How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Collar or Leash?

Q: How do I know if my dog’s collar is too worn?

If you see fraying, stretched holes, cracked buckles, or weakened stitching, it's time to replace your dog's collar.

Q: Can I keep a leash for years if it looks fine?

Yes, as long as the leash shows no signs of damage and the hardware remains strong. Weekly inspections are recommended.

Q: Do puppies need more frequent replacements?

Yes. Puppies grow quickly, so collars need to be replaced or resized often to ensure a safe and comfortable fit.

Dog collars and leashes go through a lot—daily walks, weather, muddy adventures, even the occasional chew session. But how often should you replace your dog’s collar or leash? The answer depends on usage, materials, and safety. Here’s what every pet parent needs to know.

Who This Is For

This guide is for:

Dog parents who want to keep their pups safe
Owners who use collars and leashes daily
Anyone wondering if their current gear is still reliable

A woman walking her small dog with the rainbow ombre Nola Hands-Free Rope Dog Leash from Pink Papyrus.

General Timeline for Replacement

Collars: every 1–2 years, or sooner if wear is visible
Leashes: every 1–3 years, depending on material and use
Heavy-use gear (daily long walks, beach trips, hiking): check more frequently

Signs It’s Time to Replace a Collar or Leash

Fraying or tearing in fabric or rope
Cracked or bent hardware
Loose stitching or broken buckles
Stretched-out fit that no longer holds securely
Persistent odors or stains you can’t clean

👉 Safety tip: Never wait until a leash or collar breaks—replace at the first sign of weakness.

Material Matters

Rope Leashes: durable but should be checked for fraying, especially if chewed
Vegan Leather Collars & Leashes: strong and stylish, but should be replaced if cracking occurs
Waterproof Gear: easiest to clean, but inspect hardware and coating regularly
Velvet Collars: luxe and soft, best for everyday wear, but replace if stitching loosens

Why Pink Papyrus Gear Lasts Longer

Our products are built with:

Reinforced nylon cores for extra strength
High-quality hardware that resists rust and bending
Carefully stitched designs to withstand daily wear
Fashion-forward materials that don’t compromise durability

FAQs

Q: How do I know if my dog’s collar is too worn?
A: If you see fraying, stretched holes, or weak buckles, it’s time to replace it.

Q: Can I keep a leash for years if it looks fine?
A: Yes—if it’s free of damage and the hardware is strong. Just inspect it weekly.

Q: Do puppies need more frequent replacements?
A: Yes—puppies outgrow collars quickly, so check fit every week and size up as needed.

Written by Christine Abdelmalek
Founder and SHE-E-O of Pink Papyrus
Obsessed with crafting dog accessories—beautiful, brilliantly functional, and made with love.

How Often Should You Replace Your Dog's Collar Or Leash?