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dogIDs Product Care & Materials FAQs
What is english bridle leather?
The term “Bridle Leather” refers to the process in which the leather is finished. Vegetable tanned authentic "English" bridle leather is made from heavy high quality native steer hides and drum dyed for deep, consistent colors with waxes and tallows. It is then hot stuffed with just the right amount of "spew" on the grain and flesh to have that English feel. English bridle leather dog collars are relatively stiff when new, but with proper care and break-in will become soft and extremely supple, conforming perfectly to your dog's neck and have outstanding durability.
What is biothane?
It’s a waterproof and weather resistant webbing product made from a polyester webbing with a TPU or PVC coating over it. It’s much more durable and easy to maintain than nylon or leather. It’s manufactured in the USA and we use two different versions of it in our waterproof dog collars.
Our camouflage and glow-in-the-dark collars are made from stiffer, plastic-like original Biothane, while our reflective and waterproof soft grip collars use the biothane beta strap, which is softer and more pliable, like rubber.
What is polypropylene?
Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer, made by the chemical industry and used in a wide variety of applications, including packaging, textiles (e.g., ropes, thermal underwear and carpets), stationery, and more. An addition polymer made from the monomer propylene, it is rugged and unusually resistant to many chemical solvents, bases and acids.
Because of its rugged yet soft feel, polypropylene rope is Mendota Products’ preferred material for collars and leads. It is also very resistant to fading, odor and UV deterioration.
Does brass tarnish?
Solid brass does tarnish. Some people like the look of tarnished brass better than polished brass. While your dog is wearing a solid brass tag, depending how active he is, he is constantly rubbing it on his coat and other obstacles. This alone will usually keep the dog tag in a polished brass state. However, if your dog is not wearing his tag for extended periods, it may tend to tarnish from the elements - humidity, etc. depending on wear and how it is stored. To learn more about how to make your brass tag look like new, check out our brass care blog post.
What's the best way to clean my dog's collar?
It depends on the collar. If you order a leather collar, it’s best to use a leather cleaner and conditioner.
If you have a nylon, fabric or polypropylene collar, we recommend hand-washing and laying flat to dry.
If you have one of our waterproof collars, all you have to do is wipe it down with a rag.
How do I care for my leather collar & leash?
The best way to care for leather products is by using a leather cleaner to get all of the residue and grime off of the collar. Additionally, you can use a leather conditioner on a regular basis to keep the collar waterproofed, moisturized and looking new. To learn more, check out our blog post on cleaning and conditioning leather.
What do I do if my dog's collar gets skunked?
If your dog get skunked, the solution for de-skunking them is actually the same one we’d recommend for the collar. Our waterproof, fabric and nylon collars should all be able to soak in a solution of: 1 quart hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap or shampoo. Mix baking soda and and soap together, then add hydrogen peroxide. Soak the collar in this solution for about 10 minutes - the chemical reaction is what makes it work. Then rinse the collar until the solution is gone and lay flat to dry.
This won’t always work - it depends on the severity of the skunking. We also would caution that leather products could be ruined if you applied this solution.
Even for our odor-resistant collars, we do not guarantee that the collar will hold up against skunks. However, if your collar gets skunked and you try the solution and can’t get the smell out, please contact us. We can’t do a full collar replacement but we could get you a discount on a new collar.
To learn more about what to do when your dog gets skunked, check out this blog.