FAQ

ORDERs & SHIPPING

I've received my order. Can I return or exchange it?

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. If you've received your order and would like to return or exchange an item, simply get in touch and we'll guide you through the process.

To be eligible for a return or exchange, items must be unused, undamaged and returned in their original packaging. For elevated bowls, the original packaging is especially important, as it has been specifically designed to protect the product during transit.

If an exchange or partial return reduces your order below our free shipping threshold, the free shipping originally applied to your order will no longer be valid. Any additional shipping costs, including replacement shipping where applicable, will always be confirmed with you before your exchange is processed, so there are no surprises.

For full details, please refer to our Returns Policy here. If you have any questions before returning your order, we're always happy to help.

What's covered by the 5 year guarantee?

Our five-year guarantee covers faults in materials and workmanship under normal use. If a manufacturing fault develops during that time, we'll repair or replace the affected part to restore your product to the standard it was designed to meet.

The guarantee doesn't cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage or misuse. However, if you're ever concerned about your product, we'd encourage you to get in touch. We'll always do our best to help and recommend the most appropriate solution.

Every elevated bowl also includes a spare set of rubber feet. If you ever need more, we're happy to provide replacement feet—you'll simply need to cover the cost of postage.

How long will my order take to arrive?

We aim to dispatch all in-stock orders within 1–2 business days.

Once your order has been dispatched, delivery typically takes:

New Zealand: 1–3 business days for most urban addresses.
Australia: 3–8 business days for most metropolitan areas.

Rural deliveries can take up to a week longer, as they often sit outside standard courier routes. This is also why additional rural delivery charges may apply at checkout.

As soon as your order is on its way, you'll receive a shipping confirmation email with a tracking link so you can follow its journey.

If your order hasn't arrived within the expected timeframe, please get in touch at hello@subwooferdog.com and we'll be happy to investigate.

How can I track my order?

Once your order has been dispatched, you'll automatically receive a shipping confirmation email containing your tracking link.

You'll receive tracking updates as your order progresses, including when it has been dispatched, is out for delivery and has been delivered.

If you can't find your tracking email, please check your junk or spam folder first. If you're still having trouble, get in touch at hello@subwooferdog.com and we'll be happy to help.

I've just placed my order. Can I make changes or cancel it?

If your order hasn't been dispatched, we may be able to make changes or cancel it.

Please email us as soon as possible at hello@subwooferdog.com and we'll do our best to help.

Once your order has been dispatched, we're no longer able to make changes or cancellations.

If you've changed your mind after dispatch, please refer to our "Can I return or exchange my order?" FAQ for the options available.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept a range of secure payment methods, including Afterpay, PayPal, Shop Pay, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay and UnionPay.The payment options available to you will be displayed securely at checkout.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We currently ship to New Zealand, Australia, the USA and much of Europe.

International shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on your location and the size of your order.

As a guide, delivery typically takes:

USA: 10–14 business days
Europe: 10–14 business days
Other international destinations: 10–20 business days

If your country isn't available at checkout, or you'd like a shipping quote before placing your order, please get in touch at hello@subwooferdog.com. We'll be happy to help.

Can I pre-order out of stock products?

Often, yes. If a product is available to pre-order, you'll see this clearly displayed on the product page along with an estimated dispatch date.

Our small elevated bowls are usually held in stock for immediate dispatch. Our medium bowls, however, are produced in small batches several times a year rather than held as permanent stock. When a new batch is scheduled, pre-orders open so you can reserve yours before they're ready to ship.

Most of our collars, leads and accessories are held in stock. If an item is temporarily unavailable, the product page will let you know whether it's available to pre-order.

If you're looking for something that's currently out of stock and you're unsure when it will be available again, please get in touch. We'll be happy to let you know what's coming next.

Can I return an engraved collar?

Yes. Because our engraved ID tags are removable, having your collar personalised doesn't automatically prevent it from being returned.

If you decide the collar isn't quite right, we'll simply remove the engraved ID tag and deduct the cost of the tag and engraving from your refund. Original shipping charges are non-refundable.

If you're exchanging for a different size in the same collar width, we can usually transfer your engraved tag to the replacement collar, making the process quick and straightforward.

If you're unsure before ordering, just get in touch—we're always happy to help you choose the right size.

What if my order arrives damaged?

We take great care to package every order, but if your parcel arrives damaged in transit, please contact us as soon as possible at hello@subwooferdog.com.

