About Elite Dog Gear

I’m Christine Smith, the founder and maker behind Elite Dog Gear in Willow, Alaska. I create made-to-order collars and tracking-compatible gear for dogs whose lives are anything but gentle—dogs who explore, pull, swim, work, get muddy, and occasionally test every piece of equipment they wear.

Elite Dog Gear grew from a deeply personal experience. In 2019, my first dog, Owen, disappeared after running into the woods near our home. I never saw him again. That loss changed how I thought about identification, tracking technology, and the gear we trust to help protect our dogs. It eventually led me toward Fi-compatible collar design and a business built around helping other dog owners feel better prepared.

Years spent around sled dogs and energetic Alaska dogs have also shaped the way I build. Snow, water, pulling, rough play, and changing weather quickly reveal what works—and what does not. Every EDG design is approached with real use in mind: dependable construction, a comfortable fit, and materials selected for durability.

What began with one sewing machine has grown into an established Alaska small business serving dog owners across the country. Elite Dog Gear now offers standard, padded, and martingale collars, along with Fi-compatible collars, adapters, identification options, and guided help for finding the right setup.

Each order is made to order in Willow, Alaska. I remain personally involved in product design, sewing, fit guidance, custom requests, and customer support. I also work with trusted specialty partners for components such as engraved stainless-steel nameplates.

I do not believe the best gear comes from offering the most options or making one-size-fits-all promises. It comes from understanding how a dog lives, helping their person make an informed choice, and building the product with care.

Elite Dog Gear is a woman-owned Alaska business grounded in craftsmanship, honest guidance, and customer service. My goal is simple: to create gear I would trust on my own dogs and to stand behind the people and dogs who depend on it.

Thank you for supporting a small, independent maker. If you need help with sizing, compatibility, or a custom request, I’m always happy to help.