Handmade Leather Collars for The Fashion-Forward Sheltie

There are few things more joyously absurd than watching a Sheltie run with their thick double coat rippling in the wind. What better way to honor the majestic poise of Sheltie than by strapping something equally refined around their neck? I'm talking about a collar. A proper collar.

You may be thinking: it's just a collar, Becky. How important could it be? Well, let me tell you, a collar is not just any old material fastened around your dog's neck. This is an accessory that speaks to your Sheltie's character, energy, and dare I say, regal bearing.

When it comes to collars, nothing beats the timeless charm of a handcrafted leather collar. The kind of collar that grows old gracefully, like a good bottle of wine, a beloved old sweater, or our dearest friend, the Shetland Sheepdog.

The Aeris Classic Leather Collar in Black by TheLilleBjorn.

The Importance of a Quality Collar

You may believe all collars are created equal, but I'm here to tell you they're not. They're not. See? I told you I'd say that. And for a Sheltie—a breed that thrives on running along windswept bays, bounding after waves, and generally getting up in other people's business—you need a collar that can keep up. A collar that's both a fashion statement and functional piece of dog gear that stands up to their daily outdoor adventures.

Durability

Let's be real: Shelties are not sedentary creatures. They're highly energetic and their collars need to be ready for it. From chasing squirrels to tug-of-war, a flimsy collar with a plastic clip won't do. This is where leather stands proud. While cheap materials succumb to the wear and tear of your pup's enthusiasm, a handcrafted leather collar will outlast all others, paws down.

Comfort

I don't know if you've noticed, but Shelties are blessed with the sort of luxurious fur coat that makes them look like a cross between a fox and a lion. However, all that fur means they need something that won't rub them the wrong way. A collar made of rough, irritating material will damage the fur around their neck—and, if they wear it deep under the fur, their delicate dog skin too. This would not a happy Sheltie make. Leather, on the other hand, is extremely soft and sturdy; the Goldilocks of dog collar materials, being just the right balance of strength and comfort.

Style

Shelties are, after all, stunning creatures. With their flowing coat and ever-alert expression, they deserve a fine collar. One that both proudly boasts their identity and makes a statement about their personality. Whether you choose sleek and modern or ruggedly rustic, a high-quality leather collar is an accessory that turns heads. Just like your Sheltie.

The Aeris Classic Leather Collar in Black by TheLilleBjorn.

Combining Style and Strength

A leather collar has a timeless appeal. This is a material that only improves with age, developing a unique patina that reflects years of adventures, much like the Sheltie who wears it. Unlike synthetic collars that ultimately wear and fade, genuine leather gets better with time. It softens, molding to your dog's neck, while retaining its strength. Ideal for a dog who tears around like they've been granted a few extra lives in a video game.

To compare colors and sizes, explore this quality range of dog collars by TheLilleBjorn. Their handcrafted leather designs are made with comfort and durability in mind, providing function and flair for your fashion-forward Sheltie. There are a few things you'll want to keep in mind while making your selection.

Material - Look for full-grain or top-grain leather for maximum comfort and longevity. Full-grain leather is the best of the best, and the softness improves as it ages.
Hardware - Stainless steel or brass are your go-to metals here. They're strong, rust-resistant, and won't snap off when your Sheltie decides to chase down a blithely trespassing cat.
Adjustability - The two-finger rule is an easy way to test for optimal fit. Slide two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. If it's snug (but not squeezy tight) you're good to go.
Design - The fun part. Is your Sheltie more regal or rugged? A classicalist or a trendsetter? Whatever their personality, there's now a collar design to express their inner canine.

The Vero Dog Harness in Brown by TheLilleBjorn

Caring for a Leather Collar

You've made a great investment, so let's make sure it lasts. Leather isn't high maintenance, but it does need some TLC to keep it looking sharp:

Clean it Regularly - After walkies, give the collar a wipe-down with a damp cloth to keep it looking as beautiful and pristine as the day you bought it.
Condition the Leather - Over time, leather dries out. So every few months, rub some leather conditioner into the collar to keep it soft and supple.
Keep it Dry - Leather and water don't mix well, so when your dog's collar gets wet, let it air-dry naturally. Don't try to speed up the process with direct heat as this can cause the fibers to shrink unevenly, making the leather cracked and misshapen.
Inspect for Wear and Tear - While more durable than most, leather collars can still become damaged. Keep an eye out for a loose stitch, a tear in the leather, or rust on the hardware components—and repair early.

Your Sheltie is a beautiful, energetic dog, and their collar should be just as reliable and functional as they are. A good handmade leather collar isn't just for looks; it's built to last, handling whatever your dog throws at it, while looking great as it ages. It's a practical choice that reflects your Sheltie's personality and lifestyle.