The 10 Best Dog Hunting Vests

Reviews

Browning Camo Neoprene Dog Vest — Best Overall

The Browning Camo Neoprene Dog Vest is our top selection and the finest neoprene dog vest we tested. This vest conceals your dog against grass or trees, preventing game animals from spotting them. It comes in five sizes ranging from around 35 to 80 pounds and two thicknesses. Additionally, you may pick from three distinct camouflage patterns to best suit your hunting area.

This vest can help conceal your dog’s fur in the field, but its primary function is to keep him warm on chilly mornings. The substance can also improve your dog’s swimming ability when retrieving game from the water (please note, however, that this is not a life vest). The side and back straps of this hunting vest are adjustable with quick-release buckles, and the overall design eliminates chafing and irritation.

Some owners indicate that the seams on this vest rupture after only a number of wears, as a result of the wear and tear that may be expected from regular use.

Pros

• Produced by a reputable hunting brand
• Wide size range
• Maintains normal body temperature
• Slightly buoyant for recovery from water
• System of adjustable buckles and straps

Cons

• Unsatisfactory sewing quality

SafetyPUP XD Reflective Dog Vest — Best Value

The SafetyPUP XD Reflective Dog Vest is the greatest dog hunting vest for the money, regardless of whether your canine is a novice hunter or you’re simply on a budget. This vest is ideal for scenarios in which you want to ensure other hunters can always recognize your dog. It is available in three sizes, accommodating dogs weighing between 14 and 60 pounds.

This bright orange vest is an excellent purchase for any dog that will be active during hunting season. Reflective accents guarantee that your dog is extremely visible even in low light conditions. This vest is easy to put on and take off thanks to the Velcro straps and water-resistant Oxford material.

Although the design of this vest is excellent in principle, several customers have noticed ripped seams after minimal use. Additionally, the fabric is susceptible to snagging and tearing on branches and other obstructions.

Pros

• Visibility-enhancing fluorescent orange and reflective accents
• Fabric resistant to water
• Simple to don and remove
• Design that is lightweight and comfy

Cons

• Limited size available
• Prone to tearing

Hurtta Polar Visibility Dog Vest — Premium Choice

The Hurtta Polar Visibility Dog Vest is an excellent premium alternative if you’re looking for a safe, high-visibility hunting vest. This vest is available in eight different sizes to accommodate dogs with chest dimensions ranging from 14 to 40 inches. It is also available in four high-visibility colors, however for hunting we prefer the orange variant.

There are times and places for camouflage, but the majority of hunters choose a dog vest that ensures their canine companion is always visible. In addition to the bright material, this vest’s sides include significant reflective patterning. It is also water resistant and quiet, which is essential for hunting.

This vest, unlike many others, has a zipper for easy application and removal. Some purchasers noted that the vest’s zipper broke shortly after purchase. Additionally, the cloth rips readily when hooked on a branch or other obstructions.

Pros

• Numerous size choices
• Brilliant hues and reflective accents
• Fabric that is impervious to rust and water
• Allows for unrestricted movement

Cons

• Low-grade zipper
• Material rips effortlessly

Funtone Colors Dog Safety Reflective Vest

The Funtone Colors Dog Safety Reflective Vest is ideal for hunters who want their dog to be extremely visible at all times of day. This basic vest is available in six sizes, ranging from 10 to 37 inches in chest circumference. Also available in orange and yellow, we recommend the orange color for hunting.

The robust, comfy, and water-resistant Oxford fabric shields your dog from all sorts of weather. It is also simple to clean, which is essential after a hard day of bushwhacking. The chest and stomach straps are made of elastic that is stretchable and adaptable.

As with many dog jackets on the market, the durability of this product occasionally looks lacking. After short use, several owners have noticed ripping, particularly around the straps. Additionally, sizing tends to run small.

Pros

• Highly reflective adornments
• Fits a variety of dogs
• Adjustable elastic straps
• Material resistant to water

Cons

• Sizing runs small
• Straps can easily torn
• Does not remain firmly in place

4LegsFriend Reflective Vest

Every dog owner in the modern world should have a reflective dog vest on hand, especially hunters and general outdoor enthusiasts. The 4LegsFriend Reflective Vest is a high-visibility vest offered in five sizes to accommodate dogs with chest dimensions between 15 and 41 inches.

This vest’s reflective accents are visible from up to 500 feet away, allowing you and other hunters to always know where your dog is in the field. The water- and rip-resistant fabric keeps your dog comfortable while withstanding the wear and tear of being in the woods. The Velcro straps are adjustable and simple to use.

According to users, this vest’s Velcro straps are not the most robust. Some customers noticed irregular size, and the Velcro straps are less adjustable than anticipated. The reflective accents on this vest are also smaller and less noticeable than those on competing goods.

