Category Archives: Blog

Blog

Dog Harness vs. Collar – Is a Harness Better Than a Collar?

Posted on by Mimi Green
Harness vs collar blog
08
Mar

Regardless of the type of dog you have, dogs need to go on walks. Leashes attach to either a collar or a harness—and while collars have been used for decades for walking your dog, harnesses are also a popular choice. 

There are benefits and drawbacks to walking a dog on a collar vs a harness, so it is important to understand the pros and cons of each to make the best decision for your pup. Check out some frequently asked questions and learn when to use a dog harness vs when to use a dog collar below.

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Blog

6 Best Non-Stink Dog Collars

Posted on by Mimi Green
Bean purple biothane rubber
01
Nov

Dogs get into all sorts of messes. From rolling in grass and mud puddles to swimming at the dog beach, dogs get into all sorts of messes. When it comes to dog collars, an active dog lifestyle can result in a collar getting dirty and smelly.

Luckily, there are certain odor proof dog collars available to prevent your pup’s collar from stinking with little to no maintenance and keep it as good as new for as long as your dog wears it! Mimi Green lists some of our favorite anti-stink dog collars below.

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Blog

How to Make a Dog Collar: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on by Mimi Green
collar photo
08
Jul

Making your own dog is the perfect chance to create a customized accessory that fits your pup’s unique personality. You can also make sure the collar is the perfect size for your dog’s neck and is made from the high quality materials your furry friend deserves.

Is it your first time making a DIY dog collar? Don’t fret! Mimi Green shows you how to make a dog collar in the steps below. It is important to note, however, that making a dog collar following these steps requires experience using a sewing machine.

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Blog

21 Unique Dog Collars: 2021 Favorites List

Posted on by Mimi Green

Unique Martingale Dog Collars

1. Leather Martingale Dog Collar with Brass Riveted Nameplate

Our leather martingale collar is perfect for those who want a martingale collar that has a classic and high-end feel. The brass riveted nameplate is not only visually pleasing, but is large too, making ID information easy to spot. Choose from a variety of beautiful, rich leather colors, including tan, black, dark brown, olive green, and red.

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Blog

Mimi Green Collars Featured on the Drew Barrymore Show

Posted on by Mimi Green
drew barrymore show featured banner
30
Dec

We are so excited to have been featured on the Drew Barrymore Show! Last month, The Drew Barrymore Show partnered up with Etsy to showcase new trends and popular items to help viewers find the best gift for your loved ones during the holiday season. Our hand embroidered velvet dog collars were one of the items Etsy and Drew Barrymore suggested.

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Blog, Helpful Info

Leather Vs. Nylon Dog Collar: Pros, Cons, & Difference

Posted on by Mimi Green
Nylon dog collar next to leather dog collar for our compare and contrast
26
Oct

Choosing the right type of collar for your dog can be a tough decision, with so many options to choose from. How can you tell what’s best for your precious pupperino?

Among the many types and varieties of collars, the two most popular are nylon and leather dog collars. But is one better than the other? There might be more to this question than you might think! There are a few things to consider when choosing collars.

Nylon Dog Collars

Afforable. Customizable. Fun

One of the most common and most easy to maintain, nylon dog collars are a low-maintenance option for busy dog parents. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about them:

Shop Nylon Dog Collars

Nylon Dog Collars: Facts & Information

  • Material: Flat collars made of woven nylon mesh with a plastic or metal buckle attached. 
  • Customization: They come in various colors and designs and can easily be customized and personalized with embroidery. 
  • Options: Many people choose nylon collars because they are easy to find and fit for dogs of every size.
  • Maintenance: Nylon collars are easier to clean and don’t retain as many smells.
  • Price: Nylon collars cost less than other collars, making them cost-effective. Our nylon collars range from $20-40. 
  • Durability: They’re lightweight and strong, able to hold up impressively in water and humid climates.
  • Skin Sensitivity: While nylon collars are safe for dogs, some dogs are sensitive to or allergic to nylon. Before you get one for your pup, talk to your veterinarian to see if it has any sensitivity to nylon.

Cleaning Nylon Dog Collars

Nylon dog collars are easier to clean and don’t retain as many smells. They’re also very waterproof/resistant. So, if your pup still finds a way to get their collar stinky and dirty, you don’t have to stress about cleaning.

You can clean a nylon dog collar with soap and a bucket, in the dishwasher, or washing machine.

