The Best Service Dog Vests

Dogs are a human’s best friend and it is even more evident for those who have special needs, such as visual or hearing impairment, mobility issues and other medical conditions. In such situations having a service dog becomes a medical necessity to aid in their day to day life and sometimes their survival. Service dogs are also trained to provide security and protection to their owners.

For example, dogs that have gone through training to be a service animal help their owners by monitoring medical symptoms, providing protection or comfort in triggering situations, and alerting others during an emergency situation.

Service vests can be simple or elaborate but they all distinguish the dog who wears them as a service dog. A service dog vest helps differentiate these specially trained dogs so that other people know how to interact with them, their role in their owners life, and when their behavior might be communicating a need for their owner.

Service dogs are expected to be alert and take care for their owners, and having a vest that is comfortable, durable and has the features needed to do their job only helps them be more efficient while being comfortable as well.

Service dog vests are often quite affordable, although those with extra features or accessories can get a little more expensive. One of the most basic components of a service dog vest is the identification tag or patch. It should be clearly visible, which is why it is one of the top features that we recommend looking for when choosing a vest for your dog.

A-Z-Animals Top Picks for Service Dog Vests

#1 Best Overall: Service Dog Vest with Hook and Loop Straps and Handle

Our research shows that the best service dog vest is the Service Dog Vest with Hook and Loop Straps and Handle.

This vest comes in eight sizes, with a fit for just about any dog. It comes in six different colors, allowing for some of the most customizable styles and fit of any service dog vest on the market. The buckle around the chest makes it easy to put on and off and the hook and loop closure is adjustable to keep a snug fit. It also features a top-mounted handle to give you extra control when you need it. This vest also has strong seams and high quality fabric. However, it is a little bit more expensive than other options but will last for years.

The vest comes with removable patches as well as a spot for a backpack. However, you will need to purchase a backpack separately, adding to the overall cost. Another great feature is that included with this vest are cards detailing the laws of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). “The bonus of getting the ADA cards is also a great idea,” said one reviewer. “I had cards in the past and they help especially if you take your dog into a restaurant.”

Pros and Cons of the Service Dog Vest with Hook and Loop Straps and Handle

Overall Best

Service Dog Vest with Hook and Loop Straps and Handle

• Comes in eight sizes
• Easy to put on
• Comes with removable patches
• Adjustable to ensure a snug fit

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2. Best Value: Cymiler No-Pull Service Dog Harness

For a budget-friendly service dog vest that gets rave reviews, consider the Cymiler No-Pull Dog Harness.

This dog vest is made from high quality durable nylon which has a high density to make it resistant to chewing as well as wear and tear. It has a breathable mesh lining with soft padding to ensure that it is completely comfortable for your dog to wear.

This harness is a no-pull design which distributes the weight evenly and prevents dogs from choking themselves by pulling. It features strong D-rings for leash attachments as well as a sturdy top-mounted handle to give you extra control when you need it. It also has two reflective strips to make your pet more visible in low-light situations.

The vest comes in 14 different color and pattern options and six different sizes. It fits dogs as small as 5.5 pounds all the way up to dogs that are as large as 150 pounds. The sizing guide is helpful to determine which size will work based on your dog’s weight, neck measurement, and chest measurement. However, some owners have reported that the sizing guide is not entirely accurate. Despite this, this vest is fully adjustable using chest and neck slide adjusters to ensure that it is a comfortable fit for your pup. It also has quick snap buckles which make it super easy to put on and take off.

Pros and Cons of the Cymiler No-Pull Service Dog Harness

Best Value

Cymiler Dog Harness,No-Pull Service Dog Harness

• Budget-friendly option
• Comes in 14 different color and pattern options
• Features chest and neck slide adjusters
• Includes two reflective strips

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3. Best for Puppies: Demigreat Service Dog Harness

Our selection as the best vest for puppies is the Demigreat Service Dog Harness.

Service dogs in training should also be officially recognized with patches denoting their status. This is very important because they are still learning how to do their job and people around them need to be aware that their handler is taking specific actions to help them learn. Training usually lasts around 10 months so having a comfortable harness with clearly identifiable patches is key.

This harness is designed using a unique double-layer structure to ensure the utmost comfort for your pup. The outer layer is made from tough nylon while the inner mesh material is breathable yet soft enough to protect your dog’s skin from chafing. It also features two buckles on the chest and neck area which are fully adjustable to ensure a snug yet safe fit.

This harness also features reflective strips to ensure you and your pet are visible in low-light areas. It also has three reinforced leash attachments on the back and chest area so you can choose the perfect one depending on the situation you and your dog are in. It also has several service dog and service dog in training patches which attach with Velcro.

There are 15 colors and patterns available and it comes in five different sizes. Demigreat includes a sizing guide based on neck and chest measurements. However, some customers have reported that the straps become loose easily and often need adjusting.

Pros and Cons of the Demigreat Service Dog Harness

Best for Puppies

Demigreat Service Dog Harness

• Features three handles on the back and chest
• Very comfortable harness
• Fully adjustable
• Reflective

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4. Best for Travel: Albcorp Service Dog Vest Harness

We have selected the Albcorp Service Dog Vest Harness as the best for travel.

This vest is highly reflective and comes with two bright service dog patches. It’s available in black, green camo, maroon, red, and red camo. Built to last, it’s woven of tough nylon and polyester. The handle on top is sturdy and it comes with a durable D ring to hold your dog’s leash or ID tag. Not only is it built for durability, but it’s also lightweight and padded for non-chafe cushioning. It’s practical, it’s comfortable, and the lightweight aspect of it makes it so that your dog hardly feels it. The belly strap is adjustable, and the small size accommodates girths from 20 inches to 27 inches while the extra-large accommodates girths from 33 inches to 44.5 inches.

