Written By: Zach Miller
"In ancient times, dogs were often used for hunting and protection. Collars on dogs can be traced as far back to the middle ages. They were intended to help identify dogs and to keep them under control and contained. The intent of collars on dogs has not changed much since then."
When it comes to choosing a collar for your gundog, there are two popular options in today's market: biothane and leather. Both materials have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider your dog's needs and your own preferences before making a decision. In this article we will dive into both biothane and leather collars and why they both dominate the dog/gundog world for their durability and ease of use.
Biothane Collars
Biothane is a synthetic material that is often used in dog collars. It is made by coating a polyester webbing with a layer of polyurethane, which makes it waterproof, durable, and easy to clean. These types of collars are the newest type to hit the market and have certainly earned their spot at the top. Here are some pros and cons of using a biothane collar for your duck dog:
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| Photo Courtesy Of: GunDogSuppy, 2023 |
Pros:
1. Waterproof: Biothane collars are completely waterproof, which makes them ideal for dogs that spend a lot of time in the water.
2. Durable: Biothane is a very strong material that can withstand wear and tear, making it a good choice for active dogs.
3. Easy to clean: Biothane collars can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth, which is convenient for owners who don't want to spend a lot of time cleaning their dog's collar.
Cons:
1. Not as stylish: Biothane collars are often less stylish than leather collars, which may be a concern for some owners. Although, many companies are building on fixing this.
2. Can be stiff: Some biothane collars can be stiff and uncomfortable for dogs, especially if they are not properly fitted. Believe it or not, these materials also need to be worn-in before the proper fit is acquired.
Leather Collars
Leather is a classic material that has been used for dog collars for centuries. Personally, this is my go-to material for all of my gundogs, the tradition it brings with it and the enjoyment I get from conditioning the dry leather is what keeps me coming back. It is a natural material that is both durable and stylish. Here are some pros and cons of using a leather collar for your duck dog:
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| Photo Courtesy Of: GunDogSuppy, 2023 |
Pros:
1. Stylish: Leather collars are often more stylish than biothane collars, which may be important for owners who want their dog to look good.
2. Comfortable: Leather is a soft and comfortable material that is less likely to irritate a dog's skin than some synthetic materials. Depending on thickness, they will take longer to break in.
3. Durable: Leather is a strong material that can withstand wear and tear, making it a good choice for active dogs.
Cons:
1. Not waterproof: Leather collars are not waterproof, which may be a concern for owners whose dogs spend a lot of time in the water.
2. Harder to clean: Leather collars can be more difficult to clean than biothane collars, which may be a concern for owners who want a low-maintenance collar.
In conclusion, both biothane and leather collars have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. If you ask me what I keep on my dog when he/she isnt working, I'll tell you nothing! I like to keep collars off of my dogs when they aren't working. This helps them understand how to build the “light-switch” effect of being able to turn it on and then back off. Think of it like a uniform, when you put a uniform on, you tell your brain, “time to get work done”, when you take it off, the opposite comes into picture. If you have a duck dog that spends a lot of time in the water, a biothane collar may be the best choice for you. However, if you want a stylish and comfortable collar for your dog, a leather collar may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between biothane and leather will depend on your own preferences and your dog's needs. As always, choose the collar that works best for you and your dog. Name brands mean very little when it comes to flat collars so pick the one you both like and let it be a trademark for every dog you own.
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