Do Leather Dog Collars Get Smelly?

Let’s be honest—nobody wants a lovely leather collar that ends up smelling like wet dog. If you’ve ever wondered whether leather collars get smelly, you’re not alone. It’s a common concern, especially if your dog loves muddy walks, swimming, or just rolling in questionable things.

The good news? A well-made leather dog collar can stay fresh for years with the right care. And if it does pick up a bit of a whiff, it’s usually easy to sort.

Why Do Leather Dog Collars Sometimes Smell?

Leather is a natural material, which means it’s more absorbent than something like nylon or plastic. Over time, it can take in:

• Moisture from rain, puddles, or swimming
• Oils from your dog’s skin and coat
• Dirt, sweat, and general grime
• Bacteria that cause lingering smells

Lower-quality collars are especially prone to this. If the leather hasn’t been properly treated, or if it’s unfinished on the inside, it can soak up all sorts of things you don’t want hanging around your dog’s neck.

At Petiquette, all of our leather collars are lined with soft calf leather and stitched with sealed edges. That lining helps keep moisture from sinking in quite as quickly—and makes the collar more comfortable, too.

How Can You Keep a Leather Dog Collar from Smelling?

Most of the time, preventing smells is easier than fixing them. A few small habits can keep your dog’s collar looking (and smelling) good for longer:

• Let it dry out properly after wet walks or swims
• Wipe it down with a damp cloth every few days to remove dirt and oils
• Take it off overnight to let it breathe
• Use leather conditioner every few months to keep it supple and less absorbent
• Rotate between collars if your dog wears one all day

If you want more detailed care tips, we’ve put together a full guide here: How Do I Clean and Care for a Leather Dog Collar?

What If It Already Smells? Can You Fix It?

In most cases, yes.

Unless the leather is mouldy or cracked, a smelly collar is usually just a sign it needs a clean. Here’s how to do it:

1. Wipe it with a soft cloth and lukewarm water – avoid soaking it
2. Use a small amount of mild soap if needed (nothing scented or harsh)
3. Rinse off any residue with a clean damp cloth
4. Let it dry naturally – never on a radiator or in direct sun
5. Apply a leather conditioner once dry to keep it soft and prevent cracking

Avoid using anything like vinegar, baby wipes, or household sprays. They might mask the smell short term, but they’ll damage the leather in the long run.

Are Some Leather Collars More Smell-Resistant Than Others?

Definitely. A well-made leather collar will handle day-to-day wear far better than cheaper alternatives.

Things that make a difference:

• Lined leather that creates a barrier between your dog’s coat and the leather core
• Closed edges to stop moisture getting in
• Quality leather that’s been properly treated and stitched

All Petiquette collars are made from soft, durable Italian leather and fully lined in matching calf leather. They’re designed to be worn comfortably day after day, without trapping odours like unfinished collars often do.

If you’re choosing your dog’s first leather collar, this post might help: Leather Dog Collars: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

Looking for More Leather Collar Advice?

These posts might help you keep your dog’s collar in top condition:

• How Do I Clean and Care for a Leather Dog Collar?
• How Long Do Leather Dog Collars Last?
• Why Use A Rolled Leather Collar
• What Customers Really Think of Our Leather Collars

FAQs About Smelly Leather Dog Collars