When Were Dog Collars Invented? | A Complete History

Every time you clip on your dog’s collar, you’re participating in a tradition that began over 8,000 years ago. 

Dog collars have a rich history that spans continents and civilizations, evolving from simple cords used by ancient hunters to sophisticated symbols of status, protection, and affection. 

In this article, we’ll trace the origins of dog collars, explore their roles through medieval times, unpack how leashing practices developed, and reveal how collars carried deep symbolic meaning across cultures.

The Oldest Evidence of Dog Collars: 8,000-Year-Old Petroglyphs

Photo Source -> Arabian Rock Art Heritage

One of the earliest known depictions of dogs on leashes appears in the ancient rock art of Shuwaymis, a site in what is now Saudi Arabia. These petroglyphs, dating back around 8,000 years, show hunters accompanied by dogs, two of which are tethered by clear lines to their human companion.

I wonder what they named dogs back then? Zeus, or sprinkles?!

While some scholars interpret these lines as symbolic connections, most experts agree they represent functional leads, the earliest visual evidence of humans intentionally restraining and guiding dogs. 

Ancient Mesopotamia: The Likely Birthplace of the Dog Collar

Photo Source -> World History Encyclopedia

While Shuwaymis offers the earliest imagery, ancient Mesopotamia, particularly the Sumerian civilization, is often credited with creating the first practical dog collars. 

Initially, these were simple cords looped around a dog’s neck, used primarily for control during hunting or guarding. Over time, these rudimentary devices evolved into more sophisticated leather bands, reflecting advances in craftsmanship and societal complexity.

Beyond mere function, dog collars in Mesopotamia were steeped in cultural and spiritual significance. Dogs were closely associated with deities such as Gula, the goddess of healing, who was often depicted alongside dogs believed to possess curative powers through their saliva. 

Ishtar, the goddess of love and war, was also commonly portrayed holding dogs restrained by thick collars and leashes.

Thus, Mesopotamian dog collars were not simply utilitarian tools; they carried layered meanings of health, protection, and divine favor. This dispels the myth that early collars served only practical purposes. 

In reality, they represented an early convergence of symbolism, spirituality, and companionship, a tradition that persists in the emotional significance we attach to our pets’ accessories today.

Collars Through Time: Ancient Egypt, Persia, and Rome

Egypt: Where Dog Collars Became Works of Art

By 1570 BC, dog collars in ancient Egypt had transcended functionality to become elaborate works of art. Archaeological discoveries, such as the collars found in the tomb of the nobleman Maiherpri, showcase intricate designs adorned with brass studs, lotus motifs, and even the dog’s name, a tradition that marked the emergence of the first known “dog tags.”

These ornate collars were not merely decorative; they reflected the elevated status of dogs in Egyptian society. 

As symbols of loyalty, protection, and hunting prowess, dogs were often buried alongside their owners, their collars serving as enduring markers of their valued place within the household and the afterlife.

Persia: Gold-Trapped Collars and Afterlife Beliefs

Photo Source -> Dogs in Ancient Persia

In ancient Persia, dog collars also bore cultural weight, particularly in expressing the social status of both the dog and its owner. Wealthy Persians adorned their dogs with collars made of fine linen or even embedded with gold. 

This luxury mirrored broader societal beliefs: how one treated animals, particularly dogs, could influence their journey in the afterlife.

For Persians, dogs were protectors, hunters, and companions, and their collars reflected these roles. The most opulent collars signified the owner’s wealth and reverence for their canine companions, reinforcing the idea that collars were not just utilitarian but expressions of human-animal relationships.

Rome: Military Dogs and Functional Collars

Photo Source -> Ancient Rome Live

The Romans, known for their innovations in military strategy and engineering, also contributed significantly to the evolution of dog collars. 

Roman war dogs often wore protective collars, some of which were spiked to deter attackers during combat. These designs served dual purposes: safeguarding the dog and providing an offensive weapon.

Roman dogs also played roles in hunting and domestic protection, and their collars were adapted accordingly. The functional designs of Roman collars later influenced the development of similar tools in medieval Europe, particularly in the creation of spiked collars for hunting dogs and guard animals. 

This lineage illustrates how practical innovations in dog collar design were passed down and refined across centuries and cultures.

Did Medieval Dogs Have Collars? Yes, But They Were Spiky

As dog collars evolved through history, the Middle Ages introduced a significant functional adaptation: the spiked collar. Primarily used to protect herding and hunting dogs from predators like wolves, these collars were constructed with metal spikes facing outward, acting as a formidable deterrent against bites to the neck.

But beyond mere protection, collars also served as status symbols among the European aristocracy. Hunting was a pastime of the noble class, and their dogs wore collars that reflected their owners’ wealth and social standing. 

These ornate collars, often made from high-quality leather and sometimes embellished with decorative metalwork, indicated that the dogs were valuable assets and companions.

So, did medieval dogs have collars? 

