Leather vs Fabric: What’s Best for Your Whippet’s Collar?

When it comes to choosing the right collar for your Whippet, one of the first decisions you’ll face is material — leather or fabric?

At first glance, it might seem like a purely aesthetic choice. But for sighthounds like Whippets, who have slim necks, sensitive skin, and a strong sense of speed, the collar material plays a much bigger role in comfort, fit, and longevity.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of leather vs fabric, and help you decide what’s right for your dog.

The Case for Leather Whippet Collars

Leather has long been a popular choice for sighthound collars — and for good reason. A well-made leather collar isn’t just stylish; it’s practical, durable, and kind to your dog’s skin.

Benefits of Leather:

• Soft and flexible when lined and broken in
• Long-lasting — quality leather only gets better with time
• Holds its shape, reducing twisting or rubbing on the neck
• Resistant to fraying and rough edges (common with fabric over time)
• Looks premium and is available in a wide range of colours

At Petiquette, we use buttery-soft Italian calf leather that’s gentle against your Whippet’s neck, with a padded or lined feel that makes it comfortable from day one. Our collars are stitched with rot-proof thread and fitted with stainless steel hardware — designed to last.

Browse our full collection of handmade Whippet collars

What About Fabric Collars?

Fabric collars (usually nylon, canvas, or webbing-based) are a common choice in many pet shops and online marketplaces. They’re often lightweight, colourful, and cheap to replace — which makes them appealing at a glance.

But for Whippets, they can come with some drawbacks.

Downsides of Fabric:

• Can be rough on the neck, especially if the weave is coarse
• Prone to fraying, fading, or stretching over time
• May cause chafing if not properly lined or padded
• Buckles and fasteners are often plastic, which can break or wear down

That’s not to say all fabric collars are bad — but they’re rarely designed specifically for sighthounds. Most are generic fits, made for mass production, and don’t take into account the unique shape and sensitivity of a Whippet’s neck.

Comfort Is More Than a Material

The shape and fit of the collar are just as important as what it’s made from. A wide, tapered collar — such as a fishtail or martingale design — offers more support than a thin, flat strap, regardless of the material.

That said, a shaped leather collar combines both form and function — giving your Whippet the best of both worlds.

Not sure which type is best? Read our Whippet Collar Guide for help choosing.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If your priority is comfort, durability, and long-term value, leather wins out for most Whippet owners. It’s soft, strong, and made to handle the daily adventures of a fast-moving sighthound.

If you’re after something lightweight, replaceable, or casual for occasional wear, fabric might still have a place — but it’s rarely the best option for regular walking or long-term comfort.

In Summary

For Whippets, a good collar isn’t just a fashion statement — it’s an everyday essential. While fabric collars may suit some dogs, leather provides a better balance of comfort, support, and style.

All our Whippet collars are handmade to order from premium leather, ensuring a perfect fit for your dog’s neck and personality.

Explore our full range of leather Whippet collars

Still Comparing Collar Types? Try These:

• Best Collars for Whippet Puppies
• Most Popular Whippet Collars
• House Collars vs Walking Collars for Whippets
• 5 Common Mistakes When Buying a Whippet Collar

FAQs: Leather vs Fabric Whippet Collars