The Best Leather Alternatives for Dog Harnesses and Collars

When it comes to your furry friend, we want durable, safe materials for their accessories that not only offer protection but also look great.

Leather has long been the traditional choice for pet owners due to its classic appeal. 

But as we learn more about the impact of our choices on animals and the environment, we're starting to look for new alternatives to leather.

Turning away from leather is an excellent step. However, many pet owners still worry whether these new options will match leather's practicality, durability, and style. 

Fortunately, the market now offers many great materials that tick all these boxes, and (surprise?) serve even better than leather. Read on to simplify your decision-making process; we’ll provide you with insights into various leather alternatives and compare them in terms of durability, comfort, safety, sustainability, and cost.

Why Should You Choose Leather Alternatives?

As we all know, leather production comes at a high cost: the lives and hides of animals. This raises significant ethical questions about cruelty and exploitation.

However, the main question is why people still use leather when there are plenty of reasons to use alternatives that can serve even better?

The first and foremost is that by choosing leather alternatives, you support ethical practices and a better future for all living beings, including your own pet. 

The second is that leather production is heavy on resources, involving deforestation, extensive water use, and chemical pollution. Meanwhile, alternatives have a much smaller ecological footprint, making them a more sustainable choice. This way, by choosing a leather alternative, you contribute to the whole environment, making the world around us better for you and your pet. 

Durability shown by leather alternatives is a major reason to consider them. Many modern leather alternatives are matching or even surpassing the quality and ease of maintenance of real leather. For example, dog collars and leashes made from vegan leather are not only stylish but also more durable and easier to clean. These accessories are not only tough but also resistant to scratches and stains. This means your dog can enjoy the same comfort and style without tearing or damaging the material. 

Speaking of maintenance, all leather alternatives are generally easier to clean. If your dog loves to make a mess, you’ll find that alternatives can be wiped down or even machine-washed, keeping them looking fresh and new.

And let’s not overlook the cost. As a rule, high-quality leather is very expensive, while alternatives are generally more affordable, providing the same elegant look without the hefty price tag. It’s worth mentioning vegan leather again here as it’s proved to be up to 75% cheaper than real leather, keeping the very similar look and feel. Currently it is gaining high popularity worldwide as the market is estimated to reach $204 million by 2030.

Are Leather Alternatives Better For My Dog?

Pet parents also worry: are leather alternatives a great choice for my dog as well? Will it be comfortable and enjoyable for a dog to wear? 

Yes, considering that these materials are often free from the harsh chemicals used in traditional leather, minimizing the risk of skin irritation. Harsh chemicals used in the leather tanning process are dangerous since they can irritate sensitive puppy skin. 

Meanwhile, alternatives, especially those that are eco-friendly, are often produced without these harmful substances, making them safer for your dog. They also tend to be more scratch and chew-resistant, making them safer and longer-lasting for your pet.

Lastly, we cannot be sure whether your dog is concerned about the ethical angle. However, they could appreciate your conscious choice to promote humane practices, which aligns with the care and compassion you show towards your pet.

Overview of Alternative Materials

There are many leather alternatives, each with its own characteristics. Below, we will describe and compare them based on the most common factor you consider when choosing dog equipment material – durability, comfort, safety, sustainability, and cost.

Vegan leather 

We’ve already mentioned it as a great choice, but vegan leather, made from synthetic or plant-based materials, is popular because it mimics real leather at its best while being more affordable and eco-friendly.

Durability: Available in various textures and colors, vegan leather is strong and very long-lasting. It resists scratches and stains and doesn’t crack or peel over time. With minimal maintenance, it keeps looking good, making it perfect for everyday use.

Comfort: Due to its soft, smooth texture, vegan leather is a comfortable choice for dogs.It often includes a fabric backing that adds extra cushioning, enhancing comfort. The material doesn’t get too cold or hot, making it a cozy choice for dogs to rest on. 

Safety: Vegan leather is made from non-toxic materials like polyurethane (PU) and often avoids harmful chemicals such as phthalates and lead. Some types are even made from natural sources like cork or apple, making it safe and eco-friendly for both humans and pets.

Sustainability: Vegan leather can also be made from recycled or plant-based materials, reducing environmental impact compared to animal leather.

Cost: Offering a similar look and feel, vegan leather is a more budget-friendly option for consumers. For example, you can buy an excellent harness made of eco-friendly vegan leather for just $55; or a nice matching leash for just 35$. The price for an item made or real leather is considerably higher.

Biothane

Biothane is another durable and easy-to-clean material. It's made from polyester webbing coated with PVC or TPU, making it completely waterproof, and therefore, ideal for outdoor activities or use in wet conditions.

