Dog Care & Advice
How Do I Clean and Care for a Leather Dog Collar?
Leather dog collars are built to last — but just like your favourite pair of shoes or a good leather bag, they benefit from a bit of care now and then. The good news? It’s quick and easy to keep them looking smart and feeling soft.
Can Leather Dog Collars Get Wet?
Yes — leather can handle the odd rainy walk, splash through a puddle, or even a swim. But like all natural materials, it does best when looked after afterwards.
If your dog’s collar gets wet:
- Let it air dry naturally — avoid radiators, tumble dryers or direct heat
- Gently wipe away salt or sand with a damp cloth if they’ve been to the beach
- Keep it off overnight if it’s still damp by the time you’re home
Petiquette collars are made from Italian calf leather, which softens with age — but keeping it dry when you can helps it last even longer.
Explore our leather dog collar collection
How Do You Clean a Leather Dog Collar?
You don’t need to clean it after every walk, but a quick wipe every now and then goes a long way. Here’s how to do it properly:
What You’ll Need:
- A soft, damp cloth or sponge
- Mild soap (a gentle dog shampoo works well)
- A clean, dry towel
- Leather conditioner (optional, but helpful)
Step-by-Step:
- Wipe off dirt and dust
Use a damp cloth to gently clean the surface. Don’t soak the collar — just a quick wipe will do. - Use a tiny bit of soap (if needed)
If the collar is muddy or greasy, use a drop of mild soap, a pea-sized drop of waship-up liquid will do the trick. Lather lightly and wipe clean with another damp cloth. - Dry with a towel
Press gently with a dry towel to remove any leftover moisture. - Let it finish air drying
Hang it somewhere warm and dry — but not on a radiator or in direct sun. - Apply leather conditioner (every few months)
This helps keep the leather soft, prevents cracks, and keeps colours looking rich. Choose a conditioner made for natural leather. Renapur is a great choice, but failing that, a little bit of unscented moisturising cream works wonders too.
Looking for a collar that’s easy to clean and built to last? Browse our full dog collar collection.
How Often Should You Clean a Leather Collar?
A quick wipe once every couple of weeks is usually enough — more often if your dog swims, rolls, or heads off-road. If you condition the leather once every few months, it’ll stay soft and supple for years.
What About Smells or Stains?
Leather collars can absorb smells over time, but they don’t have to. To keep them fresh:
- Don’t leave them damp — moisture = odour
- Wipe them down after wet walks
- Condition regularly — this helps stop smells settling in
Worried about collar smells? Find tips in Do Leather Dog Collars Get Smelly?
Can I Use a Leather Collar at the Beach?
Absolutely — but salty water does need rinsing off as it will dry out the leather if left on leading to cracks.
If your dog wears their collar on beach days:
- Give it a quick wipe afterwards to remove salt, sand and grime
- Let it dry in a shaded, breezy spot
- Avoid folding or hanging it near heat
Leather can handle seaside fun — it just needs a little aftercare.
Should You Ever Machine Wash a Leather Collar?
No — leather and machines don’t mix. Machine washing will strip the oils, crack the surface, and damage any hardware. Stick with hand-cleaning for best results.
What Type of Leather Needs the Least Maintenance?
Not all leather collars are created equal. At Petiquette, we use soft, full-grain Italian calf leather — which needs very little maintenance compared to bonded or faux leather.
Why it matters:
- Bonded leather can crack or peel
- Faux leather doesn’t soften with age
- Real full-grain leather lasts years with basic care
Want to know how long a leather collar really lasts? Read How Long Do Leather Dog Collars Last?
Thinking of Switching to Leather?
If you’re looking for a collar that looks great, lasts for years, and is easy to care for — leather is a smart choice. With over 30 colours and multiple widths, there’s a style for every dog.
Browse our leather dog collars to find your favourite.
You might also like:
- Which Collar is Most Comfortable For Dogs?
- What Customers Really Think of Our Leather Collars
- Are Leather Collars a Good Choice For Dogs?
- Everything you need to Know About Leather Dog Collars Before Buying
FAQs About Cleaning Leather Dog Collars
Can you use baby wipes to clean a leather dog collar?
It’s best to avoid baby wipes on leather dog collars. Most wipes contain alcohol or chemicals that can dry out the leather or leave a sticky residue. Instead, use a damp cloth with plain water or a leather-safe cleaner. This helps keep the surface clean without damaging the finish.
How can I stop a leather collar from cracking?
To prevent cracking, regularly condition the collar with a leather balm or cream designed for accessories. This keeps the leather soft and supple, especially if the collar gets wet or is worn daily. A little care every few months goes a long way in maintaining its flexibility and lifespan.
Is it OK for a leather collar to get wet?
Yes — leather collars can handle the occasional splash or rainy walk, but it’s important to dry them off afterwards. Gently pat with a towel and let the collar air dry away from direct heat. Avoid soaking the leather, and always clean off salt water or muddy residue to prevent long-term damage.
How do I freshen up a smelly leather collar?
If your leather collar’s starting to smell a bit ‘doggy’, give it a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild, leather-safe soap. Let it dry naturally, then apply a leather conditioner to restore any lost moisture. Avoid soaking it or using strong deodorising sprays.
Can I use saddle soap or furniture polish?
No — saddle soap and furniture polish are generally too harsh for dog collars. Products designed for tack or household leather can strip the finish or leave residues that irritate your dog’s skin. Always stick to cleaners and conditioners made for leather accessories or garments — they’re gentler and safer.