When you count on your service dog every day for help, you need to have a premium vest that fits well, looks good, and can be worn daily. Plus, your dog needs to be highly visible. This vest has a vivid fluorescent trim that’s more reflective than most other harnesses. Even if you’re in low light conditions, you and your dog are kept safe. That feeling of security you get knowing that you’re highly visible is invaluable. The service dog patches are also reflective and come with a sure-grip hook and loop backing. The buckles are extra strong with easy snap clasps. The reinforced top-mounted handle is designed for training and emergency control while the sturdy, stainless steel D ring allows you to attach your leash securely. Designed with ergonomic contours, your dog feels right at home in no time. The service dog patches are removable, so when your dog is not working, he can still enjoy the padded, breathable harness.

Unfortunately, some customers have found that the size guide is not accurate. Some found that the sizes run a little big, while others found that the extra large was not as big as expected.

Pros and Cons of the Albcorp Service Dog Vest Harness

Best for Travel

ALBCORP Service Dog Vest Harness

• Features strong nylon straps
• Comes with a sturdy top handle
• Comes with large patches
• Clearly identifiable

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5. Best for Tactical Vest: One Tigris Tactical Vest

Our selection as the best tactical vest is the OneTigris Tactical Vest.

The OneTigris harness is durable and versatile and is constructed from a durable 500D nylon material that is designed to resist water, dirt, and damage. It also features soft interior padding for lightweight, water-resistant comfort. It’s available in ranger green, coyote brown, and black. It comes with fully adjustable neck and chest straps to ensure that your dog has a snug and secure fit. There’s an extra-strong V-ring leash attachment which just adds to the security of this design. There’s a control loop at the front to keep your dog close whenever needed and there is a crisscross bungee strap for extra storage. The vest also has MOLLE strips and hidden EDC pockets with zippers on each side to allow your dog to carry essential supplies and materials. It also has a removable neck strap that allows the UTX-snap buttons to connect to a mobility assistance harness.

Keep in mind that this harness is not suitable for small dogs. There is a medium-size option and there’s a large-size option, so it’s better suited for larger breeds. Also, some customers reported that some of the straps come loose easily.

Pros and Cons of the One Tigris Tactical Vest

Best for Tactical Working Dogs

OneTigris Tactical Vest Nylon Front Clip Dog Harness

• Made of nylon
• The interior is padded and very comfortable
• Made for the toughest conditions
• Fully adjustable

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What to Look For in a Service Dog Vest

When selecting the right service dog vest for your dog, consider the price, durability, and any special features or accessories that suit your needs. Here we look at each of these factors in more detail.

Price

The cost of service dog vests range from $15 to over $100, with most products priced between $20 and $40. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a quality service dog vest that serves basic needs, however, if you have special needs the cost of accessories and functionality will increase the total cost. Make sure that the vest you choose serves your need, and does not need to be replaced soon, even if that does mean spending a bit more than you initial budget.

Durability

Dogs indulge in a lot of physical activity in general and can wear out things faster than other domestic animals. The constant push and pull, rolling around and general wear and tear can damage a vest faster than you anticipate. Which is why we suggest buying a vest that has strong seams, nylon webbing, secure buckles, and sturdy hook and loop closures. Reflective strips and identification patches are often the first parts to show wear. If you have the option to purchase extras, it might be a good idea to do so to make sure that your vest and its pieces will last for years to come.

Special Features

Most service dog vests are quite simple in design. If you need to use extra accessories ensure that the vest has been made to accommodate extra accessories or features. Backpacks, extra identification patches, and medication pouches are all common things that service dogs might need to carry. If you need these items at hand, look for a vest that comes with them or works with ones that can be purchased separately.

The Different Types of Service Dog Vests: Pros and Cons Compared

While all service dog vests have some things in common, there are a few differences that can be helpful depending on the situation where they will be used.

Harness-style Vest: The most common style of service dog vest. It designates the dog as a service animal with patches. Some have additional features, such as a handle, reflective strips, or handle. They are often less expensive but may not be as comfortable for all-day wear.

Tactical Vest: Best for service dogs that need to carry items or have additional information noted. These often come with pouches, backpacks, and additional spaces for patches to be displayed. They can be more expensive or require accessories that are purchased separately.

The A-Z-Animal Criteria for Choosing the Top Vests

In order to compile this list of the best service dog vests, we researched and and found products the fit our established criteria for this category of product. While comparing products, we chose three things that we found were most desirable according to customer experience and expectations, comfort, proper fit, durability and value for money. Here are some of our comments on each criteria.

• Comfort: In our research we have found that the most common concerns dog owners have while purchasing a service dog vest is the comfort factor. The service dog needs to wear a vest for long periods of time and comfort features such as extra padding, breathable material, strong closures that don’t pinch etc. makes it more bearable.
• Size and Fit: When it comes to the fit, the vest should not be small or big, if it does not fit perfectly then it may cause the dog to be uncomfortable and the extra features might not be as useful.
• Durability: The material used must be of good quality. Dogs are known for being physically active and a thin material may wear and tear faster than anticipated. The stitching and making of the product will also determine how long it will last. Poorly made product might tear or unravel at the seams, which is unacceptable.
• Value for money: Considering all of the factors mentioned above, we have selected products that provide all the comfort, durability and fit while being affordable.

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