To help us resolve the issue quickly, please include:

A brief description of the damage.
Photos of the damaged product.
Photos of the packaging, including the damaged box.
A photo of the shipping label.

We'll assess the damage and work with you to arrange a suitable solution as quickly as possible.

About Subwoofer

Why was Subwoofer created?

Subwoofer was created around a simple idea: the products we buy for our dogs should be as thoughtfully designed as the rest of our homes.

Rather than chasing trends or fast production, we focus on timeless design, carefully chosen materials and small-batch production to create products that are built to last. Every detail has a purpose because we believe the things we use every day should be as functional as they are beautiful.

What makes Subwoofer different?

Most dog products are designed to be manufactured as simply and cheaply as possible. We take the opposite approach.

Every Subwoofer product is the result of hundreds of considered decisions. Not because we believe in adding more, but because we believe every detail should have a purpose. From the way a bowl feels under your hand to the hardware on a collar, the packaging it arrives in and how each product ages over time, every element has been carefully thought through.

We design for longevity, functionality and the everyday experience of living with your dog. That means thinking about the little things that are easy to overlook: bowls that don't rattle or scrape across the floor, collars without unnecessary jangling hardware, and products that feel calm, intuitive and satisfying to use every day.

We don't design around the easiest manufacturing method or the lowest production cost. We design for longevity, functionality and the everyday experience of living with your dog. That often means more complex engineering, better materials and small-batch production, because they're the best way to achieve the quality we're looking for.

Our products cost more because they cost more to make. We choose not to compromise on the details that make a product feel better, perform better and last longer. We believe it's an investment you'll appreciate every day, and for years to come.

Why are your products more expensive?

We make different decisions to most dog brands, and those decisions cost more.

Rather than designing products to meet a target price, we design them to be the best version they can be. That means carefully selected materials, more complex manufacturing processes, small-batch production and an uncompromising approach to quality.

We don't look for the cheapest way to make something. We look for the best way. Sometimes that's a thicker piece of aluminium. Sometimes it's solid brass hardware instead of plated metal. Sometimes it's redesigning a component several times until it feels right.

The result is a product that costs more to make, but is designed to perform better, last longer and be enjoyed for years rather than replaced after a season.

We know our products aren't the cheapest—and they're not intended to be. We believe buying one exceptional product is ultimately better than replacing several ordinary ones.

Why do you produce in small batches?

Our products are assembled in New Zealand, and wherever practical we manufacture here too. Some specialist components are sourced overseas, but every product is assembled and finished locally. Working this way allows us to maintain close relationships with our suppliers, oversee quality at every stage and continually refine our products over time.

The products we make are also surprisingly labour-intensive, with multiple manufacturing and finishing processes involved before they're ready for delivery. Producing smaller batches allows us to maintain the standard we're known for while supporting local businesses and avoiding unnecessary overproduction.

It does mean our manufacturing costs are higher and some products occasionally sell out between production runs. We think that's a worthwhile trade-off. We'd rather produce fewer products to the standard we expect than compromise on quality or manufacture more than we need.

Where are Subwoofer products made?

Subwoofer is designed in Aotearoa New Zealand, with many of our key components made locally.

Subwoofer products are designed in Aotearoa New Zealand, with the majority of our key components also made here.

Our collars, leads and longlines are sewn and finished in New Zealand using New Zealand-made webbing. The solid brass hardware used on our collars is made locally, and our elevated bowl stands are also manufactured in New Zealand.

We source only a small number of specialist components overseas, including our stainless steel bowls, rubber feet and the swivel hooks used on our leads and longlines. These are carefully selected from trusted manufacturing partners that meet our standards for quality, durability and finish.

Wherever each component is made, the goal is the same: thoughtful design, durable materials and products made to be used and loved for years

What materials do you use, and why are they important?

We choose materials for how they look, feel and perform over time.

Our collars, leads and longlines are made with webbing produced in Aotearoa New Zealand, selected for its strength, texture and durability. We use solid brass hardware on our collars rather than plated steel, giving each piece a reassuring weight and a finish that will age beautifully with use.

For our elevated bowls, we pair powder-coated aluminium stands with stainless steel bowls chosen for durability, stability and everyday food-safe use.

Every material has a purpose: to create products that feel considered, function beautifully and are made to last.

What is your approach to sustainability?

Rather than designing products to be replaced every few years, we focus on timeless design, durable materials and thoughtful construction that stand the test of time. When something is built to be used and enjoyed for years, it naturally creates less waste.

