Those who know me, know that, at work and at home, I am always on the look out for new ideas on Instagram, Pinterest and co. Looking around a few weeks ago – originally searching for cool DIY ideas to brighten up to my everyday life somewhat – I came across a particularly interesting post:  hand-crafted dog leads made by “WauTau hondgmocht“!

A warm welcome to “WauTau hondgmocht“.

Dog leads are not exactly essential items for me as I don’t even have a dog, but I found the idea so ingenious that I decided to investigate further. So today I’m meeting up with Daniela Köstner and Stephanie Eizinger, the two business partners and creative minds behind “WauTau hondgmocht“.

“Wow“, I think, as I enter their little workshop in the Bauernschmiedgasse 367 in Eben im Pongau. The shelves are full of rope, twine, fastenings and other working utensils in various sizes, colours and styles. No matter whether for a retriever or a pug, male or female, mistress or master: there’s something for everyone here.

From dog leads and key rings to mobile phone chains.

Whilst chatting, Stephi – who originally got the idea for setting up the business from Pinterest – explains that not just their selection of dog leads, but also their whole assortment has increased step by step: this now ranges from key rings, dog toys, home-made “slobber bowls“, to hand-crafted bum bags, phone chains and jewellery.

Both are happy to cater to individual requirements: “We recently created so-called puppy collars with adjustable bows for a dog owner. Now, the puppies are bigger and ready for a new family, we were able to create a personal gift box with dog collar and lead, according to colour choice of the new master or mistress. That really pleased us“, Dani told me.

hondgmocht.at – order from their online shop.

Their range is varied, their customers too. These not only come from Austria, but also from Germany and even Irish and Dutch people have noticed the cool dog accessories: “Once we even were visited by guests staying in a neighbouring resort who had seen the leads on other dogs whilst out walking, they then popped in on the off chance. However, those not wishing to make an extra trip to Eben, can simply order from our online shop.“

Last year Stephi and Dani were also present at the various handicraft markets in the region, amongst others at the Eben fair. When asked whether there might be a small shop in future, both answer with a smile on their lips: “Yes, maybe: we can dream!“;)

Photo credits: Stephanie Rettenegger