustainable Hemp
✔ Super Soft for Sensitive Necks
The Good Dog Company believes that the best things in life come from the Earth. It's dedicated to preserving and protecting our planet and aims to create green products for our beloved furry friends.
This dog collar (made from hemp and organic cotton) is super soft yet ultra-durable. Millie loves wearing it. So much so that this one has been kept (many of my testing items get donated to friends, family, or worthy causes) to be used in rotation with a few of her other favorites.
I love that this cotton and hemp dog collar is handcrafted in the US (in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, North Carolina, to be precise!).
I also love the wide range of colors:
And also thicknesses and neck sizes. There really is something for every size and taste.
One minor niggle I have is that (although been marketed as certified organic cotton), there is no mention on the packaging or website who's done the certifying. I've contacted The Good Dog Company for clarification and will update this article as soon as I get a reply (join our mailing list to be notified when I update).
However, it really is a minor niggle. I don't doubt the organic status of this collar. I just need clarification.
✔ Bamboo Webbing
✔ Hypoallergenic & Odor Resistant
✔ Soft & Strong
The design of this 'Save the Earth' collar speaks to me. I know I'm just a nerdy, wannabe eco-warrior...but I think it's very cool!
Thanks to its absorbent and fast-drying nature, it's also super soft, durable, odor-resistant, hypoallergenic, and easily washable. Plus, its natural, breathable composition adds an extra touch of comfort.
There's also a matching leash available if you want to complete the look.
All WaggingGreenPetShop products are hand-sewn in the US and undergo a meticulously quality inspection before being shipped from Foley, Alabama.
Free shipping is available on all orders over $35, and Etsy will offset the carbon emissions from the delivery and packaging of your purchase. Free and sustainable shipping...Win-Win!
✔ Solid Brass Buckle
✔ Domestic Leather
✔ 40 Colors and Patterns
Do you want to mix it up and have a range of collars to suit different occasions and moods? With 40 color options, you'll definitely find what you're looking for.
I went for Rescue Orange for Millie, and it looks very sophisticated.
There are also five size options available:
So, there's something for every hound. From a tiny lapdog to a beast, Found My Animal has you covered!
This collar features a protective and long-lasting coating that shields against the elements. Crafted with premium features and high-quality design, it offers softness, comfort, and style that surpasses my expectations.
The adjustable, quick-release pin buckle ensures effortless on and off, providing optimal convenience and security.
Handmade from domestic leather with beautiful trim and sturdy attachments, this marine-grade rope is easy to clean and keep odor-free (unlike Millie...she has a habit of swimming in dirty lakes and rolling in fox poop! ????).
Although Found My Animal may not make the most eco-friendly pet collars (not terrible...but there is room for improvement), it's important to note that its inclusion is not solely based on materials but rather its community work.
Found My Animal actively promotes animal adoption by encouraging owners to let their pets wear their values. Rather than purchasing, it advocates and supports dog rescue initiatives.
✔ Made from Recycled Plastic Bottles (PET)
✔ Proudly Built in New Hampshire
✔ Classy Designs
Are you looking for a dog collar to match your Whoop? Of course, you're not. That would be ridiculous, right?! ????
However, that's precisely what I thought when encountering this remarkable collar brand. The exquisite craftsmanship bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Whoop straps.
Crafted with care in Conway, New Hampshire, these collars are made from plastic bottles (melted down, purified, and transformed into a soft yet sturdy mess fabric).
The result? A plush weave that's both gentle to the touch and strong enough to withstand any adventure.
You can choose from a palette of 9 designer colors. All of which feature strong bar-tack stitching, welded D-ring, and custom-designed side-release buckle. These bad boys are built to last!
A lifetime replacement guarantee backs up these built-to-last credentials. If the collar breaks (even from chewing), LupinePet will replace it. Nice!
I was searching for a reflective collar to test and stumbled across this little beauty. Super reflective and utilizing ocean plastic. Lovely stuff!
This reflective dog collar is expertly designed to maximize visibility during low-light conditions. Perfect for early morning trail running with Millie
You can also buy this collar as part of a set to save a few bucks on the matching leash.
