Best of the Best

Ahhhh, spring is upon us and marks the start of “puppy season”. Whether you’re just about to bring home a new puppy or simply want to freshen up your new cuddle-buddy’s wardrobe, nothing says “my dog rules” more than a new designer dog collar and leash.

Not all dog collars and leashes are created equal. Quality can range from cheap mass-produced designs from China to extravagant custom-made couture from Paris. Designer dog collars and leashes are quickly becoming a new status symbol, rivaling women’s handbags and stilettos. Several big-name designers like Louis Vuitton and Vivienne Westwood have capitalized on this trend by launching their own dog fashion collections. It’s a perfect way for consumers to be introduced to a designer brand without spending too much money.

When shopping for a dog collar and leash, don’t assume that big designer names are always necessarily the best. While some labels, like Vivienne Westwood, earn the high price tag, not all do. Judge each collar closely, like a piece of fine fashion. Feel the quality of the materials and note any innovative features in the design. A small dog collar made from rare albino crocodile skin takes quite a bit of time and skill to produce, and may be worth paying extra for.

The hardware is also very important to consider. Fine metals like gold and sterling silver are beautiful, but make sure they are treated like jewelry since they are soft metals and will show early signs of wear and tear. Sturdy nickel or brass hardware will take a beating and still look beautiful for a long time, making them strongly recommend for large dogs.