We also produce our products in small batches, allowing us to manufacture more thoughtfully, avoid unnecessary overproduction and continually refine our designs over time.

Wherever practical, our products are designed to be maintained rather than replaced. Replacement parts are available for our elevated bowls, and every bowl includes a spare set of rubber feet should you ever need them.

We work with New Zealand manufacturers and trusted long-term production partners wherever it makes sense, always choosing quality, longevity and responsible production over short-term cost savings.

We're also a member of Trace, which helps us measure and better understand the environmental impact of our business. Like everything we do, we see sustainability as an ongoing commitment to continual improvement rather than a destination.

DOG BOWLS

Which size bowl should I choose?

Choosing the right size bowl depends on your dog's size, muzzle shape and the type of food you feed.

Choosing the right configuration depends on how your dog eats and drinks. Some dogs prefer their water away from their food, while others enjoy having an extra water bowl in another room or on a covered patio. The Duo keeps food and water together, while the Solo gives you the flexibility to place them wherever works best for your dog.

As a general guide:

Small
Best for dogs around 5–15 kg.

Diameter 14 cm
Depth 6.5 cm
Capacity 450 ml (2 cups)
Stand height 15 cm
Overall 16 cm

Medium

Best for dogs around 15–35 kg and comfortably suit the vast majority of adult dogs.

Diameter 20 cm
Depth 8.5 cm
Capacity 1 L (4.5 cups)
Stand height 18 cm
Overall 20 cm

Please note: Our elevated bowls aren't designed for very small or low to the ground dogs, such as teacup breeds or miniature Dachshunds. Because of their height, they may not be the most comfortable option for these dogs.

For dogs over 35 kg, the medium bowl is generally an excellent choice for water. For feeding, suitability depends more on the size of your dog's meals and the width of the bowl they require than weight alone. Dogs eating large raw meals or oversized bones may benefit from a larger bowl.

Puppies can usually start with the bowl size they'll grow into, while many senior dogs and dogs with reduced mobility appreciate the comfort of an elevated bowl.

If you're replacing existing bowls, comparing their diameter and capacity with the guide above is often the easiest way to choose the right size.

If you're still unsure, just let us know your dog's breed, age and approximate weight. We're always happy to help you choose the most suitable size.

What makes Subwoofer bowls different?

Every part of a Subwoofer bowl has been designed from scratch. Rather than adapting existing components or following standard manufacturing methods, we looked at every detail and asked a simple question: could this work better?

The result is a bowl that doesn't just look different—it feels different to live with every day.

Some of the details you'll notice include:

A quiet, stable fit. Each bowl is engineered to sit securely within the stand, reducing rattling, movement and vibration during mealtimes.
An easy-lift bowl design. The raised rim makes the bowls simple to remove for filling, cleaning or placing in the dishwasher, without needing to lift from underneath.
Thoughtful details for floppy ears. Our signature ear-saving dip helps keep long ears out of food and water, while still separating the two bowls.
Stamped volume markings. Built-in measurements inside the bowls make it easy to portion food or measure water without reaching for a separate measuring cup.
Designed to last. Thicker aluminium stands, premium 304 food-grade stainless steel bowls, durable powder coating and a five-year guarantee all reflect our focus on longevity rather than planned replacement.
Made for real homes. Non-slip rubber feet help protect floors, while Solo and Duo options let you choose the configuration that best suits your home and your dog's routine.

Every feature exists for a reason. Nothing has been added simply for appearance, and nothing has been left to chance. The goal wasn't to create a bowl with the longest list of features—it was to create one that quietly improves everyday life for both dogs and their owners.

Why do Subwoofer bowls cost more?

Most dog bowls are designed to meet a target price. Ours weren't.

From the very beginning, our goal wasn't to create the cheapest bowl we could manufacture. It was to create the best bowl we knew how to make. Every decision—from the materials and proportions to the engineering, packaging and finishing—was driven by performance, longevity and the everyday experience of living with your dog, rather than production cost.

Nothing about our bowls is off the shelf. The aluminium stands, stainless steel bowls, rubber feet and packaging were all developed specifically for Subwoofer. Every component has been carefully considered and designed to work together as a complete system.

The Medium bowls cost more because they're substantially larger products, using thicker 6 mm aluminium stands, larger stainless steel bowls and significantly more material throughout.

They're expensive because they're expensive to make. We could have made different compromises to reduce the price, but we'd have ended up with a different product. We chose to build the bowl we believed was worth making instead.