Durability: It's known for its flexibility and comfort, yet it’s also for its high strength. Its water resistant qualities make it an excellent choice for active dogs who love to walk even in bad weather.

Comfort: Its smooth surface that doesn't chafe or irritate a dog's skin. This is particularly important for items like collars and harnesses that stay in contact with the dog for long periods.

Safety: Biothane is non-toxic and hypoallergenic. It minimizes the risk of irritations or allergic reactions, and it does not harbor bacteria or mold.

Sustainability: Due to its long lasting qualities, Biothane doesn't require frequent replacements. However, because it’s made from synthetic materials (like plastic), it doesn't break down naturally in the environment and some companies are trying to create more eco-friendly versions.

Cost: The average price for Biothane-made dog gear is $25 - $75.

Nylon

Nylon is lightweight and dries quickly, making it ideal for outdoor gear and athletic apparel. It is also easy to clean and maintain, which adds to its practicality in everyday use.

Durability: It can withstand substantial pulling and regular use, though it may fray over time, especially if exposed to rough conditions or chewing.

Comfort: Nylon is very light, so collars, leashes, and harnesses made from it won’t weigh your dog down, making it more comfortable for them to wear. However, if the nylon gets wet and isn't dried properly, it can cause some irritation or matting, particularly in dogs with longer fur.

Safety: This material is safe for most dogs. However, we’ve mentioned that it can fray over time, which might reduce its safety and require regular checks and proper maintenance to ensure the harness or collar remains secure.

Sustainability: Nylon is a synthetic material derived from petrochemicals, making it less eco-friendly compared to natural fibers. But using recycled nylon helps reduce waste and the need for new materials, making it better for the environment.

Cost: 5$-20$ 

Hemp

Hemp is a natural, durable, and strong fiber, also known for its antimicrobial and hypoallergenic qualities. Thus, it is an excellent material for sensitive dog skin. In addition, hemp is biodegradable and requires very little in resources to grow, making it highly sustainable. Although it can be slightly more expensive than the materials because its production process is more labor-intensive and it is not as widely produced as other materials.

Durability: Resistant to wear and tear, hemp is exceptionally durable and strong and can withstand regular use and pulling.

Comfort: Hemp fibers soften with use and are naturally breathable, providing a comfortable and irritation-free experience for dogs, even those with sensitive skin.

Safety: Hemp is hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, ensuring that it is safe for dogs. Its natural properties reduce the risk of skin irritation and infections.

Sustainability: Hemp is one of the most sustainable materials available. It is biodegradable, requires minimal water and pesticides to grow, and has a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials.

Cost: 20$-35$

Cork

Cork is not only durable and lightweight material, but also naturally water-resistant and hypoallergenic. Its soft, flexible texture ensures safety for sensitive dog skin and offers comfort to a dog who wears it.

Durability: Cork is strong and resilient, meaning it can withstand the rough and tumble activities of dogs.

Comfort: Cork is very light, making it comfortable for dogs to wear without feeling weighed down. Its natural breathability adds to the overall comfort.

Safety: Cork is naturally water-resistant and hypoallergenic, making it safe for dogs, especially those with sensitive skin. It’s also free from harmful chemicals.

Sustainability: Cork is highly sustainable, as it’s harvested from cork oak trees without causing harm.

Cost: 20$-40$

Which Alternative Material Is The Best For My Dog?

Several options of alternative materials for dog harness and collar stand out based on different qualities. But what option is eventually the best for your dog?

It all depends on your dog's lifestyle and your values (like sustainability and cost). 

Biothane, thanks to its endurance and waterproof nature, will be the best choice for dogs that are highly active and love playing in water or muddy areas.

Owners of dogs who need lightweight gear for daily use might find nylon beneficial; however, it's best for dogs that won't be too rough on their equipment.

Hemp will be the best option for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies, as it is hypoallergenic and completely natural. However, the price for this material may be slightly higher due to less common use and its labor production process.

Cork is great for those prioritizing sustainability and comfort, ideal for dogs needing a lightweight, breathable material. 

However, the best and the currently popular material for dog harness and collars is vegan leather. 

It reserved the rightful place among alternatives to leather material as it combines most of the qualities we look for in a good dog collar – quality, comfort, sustainability and affordable price. 

Consumers in the UK, Germany, and Italy want to see more vegan products in all fashion categories; 74% of British shoppers are willing to pay extra for leather made from plants. While this trend is mainly seen in human fashion, it is likely to extend to products for dogs as well.

Looking for stylish, ethical, and sustainable pet accessories? Look no further than Koston.

Our pet collection features pet accessories made exclusively from eco-friendly natural materials, including vegan leather. Designed to be durable and stylish, they are perfect for your furry friend.