If you're going through your spring cleaning checklist, you may want to add your dog's collar to the list. Collars absorb bacteria and odors over time. They can get covered with the oil from your pup's coat. Every dog owner needs to know how to clean a dog collar.
You should clean your pet's collar every 2-3 months. Of course, if he rolls in something stinky or decides to wade in a mud hole you may need to clean it more often. A dirty collar can make even the most well-groomed dog look like a mess.
How to Clean a Dog Collar
When learning how to clean a dog collar, be sure to use a mild soap. You could also use some of your pup's shampoo to ensure it won't irritate his skin. I use Dawn dish soap, because it cuts through the oil and grime easily.
If you have a traditional nylon dog collar, you can just throw it in the washing machine with a load of laundry. If your dog has sensitive skin, be sure to use a detergent that is hypoallergenic.
Sometimes collars have ground in dirt. As you can see in my video guide, I use a toothbrush to scrub an especially dirty collar. You can also let the collar soak in a small bowl of hot, soapy water for 15 minutes to loosen the grime.
If your dog wears a rubber or leather collar, wipe it down with a wet cloth. Don't get a leather collar too wet or it could damage the material and ultimately weaken the collar.
Dog collars are very easy to clean, and it's important that you do so on a regular basis. Part of keeping your dog safe and healthy is ensuring that his accessories are clean. If you have questions about how to clean a specific collar don't hesitate to contact the manufacturer to ensure you don't ruin the collar.
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