How Stable are the stands?

Stability was one of our highest priorities when designing the Subwoofer bowls. We carefully balanced the height-to-width ratio to maximise stability—one reason we haven't made the Medium stand any taller.

The rubber feet don't just protect your floors; they add grip to help keep the stand firmly in place, while the bowls are precision-engineered to sit securely within the stand for a quiet, rattle-free fit.

The result is a bowl that's designed to stay steady through the occasional paw bump, enthusiastic eater or mealtime shuffle, while remaining lightweight enough to move when you need to.

Are the bowls suitable for outdoor use?

They can be used outdoors occasionally, but we don't recommend leaving them outside permanently.

While the 304 food-grade stainless steel bowls and powder-coated aluminium stand are highly durable, prolonged exposure to sun, rain and coastal salt air will gradually shorten the lifespan of the product, particularly the rubber feet.

There are practical reasons, too. In direct sunlight, the stainless steel bowls and the water inside them can become surprisingly warm, making them less comfortable for your dog. Food also spoils more quickly outdoors and bowls are exposed to dirt, insects and the elements.

If you use your bowls outside, we recommend placing them in a covered area out of direct sunlight and bringing them back indoors afterwards. For the longest possible life—for both your bowls and your dog's food and water, we recommend keeping them indoors.

Can I buy replacement bowls or Feet?

Yes. We sell our 304 food-grade stainless steel bowls separately, and we highly recommend purchasing one or two extra bowls with your order. Having spares means one set can be in the dishwasher while another is ready to use, making everyday feeding much more convenient.

Every bowl stand also includes a spare set of rubber feet. If you ever need another set just let us know. We're happy to send them out at no charge — we simply ask that you cover the cost of postage.

Why do your bowls have an ear dip?

The ear dip exists because of Monkey.

Like many floppy-eared dogs, her ears had a habit of ending up in her water bowl whenever she ate. It was one of those little everyday frustrations that I noticed again and again.

Most elevated duo bowls position the food and water bowls directly beside each other. I thought there had to be a better solution. Rather than simply spacing the bowls further apart, I designed a shaped dip between them to create a dedicated place for long ears to rest while dogs eat or drink.

It won't stop every dog from getting wet ears, but for many floppy-eared breeds it makes a noticeable difference. Like every feature on a Subwoofer bowl, it wasn't added for appearance—it exists because I believed there was a better way to solve a real, everyday problem.

Do raised bowls really help or are they just hype??

Raised bowls can offer genuine benefits, but they aren't essential for every dog.

Many owners choose elevated bowls simply because they provide a more comfortable eating and drinking position. They can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs, dogs recovering from injury or surgery, or those with arthritis, neck or back problems. In some cases, veterinarians specifically recommend elevated bowls as part of a dog's recovery or ongoing care.

For healthy dogs, the benefits are often more about comfort and owner preference than necessity. Every dog is different, and what works well for one may not be the best choice for another.

You'll sometimes see discussion about raised bowls and bloat risk in large, deep-chested breeds. Research on this is mixed, so if you have concerns specific to your dog, it's always worth speaking with your veterinarian.

Our bowls are elevated by 16-20cm, depending on the size. They're designed to provide a comfortable feeding height for most dogs without being unnecessarily tall.

Is the stainless steel food grade?

Yes. We use premium 304 food-grade stainless steel, the same grade widely used in quality kitchen cookware and food preparation equipment.

It's non-toxic, rust-resistant, easy to clean and won't absorb odours or flavours, making it an excellent material for everyday food and water bowls.

Our bowls are also dishwasher-safe, making them easy to keep clean.

Like any new stainless steel cookware or kitchen utensil, we recommend washing your bowls before first use. Running them through the dishwasher is the easiest option and removes any polishing residue that may remain from the manufacturing process.

They're designed to provide years of reliable, hygienic use.

What materials are the bowls and stands made from?

Every material was chosen for a reason. We selected each one for its performance, durability and longevity, not because it was the cheapest option.

Our bowls are made from premium 304 food-grade stainless steel, selected for its durability, hygiene and resistance to rust. It's easy to clean, dishwasher-safe and won't absorb odours or flavours.

Our stands are crafted from powder-coated aluminium. Aluminium is naturally corrosion-resistant, lightweight and exceptionally durable, making it ideal for a product that's used around food and water every day. It won't rust if the finish is damaged, and the premium architectural-grade powder coat is chosen for its durability and resistance to chipping.