Absolutely, but their primary purposes were functional and protective, rather than decorative. The spiked designs of the era underscore a utilitarian approach to dog gear, balancing the needs of safety, control, and status in a world where working dogs played essential roles in survival and sport.

When Did Dogs Start Being Leashed?

The practice of leashing dogs is not new. From ancient Mesopotamia, where simple cords controlled dogs, to structured collars that evolved to accommodate leashes, humans have long sought ways to guide and manage their canine companions.

Evidence of this practice is immortalized in ancient art.

Assyrian bas-reliefs depict handlers walking dogs on leashes; Egyptian murals show hunting dogs restrained with leads; and Persian ceramics illustrate similar scenes of human-dog partnerships. 

These artifacts confirm that leashing is a tradition dating back thousands of years, far predating modern pet ownership.

This historical continuity dispels a common myth: leashing is not a recent invention but a practice deeply rooted in human-animal cooperation. The functional evolution culminated in the industrial age when Mary A. Delaney patented the first U.S. retractable leash in 1908, marking a turning point in pet product innovation.

Modern Collars: From Function to Fashion

The Victorian era marked a pivotal transformation in dog collar history. No longer just functional tools, collars became luxury accessories crafted with engraved nameplates, intricate designs, and fine materials. 

These personalized details elevated collars to symbols of affection and refinement.

Queen Victoria herself profoundly influenced this cultural shift. As a devoted dog lover, her public displays of affection for her pets popularized the idea of dogs as beloved family members rather than mere working animals. This royal endorsement spurred a burgeoning market for fashionable pet accessories.

I like to think that our Velvet Dog Collars are a glimpse into times past.

Today, dog collars serve multiple roles: they are fashion statements, safety devices, and personal identifiers. 

At Mimi Green, we embrace this multifaceted legacy by offering handcrafted collars that blend style, comfort, and functionality. Our designs continue the tradition of making collars not only practical but also meaningful expressions of the special bond between you and your dog.

Beyond History: What Sets Mimi Green’s Collars Apart

Handcrafted Tradition Meets Modern Design

At Mimi Green, we honor the ancient tradition of dog collars with a distinctly modern approach. Our hand-embroidered limited edition collars not only offer exceptional durability but also introduce a level of style and individuality rarely seen in mass-produced pet products. 

Each collar is made-to-order, allowing for personal touches that reflect your dog’s unique personality and your own aesthetic preferences.

This commitment ensures that your dog wears a collar imbued with history, love, and craftsmanship, a wearable testament to a partnership that began thousands of years ago.

Material Innovation: From Velvet to Waterproof BioThane

The diversity of materials we offer reflects both historical continuity and innovation. From the timeless elegance of velvet and leather to the practical benefits of reflective webbing and Waterproof BioThane, Mimi Green’s collection addresses the evolving needs of modern pet owners.

Featured Product 🐶 Waterproof Biothane® Dog Collars

Just as ancient collars solved problems of control and protection, our designs tackle contemporary challenges like skin sensitivity, coat matting, and exposure to the elements. For dogs with allergies, materials like laminated cotton and BioThane provide comfort without compromising on style or durability.

Through this carefully curated selection, we pay homage to millennia of collar evolution while providing solutions that resonate with today’s conscientious pet parents.

Ethical Production You Can Trust

Mimi Green isn’t just about making beautiful collars, it’s about making them the right way. As a family-owned business based in the USA, we reject overproduction and avoid using cheap, scratchy nylon that can irritate your pet’s skin.

Our collars are sustainably crafted, ensuring that each piece is both environmentally responsible and ethically made. 

For us, ethical production isn’t a marketing angle, it’s a reflection of our values and commitment to doing better for both pets and people.

Featured Product 🐶 Designer Leather Dog Collars

Join an 8,000-Year Tradition, But Make It Yours.

When you choose a Mimi Green collar, you’re not just picking an accessory, you’re continuing an ancient tradition with your own modern twist. 

From velvet to leather, waterproof BioThane to personalized embroidery, our handcrafted collars connect you and your dog to a lineage of companionship that stretches back millennia.

Your dog deserves more than a generic collar. They deserve a piece of history, thoughtfully crafted, lovingly worn.

Your Dog’s Collar: A Link to History and a Choice for Today

For over 8,000 years, dog collars have evolved from simple tools of survival to cherished symbols of companionship and identity. Now that you know where collars come from, the next question is: what kind of collar will tell your dog’s story today?

At Mimi Green, we don’t just make collars, we make heirloom-quality pieces that reflect your pet’s personality and your values.

Your Modern-Day Collar Solutions

1. Velvet Dog Collars: Perfect for the dog who deserves a touch of elegance with everyday comfort.
2. Waterproof BioThane® Collars: Durable and odor-resistant for adventurous pups who don’t mind getting wet.
3. Personalized Collars: For pet parents who want their dog’s gear to be as unique as their bond.

Ready to find the perfect collar that honors your dog’s unique place in history?
👉 Shop Now and create something timeless.