Think Twice Before Putting a Dirty Collar on Your Clean Dog

March 6, 2025
Before and after cleaning a dirty dog collar

We all know the feeling, your pup is fresh out of the bath, smelling amazing, looking fluffy, and ready for all the snuggles. But before you grab that collar and clip it back on, stop for a second. If that dirty collar hasn’t been cleaned recently, you might be undoing all your hard work.

Your Dog’s Collar: The Hidden Germ Magnet

Your dog’s dirty collar goes everywhere they go—through mud, grass, water, and even their favorite nap spots. Over time, collars absorb sweat, natural skin oils, and moisture, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, yeast, and fungi. When you put that same dirty collar back on their freshly cleaned fur, you’re immediately reintroducing all that bacteria to their skin.

It’s like taking a shower and then putting on a sweaty gym shirt… kind of defeats the purpose, right?

The Risks: More Than Just a Bad Smell

A dirty collar doesn’t just carry an unpleasant odor. It can actually cause skin irritation, infections, and even hot spots that are painful, inflamed sores that can lead to excessive scratching and discomfort. Moisture trapped under a collar, whether from a recent bath or a wet walk, makes it even easier for bacteria and fungi to thrive.

If your dog has sensitive skin or allergies, this problem can escalate quickly. What starts as mild irritation could turn into redness, itchiness, or even a trip to the vet.

How to Keep Your Dog’s Collar Clean, Safe & Fresh

Here’s how to make sure your pup stays clean and healthy without compromising on style or comfort:

  • Wash Regularly – Just like you wash your clothes, your dog’s collar needs routine cleaning. Most fabric or nylon collars can be tossed in a gentle wash cycle (inside a laundry bag) or hand-washed with mild soap. Leather collars require special care—wipe them down with a damp cloth and use a leather conditioner to prevent cracking.
  •  Replace Collars Regularly – Over time, dirt, bacteria, and wear can compromise your dog’s collar. Swapping out an old, worn-out collar for a fresh one ensures comfort, safety, and hygiene.
  • Have a Backup – While your dog’s collar is drying, swap in a clean backup. This way, they’re never without identification, and you’re not putting a damp, bacteria-ridden collar back on their skin.
  • Let Fur Dry Completely – Even a clean collar can cause issues if your dog’s fur is still damp. If you’re short on time, use a blow dryer on a low, cool setting to speed up the drying process.
  • Inspect for Wear & Tear – A collar that’s fraying, breaking down, or developing a persistent smell may be harboring more bacteria than you think. If it’s looking rough, it’s time to replace it.

The Bottom Line

A fresh bath should leave your dog feeling and staying clean. Don’t let a dirty collar ruin it! Take a couple of extra minutes to wash and swap out their collar because your pup deserves to look, feel, and smell their best.

At NorthPoint Pets, we not only stock durable, easy-to-clean collars that keep your pup looking fresh while standing up to their adventures, but we also offer self-serve bathing tubs to make bath time easier. Stop by, give your pup a refreshing wash, and upgrade their collar for a truly clean finish!