In this short blog post we share our favourite dog hints and tips for keeping your dog cool and safe this summer.
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Four years ago, after 18 months of product development, Oonalfie was launched. We filled the gap at the top end of the market, focussing on getting the basic things perfect, of exceptional quality and only bringing those products to you, when we were 100% happy. If you ask anyone who knows me personally, you’ll know this was a pretty big moment: I am a perfectionist.
I am passionate about dogs and have been since the age of 7. Back then my passion was demonstrated through raising money by roller skating around our local park and donating money to the RSPCA. My real passion grew when I became involved in training our family dogs. I was and still am a firm believer that a house is not a home, without paws 🐾.
Slow growing the business has been very stop start, as I’ve juggled bringing up children, the arrival of not one but two Hungarian Vizsla puppies and the skills swap from being a teacher in a busy London School to running my own business. But I wouldn’t swap it for the world.
Running my own business has allowed me to work the hours I choose (even if they are deep into the night), and be present in my children’s lives. It’s allowed me the sheer joy (and despair) of training 3 rambunctious dogs and the opportunity to meet so many of you lovely people.
Building a lifestyle brand is no small mountain. Some days it feels like I live, breathe, eat and sleep Oonalfie. And everything being new, means it takes longer. If I could choose the toughest parts, they would be these: Working on your own is lonely. The highs are great the the lows are hard without anyone to share them with. Not knowing when you'll get your next order is moral sapping. At the luxury end of the market, this was even trickier to predict. And finally making mistakes and forcing yourself to remember you are only human. And that from mistakes, becomes a greatness!
Four years on we have wholesale stockists around the globe and a strong customer base, both in the UK and internationally. So I guess we’re doing it!
Sure, I know there’s many more things our customers would like from us: loads more fabulous dog accessories of course! Enriching content on our social media feed and authenticity. Let me put your minds at rest, we have so many wonderful pieces in the pipeline which we are working our paws off to bring to you. But as in the beginning, unless I’m 100% happy, you won’t find it on our website!
Lovely to chat and thank you so much for following us and keeping our dream alive.
All my love
Laura x
Founder and Managing Director of Oonalfie
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Remember: all dogs act differently when their usual surroundings are changed. Be patient and calm with them and ensure you don’t end up with an overtired pup.
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Less or no commuting time and more home based activities have given us a little more time to get creative in the kitchen. We've transferred our love of baking from human to dog treats. Recall and training sessions have never been so focussed. Our recipes are simple and very fool proof to follow. Happy baking pups!
Find the recipe below.
Don't forget to check out our range of luxury dog bowls to serve them it!
Note Please remember that all treats should form only a small part of a dog's daily nutrition.
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Normal chocolate should NEVER be fed to dogs as it is highly toxic. This bake uses dog safe chocolate made from carob (a chocolate substitute), which is safe for dogs to consume. That said it is still high in fat and sugar so should be given a a special treat in moderation.
100g of dog chocolate (either buttons or a bar you can break up)
We often get asked this question by customers keen to make the right selection from the multitude of options available.
]]>There are many things to consider when selecting the right lead, for you and you pup. It is also worth bearing in mind that you and your dog may need a couple of different leads depending on where you are dog walking and what activities or dog training you will be doing. The right lead can be the difference between enjoyable and unenjoyable training sessions and dog walks.
Whilst essential doggy fashion is important, you ultimately want a lead that is comfortable and safe for both you and your pup.
Below is an explanation of the four main types of leads used for dogs.
Standard clip lead - can be clipped to a harness or collar, usually around 1.2m in length. Good for both urban and rural environments.
Training multiway lead - a popular choice for many dog owners due to its versatility of being both long, short and having a hands free option. These leads come into their own when puppy training, walking two dogs and they have the added bonus of being able to be clipped to a front led harness, due to the clips at either end.
Slip lead - a lead with an adjustable loop that fits around the dog’s neck and is mostly favoured by working dog owners, where the dog has mastered walking to heel without a lead first. These are a popular choice as they don’t require the dexterity of a clip, which is helpful during winter walks, or out shooting when your hands are cold!
