The 5 Best Service Dog Vests
Service dogs do an incredible amount of work, from therapy to police work to search and rescue, and a little bit of everything in between. These hard-working heroes deserve all the respect in the world, and part of that is giving them a service dog vest that is both comfortable and durable as well as highly visible. As dogs in public places often elicit attention and affection, it's important to provide a service vest that discourages people from petting or approaching a service dog. These are the top 5 service dog vests that provide durability, comfort, and customizable options for your hardworking companion.
RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
Versatile Comfort
Ruffwear’s multi-purpose harness is so comfortable, your dog will almost forget it’s on. Designed specifically for extended wear, this harness is versatile, durable, and fit for just about any occasion.
The padded chest and belly strips allow for an equal load distribution, as well as complete comfort while your dog ambles about. With 4 adjustment points, this harness is entirely adjustable and customizable to your dog’s size and range of motion. Ruffwear is a company known for their adventure and service dog vests, so this harness is an excellent option for a dog that goes from wandering canyons and hiking highlands, to providing as a service dog or a service-dog-in-training.
Pros:
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Great for dogs that pull
- Reflective trim makes your dog highly visible in low visibility conditions
Cons:
- No identification tag for stating that your dog is a service dog, as seen in some of the options below.
ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness
Sturdy and Utilitarian
The ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness is a truly heavy-duty training harness, designed to be slip-proof, unbreakable, and has a safety control feature that discourages pulling. You’ll have full control over your service dog, making this an excellent training harness.
Made from 1050D nylon with a water resistant coating, this well-ventilated harness is not only comfortable, it’s durable. In typical harness or vest, the clips and hardware tend to be made of heavy-duty plastic. While this is certainly a strong option, ICEFANG’s harness ring hardware is made from alloy metal, meaning it won’t bend or break…in fact, it has undergone a 1000 pound proof-load test. With a front clip and top handle, your service dog will stay at your side no matter the situation.
Pros:
- Excellent fit, from XS though XXL.
- Fully adjustable
- Great hiking harness, with hands free carrying, as well as hooks for self-carrying a dog bowl or water bottle, pouch, and other necessary hiking items.
- Comes in multiple, muted shades.
Cons:
- Single stitching at stress points means this harness does not mean military or K-9 service dog work standards.
Industrial Puppy Service Dog Vest
Comfortable and Lightweight
Industrial Puppy’s service dog vest is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a durable, lightweight, and completely accommodating service vest. The buckle and strap system of this vest makes it incredibly easy to take on and off, and with a removable patch on both sides in bold letters, it’s obvious exactly what your dog is there for. Additionally, a top-mounted handle makes it easy to control your dog in an emergency situation, and the pull-free design keeps your dog safe and by your side in any environment.
Made from reinforced, heavy-duty nylon and breathable mesh, this vest is as comfortable for your pup as it is safe.
Pros:
- Multiple bright color options available
- Many size options allows for a well-fitting vest (XXXS-XXL)
Cons:
- Handy backpack which can be used in conjunction with this vest is sold separately.
ALBCORP Service Dog Vest Reflective Harness
Fully Visible Service Dog Vest
Similar in design to Industrial Puppy’s above training vest, ALBCORP’s take on the service dog vest is one that’s budget-friendly yet still comes with everything you need (and it’s still durable, too). It’s also a vest that is highly visible, with full reflective features and 2 removable service dog patches located on either side of the harness.
For comfort, this harness is lightweight, cushioned, and designed in such a way that it will not chafe at key points on contact. The belly strap is fully adjustable, and accommodates dogs that are XXS to XL. Made from nylon and polyester, this harness has a handle for keeping your service dog close, as well as a durable stainless steel D-ring for clipping a leash or ID tag.
Pros:
- Wide reflective taping makes this a highly visible vest.
- Reinforced stitching at handle and closures.
- Ergonomic design, highly breathable, and will not rub or chafe on your pup.
Cons:
- Removable patches only come in ‘Service Dog’ patches (you can, however, replace with your own customizable patches).
voopet Emotional Service Dog Harness
Emotional Support Dog Harness
Made specifically for service dogs that work as emotional support dogs, this service dog harness is lightweight, sturdy, and extremely comfortable for your pup. Made from completely washable oxford cloth on the outer shell and a padded plate on the inside with a 100% breathable mesh structure, voopet’s harness has a 2-strap adjustable fit for sizes XS through XXL. Made more for emotional support dogs, this harness is excellent for use on errands, jogs and hikes, and for basic identification of your dog’s emotional support status.
As a bonus, the price point for this service dog vest is very budget-friendly.
Pros:
- Comes with a pair of “Service Dog” and “Emotional Support” velcro harness patches.
- Sturdy D-ring hook
Cons:
- For those with extra small toy emotional support dogs, this vest is still a bit big.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my service dog need to wear a vest?
No. There is no federal law that requires service or emotional support animals to wear any sort of identifying vest or harness. However, handlers often prefer to have their dog wear an identifying vest or harness in order to allow their service animal to be in public places without interruption or confusion.
Are there specific colors that indicate specific services provided?
No. A vest or harness color does not indicate any service that is being provided. If you’re looking to indicate a specific service, it’s best to attach a custom velcro patch to your service vest or harness.
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