Personalised collars generally come in two styles: engraved and embroidered. Both put your dog's details on the collar, but they look and feel different.
Engraved collars
Text is engraved onto a metal or hard surface, such as a buckle or a plate attached to the collar. Laser engraving marks the surface with fine, precise lines.
Good points
- A sharp, neat look.
- The details are on a metal or hard surface that sits on the collar.
- A quiet alternative to a hanging tag.
Things to consider
- Space is limited, so text needs to be short.
- If your details change, you'd usually need a new plate or collar.
Embroidered collars
Text is stitched onto the collar's fabric, usually in a chosen thread colour.
Good points
- Can include more text along the length of the collar.
- Thread colours can add a decorative touch.
Things to consider
- Stitched text can fade or fray with wear, depending on the material and how the collar is used and cleaned.
- Legibility can depend on thread colour against the fabric.
Which should you choose?
- Choose engraved if you like a neat, low-profile look and short, clear text.
- Choose embroidered if you want longer text or a colourful, casual style.
A note on visibility
Whichever style you pick, make sure the text is high-contrast and large enough to read quickly. Someone who has just found a loose dog will want to read it in a second or two.
Where each style shines
Engraved works well when you want a tidy surface with short, sharp text. It's popular for a neat, minimal look, and it's silent.
Embroidered suits people who want longer text or colour. The stitching is part of the fabric, so the collar can look more casual and colourful.
Things to think about
- Legibility over time. Both can wear. Engraved text can dull with scratches, and thread can fray or fade. Check the text regularly.
- Cleaning. Embroidery can hold dirt in the stitching, so it may need more care. Engraved plates can be wiped clean.
- Text amount. Embroidery can often fit more characters along the strap, while an engraved plate has limited room.
- Look and feel. Engraved collars look sleek. Embroidered collars have a handmade look.
- Changing details. With both, changing a number usually means a new collar or plate.
Frequently asked questions
Which is easier to read?
It depends on the size and contrast. High-contrast, larger text is easier in either case.
Which lasts longer?
It varies with the materials, how the collar is used and how it's looked after, so we can't give a fixed answer. Inspect the collar regularly.
Is one better for water?
Both can get wet. Rinse and dry the collar afterwards. See how to clean a PU leather dog collar.
Do I still need a tag?
Either style can carry your details. Some places also require a council registration tag, so check the rules.
Which do you offer?
Our collars use laser engraving on a plate or buckle. Browse the collection.
What we offer
Our Heritage and Terra collars use laser engraving on a plate or buckle. Browse the full dog collar collection to compare styles.