Extending lead - the thin cord rolls in and out of its casing. It locks at whatever length you choose and usually has a full length of around 5-8m long. These can be a bit of a trip hazard and have had a bit of bad press of late for cutting through skin, if a dog pulls suddenly. That said they have their uses: if your dog isn’t great at recall, it allows them some controlled freedom.
Drag or training line - not designed to be held but to be dragged behind the dog. It’s lightweight nature allows the dog to drag the end behind it. This lead tends to be used for recall training practice. It cannot be safely used in busy areas because they easily get tangled around people’s legs and other dogs, causing potential injury.
Dog leads are made from a variety of materials from leather, rope, fabric, webbing and more recently BioThane. Also worth mentioning, leads also come in a variety of widths. Typically, thinner for smaller dogs and wider for strong or bigger dogs, is a good rule to work by.
A quality lead should have quality metal work, which won’t rust or break when exposed to the elements and be made of a hard wearing material, that can be machine washed and won’t fray or tear when being pulled.
At Oonalfie our luxury rope dog leads are handmade from high quality engineered dock line. The rope is designed and made with the intention that it will be sat in salt water a lot of the time! The rope has a high braid count that feels smoother in the hands and reduces the chances of friction burns and injury. Unlike flat woven leads there are no sharp edges to dig into your hands or your dog’s neck. We create leads in three thicknesses suitable for dogs of different sizes and needs. All our leads have 100% solid brass hardware to give you a lifetime of use.
The construction of our leads uses the traditional method of hand splicing which is then stitched with heavy duty thread to ensure it says in place and keeps you and your dog safe, wherever you are, whatever you’re doing together. All our leads (with the exception of the multiway training line) also have a handy o ring on the handle, to conveniently attach dog poo or treat bags to!
Luxury Multiway Training Line
We recommend the Oonalfie multiway training line to new puppy owners. It’s lightweight, adjustable and hugely versatile. The lead uses thinner rope and features lighter solid brass clips, which are less noticeable to a puppy. This lead can be used for close heel work, sit and stay practice, and initial recall training, ensuring an enjoyable training experience for you and your puppy. You also have the added advantage that the lead can be worn across the body, allowing you to be hands free in those initial ‘new puppy juggling’ moments.
The multiway training line is also the perfect lead solution, if your dog is using a front led harness. It features high quality, solid brass, clips at either end which can be attached to the front and back of the harness. The lead also comes into its own if you have two dogs, as one can be clipped to either end!
Luxury Clip Lead
The Oonalfie Luxury Clip Leads are elegant, very stylish and timelessly luxurious. Simple to use, the high quality, solid brass clip attaches to your dog’s collar or harness. These classically designed leads are built to withstand a lifetime of daily use.
Our clip leads come in three thicknesses, and in a variety of lengths to allow you and your puppy a lifetime of happy moments. Typically we advise large dogs, or dogs that pull hard, to use 14mm thick clip leads, medium to small sized dogs the 12mm thick lead and small dogs the 10mm thick lead.
The short answer is NO. In order for your dog to walk happily to heel, by your side, they need to see the lead as something to like. If a slip lead is used too early, they will associate the lead with discomfort and something to flee from, rather than ‘it’s time to focus’ at your side. We always advise that any long term problems with lead training should be discussed with a qualified trainer. In this instance we would always recommend our standard clip lead and lots, and lots, and lots, of practice!
Oonalfie Luxury Classic Slip leads are perfect for dogs which walk to heel, are being trained to work or have owners with dexterity issues. They should always be used, putting the dog’s safety and welfare first. We offer three lengths of rope slip leads, and three thicknesses. The longer length is better suited to younger dogs, the standard for everyday use and the shorter for keeping your dog close, perhaps during dog agility class. For medium to large dogs we recommend opting for the 14mm thickness slip lead and for puppies in training, we recommend the thinner, longer length, 10mm rope puppy slip lead.
