About BioThane® & Our Materials
What is BioThane® and why is it better than leather?
BioThane® is a premium coated webbing that's handcrafted in the USA and built to outlast traditional leather. It's waterproof, stink-proof, and incredibly durable—perfect for muddy walks, rainy rides, and everything in between.
Unlike leather, BioThane® won't crack, rot, or absorb smells. It stays flexible in all weathers, requires zero maintenance, and is hypoallergenic. Plus, it's genuinely beautiful—rich, vibrant colours that don't fade. It's not "cheap plastic"; it's technical performance gear that happens to look stunning.
Won't BioThane® look plasticky or cheap?
Not at all! Genuine BioThane® (which is all we use) has a gorgeous, supple finish that rivals leather. It comes in rich, deep colours and feels substantial in your hand. Our customers are always surprised by how premium it looks and feels—especially when paired with our solid brass or stainless steel hardware.
We're proud to use only authentic BioThane® made in the USA, certified to ISO 9001:2015 standards. This is professional-grade equipment trusted by working dog handlers and equestrians worldwide.
What's the difference between your four ranges?
The Classic Range: Pure BioThane®—waterproof, stink-proof, adventure-ready. Perfect for dogs who love getting mucky.
The Precision Range: Premium PPM rope—technical grip, lightweight, refined handling. Ideal for groundwork and natural horsemanship.
The Heritage Range: BioThane® and Paracord 550 hybrid—traditional British braided craftsmanship with superior grip. A nod to heritage with modern performance.
The Reflector Range: Multi-material designs with high-visibility and reflective features for safer walks and rides in low light.
How do I clean and care for my BioThane® gear?
Honestly? It's ridiculously easy. Just wipe it down with warm soapy water and a cloth. That's it. No oils, no conditioners, no faffing about.
For rope products (PPM or Paracord), rinse under warm water and hang to air dry. Both materials dry fast and won't hold onto dirt or smells.
Your gear will look as good as new after every clean—no cracking, no stiffness, no drama.
Sizing & Fit
How do I measure my dog for a collar?
Measure around your dog's neck where the collar will sit (usually mid-neck, not too high or low). Add two fingers' worth of space for comfort—that's your collar size.
Between sizes? Go up to the next size for comfort, especially for growing pups or fluffy breeds.
If you're unsure, drop us a message with your dog's breed and neck measurement, and we'll help you choose!
How do I measure my horse for a rope halter or lead?
For halters, measure around your horse's nose at the widest part (about two fingers below the cheekbone). Most of our rope halters are adjustable, so they'll fit a range of sizes.
For leads and lines, think about what you'll be using them for—groundwork, lunging, or liberty work—and choose the length and thickness that suits your needs. Our 12-14mm ropes offer excellent grip and strength for most horses.
Still not sure? Get in touch and we'll talk you through it!
Ordering & Customization
What are your Colour Collections?
Our four curated collections—Essential, Whisper, Pop, and Signature—are ready-to-buy pieces in carefully chosen colour combinations. These are the items we keep the most stock of and take to shows and events, so they're usually ready to dispatch within a week!
Each collection has its own vibe and palette, making it easy to find gear that matches your style.
Can I customize colours and hardware?
Absolutely! If you want to create something totally unique, head to The Dream & Design Lab where you can fully customize any product from our curated collections—choose your own colours, hardware, and finishes.
You can pick solid brass for a classic look or stainless steel for a sleek, modern vibe. Both are rust-proof and built to last.
Prefer a chat first? Just drop us a message and we'll be happy to help you design your perfect piece!
How long will my order take?
Curated collection pieces: Usually dispatched within one week as we keep these in stock for shows and events.
Custom orders from The Dream & Design Lab: If we have your chosen colours in stock, we'll dispatch within one week. If we need to order materials in, it'll be 2-3 weeks.
Why? Because everything is handmade by me, right here in East Sussex. No factory lines, no shortcuts—just proper British craftsmanship. We think it's worth the wait, and we hope you will too!
Shipping & Returns
Where do you ship to?
We currently ship exclusively within the United Kingdom.
How is my order shipped?
All UK orders are sent via Royal Mail Tracked 48, so your gear arrives safely and you can follow its journey.
You'll receive a tracking number via email once your order has been dispatched.
Can I return items from your curated collections?
Yes! Standard items from The Collections can be returned within 14 days of receipt, provided they are in brand-new, unused condition (free of hair, dirt, or signs of use).
A 15% restocking fee will be deducted from your refund to cover inspection and processing, and you'll be responsible for return shipping costs.
Can I return custom orders from The Dream & Design Lab?
Custom orders are final sale because they're made to your specific choice of colour, hardware, and size.
If a return is exceptionally authorized, a 30% to 50% restocking fee will apply.
What if my item is faulty or incorrect?
Please contact us within 7 days of delivery if your item is defective or incorrect.
We'll provide a pre-paid return label and a full refund or replacement. No restocking fees apply to faulty or incorrect items.
Once inspected, refunds are processed within 5-10 business days.
Why Choose Ponies & Pups?
Why should I choose handmade over big retailers?
Because you're not just buying a product—you're investing in quality, care, and British craftsmanship.
Every collar, lead, and rope is handcrafted by me with genuine attention to detail. I choose premium materials, hand-press every rivet, and personally quality-check every piece before it leaves my workshop.
Big retailers churn out mass-produced gear that's built to a price, not a standard. Ours is built to last, designed to perform, and made with pride right here in the UK.
Are you really a one-person business?
Yes! It's just me, Sophia, crafting every piece by hand in my home workshop in East Sussex (with occasional "help" from Lily the Jack Russell x Pug and Milo the Sprocker Spaniel).
I'm passionate about creating gear that works as hard as you and your animals do. Being small means I can focus on quality, offer personal service, and genuinely care about every order that goes out the door.
Can I return items from your curated collections?
Yes! Standard items from The Collections can be returned within 14 days of receipt, provided they are in brand-new, unused condition (free of hair, dirt, or signs of use).
A 15% restocking fee will be deducted from your refund to cover inspection and processing, and you'll be responsible for return shipping costs.
What makes Ponies & Pups different?
We're the only brand that serves both dog owners and equestrians with equal commitment to performance, style, and craftsmanship.
You get premium BioThane®, technical rope work, endless colour choices, and gear that's designed to handle real British weather and real-life adventures. Waterproof, stink-proof, and built to outlast anything else on the market.
Plus, every piece is handmade in the UK. No compromises, no shortcuts—just brilliant gear you'll love using every day. 🐴🐾