Frequently Asked Questions

How do I measure for a custom collar?
Please keep the following considerations in mind to help you decide which size will work best for your dog:
Age - If you are choose a collar for a dog who is younger than one and a half years old, chances are he will gain some size in the neck circumference.
Type of coat - Thick or longer coated dogs may need extra room for their fur to assure a comfortable fit for your dog's new collar.
Purpose of the item - A tighter fitting collar will assure a secure fit of the item for training and working with your dog, while a looser fit is appropriate for using the item around the house of for extended wear.
Why is kangaroo leather better than regular leather?
If you have never used a kangaroo braided leash, you are definitely missing something wonderful. These leashes become buttery soft with use, without losing their strength or structure. They are also much lighter than traditional leather leashes and much more flexible.

Kangaroo leather fibers run horizontally with the skin, as opposed to randomly as in cow hide. This creates the great tensile strength of kangaroo leather. It is said to be 4 times stronger than cow skin. It is also extremely abrasion resistant and has a superior finish. It is simple superior to any other leather available.
How many strands of kangaroo leather do I need?
This answer depends solely on the type of dog you own. The majority of show collars and leads are made with 4 strands of kangaroo lace. Most exhibitors use these because they are thin, lightweight and unobtrusive in the ring. However, many of these same exhibitors will train with 6 or 8 strand equipment, especially if they have a mid to large size dog. While these items are slightly thicker than the 4 strand leads (see a comparison here), they are still extremely soft and flexible. They also allow a stronger correction because of the strength and thickness of the lead. Strength and reliability is also very important when choosing hardware (if any) for your item. For example, I could easily use a 4 strand lead on my German Shepherd, but if I use a tiny snap, the snap MAY break.

Regardless of the number of strands we use, we don't want to take chances with your pet's safety. This is why we braid all of our kangaroo products over a strong sinew core. These cores are strong, flexible, kink-resistant and practically indestructible.

Even if you plan to show off your custom braided collar or leash during your daily walks around the neighborhood, please keep your type and size of dog in mind when ordering products. Small dogs may only require 4 strands (approximately 1/8 inch wide), while larger dogs (or dogs that pull) would benefit from the thickness and strength of a larger diameter product. I guarantee that the extra width will not diminish the beauty of the item.

However, realize that there is a direct relationship between the width of the lead and the size/strength of the dog. If you try to show a 100 pound dog on a leash that is too thin, you will hurt your hand and the dog before the lead breaks. Canine Craft Works LLC is not responsible for injury to, or loss of your dog as a result of using our products. Please exercise caution with using any dog-related item. Each consumer is responsible for determining the suitability of these products for their individual situation. Consumer accepts all responsibility by purchasing and using these products.
Can I leave my dog's collar on all the time?
The only type of collar we recommend for all day wear is a standard (non-tightening) buckle collar. Any collar can be potentially unsafe, however martingale and slip collars pose a greater risk of injury if left on your dog while they are unsupervised, as they can become caught and tighten around your dog's neck. If you decide to leave a martingale collar on your dog, the collar should be fitted so that it cannot choke the dog if the loop is tightened all of way. Collars should NEVER be left on a crated dog, not even a standard buckle collar.

Prong collars are considered training collars and should NEVER be used outside of supervised training activities. They should also never be used if the dog is playing with another dog or running loose.

Canine Craft Works LLC cannot be held responsible for accidents or injuries to humans and/or animals.
How do I care for my new collar or leash?
Scent article care:
Routinely wipe off and inspect for damage. If articles are wet, please dry them with a clean towel and let them dry naturally, out of direct sunlight and away from a heat source.

Do not use cleaners or solvents on the leather, as this may remove color and/or finish. If needed, some mild soap and warm water can be used.

Dogs who improperly hold articles can damage bars or article bars may not fit a new dog, these bars can be replaced if desired. Please contact me for additional information.

Leather leash and collar care:

Keeping your new collar or lead well cared for will greatly extend its life and help keep it looking great. It is recommended that all leather items be kept clean by wiping them with a soft, dry cloth after use. This helps to get rid of any dirt or sweat from your hands that may have gotten on your product during use. With regular use and maintenance, your lead will become soft and supple. As with any leather item, an occasional application of your favorite leather conditioner will help keep your item in good condition. Lexol is a good cleaner and conditioner and can be easily found at your local tack or hardware store. After cleaning, let your item dry naturally, out of direct sunlight and away from a heat source.