Pros

• Reflective up to 500 feet in length
• Waterproof and tear-resistant fabric
• Utilizable Velcro straps
• Available in flaming orange

Cons

• Velcro stitching is not very resilient.
• Inconsistent sizing
• Not very adjustable
• Reflective detailing is quite modest

Illumiseen LED Dog Vest

For many hunters, leaving before daybreak is a common practice. The Illumiseen LED Dog Vest is the optimal investment for ensuring that your dog is seen in situations where reflective detailing is insufficient. This vest comes in five sizes, ranging from 18.5 to 41.3 inches in chest circumference.

Each side of this hunting vest is equipped with an integrated LED strip. These lights are powered by a rechargeable battery that may be fully charged within 30 minutes. Obviously, there are reflective accents for increased visibility. This vest has adjustable straps and quick-release buckles on the stomach and chest for easy donning and doffing.

The LED lights on this vest are the most significant feature, although their functionality is not guaranteed. Some owners stated that the lights eventually stopped functioning or turned fairly dim. The adjustable elastic straps of this vest make it easy for your dog to escape if he so chooses.

Pros

• LED strip lighting on either side
• Convenient strap and buckle system
• Recharges rapidly

Cons

• LED strips fade over time
• Lights may fail to function
• Larger than anticipated
• Elastic straps are insufficiently secure.

See Spot Trot Reflective Dog Safety Vest

The See Spot Trot Reflective Dog Safety Garment is another basic (but effective) hunting vest. This vest is made to suit your dog without rubbing or catching on obstructions. It is available in five sizes, ranging from around 5 to 75 pounds, and two colors.

In the field, you won’t have to worry about buckles coming undone or straps getting caught on low-hanging branches due to this vest’s zippered construction. This vest has a big luminous strip on either side, making your dog very visible at dawn and dark. Because this vest is tailored to your dog’s physique, an extra harness may be worn on top.

Sadly, this vest is not available in blaze orange. While the yellow and pink variants are still very visible in the majority of hunting circumstances, they will not suffice in all settings. The size is irregular and does not accommodate several larger hunting breeds. Several owners stated that the overall building quality was subpar.

Pros

• Form-fitting design
• Large reflective detailing
• Secure zipper construction

Cons

• Not available in orange
• Inconsistent and inadequate size choices
• Poor build quality
• Impossible to put on

InnoPet Dog Vest

If your dog tends to feel chilly during extended hunts, the InnoPet Dog Vest is worth investigating. The windbreaker-inspired design protects your dog from the elements while boosting its visibility in the woods and beyond. It is available in four sizes ranging from around 19 to 90 pounds and two colours. Both color options are orange, which makes them ideal for hunting.

This hunting vest has an integrated harness with luminous accents and adjustable straps. The outside layer of the vest is water- and wind-resistant, while the inside layer is comprised of soft, warm fleece. The collar may be adjusted to fit tightly around your dog’s neck, providing protection from precipitation and wind.

The linked harness is practical, although it cannot withstand hard pulling. Sizing tends to run rather big. Because there are no straps over the chest or stomach, several owners noted that even with the correct size, the fit was not very secure. Additionally, the vest might be difficult to put on and remove.

Pros

• Wide size range
• Integrated harness
• Windproof and waterproof construction

Cons

• The harness is not sturdy enough for pulling dogs.
• Hard to put on and take off
• Larger than anticipated
• Not a really secure fit

RUFFWEAR Reflective Safety Vest

The RUFFWEAR Reflective Safety Vest may be the best option for dog owners in search of a hunting vest devoid of unnecessary features. This vest is available in three sizes to accommodate dogs with chest measures between 13 and 42 inches.

Each side of this vest boasts a broad, full-length reflective stripe for additional visibility near automobiles and spotlights. This hunting vest’s waterproof construction allows it to act as a rain jacket. This vest’s fit is determined by its adjustable straps and buckles.

While the waist and chest straps of this vest are adjustable, the neck hole is not. Consequently, several owners stated that the neck opening was too tiny for their dog to fit through. The general durability of this vest is also inadequate, meaning it may not hold up to more than a few hunting outings.

Pros

• Includes a rain jacket
• Lightweight with an adjustable fit
• Numerous reflecting details

Cons

• The neck opening cannot be adjusted
• Not as sturdy as anticipated
• A few complaints were made about size concerns.
• Buckles are difficult to utilize

rabbitgoo Cold Weather Dog Vest

If you’re searching for a hunting vest that serves as a winter jacket, the rabbitgoo Cold Weather Dog Vest is another excellent alternative. This vest will completely cover your dog’s back and chest, protecting them from underbrush and keeping them warm in all weather situations. This vest is available in two sizes ranging from about 26.1 to 32.6 inches in chest circumference.

This hunting vest is inside with luxurious fleece, and its exterior is made of a waterproof material. The adjustable strap system offers a snug fit without restricting your dog’s mobility, and the drawstring neck hole keeps rain and wind out of the vest. Underneath, there is a hole for attaching a leash to your dog’s harness.

Some owners stated that despite the fleece lining and full-coverage design, this vest was too thin to keep their dog warm when it counted. Additionally, the size chart appears to be slightly wrong.

