When seamstress Veronica Abaunza couldn’t find a collar that fit her beagle Duke just right, she decided to make one herself — and ended up tailoring a business instead.
Veronica Abaunza, owner of Duke’s Dashing Designs, and her dog Duke show off one of her custom handmade collar and leash
What began as a single handmade collar for her tri-coloured companion has grown into Duke’s Dashing Designs — a small-batch pet accessory line featuring custom collars, leashes, poop bag holders, keychains and lip balm holders. Abaunza sews every product by hand and plans to expand her line in 2026 to include stylish bandanas and accessories for cats.
“I wanted to start making my dog custom products because he was in between sizes and I wanted him to have something fun,” she explained.
Although Duke’s Dashing Designs only recently launched, Abaunza has been experimenting with her sewing machine for about two years. Unlike many who learn sewing from family members or in school, she taught herself from scratch — fitting her creative practice into rare spare moments outside her full-time job.
Her hobby soon turned into something more when a friend noticed her natural skill.
“My friend was simply amazed at what I created and told me I could make a business out of this — so I gave it a whirl and now I do it all,” she said. “I pick the fabric, sit, cut and sew, and do the packaging for the finished product. I put love and dedication into everything I make because if I don’t, then it’s just an ordinary product — people can’t love what I make if I don’t put my own love into it.”
Abaunza offers a wide variety of fabric choices, from playful prints to seasonal designs, allowing customers to show off their pets’ personalities.
“There are so many different patterns out there,” she said. “I have pet patterns, Halloween designs, Christmas fabrics, and even licensed characters like Spider-Man, Snoopy and Captain America — just to name a few.”
Beyond looks, Abaunza prioritizes practicality and safety. Her design philosophy was shaped by a nerve-racking encounter with Duke at a dog park. When another dog bit him, she realized she didn’t have a leash within reach to quickly separate them. Duke wasn’t seriously hurt, but the experience stuck with them both — and changed the way she designs her products.
“There are reasons why I create my products the way I do, and that’s because I want to make sure everyone stays safe and that my products remain safe,” she said.
All her leashes now feature a D-ring clip, allowing owners to easily attach the leash to themselves for hands-free convenience — keeping both dogs and handlers prepared and in control.
Customization is another hallmark of Duke’s Dashing Designs. Abaunza knows not every dog fits neatly into small, medium or large size categories, so she gladly accommodates special sizing requests. She also welcomes fabric requests and will search for specific prints to meet her customers’ visions.
Those looking for a custom-made product can contact her at 1-204-619-3571, email dukesdashingdesigns@gmail.com, or visit @DukesDashingDesigns on Instagram to start the planning process.
As her business grows, Abaunza looks forward to connecting with more pet lovers at community markets.
