Are you a fellow dog‑lover? Here’s a reality check: When was the last time you checked your pup’s collar or harness?

If you haven’t looked in a while (or ever), it’s a good idea to take a second glance.

Your furry friend's walking gear does more than just look cute. It keeps them safe and comfortable.

Here are five key signs that it’s time for a change, plus tips on picking the perfect collar or harness.

1. It’s Showing Wear and Tear

Frayed edges, broken buckles, or rusty rings? That’s how you know the gear has lived its best life. Now what? Now it’s time to retire it.

Just like any other well‑used gear, collars and harnesses don’t last forever. So, when you chipped leather or a buckle that doesn’t snap securely, don’t wait.

Broken gear could give up mid‑walk, leaving your dog free to dart off.

That’s a recipe for worry and panic. This is why replacing old gear promptly is crucial.

What to look for next

For everyday use, check out the Rose Wylie Collar.

It’s made with flex‑poly coated webbing, metal hardware, and a stylish, hypoallergenic finish. It’s both durable and easy on the dog’s neck.

2. The Fit Isn’t Right Anymore

A proper fit matters, for safety and comfort.

Ideally, you should slip two fingers between the collar or harness and your dog’s fur. If it’s too loose, they could slip out. Too tight? They could get chafed or uncomfortable.

Based on this rule of thumb, you can decide when it’s time for a new size.

Find the right fit

The Rose Wylie Harness is fully adjustable around the neck and chest and comes with three points for leash attachment.

It’s ideal for growing pups because you can dial the fit in as they grow.

3. Your Dog Is Suddenly Pulling or Trying to Escape

Have you ever had a good walker suddenly go rogue at the park? You must have been confused.

Well, their gear might be the culprit.

Remember that if your dog starts pulling out of nowhere, it’s not always about training. It could be discomfort or a poor fit.

A wrongly fitted harness can accidentally encourage pulling, so it's important to reassess your setup.

Smart fix

Try a Rose Wylie Lead instead of a thin leash. Made with the same flex‑poly webbing as the collar, it’s soft on your hands but won’t dig into their fur. The lead can extend to 150 cm when needed—perfect for training or giving them a little freedom.

4. Your Dog Is Rubbing, Scratching, or Showing Skin Irritation

Sometimes, dogs develop sensitivities to the materials in their collars. If your pup starts rubbing at its neck or scratching, it’s your dog’s way of telling you “This is itchy”.

If you notice any of these signs or see redness, consider replacing it with a hypoallergenic version.

Gentle option

The Rose Wylie Collar is made from soft, hypoallergenic materials, so it's ideal for dogs with sensitive skin.

Plus, it comes in bright, playful colors inspired by British painter Rose Wylie, so…style without the itch.

5. You’ve Upgraded Your Training or Walk Style

Not all walking styles are equal. Some dogs do just fine in a simple collar. Others, especially pullers, benefit from a harness.

And if we are being honest, some walks call for both.

Choosing what’s best

• Collars like the Rose Wylie are great for walk updates that don’t involve pulling workouts.
  
  
• Harnesses, like the Rose Wylie Harness, take pressure off the neck and give better control.
  
  
• Dual setups? Collars for ID tags plus harnesses for walks work perfectly together.
  
  

Bonus tip:

If you want a premium, timeless look, try the Matte Black Collar – Notte Edition or the Timeless Handmade Leather Dog Collar.

These are stiff collars with all‑black hardware that goes beautifully with the Matte Black Lead or Timeless Dog City Lead, providing a hip, long-lasting style.

Just remember: they’re leather, so they need conditioning and should stay dry in wet weather.

Here’s Some Information You Won’t Regret Knowing - Collar vs. Harness

Here’s a quick rundown to keep in mind:

Scenario	Go For...
Everyday collar with name tags	Rose Wylie Collar
Pulling during walks	Rose Wylie Harness
Stylish, formal occasions or premium look	Leather Collar & Lead sets
Controlled training or dual attachment	Use both Collar + Harness

Harnesses like the Rose Wylie one help redistribute pressure across the body, reducing neck strain.

On the other hand, collars stay on all the time with ID. This way, you never compromise on identification or contact details.

How to Measure Properly and Keep Them Fresh

1. Measure neck and chest first. For collars, leave two fingers' worth of wiggle room. For harnesses, make sure no straps chafe under the legs.
   
   
2. Every 6–12 months, check for wear and tear. Even the best gear gets tired. Replace it once you see serious wear.
   
   
3. Adjust gear as your dog ages or changes weight. Puppies grow fast, and even adults can move up or down a size with fitness or diet changes.

Wrapping It All Up

Collars and harnesses aren’t just accessories.

They’re safety gear, comfort tools, and sometimes fashion statements. Knowing when to swap them out makes your daily walks safer and happier.

Here’s a quick recap:

1. Visible damage? Time for a new one.
   
   
2. Fit issues or growing pup? Re-measure and resize.
   
   
3. Pulling or escaping? Consider an upgraded harness.
   
   
4. Skin irritation? Go hypoallergenic.
   
   
5. Changed training needs? Switch to a better-suited collar or harness.
   
   

From the colorful Rose Wylie sets to sleek Notte leather collars, Duke & Milo has options to fit every pup and their walk style.

Let’s make every walk safer, comfier, and more stylish for your furry best friend.