Pros

• Full-coverage design
• Integrated hole for leash

Cons

• Too frail for some canines
• Inconsistent sizing
• Less reflective than competing vests
• Small size range

Buying Guide

Obviously, before purchasing a dog vest, you must first choose the sort of vest required. Will your dog hunt waterfowl or upland birds, or both? A dog who plunges into frigid water and then stays still for a period of time need a considerably warmer vest than a dog that will be hunting in the uplands and will not get wet.

For upland hunting, an orange vest that makes your dog visible to you, other members of your hunting party, and hunters with weapons makes far more sense than camouflage.

You may get neoprene versions made of 5mm material for increased insulation or 3mm material for milder weather while shopping for a water dog’s vest. Some vests provide additional floatation to facilitate swimming and prevent your dog from becoming exhausted.

Additionally, upland vests provide varied amounts of protection, which must be balanced with the weather conditions. Even more deadly to a dog than sticks and barbed wire is overheating. Reflective strips on a vest may also provide you piece of mind, so if you are concerned that your dog may end up on the road at night, consider a vest with reflective strips.

Just as crucial as the type of vest you purchase is getting the appropriate fit. Be sure to measure your dog and select the appropriate size, and search for an adjustable or trimmable vest.

Conclusion

Safety is the most vital aspect of any hunting excursion, and this also applies to your dog! Investing in a suitable hunting vest will protect your dog from accidents, inclement weather, and the thorny undergrowth prevalent in many hunting locales.

The Browning Camo Neoprene Dog Vest is our recommendation for the best dog vest for hunting for hunters who want to equip their dog in the absolute best. This vest not only has the name of a reputable hunting brand, but it also helps keep your dog warm and enhances buoyancy for water retrievals. The adjustable strap system is simple to use, so long as you pick the correct size from the vast assortment. Please remember to increase your dog’s visibility with a blazing orange bandana, harness, or other accessory.

If you prefer something straightforward and inexpensive, we recommend the SafetyPUP XD Reflective Dog Vest. Due to the bright orange material and reflective accents, this vest is very visible in nearly all conditions. The outer layer’s water-resistance keeps your dog dry and comfortable without weighting them down, which is essential for any hunt.

The Hurtta Polar Visibility Dog Vest, on the other hand, is our recommendation for the finest dog hunting vest for dog owners who wish to invest in the greatest quality available. This vest is available in a variety of sizes and high-visibility color combinations. The fabric’s water-resistance and lack of rustling will keep your dog comfortable and quiet when hunting game. Additionally, it is meant to be exceptionally comfortable and to not hinder your dog’s mobility.

Whether you are hunting pheasants or feral pigs, it is never a smart idea to compromise on safety equipment. BestForPets (bestforpets.org) hopes that our evaluations have assisted you in locating the best dog hunting vest for your most dependable partner, so you may both enjoy the hunting season to the fullest!

FAQs

Should my hunting dog be wearing a vest?

In several conditions, a hunting dog must wear a vest to ensure its safety and health. Working retrievers in cold weather require a vest to keep them warm. The dog is intended to remain seated in between dips in the frigid water, preventing it from moving about and staying warm.

Nevertheless, even if the dog is wearing a jacket, you must keep an eye out for indications of hypothermia, such as slow movement and excessive shaking. Additionally, a strong vest will shield a retriever from ice and aquatic sticks.

During major gun seasons, upland hunting dogs need hi-visibility jackets to assist them remain safe and conspicuous. On the bottom, aggressive dogs and nursing females require the protection that a vest provides for the chest and abdomen.

A dog returning to the field after sutures may also require a protective garment. And in really cold and rainy weather, even a bird dog may benefit from wearing a neoprene vest in the field.

Can the nose of a dog suffer frostbite?

A dog’s nose is susceptible to frostbite, but it is far more likely to have frostbite on its ears, paws, or tail. Frostbite occurs when the body sends blood away from the extremities to warm the centre in extremely cold or wet and freezing environments.

Frostbite is more prone to occur in regions with diminished blood circulation. As a component of the dog’s head, the nose is less likely to be impacted. If your dog becomes really cold, you may observe discomfort, edema, and discolouration.

Although a dog vest does not cover the parts most susceptible to frostbite, it helps warm the dog’s core, reducing the likelihood of frostbite on its extremities. A vest might also aid in keeping the dog dry. In really cold situations, dog booties can also prevent frostbite.

What does it mean for a dog’s mouth to be soft?

A dog with a gentle mouth is a tremendous asset. It indicates that the dog retrieves birds without biting them so that they are fit for consumption. A retriever should be able to bring birds to hand without biting, as well as return wounded birds alive.

Contrary to a soft mouth is a hard mouth. Hard-mouthed dogs bite birds, sometimes leaving only one or two tooth marks, and sometimes crushing or mangling the bird to the point that it is nearly inedible.

Some dogs may inherit a hard mouth, or a puppy may develop a hard mouth after a traumatic early encounter, such as being beaten or prodded by a wounded bird. Even if your dog has a strong natural retrieving drive, the best way to guarantee it has a tough mouth is to engage in some form of learned or forced retrieve training.