FAQ
Collars
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Use a fabric measuring tape to measure the circumference of your dog’s neck. Alternatively, if you have a similar collar that uses leather and a roller buckle, measure from the base of the buckle (where the buckle attaches to the leather) to the most used hole.
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Each collar is made to measure with 5 holes punched. The center hole will match the measurement provided from the base of the buckle (where the buckle connects to the leather). Two holes are punched longer than this hole, and 2 holes are punched shorter than this hole. This way, even if the measurement is off by a bit, there is sufficient excess (or shortage) for you to achieve a comfortable fit.
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Fortunately, all Wickett and Craig harness leather is packed with waxes and tallows to help keep the leather well protected. Simply apply a leather conditioner about once a month to help keep your collar finish rich and fresh, and prevent it from fading and cracking.
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Feibings Golden Mink Oil or Smiths Leather balm. Please note this can darken your leather slightly and leave a waxy finish, but will give it additional water resistance to the collar. Please follow the directions on the label.
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No full grain leather will ever be 100% waterproof. However, we use a harness leather to make our collars. This leather is weatherproof and will handle light exposure to water. The leather may discolour and darken, but this will add to the character and patina. We recommend a synthetic material if you expect your dog to be going into the water. To improve water resistance, apply a coating of Mink Oil or similar leather balm to help the water bead.
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No worries! Even if your collar gets drenched, it will still maintain its strength and performance. However, soaked leather is susceptible to stretching so if you have a spare collar, we recommend you switch until you can get the collar dry. To dry your collar, lay the leather flat at room temperature. Do not try to apply heat to the collar (i.e. hair drier), or leave it out in the sun as it can cause the leather to dry too quickly and crack. If the leather has deformed, gently straighten the leather out while it is still wet.
Remember to apply conditioner to the leather after it is dry to help restore the deep rich colour. You may need to apply multiple layers.
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First, use a stiff brush to help get any dried dirt or mud out of holes and from around hardware. Then, use a damp sponge to remove any remaining dirt, followed by a layer of leather conditioner/balm.
If you need a more of a thorough clean, use a saddle soap to wash down the leather, followed by a conditioner once the collar has dried. Follow the directions on the saddle soap as many need to be diluted before use. We recommend FIEBING'S LIQUID GLYCERIN SADDLE SOAP. Use a leather friendly enzyme cleaner if required. Again, follow the instructions on the label and use a conditioner when finished.
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Your collar has been used and loved! Harness leather is a hearty beast that will maintain its strength and reliability through harsh conditions. However it will also show wear and patina with time. Every scratch and scuff adds a story to your collar. It’s a message to the world that says “This collar has seen adventure!”. Just apply a little conditioner from time to time to help prolong the life of the leather.