The Small stands are precision-crafted from 4 mm aluminium, while the Medium stands use substantially thicker 6 mm aluminium for the additional strength and rigidity needed by larger dogs.

The Medium range isn't simply a scaled-up version of the Small. Every component has been re-engineered to suit larger dogs and the greater demands placed on the product. The bowls are significantly thicker and heavier, providing a more substantial feel and greater resistance to everyday knocks and wear.

Like every material we use, these choices weren't made to reduce manufacturing costs—they were made to create products that perform beautifully and stand the test of time.

How much floor space do the stands require?

All four bowl stands are designed to fit comfortably into everyday living spaces without dominating the room.

The dimensions below have been rounded to the nearest centimetre for easy reference.

Solo Small: 24 × 19 CM | 9½ × 7 IN
Duo Small: 49 × 19 CM | 19 × 7 IN
Solo Medium: 34 × 29 CM | 13 × 11 IN
Duo Medium: 66 × 26 CM | 26 × 10 IN

Choosing a spot that's out of the way will make mealtimes more comfortable for your dog and help keep your bowls looking their best for years to come.

How do I care for my elevated bowls?

Subwoofer bowls are designed to be easy to live with and simple to care for.

The stainless steel bowls are dishwasher safe, although they can also be washed by hand with warm, soapy water. Like any new stainless steel kitchenware, we recommend washing them before first use.

The powder coated aluminium stand should be wiped with a soft cloth or washed by hand using a mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scourers or harsh chemicals, as these may damage the powder-coated finish.

The rubber feet help protect your floors and keep the stand securely in place. While we've never experienced any issues, some rubber compounds can react with certain floor finishes over time. If you're concerned, we recommend placing the stand on a mat or regularly moving it when cleaning.

With normal care, your Subwoofer bowls are designed to look great and perform beautifully for years to come.

COLLARS

What size should I choose?

The best place to start is your dog's neck measurement. Weight and breed are only rough guides, as dogs come in all shapes and proportions.

Our collar sizes fit neck measurements of:

Tiny 14 mm webbing 20–30 CM | 8-12 IN
Small 20 mm webbing 22–40 CM | 8 ¾ IN - 15 ¾ IN
Large 35 mm webbing | 34–60 CM | 13 ½ IN - 23 ½ IN

Our Size Guide includes measuring instructions, fitting advice and breed examples to help you choose with confidence.

Still unsure? Get in touch. We'd much rather help you choose the right size than have you order the wrong one.

What makes your collars so special?

We designed Subwoofer collars to be the kind of product you'll admire every time you pick them up. They have the feel of a beautifully made vintage watch—timeless, understated and built to age gracefully.

Every detail is exclusive to Subwoofer. Our Signature Stripes are custom woven just for us in large production runs, our brass hardware is as practical as it is distinctive, and our quiet built-in ID tag keeps everything neat, streamlined and surprisingly silent. Each collar is then made in small batches here in Auckland, rather than being mass-produced by the thousands.

They're designed for real life, too. Marine-grade webbing shrugs off mud, swimming and beach adventures. The buckle won't jam with sand or salt and the hardware is solid brass rather than plated.

Nothing about a Subwoofer collar is accidental. Every material, every component and every design decision has been chosen to create something that's handsome, practical and made to last for years.

One comment we hear again and again is, "Someone stopped us to ask where we got the collar." We think that's the nicest compliment a product can receive.

Why do Subwoofer collars cost more?

Most dog collars are made to hit a price point. Subwoofer collars take the opposite approach.

Every component has been chosen for its quality, longevity and performance. Our solid brass hardware spends more than ten hours moving through cutting, stamping, deburring, polishing, inspection and a final sealing process that alone costs more than many mass-produced collars. Unlike the plated hardware used on most collars, solid brass won't chip or peel, and the protective finish helps it resist tarnishing for years.

Our exclusive marine-grade webbing is UV stable, lightweight and incredibly durable. It won't fade, fray, stretch or absorb odours, yet it remains soft, comfortable and easy to clean.

The leather trim is quadruple stitched using the same heavy-duty thread trusted in quality belts and footwear, creating a finish that's built for years of everyday use rather than a single season.

Finally, every collar is sewn here in Auckland by skilled local craftspeople paid fair New Zealand wages.

It's these quiet, deliberate details that make a Subwoofer collar feel different the moment you pick it up—and continue to appreciate long after the novelty of a new purchase has worn off.