As with any leather item, water can cause damage, such as mildew or mold if it is not properly dried. Avoid getting your item repeatedly or extremely wet - especially braided kangaroo buttons. Please do not allow your dogs to swim or get extremely wet (i.e. baths) while wearing our items!

Paracord care:
These items can be easily washed in a sink of warm water with a little dish soap. They can also be placed in a lingerie bag in the washing machine and washed on a delicate cycle in cold water. Wring any excess water from the item and lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight.

Bead care:
All natural metal beads, including silver, copper and brass, will tarnish over time, although this will vary with frequency and conditions of use. You can easily clean your metal beads by wiping them with a soft, gentle silver polishing cloth. Glass and plastic beads require little maintenance and can be easily cleaned by wiping them down with a soft cloth. Keeping anti-tanish paper or cloth (available from jewelers and home supply stores) in the same bag with beaded leads will prevent tarnish once that are polished.

The best product we have found to clean your metal beads is called Radiance 2000. This can be purchased on various Internet sites (i.e. Amazon) or their company's site at www.gemcarejewelrycleaners.com. This cleaner does not harm your leather and has been used for many years on horse equipment. To clean beads, put a small amount of cleaner on your finger and dab the product onto the bead. Let the product dry for several minutes and then rub it off with a soft cloth. This cleaner works wonderfully on your personal jewelry as well. Use an old toothbrush to clean between the beads if needed.

Prong collars:
Keep your collar clean and dry, occasionally wiping it off with a soft, clean rag. All metal is susceptible to rust, tarnish and oxidation, though there are many variables with affect the speed at which this happens. Herm Sprenger states that their stainless prong collars will not rust, however, I do not guarantee ANY product against rust, tarnish or oxidation.
Can I get color samples before purchasing an item?
We understand how difficult it can be to purchase custom equipment on-line. Colors are skewed slightly on monitors and many people want colors to match their dog's coat color, another piece of gear, etc. We do provide color samples upon request. Due to the labeling and shipping of these samples, it is necessary to charge for the samples.

Price indicated includes First Class USPS shipping (Colorado residents must add 4% tax):
1-4 samples - $4.00
5-10 samples - $5.00
11- 15 samples - $6.00
16-23 samples - $8.00
How long will it take to get my order?
We try to work on orders in the order they are received , however we are usually working on multiple orders at one time.

Normal shipping times:
Non-custom items - 2-3 business days
Dumbbells - 7-10 business days
Scent articles - 6-8 weeks
Kangaroo items - 6-8 weeks
Martingale leads - 3-4 weeks

If there are any unusual delays with your order, we will notify you via email.

We do not provide a "rush service" to any individual or group.
Do you offer a warranty on your products?
All issues are handled on a case by case basis. Please contact us with any issues and we will work with you to get them resolved.

Chewed items can not be repaired and will not be replaced. Water damage can not be repaired. Loss and/or theft is not covered (yes, we've been asked). I do not guarantee against rust, tarnish or oxidation on any item, including prong collars.

Charges, including shipping, may apply.
Do I need to pay sales tax?
If you live in the state of Colorado, I am required by law to collect sales tax (4%) on all orders. Shipping is also subject to tax, per state law.
I live outside of the United States, can I still order?
The website currently only allows orders to United States mailing addresses.

I will ship to Canada, however these are handled via direct communication. We are not responsible for any customs, VAT or import charges. Please contact me to inquire.
What if I need to change or cancel my order?
Order changes:
If you would like to like to change anything on an order please contact us as soon as possible. Depending on the product and where we are at in its manufacturing, we may be able to make a change at no cost to you. If we are able to salvage the product and re-list it for sale, we have the ability to charge you, as the customer, a change fee of no more than 20% of the item cost. If the product has been completed, no changes are possible.

Cancellations:
Order cancellations are permitted within 48 hours of order, unless the item has already been shipped.
Can I return my order?
Returns or Exchanges:
All of our products are handcrafted and made to order. Due to this, all sales are final.

However, w
e strive to satisfy each and every customer. If you are not happy with your purchase at any time, please contact us. We will always attempt to rectify the situation and make the product work better for you and your dog. Any repairs or changes to your item may require an additional charge, including return shipping. We are not responsible for measuring errors by the customer.

Return shipping is the responsibility of the customer.

Do NOT return any item, without first contacting the company for authorization. Failure to do so will result in the hold of such item(s) until payments have been made.