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Collar FAQs


What's a martingale collar?

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Martingale collars are constructed using two separate loops. One big, adjustable loop and one smaller loop. Properly fitted, a martingale collar will be comfortably loose. When the martingale loop is pulled (like when your boston terrier goes after the rottweiler), the big, adjustable loop tightens. Martingales are safe for everyday use. Download our instruction sheet here.

How does the sizing work?

We produce four sizes: x-small, small, medium/large and x-large. Grab a tape measure and your dog to determine his neck circumference, then follow this guide:
  • 8" - 11" = X-Small
  • 10" - 15" = Small
  • 14" - 23" = Medium/Large
  • 19" - 27" = X-Large
If you can't measure, use our rough guide:
  • Yorkie = X-Small
  • Westie = Small
  • Labrador = Medium/Large
  • St. Bernard = X-Large
Which size we create typically depends on the quantity of fabric we have available.

Can I wash my collar?

Yes but we recommend hand-washing. Some of the fabric is vintage and more delicate so use a mild detergent and gently massage the collar under a warm stream of water. Then, air dry.

Where do you get your materials?

All of our collars use new polyester thread and new stainless steel hardware. Except for the hemp collars, the rest is upcycled, recycled, repurposed and reclaimed.

For our seat belt and fabric collars, we go to a junkyard and cut seat belts out of cars (we launder them at home) and most fabric comes from repurposed clothing or linens. When we find vintage yards of fabric in a nice pattern, we buy and use that as well.

For our hemp and ribbon collars, we purchase hemp webbing from a hemp trading post online and the ribbon comes from a variety of places - my mom's sewing basket, thrift stores and garage sales.

For our belt collars, we scour thrift stores and garage sales for gently used belts - then deconstruct them, add new hardware, and sew them back together.

Where can I buy your collars?

From the Collard Green Dogs etsy store or at community craft fairs. Email us if you would like to know which shows we'll be participating in.

Will the collar break?

It certainly shouldn't. We double stitch stress points and use stainless steel hardware. But if your collar does break in the course of normal wear, send us an email. We'll arrange for a replacement to be sent straight away.

Toy, Bag, Treat and Bed FAQs


What is my felt ball made of?

Our hand-felted balls are made by first wrapping undyed carded wool around a core. The core is either a recycled jingle bell, sweater scrap or reclaimed yarn. The undyed wool and core is then wrapped with Kool-Aid dyed wool.

The hand-felting process results in pretty durable ball. Heavy chewers can normally get weeks of use out of one piece. They're not indestructible but should last a good long while. If you are unsatisfied with the durability of a toy, email us.

What is my sweater bone made of?

We collect unwanted sweaters from relatives and friends, or source them from thrift stores and garage sales, and cut them into bone shapes. The shapes are stuffed with a variety of materials, including fabric scraps and recycled grocery bags.

These are not the most durable items on the block and are meant for light chewers. And with every toy, dogs should be supervised when playing.

What are my treats made of?

Depends on the treat. We are happy to provide ingredient lists. If you are interested, email us. However, it's important to note that all are made without preservatives and if not used within 2 weeks, should be frozen or refrigerated.

Where do I buy a suitcase bed?

Because of the size of our suitcase beds, we only sell them at craft shows or via special order. Prices and sizes vary. If you are interested in purchasing a bed, please email us.

General FAQs


What is your return policy?

In the case of an ill-fitting collar, we accept returns. Simply return the unworn collar within 7 days of receiving the piece and we will exchange the collar for a new size. Returned collars are donated to animal rescue organizations: either the Detroit-based group Home Furever, or Brighton-based group Furry Friends. 

Do you sell wholesale?

Yes. We sell our collars, bones, leash bags and balls wholesale. If you are interested in obtaining a wholesale kit, email us.

Collard Green Dogs ~ Eco-friendly pet accessories for fashion-forward four-leggeds ~ collardgreendogs@gmail.com