Your collars look heavy. Are they?

It's a question we hear surprisingly often, and the answer is no.

Although our collars use solid brass hardware, they're carefully designed to be as light as possible while still feeling substantial and beautifully made.

Tiny: 28 g (1 AA battery)
Small: 54 g (1 golf ball)
Large: 110 g (2 golf balls )

Each size was engineered with the dog wearing it in mind. Our Tiny collar was designed to be roughly half the weight of the Small, while the Small is around half the weight of the Large, ensuring each collar feels appropriately balanced for the dogs it's intended to fit.

The result is a collar that feels reassuringly well made in your hand, while remaining comfortable enough for everyday wear.

The buckle looks complicated. Is it difficult to use?

Not at all. It might look unfamiliar at first, but most people have the hang of it after one or two tries. It's simply a twist-and-insert motion, and many owners find it quicker than a traditional belt-style buckle.

One unexpected advantage is that it's especially kind to long coats. Because you're not trying to line up two clips or feed a tongue through a buckle, it's much less likely to catch or pull fur when putting the collar on or taking it off.

The buckle is also incredibly reliable. Inspired by the simple mechanical buckles used on vintage life jackets, it has no springs or plastic clips to jam with sand or salt, and it's crafted from solid brass for years of dependable use.

It looks different because it is different—but once you've used it a couple of times, most people wouldn't want to go back.

Will the collar stand up to mud, swimming and beach adventures?

Yes. Unlike modern squeeze-release buckles that rely on springs and moving internal parts, the Subwoofer buckle uses a simple mechanical interlocking design inspired by vintage life jackets. It's an intentionally old-school approach, and that's exactly what makes it so reliable. There are no springs or buttons for salt and sand to jam, making it exceptionally well suited to muddy walks, swimming and days at the beach.

The collar is woven from premium marine-grade webbing made with Spanish yarn, so it won't absorb water like leather or stay damp after a swim. Whether your dog is charging through muddy trails, swimming in the ocean or spending weekends at the beach, the collar is designed to cope with it.

We still recommend a quick rinse in fresh water after a salty day at the beach. It's less about protecting the collar—which is built for these conditions—and more about washing away salt, sand and grime so it continues to look its best.

Are your collars suitable for puppies?

Absolutely. Subwoofer collars are lightweight, comfortable and designed to grow with your dog, making them an excellent choice for puppies.

Our biggest piece of advice is to wait until your puppy comes home before choosing a size. We completely understand the excitement of wanting everything ready before they arrive—I did exactly the same thing with Monkey and ended up buying collars that didn't fit. It's surprisingly difficult to guess a puppy's neck size accurately.

If you'd like to be organised, ask your breeder for a current neck measurement a week or two before collection. Otherwise, wait until your puppy is home and measure the neck yourself before ordering.

Allow enough room for around four fingers between the collar and your puppy's neck. This gives them room to grow while still ensuring a comfortable fit.

Many puppies begin in one collar width before moving up as they mature. Smaller breeds often start with our 14 mm collar before progressing to 20 mm, while larger breeds may begin with 20 mm before eventually moving to 35 mm.

If you're ever unsure, just get in touch. We'd much rather help you choose the right size than have you guessing.

Why is the ID tag designed this way?

Like every detail on a Subwoofer collar, the built-in ID tag is there for a reason.

By sitting neatly against the collar, it stays quiet. There are no loose tags to jangle on walks, clatter against food bowls or wake you in the middle of the night. It also creates a cleaner look and reduces the chance of the tag catching on things around the home or another dog's collar during play.

Despite its slim profile, there's a surprising amount of room for engraving. Most owners comfortably fit a dog's name and contact number on one side, with additional information such as a second phone number or dog walker registration on the other. If you need more engraving, just let us know. Because every tag is engraved by hand, additional lettering may incur a small extra charge.

The tag is also removable. If your dog grows into another Subwoofer collar of the same width, you can simply move the tag across. If your contact details ever change, there's no need to replace the whole collar—just update the tag.

It's a small detail, but one that reflects the way we design everything at Subwoofer: quieter, safer, simpler and made to last.

Why does hand engraving matter?

Hand engraving allows us to create deep, bold lettering that's designed to last. Rather than being etched onto the surface, each character is physically carved into solid brass, making it easier to read for years to come.

That durability starts with the tag itself. At 2 mm thick, our solid brass tags provide enough material for deep engraving on both sides, resulting in a finish that's designed to last your dog's lifetime. Hand engraving is completely optional, but if you choose to personalise your dog's collar, it's the method we recommend.