Leather Dog Collars

Fox heeler in Studded Leather Fi Compatible dog collar Belt Buckle durango kid

Classy. Stylish. Durable

Leather dog collars provide a classy and timeless look for dogs. There are many personalization options for leather dog collars, such as embossing or even carved designs.

Shop Leather Dog Collars

Leather Dog Collars: Facts & Information

 

  • Material: Mimi Green uses thick, full-grain English bridle leather—beveled and hand-polished—and only the sturdiest hardware.
  • Customization: Add an engraved buckle or nameplate with your dog’s name, details, and medical info. Select the style of leather band you like, the size, then pick a buckle style. 
  • Options: Leather dog collars typically come in flat and rolled shapes. Rolled collars are a fantastic option for pups with thick, longer fur since they prevent the fur from getting matted, as it would with a flat collar.
  • Maintenance: A leather dog collar should be cleaned every couple of months to keep it at its best. 
  • Price: Quality leather collars are more expensive than other dog collars. Our leather collars range from $45 to $120 for our custom studded “lux” collar.
  • Durability: One of the best aspects of leather collars is that they are extremely durable and can last a dog’s life as long as it is maintained correctly.
  • Skin Sensitivity:  Leather collars are made from safe, natural, and organic materials. Because of this, they are less likely to irritate than collars made from other materials. Without proper maintenance, leather dog collars can become dry and brittle and can potentially cause chafing.
  • Comfortability: Leather collars “breathe” and can take in the oils from your dog’s coat and skin to help them break in and soften, making them more comfortable. 
  • Water-Permeability: As long as the leather is regularly and properly maintained, it can get wet! However, if your dog is a water lover, we’d recommend a waterproof dog collar as an alternative.

Custom and Designer Nylon/Leather Dog Collars

With so many options available, it’s important to remember that collars play a crucial role in keeping your furry pal safe. Shop for a collar that fits well, keeps your pet secure, and matches your and your dog’s personality. 

Mimi Green offers a wide range of patterns, colors, and designs for our dog collars and leashes made from nylon, leather, and more!
Blog

Dog Collar Size Chart (Measuring & Choosing The Right Size)

Posted on by Mimi Green
03
Aug

 

Dog Collar Sizing by Breed

Pro Tip: If you’re on a computer, use Cntrl + F and search for your breed to jump to their suggested size.