We realise that every dog has different needs and that one size does not fit all. Why not use our bespoke design service to create the lead of your dreams. Our team loves a good challenge. Don’t see what you need online? Contact us today about commissioning a custom luxury dog lead? laura@oonalfie.com
If you still have questions unanswered contact Laura Shaw, our Head Designer, who will be able to guide you through the process of selecting the right dog lead for you and your pup?
laura@oonalfie.com
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There is no doubt that this year’s Christmas is going to be different. That said, wherever you are, whomever you’re with, is a part of our living COVID story. Some of us will feel sad, others will be elated at the simplicity of Christmas this year, but whatever your circumstance record the moment.
Oonalfie, Nic Bisseker Photography and Carnilove have come together this Christmas, to celebrate the special relationship we have with our dogs. Focussing on the positive, we’d like you to enter our contest and share what you are looking forward to most, about spending Christmas with your dog(s)?
For a chance to win a luxury Oonalfie collar, dog photo shoot with Nic Bisseker Photography or delicious Carnilove dog treats, simply enter your thoughts into the post comment box:
To enter:
Why not share your favourite Christmas 2020 dog moment in a photo in your instagram stories and tag us in using the #mydogthisxmas
Full Terms and Conditions for Christmas Contest
@oonalfie @nicbissekerphotography @carnilove_uk
Participants must also tag in one friend, who has also followed
@oonalfie @nicbissekerphotography @carnilove_uk
Prizes are as follows:
Winner 1
A 1 hour outdoor dog photography fine art shot at a woodland location within 30 minutes travel of RH19 2LT and a 10 x 8 “ box frame with your favourite image and the accompanying digital file.
A small gallery of approximately 10 watermarked images will be provided from the session to choose your favourite for the box frame. Further images can be purchased after the shoot.
Winner 2
An Oonalfie handmade collar in a size and colour of your choice
5 Runners up
A treat bag from Carnilove, UK
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Breed & Age Considerations
If you are looking to buy a collar for your puppy, be mindful that your pup will grow out of it fairly rapidly. Checking the fit of your puppy's collar every time they wear it is essential, and you should never leave them unattended while they're wearing their collar.
Collar fit should be checked routinely for all dogs, but especially those whose weight tends to fluctuate. Some breeds, such as pugs and bulldogs, can become very thick set in their necks if they gain even a little weight. Other breeds such as Greyhounds can lose weight quickly.
Dogs which have been recently neutered may be prone to piling on the pounds, and older dogs can start to struggle with maintaining their weight as their metabolism changes. Checking your dog's collar daily is imperative for both comfort and safety.
The Perfect Fit
When measuring your dog for their new dog collar, you will first need a tape measure. You can download our printable tape measure HERE if you do not have one at home. Once you have your tape measure, you will need a calm dog, so consider if you may require someone to help you with measuring if your dog tends to be excitable and lively.
All Oonalfie Dog Collars are measured in cm's, as this allows for a more accurate measurement. The first and most important measurement is taken from your dog's existing dog collar. Take the collar off, clip it back together and measure the internal circumference using the tape measure.
Some owners favour their dog collar to rest in a position more akin to a necklace as worn on our necks, other dog owners prefer the collar to sit more at the base of the neck.
There are two critical checks for both.
1) With the tape measure around your dog's neck, taped or stapled on the measurement you took from their existing collar, ensure you can slip a forefinger and middle finger flush underneath the tape measure and your dog's neck. This simple check ensures that the collar sizing is not too tight on your dog's neck and will not cause damage to your dog's neck, restrict their breathing, or cause them unnecessary discomfort.
2) The second, equally vital check you need to do is attempt to slip the tape measure 'collar' over your dog's head. If it cannot be easily slipped over your dog's head, this indicates it is the right size, and your dog will not be at risk of slipping his collar and getting loose.
This is how we recommend that our customers measure their dogs for our collars. However, if you are looking for further advice on measuring and buying a dog collar, here are a few more points to consider:
Before you measure your dog for a collar, it’s important to review the collar's material. If you are using this guide and not choosing an Oonalfie Dog Collar, please note that some dog collars can stretch over time.
There are also other problems you need to consider when choosing the best dog collars. Nylon dog collars tend to fade over time and can rub your dog's neck if not regularly washed and kept clean. Fabric collars tend to fray and the stitching often starts to come undone over time.