Make your furry friend the coolest pet in the neighborhood with this stylish and elegant blue collar. It's crafted from beautifully colored upcycled bicycle tires rescued from waste.
Every collar is handcrafted with love by Javier, ensuring uniqueness that sets your dog apart from the rest of the world.
The collar is zero-waste and vegan and gets Millie plenty of attention.
It's designed to fit dogs with a neck size of 30cm - 45cm (12" - 17") and features a stylish belt buckle of excellent quality.
This collar shipped for free (from Spain to the US) and took around two weeks to arrive.
International shipping is not something I would generally recommend. However, Etsy offset the carbon emissions generated by the packaging and shipping of this product.
✔ Recycled Materials
✔ Maximum Visibility
✔ Excellent Pulling Control
I liked the Pawtitas Recycled Reflective Dog Collar so much that I also bought the matching harness to try out on Millie's cousin, Dexter. He's a lovely little rescue boy...but very 'pully' on the lease, which causes him to get out of breath and pant heavily.
I was hoping this harness would help sort out the problem, and it has. My sister-in-law reports much less pulling and panting when on training walks.
All while keeping plastic out of the ocean and being seen and safe. What a great result!
While both terms focus on environmentally friendly practices, organic mainly refers to products grown without pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
On the other hand, sustainability means creating products with minimal environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle.
In this article, I've recommended organic and non-organic options to widen the range of suggested products.
I diligently researched all the materials thoroughly to ensure their eco-credentials matched mine. This helps you steer clear of greenwashing and guarantees that all the recommendations are of the highest quality.
The good ol' flat collar. It's the classic, the staple, the blue jeans" of dog collars.
Usually made from nylon or leather, these collars are your everyday go-to.
They're easy to put on, comfortable for your pet, and have a ring to attach ID tags and leashes.
Martingale collars (also known as limited-slip collars) are designed for dogs whose heads are smaller than their necks (I'm looking at you, Greyhounds).
These collars tighten when your dog pulls, preventing them from slipping out.
If your pup has a mind of its own, then head collars might be your best bet.
They're designed to give you gentle control over your dog's direction, making walks more enjoyable for both of you.
A harness is the way to go for the adventurous dog who loves to explore.
Instead of wrapping around the neck, harnesses distribute pressure across your dog's chest and back, making them a safer and more comfortable option for long walks or hikes.
Next, we have the prong and choke collars (the controversial cousins in the collar family).
While some trainers advocate for their use in specific training scenarios, these collars can be harmful if misused.
It's always best to consult a professional trainer or vet before using these. Or avoid them altogether. I'm not a fan!
These smartly designed accessories are built with a special clasp that breaks apart when pulled with force.
This feature makes them ideal for active dogs who love exploring and might get their collar stuck on something.
These high-tech gadgets use your smartphone to track your dog's location in real-time.
It's like having a private detective keeping tabs on your furry friend.
And let's be honest, who hasn't panicked at least once when their dog decided to go on an impromptu adventure?
A dog collar is not just a stylish accessory. It also serves as a convenient place to attach ID dog tags if your furry friend decides to go AWOL.
While microchipping your pet is crucial, most people will first look to the collar for identifying information if your dog ever gets lost.
But like everything else we buy, we should look for dog collars that have a minimal impact on the environment.
The production of traditional dog collars often involves using plastic and other non-biodegradable nasties.
These materials contribute to pollution during manufacturing and can take hundreds of years to degrade once disposed of.
In contrast, environmentally conscious dog collars are made from sustainable heroes (such as hemp or bamboo), reducing the carbon footprint and waste.
Choosing an environmentally conscious dog collar is not just about being environmentally conscious. It also has several benefits for your furry companion.
Many traditional collars are made from synthetic materials that can cause skin irritations and allergies in some dogs.
On the other hand, environmentally conscious dog collars are made of sustainable materials (such as hemp and bamboo), which are hypoallergenic and gentle on your dog's skin.
The collar you choose for your dogs is more than just a fashion statement. It's a testament to your love for your pet.