DOG BREED NECK SIZE (IN.) WEIGHT (LBS.) Suggested Size Adjustable Length
Akita 20 – 24 70 – 130 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Afghan Hound 16 – 22 58 – 64 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Airdale Terrier 16 – 22 42 – 46 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Alaskan Malamute 15 – 22 71 – 95 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
American Eskimo 16 – 20 18 – 35 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Alaskan Malamute 15 – 22 71 – 95 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
American Eskimo 16 – 20 18 – 35 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
American Eskimo Miniature 13 – 16 15 – 25 Medium – Medium Long – Large 12” – 22”
American Indian Dog 16 – 22 30 – 60 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
American Pit Bull Terrier 14 – 18 30 – 65 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Australian Kelpie 15 – 21 25 – 45 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Australian Shepherd 16 – 22 35 – 75 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Australian Shepherd Miniature 10 – 14 15 – 35 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Basenji 10 – 14 20 – 26 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Basset Hound 16 – 22 40 – 60 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Beagle 12 – 18 18 – 30 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Bedlington Terrier 14 – 18 17 – 23 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Belgian Malinois 16 – 20 55 – 75 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Bichon Frise 14 – 18 10 – 14 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Black And Tan Coonhound 19 – 23 70 – 85 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Border Collie 14 – 18 27 – 45 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Border Terrier 11 – 13 11 – 16 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Boston Terrier 12 – 18 10 – 25 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Boxer 16 – 22 55 – 75 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Britany 14 – 16 30 – 40 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Bull Terrier 12 – 18 50 – 60 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Bull Terrier Miniature 12 – 18 25 – 40 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Bulldog (American) 18 – 24 60 – 120 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Bulldog (English) 18 – 24 49 – 55 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Bulldog (French) 12 – 16 18 – 28 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Cairn Terrier 10 – 16 12 – 16 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 10 – 16 13 – 18 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Chihuahua 8 – 14 2 – 6 Extra Small – Medium 6.5” – 15”
Chinese Crested 8 – 11 5 – 10 Extra Small – Small 6.5” – 12”
Chow 18 – 24 45 – 65 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Cocker Spaniel 12 – 16 26 – 35 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Collie 18 – 22 50 – 75 Large 18” – 22”
Dachshund Miniature 8 – 12 9 – 15 Extra Small – Small 6.5” – 12”
Dachshund Standard 16 – 20 16 – 32 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Dalmatian 14 – 20 45 – 65 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Doberman Pinscher 18 – 24 66 – 88 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
English Setter 18 – 24 65 – 80 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Fox Terrier 10 – 16 14 – 18 Extra Small – Medium 6.5” – 15”
German Shepherd 18 – 24 50 – 90 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
German Shorthair Pointer 15 – 17 40 – 65 Medium Long 15” – 18”
Golden Retriever 16 – 24 55 – 75 Medium Long – Extra Large 15” – 25”
Goldendoodle (Miniature) 14 – 16 30 – 45 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Goldendoodle (Standard) 16 – 22 40 – 50 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Greyhound 14 – 18 55 – 80 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Greyhound Italian 8 – 11 7 – 14 Extra Small – Small 6.5” – 12”
Havanese 8 – 14 7 – 13 Extra Small – Medium 6.5” – 15”
Irish Setter 16 – 22 53 – 70 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Irish Terrier 16 – 20 25 – 27 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Jack Russell Terrier 10 – 14 14 – 18 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
King Charles Cavalier 10 – 16 12 – 18 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Labradoodle 14 – 20 50 – 65 Medium – Large 12” – 22”
Labradoodle Miniature 12 – 16 30 – 50 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Labrador Retriever 18 – 24 55 – 80 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Lhasa Apso 12 – 16 13 – 15 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Louisiana Catahoula Leopard 16 – 21 50 – 95 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Lurcher 13 – 20 35 – 100 Medium – Large 12” – 22”
Maltese 10 – 14 6 – 9 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Old English Sheepdog 18 – 24 60 – 65 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”
Papillon 8 – 12 9 – 11 Extra Small – Small 6.5” – 12”
Pekingese 12 – 16 8 – 10 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Pembroke Welsh Corgi 14 – 16 25 – 38 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Pharoah Hound 10 – 14 40 – 60 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Pinscher Miniature 8 – 11 8 – 10 Extra Small – Small 6.5” – 12”
Pit Bull 14 – 18 30 – 70 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Pomeranian 10 – 14 9 – 13 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Poodle (Miniature) 10 – 16 15 – 17 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Poodle (Standard) 12 – 18 45 – 70 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Poodle (Toy) 8 – 14 6 – 9 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Portuguese Water Dog 15 – 20 60 – 95 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Pug 12 – 16 14 – 18 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Puggle 12 – 18 15 – 30 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Rat Terrier 13 – 16 11 – 14 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Rottweiler 24 – 30 77 – 130 Extra Large 22” – 25”
Saluki 13 – 18 40 – 60 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Schipperke 10 – 14 14 – 45 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Schnauzer Miniature 10 – 16 13 – 15 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Schnauzer Standard 14 – 20 30 – 35 Medium – Large 12” – 22”
Scottish Terrier 14 – 20 19 – 23 Medium – Large 12” – 22”
Shar Pei 16 – 20 35 – 55 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Shetland Sheep Dog “Sheltie” 11 – 18 11 – 24 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Shiba Inu 14 – 17 17 – 23 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Shichon 10 – 18 12 – 14 Small – Medium Long 9” – 18”
Shih Tzu 10 – 14 12 – 16 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Siberian Husky 16 – 22 40 – 55 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Silky Terrier 10 – 14 8 – 10 Small – Medium 9” – 15”
Springer Spaniel 14 – 18 49 – 55 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Staffordshire Terrier 14 – 20 50 – 65 Medium – Large 12” – 22”
Vizsla 15 – 22 49 – 62 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
Weimaraner 16 – 22 55 – 85 Medium Long – Large 15” – 22”
West Highland Terrier 14 – 16 15 – 22 Medium – Medium Long 12” – 18”
Wheaten Terrier 18 – 22 32 – 37 Large 18” – 22”
Whippet 13 – 15 30 – 35 Medium 12” – 15”
Yorkshire Terrier 6 – 12 4 – 7 Extra Small – Small 6.5” – 12”
Yorkshire Terrier (Teacup) 4 – 8 2 – 3 XX Small – Extra Small 4” – 9”
Rhodesian Ridgeback 20 – 23 64 – 90 Large – Extra Large 18” – 25”