Why don't you offer laser engraving?

We believe the products we make should age gracefully, not just look good on day one.

Laser engraving creates a much shallower mark than traditional hand engraving. While it can look crisp when new, the fine surface engraving will lose clarity relatively quickly with everyday wear, making it harder to read over time.

Hand engraving physically cuts deep into the solid brass, producing bold, legible lettering that's designed to last your dog's lifetime. It takes longer and costs more, but we believe it's the right choice for a collar that's built to last.

How do I clean my collar?

For everyday cleaning, simply rinse the collar under running water to remove sand or salt after an adventure.

If it's had a particularly muddy outing, or has simply been worn every day for months, the easiest way to restore it is in the washing machine. Place the collar inside an old sock before washing it with a load of towels. This helps protect both your washing machine and the collar's brass hardware from unnecessary knocks.

The premium webbing washes beautifully and comes up looking remarkably fresh. The only part that doesn't enjoy frequent machine washing is the small leather tab, which is why we recommend washing the collar only when it genuinely needs it rather than as part of a regular laundry routine.

Once washed, simply hang the collar to air dry. It dries surprisingly quickly and is soon ready for your next adventure.

LEADS

Which lead is right for my dog?

Takapuna Lead

Best suited to: Most dogs over 4 kg

Width: 2 cm

Length: 140 cm, adjustable to 115 or 85 cm

Weight: 140 g

Handle: Opening, adjustable handle

Please note: The Takapuna isn't suitable for dogs under 4 kg. Its additional weight and longer leather tab are designed for larger dogs, making the Papamoa a more comfortable and practical choice for tiny breeds.

Papamoa Lead

Best suited to: Toy breeds and smaller dogs

Width: 14 mm

Length: 140 cm

Weight: 70 g

Handle: Fixed handle

Designed specifically for little dogs, the Papamoa uses narrower webbing, less hardware, has a shorter tab where it attaches to collar and weighs half as much as the Takapuna, making it a more comfortable choice for toy breeds and smaller dogs.

What makes your leads different?

Our leads were designed from the ground up to be practical, beautifully made and a pleasure to use every day.

At the heart of every lead is our signature striped webbing, woven here in Auckland and developed over more than 12 months to achieve the right balance of strength, stability and comfort in the hand. The result is a dense, marine-grade weave that's soft to hold, resists fraying and cleans up beautifully. It's then woven into our exclusive stripe designs to pair perfectly with our matching collars.

We pair it with solid brass hardware, premium leather detailing and, on the Papamoa lead, our New Zealand-made stamped brass D-ring.

The Takapuna's opening handle lets you shorten the lead, tether your dog briefly or wear it comfortably across your body when they're off lead. The Papamoa uses narrower webbing and lighter hardware, making it around half the weight and ideal for toy breeds and smaller dogs.

Every lead is made in small batches here in Auckland using predominantly New Zealand-made materials and components.

Why do Subwoofer leads cost more?

Our leads take considerably longer to make than a typical mass-produced lead, with almost every stage of the process completed here in Auckland.

Each lead is assembled and quadruple stitched using our custom-developed webbing, woven in New Zealand after more than a year of development. The leather detailing is individually cut, stamped and finished here, before being paired with solid brass hardware. The only component we source overseas is the brass swivel hook, as there are no New Zealand manufacturers producing this specialised hardware.

Rather than choosing cheaper materials or faster production methods, we've focused on thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship and components that are made to be used and enjoyed for years.

I just received my Takapuna lead. Where's the handle?

The handle is built into the adjustable design.

For the full 140 cm length, attach the longer end of the lead to your dog's collar. Then clip the shorter swivel hook onto the brass D-ring in the middle of the lead. This creates the handle.

To shorten the lead, simply do the opposite: attach the shorter end to your dog's collar and use the longer section as the handle.

For the shortest length, fold the lead in half and clip both swivel hooks onto your dog's collar.

If you'd like a visual guide, we've put together a simple illustrated walkthrough showing each configuration. View the guide here.

Why does the Takapuna lead have an opening handle?

The opening handle was designed to make tethering your dog safer, quicker and far more convenient than a traditional fixed-handle lead.

Because both ends of the lead open and close, you can easily wrap it around a café chair, table leg, fence, tree or lamppost without unclipping your dog or tying knots in the lead. It also allows you to adjust the lead to three different lengths, depending on the situation.