Plastic and metal fastenings can break and rust as well. A luxury leather dog collar is the most common custom dog collar but that may not stand up to everyday rough and tumble either. Leather does not fare well in wet conditions and so if your dog is a water baby, you should look at something more robust.
All Oonalfie Dog Collars are made from a smooth, quality double braid marine rope and finished with a non-rust solid bronze clip. Our Oonalfie Luxury Dog Collars are designed for dogs that enjoy their doggie outdoor adventures, and owners who want a low maintenance, good looking, quality collar that will stand the test of time (and swimming in rivers and sea!).
For A Visual ‘How To Measure My Dog For A Collar’ Guide, Watch Our Short Video Tutorial Here.
]]>We believe Oonalfie make the Best Dog Collars in the UK and here's why our British dog collars and dog accessories are a scruff above the rest!
Our Head Designer, Laura, created Oonalfie back in 2017. From humble beginnings at Laura's family kitchen table, fast forward to today, with a thriving global customer base and a purpose-built creative studio in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside. Our small team of talented artisan craftspeople work underneath Laura's guiding eye and direction to create and develop our beautiful collection of designer dog accessories for customers all over the world, including Japan and the USA. Laura has created a brand immersed in quintessentially British values and British heritage style aesthetics. Spurred by her passion for creating long-lasting, stylish and functional dog accessories that her own dogs (Oona and Alfie) could enjoy.
At the helm of our small creative team is our Laura. Laura's passion for producing beautiful dog accessories is irresistible and is at the heart of our happy, close-knit team. Any Oonalfie Collaborations are overseen personally by Laura and have to be a precise fit with our ethos of quality design with sustainable principles.
Whether you own one of Britain's most popular British dog breeds or a pooch with more exotic bloodlines, our dog accessories are made for big dogs and small dogs alike. Our Oonalfie dog collars come in both Small Dog and big dog sizing because we understand that our customers come in petite, medium and large. For those dogs which are outside of our standard collar sizing, we offer a bespoke order option across our collection at no additional cost. We even give an easy to follow step by step guide on measuring your dog for a dog collar to help guide our customers.
Our design principles follow our own British values; Good quality design and lasting charm. Our collection of British made dog collars, dog leads and accessories deliver beautiful classic design with outstanding British craftsmanship. Each Oonalfie dog accessory has been tried and tested by Laura's dogs and their friends to ensure that our designs not only look stunning but are functional and long-lasting. Our customers demand quality and performance, and every item in the Oonalfie Collection is tested rigorously before proudly putting it on our online boutique dog accessories shop.
You won't find our dog collars on Etsy or Amazon, because each collar, lead, bowl and range of bedding that we present to you are not mass-produced. You won’t find dog collars and dog leads with weak quality fastenings, faulty stitching or substandard materials at Oonalfie. What you will find are beautiful British-made dog accessories which are individually handcrafted by our team in only the finest, high-quality materials. Every customer order is hand-checked and packed with love to send to you and your best friend.
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It's amazing how much work it takes to keep things as perfect as I need to, to ensure Oonalfie's brand integrity.
We love this seasons colours because they tell a little piece of our story.
All the collars are named after holiday destinations or memories we have of travelling with kids and without. Last years trip was no exception. We spent two fabulous weeks touring around the incredible island of Sri Lanka. We swam in deep blue lagoons deep within rainforests. We saw plants and animals with the most incredible coloured feathers and scales. From here the creativity just flowed for this years Summer collection.
Sri Lankans are not afraid of colour. As Brits we seem to constantly strive for a perfect white and grey existence but this does not challenge us to find our inner fun. Yes our beautiful muted tones calm us and make us feel in control, but life is not always about being in control. Sometimes we have to throw caution to the wind, pack a bag and head somewhere where life is vibrant and challenging.
There will always be a place for calm and peaceful interiors with Oonalfie, indeed it is what our brand is built upon but season by season we ask you to join us in this rebellious break out and enjoy the colour and fun that life throws at us.
To celebrate this joy of colour and fun we are giving all our customers 20% off all orders until 00.00 on Bank Holiday Monday 7th May. Find your inner happy and shop with us at www.oonalfie.com
]]>Note Please remember that all treats should form only a small part of a dog's daily nutrition.
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