Dog Collar Sizing by Weight

Weight will give you a basic idea of where to start when looking for the correct collar sizing for your dog. Below will offer you a starting point of what sized collar to buy based on your dog’s weight:

  • Dogs up to 10 pounds will likely need a collar with a length of 12” or less
  • Dogs between 11-25 pounds will likely need a collar with a length of 11”-15”
  • Dogs between 26-55 pounds will likely need a collar with a length of 13”-18”
  • Dogs between 56-80 pounds will likely need a collar with a length of 16”-24”

While sizing by weight is a good starting point, it’s not guaranteed 100% accurate. True measurements can vary based on neck size and weight distribution. Therefore, if possible, measuring your dog’s neck using cloth measuring tape is best.

How To Size a Dog Collar & Use Our Sizing Chart

  1. Wrap measuring tape around your dog’s neck and get a snug measurement. Or, use any household item, mark it with a pen, and compare the distance covered with a ruler.
  2. Collars tend to lie at the bottom of the neck, so measuring there will give you the most accurate measurement.
  3. Add about two inches to your measurements for the right collar size.
  4. Choose your Mimi Green dog collar based on your pup’s neck size.

Pro Tip: Remember, a too big of a collar is better than too small of a collar. It can always be adjusted to be smaller, but it is impossible to adjust a collar to be longer.

Sizing a Dog Collar: The Two-Finger Test

Place two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. The collar fits correctly if it’s snug. If you have to force your fingers underneath the collar, the collar is too tight. It is too loose if there is a lot of extra room between the dog’s neck and collar.

You can also test whether the collar cannot slip over your pup’s head. If the collar can be slipped past your dog’s ears, it is too loose and should be tightened accordingly.

Dog collars are an important part of keeping your dog safe. Not only do they provide crucial identification information if your dog runs away, but, when properly fit, collars also help keep your dog secure on its leash during walks.

Mimi Green Dog Collar Sizes

Rather than being advertised as specific inch measurements, most collars are labeled as “Small,” “Medium,” and “Large” sizes. And while these sizes can vary based on the brand, Mimi Green’s dog collar sizing goes as follows:

Shop Personalized Collars at Mimi Green

While many dog owners don’t give it a second thought, collars play a crucial role in keeping your furry friend safe. Shop for a collar that not only fits well and keeps your pet secure, but that matches your dog’s personality as well. Mimi Green offers a wide range of patterns, colors and designs for our dog collars and leashes.
Blog

33+ Cute Dog Collars

Posted on by Mimi Green

Who doesn’t love a new dog collar? We sure do, and we know there are endless choices to choose from. From adorable leather dog collars to floral canvas dog collars, it’s no easy decision to choose a new collar for your dog.

At Mimi Green, we’ve seen our fair share of collars and are more than happy to share our favorites with you. We’ve rounded up our absolute favorite collars, and the list is pretty long. Here is our breakdown of our favorite 33+ cute dog collars.pink velvet bandana doddle dog

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Blog, Pets

Dog Walking Accessories: Essential Items or Dog Walks

Posted on by Amanda Jackson
Dog wearing a martingale dog collar and a blue leash while going on a walk
06
Mar

This dog walking accessories guide is for you if you’re a dog owner or professional dog walker.

Walking your dog is one of the most rewarding parts of being a dog owner. Not only do you get to spend quality time with your four-legged friend, but you also give them the exercise they need.

This free guide will tell you the 10 or so items you need for a dog walk that ensure safety, compliance, and fun.

A high-quality and comfortable dog collar is one item you shouldn’t leave for a walk without. Yes, even if you use a harness, your dog should still wear a collar on walks. In our harness vs collar article, we shared that for walks, you should use a collar for identification and a harness for leading.

Collar

While searching for the perfect collar, you’ll see they come in various designs and functionalities.

We’ve sold tens of thousands of collars, and these are the three main factors you need to focus on:

  • Dog Collar Type: We sell three main types of dog collars: flat, martingale, and Fi-compatible tracking collars. 
  • Dog Collar Material: After choosing the type, you need to choose a material that matches your dog. Our top choices are nylon, biothane, leather, and fabric.
  • Dog Collar Size: Material and type don’t matter if you don’t get the size right. We wrote a handy guide on choosing the right size collar for your dog.

