The Best Anxiety Jackets for Dogs
The day of the year that the most dogs go missing on every year is the 4th of July, because they are afraid of the fireworks and run away. Many dogs freak out during thunderstorms, vet visits, and trips. There are anti-anxiety medications for dogs, but many dog owners would rather not drug their dogs if they don't have to. The non-drug solution is the dog anxiety jacket. Analogous to swaddling a human baby, anxiety jackets fit snugly around a dog's body and apply light but constant pressure. This comforts the dog and calms them down. Finding a jacket that fits, is comfortable, and that works can be tough when shopping online. That's why we reviewed a number of anxiety jackets to find the best ones. Read on for our reviews of the best Anxiety Jackets for Dogs.
Thundershirt Sport Dog Anxiety Jacket
Thunder Will Be Thwarted
One of the best known names in anxiety jackets for dogs is Thundershirt. Named because it keeps dogs calm during thunderstorms, it relieves dog’s anxiety in other situations as well. The patented design squeezes the dog gently, which soothes their nerves. Recommended by veterinarians, Thundershirt boasts an 80 percent success rate, so it works for most dogs. The Sport Thundershirt is much more breathable than the Original Thundershirt; it will keep your dog cool and comfortable. The jacket is machine washable and has reflective logos on it for enhanced safety at night. Thundershirt offers a 100 percent moneyback guarantee, but we doubt you’ll use it once you see how well this jacket calms your dog.
Pros
- 80% success rate
- Breathable and durable
Cons
- Runs a little big
Mellow Shirt Dog Anxiety Calming Wrap
Mellow Out
As promised by the name, the Mellow Shirt will certainly mellow out your dog. Called a wrap instead of a jacket because to put it on, you just wrap it around your dog and secure with the fasteners. No need to put their neck or arms through holes, like a traditional vest or jacket. This makes the Mellow Shirt very easy to put on and take off. The shirt has a sleek design and is made from soft, lightweight fabric. It comes in 6 sizes and 6 colors, so you can find the best fit for your dog. Swaddle your dog in this wrap and reduce their anxiety.
Pros
- Easy to put on wrap design
- 6 colors to choose from
Cons
- Does not cover the full torso
American Kennel Club Anti-Anxiety Calming Coat for Dogs
The American Kennel Club’s anxiety jacket is really comfy. It’s more like a baby blanket cut to fit a dog. It wraps on your dog easily and has adjustable Velcro straps so you can get just the right fit. Whether from fireworks, thunderstorms, travel, vet visits, the stress and anxiety your dog feels will be instantly assuaged by this coat. The American Kennel Club has a reputation for really knowing dogs and really caring about dogs, and they have lived up to their reputation with this calming coat. it’s definitely a great option for any dog that struggles with anxiety.
Pros
- Really comfy
- Adjustable Velcro straps
Cons
- Long-haired dogs can get tangled in the Velcro
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk my dog with an anxiety jacket on?
Yes, you can walk your dog with an anxiety jacket on. It is recommended to do so if you will encounter an anxiety trigger during your walk. However, these jackets do not double as harnesses. In other words, there’s no ring to hook a leash to. You can put a harness over the jacket though, and then walk your dog with both on.
How do I choose the right size for my dog?
With your dog standing up, measure around their chest at the widest point of their rib cage. Make sure you are measuring in between their front legs and back legs, and not in front of their front legs. Then consult the sizing chart on the product page. Generally, if your dog is in between sizes, it is better to get a smaller size because they all have some adjustability.
How do I get my dog started with an anxiety jacket?
If your dog is resistant or suspicious of the jacket, try putting a treat on the jacket on the floor. Let them eat the treat off the jacket. Then put the jacket on your dog and give them another treat. This way, they associate the jacket with treats and may warm to it easier. Also, put the jacket on your dog for the first time, or first few times, when they are calm and not anxious. It is harder for them to acclimate to a new jacket when they are already stressed.
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