If you need to keep your dog closer, you can shorten the lead or double it around a post so both swivel hooks attach to your dog's collar. This creates a shorter tether and helps keep your dog closer to the point they're attached to.

The adjustable design also makes it easy to wear the lead comfortably across your body when your dog is off lead.

As with any tethering system, always choose a safe location and avoid attaching your dog anywhere they could reach traffic or other hazards. The Takapuna is designed for short periods while you're nearby, not for leaving your dog unattended for extended periods.

How do I care for my lead?

To keep your lead looking and performing its best, we recommend hand washing it in warm water with your usual detergent, then hanging it to dry naturally. This will help preserve the leather detailing for years to come.

If your lead has been to the beach, always rinse it thoroughly with fresh water. Salt and sand can work their way into the swivel hooks, causing the spring mechanism to seize over time. An occasional drop of CRC or a similar light lubricant will help keep the hooks operating smoothly and extend the life of your lead.

We don't recommend machine washing as part of your regular care routine. The soapy water and repeated tumbling will shorten the life of both the leather tabs and the spring mechanism inside the swivel hooks. However, if you'd like to freshen your lead up once a year, place it in a garment bag and wash it with towels to help protect the hardware and leather.

LONGLINES

What is a longline and when should I use it?

A long line is an extra-long lead that gives your dog more freedom while keeping them safely connected to you. They're ideal for recall training, sniff walks and dogs that aren't quite ready for full off-lead freedom. Whether you're at the beach, in the park or relaxing at a picnic, a long line gives your dog room to explore while giving you peace of mind.

Our long line is 7 metres long, which we've found offers the ideal balance between freedom and practicality. It's long enough for your dog to roam naturally, without becoming difficult to manage.

Is a longline right for my dog?

Our long line is suitable for most small, medium and large dogs. We don't recommend it for toy breeds, as the 7-metre length and leather attachment section are simply too much for very small dogs.

Long lines are ideal for recall training, sniff walks and giving dogs more freedom while remaining safely connected to you.

If you're unsure whether a long line is the right choice for your dog, we're always happy to help.

What makes your long line different?

Our long line has an unusual story. During the development of our collars and leads, we created a lighter version of our signature stripe webbing before deciding it wasn't robust enough for everyday walkwear. Rather than let thousands of metres of beautifully made New Zealand webbing go to waste, we realised it was perfectly suited to a long line, where keeping the weight down over 7 metres is actually a huge advantage.

The result is a long line that's lightweight, comfortable to handle and quick to dry after muddy walks or trips to the beach. It features the same signature stripe design as the rest of our walkwear collection, so if you already own one of our collars or leads, you can enjoy a matching set that's difficult to find elsewhere.

Like all our walkwear, it's made in New Zealand, finished with solid brass hardware and quadruple stitched at key stress points for strength and durability.

Why does your long line cost more?

Our long line is made in New Zealand using 7 metres of custom-made webbing, finished with solid brass hardware and quadruple stitching at key stress points. Those materials and the local craftsmanship naturally cost more than mass-produced alternatives.

It also features our signature stripe design, making it one of the few long lines you'll find that coordinates beautifully with the rest of your walkwear. If you've already invested in a matching collar or lead, it's a simple way to complete the set without compromising on style or quality.

Can it get wet and muddy?

Absolutely. Our long line is designed for muddy paddocks, sandy beaches, rivers and rainy walks. It's made from high-quality polypropylene webbing, which absorbs far less water than traditional nylon, so it dries quickly and is less likely to stay damp or develop unpleasant odours.

As with any long line, the swivel hook is the hardest-working part of the product. If it's regularly exposed to sand or salt water, a quick rinse afterwards will help keep it operating smoothly.

How do I care for my long line?

The easiest way to clean your long line is to hose it down with fresh water or rinse it in the shower. If it's particularly muddy, a mild detergent is perfectly fine. Once clean, simply loop it over a shower head or washing line and allow it to air dry.

While it might be tempting to throw it in the washing machine, don't. Seven metres of webbing will quickly become tangled, and the leather attachment section isn't suited to machine washing.

Never put your long line in the dryer. Polypropylene can be damaged by high heat, and seven metres of webbing is likely to end up in a hot tangled knot.

If your long line is regularly used at the beach or in salt water, we recommend occasionally applying a light spray of CRC or a similar water-displacing lubricant to the swivel hook to help keep it operating smoothly.

Cookie Policy