Leash

A reliable leash will keep your dog within your reach and line of vision. We’d be remiss if we didn’t also mention that you can style your leash too with Mimi Green! Leashes come in many materials, but the main options are nylon, fabric, biothane, and leather.

You may also want to consider a hands free leash once your pup is loose leash trained.

If you want to make a splash at the dog park, you may opt for a custom-printed leash. Yes, your dog could be rocking a leash with absolutely any text you wish to feature. Whether you want to include a fun message (such as “I Have the Best Dog Mom Ever!”) or emblazon their name and phone number is up to you.

Pro Tip: Carry an extra leash or slip lead.

Harness

Collars are considered standard for dog walks, but using a harness may be a better option. Collars can be uncomfortable for dogs, especially when they make sudden moves while on a leash. A harness will keep your dog secure and give you greater control over them.

As we said earlier, you can still keep your dog’s collar on while walking them with a harness.

Poop Bags

Walks are mainly for exercise so your dog can handle their business. If you’re reading this blog, we know you’re not the type of dog walker who leaves a mess. You’re not that person, but the question remains: which ones?

We like the Wild One Eco-Friendly Poop Bags

Travel Bowl

A collar, leash, harness, and poop bags are the must-haves for a walk. A travel bowl isn’t mandatory, but it’s nice for your dog to have hydration if you go on longer walks. Dogs get thirsty like us, especially if the walk is physically demanding.

A collapsible water bowl can be easily stuffed in a dog or your own backpack. They also sell bowls with clips to attach to a belt or appropriate loop.

Dog Treats

Rewarding your dog with treats while walking is called positive reinforcement training. Treats can help reinforce good behavior, such as allowing you to lead and not reacting to other dogs and stimuli.

Many dog owners struggle to get their dogs to “check in” with them. Instead, their dogs ignore their commands and decide where the walk should continue. If you struggle with getting your dog’s attention, treats can reinforce the behavior of them walking by your side and checking in every few steps.

Dog Backpack

Do you constantly scramble to find all the items you need for your dog walks? It’s high time you started using a dog bag. While you can buy a bag, especially to carry items for your dog, you can also use a backpack or any other bag with many pockets.

Storing your dog’s leash and travel bowl in your dog bag will ensure they will no longer “magically disappear” just when you need them. You can also pop in any other items you’d like to bring along on your walk. 

Other items you can put in a doggie backpack.

  • Animal first aid kit
  • Human first aid kit
  • Snacks
  • Keys and wallet
  • Poop bags
  • Collapsible water bowl
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pepper spray

Fanny Pack or Dog Treat Bag

Some dogs don’t like wearing backpacks. Some dogs may not react well to the new sensation, especially if they have joint, cardiovascular, or breathing issues. If your pup doesn’t want to lug around all your stuff and theirs, consider getting a fanny pack. 

Sidebar… Why is it so hard for them to put pockets in women’s pants? I don’t want to lug around a purse or a backpack just for a walk.

Anyways… 

We like this bag on Amazon. Another hack for the girlies are men’s basketball shorts. If you’ve never worn them, you’ll find that your whole life was a lie when you see how deep their pockets are. Men’s cargo pants work great, too.

Waterproof Durable Clothing

Those ones for the dog walkers and pup owners in the PNW. If you take a lot of walks, then invest in some weatherproof durable clothing, socks, and shoes.

Bonus: Car Essentials For Dog Walkers

Dog walkers should always be overprepared. Many of your clients will have dogs with collars or harnesses that don’t fit, so it helps to have what their dog needs for a successful walk.

We recommend keeping these dog walking accessories in your car while working:

  • Water
  • Collapsible water bowls
  • Metal bowl
  • 3 extra leashes
  • First aid kits
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wipes
  • Toys
  • Treats
  • Collars of all sizes
  • Harnesses of all sizes
  • Dog clothing
  • Paw soother
  • Direct stop or citronella spray
Blog

5 Spring Dog Collars to Help You Welcome Warmer Weather

Posted on by Mimi Green
27
Feb

Spring is right around the corner. The snow is melting. The birds are chirping, and in a few weeks, we’re sure to see a few flowers start blooming. We’re excited to start enjoying the warmer weather with our favorite furry friends.

To get you and your pup even more excited for warmer weather, switch up your pup’s wardrobe with a new spring dog collar. Fun florals and pastels are the perfect way to welcome springtime. Here, we’ve put together our absolute favorite picks for the spring season. Check out our five spring dog collars to help you and your pup welcome warmer weather!

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