When compiling my list of recommendations, I considered several factors, including:
And, of course, I had my trusty sidekick, Millie, by my side, giving her expert opinion during this rigorous testing process.
Before purchasing a dog collar, measuring your dog's neck accurately is crucial.
A properly fitting collar ensures your dog's comfort and safety. This especially applies if you're buying a non-adjustable collar.
The easiest way to measure your dog's neck is with a flexible measuring tape, usually found in your local craft or sewing store.
When choosing a collar for your dog, it's important to provide a comfortable fit. Aim for a gap of approximately two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. It should be snug enough to stay in place without being too loose to risk slipping over their head.
Regularly inspect the fit, especially if your dog is still growing or has had weight changes. Take the time to check for any rips, tears, or damage to the buckles or clasps to ensure your dog's safety and comfort.
When choosing a dog collar, consider your dog's lifestyle.
If your pup loves the great outdoors and enjoys swimming or rolling around in the mud, you may want to opt for a collar that is water-resistant and easy to clean.
One of the critical factors to consider is the material used in the collar's construction.
Eco-friendly collars come in various materials, including hemp, bamboo, or recycled fabrics.
These natural materials are durable, ethical, and gentle on your dog's skin.
It's not just about looking good. It's about feeling good, too.
When selecting a collar for your pet, choose one that combines style with comfort.
Look for a collar made from soft, high-quality, adjustable material to ensure a perfect fit for your furry friend.
By prioritizing their comfort, you can enhance their overall well-being and happiness.
Supporting a company that gives back to the environment or animal-related causes is an excellent way to make a significant impact.
Some dog collars on the market donate a percentage of their profits to animal shelters or participate in tree-planting initiatives, for example.
When choosing a dog collar, it's worth considering the overall business ethics of the brand.
Look for companies prioritizing fair labor practices and ensure their manufacturing process aligns with your ethical standards.
Check if the eco-friendly dog collar you're considering carries any reputable third-party certifications.
Certifications provide additional assurance that the product meets specific environmental and ethical standards.
We all want the best for our furry companions, don't we? So why should they settle for just a fancy new collar?
Here are a few more ways you can pamper your beloved dog:
Many manufacturers offer personalized dog collars with custom engravings or removable tags, allowing you to add your dog's name or contact information. Etsy is always a good place to start for bespoke personalization.
Yes, sustainable collars can be just as durable as traditional collars. Many sustainable materials, such as hemp and bamboo, are known for their strength and longevity.
While organic collars and leashes might cost a tad more upfront, they're durable and safer for your pet and the planet. Think of it as an investment, not just in your dog's health but also in our shared environment.
When washing her bedding and blanket, I always pop Millie's collar in an old sock and toss it in the washing machine. If your collar is not machine-washable (always check the care instructions), a good soak in a bucket of water and fragrance-free dish soap works wonders.
When choosing the perfect collar, I always look for a classic flat collar. It's usually adjustable, often quick-release, and comes with an attachment for an ID tag and leash. Simple and effective!
A wolf collar protects livestock guardian dogs against wolf attacks. These collars are equipped with long spikes strategically placed to prevent wolves from targeting the neck.
Making a homemade dog collar is relatively straightforward if you're good at arts and crafts.
You'll need to gather materials like leather, sustainable fabrics, and buckles. Then, cut the appropriate size strips of material for your pup's neck, punch holes in them, add a buckle or two, and attach an ID tag. These two videos offer helpful tips:
Check out my natural flea remedies article for some top tips on DIY flea collars.
Choosing an environmentally friendly dog collar is a small yet significant step towards creating a greener and more sustainable future.
Not only do they benefit the environment, but they also ensure the health and comfort of your furry friend.
By considering factors such as material choices, brand ethics, and certifications, you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next dog collar.
Remember, every little change we make can positively impact the world we share with our beloved pets.
From puppy to senior, which collar options do you usually go for? Do you insist on antimicrobial fibers like bamboo? Or are you happy with nylon? Do you have a list of favorite collar companies? Drop me a line and let me know.
Our core values mean we always prioritize sustainability over profit. We carefully evaluate and personally test every product to ensure they meet our high standards. All products recommended in this article were tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.
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