The 10 Best Service Dog Vests & Harnesses
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Regardless of their employment, service dogs are dedicated employees. Due to this, they need equipment that is as tough, sturdy, and hardworking as they are.
Vests and harnesses for service dogs must also make it evident to the public that they are working dogs, thus bright colors and reflective elements are crucial.
However, there are so many dog vests and harnesses available on the market that it may be difficult to choose which ones are ideal for your service dog.
To assist you with your study, BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has compiled a collection of evaluations of the best service dog vests & harnesses.
We've also included a buyer's guide to the vests and harnesses' essential features. Are you ready to equip your service dog? Then continue reading for our suggestions.
Reviews
ALBCORP Service Dog Vest Harness — Best Overall
The ALBCORP Service Dog Vest Harness is the most durable option available to us. It is created from a durable nylon-polyester combination that can withstand frequent usage.
The vest is both lightweight and cushioned to prevent chafing. It includes a strong handle with a D-ring for attaching a leash or identification tag.
Even at night, the vest’s highly luminous stitching and two brilliant “Service Dog” patches will make your dog more apparent to others.
The vest is also adjustable and features a hook-and-loop chest strap, making it simple to place on your dog. The buckle is extra-strong and features an easy-snap clasp, allowing you to easily put the dog’s vest on and take it off.
Despite being in a variety of sizes, this vest is not appropriate for little dogs.
Pros
- Woven of durable nylon or polyester
- Contains a strong handle and D-ring for a leash or identification tag.
- Reflective stitching and two very visible “Service Dog” patches.
- Hook-and-loop adjustable front chest strap
- This vest is cushioned for non-chafing comfort.
- Extra-tough buckle with a quick-release clasp.
Cons
- Not for tiny dogs
Best Price Pawshoppie Reflective Service Dog Vest Harness
The pawshoppie Reflective Service Dog Vest Harness is the greatest service dog vest & harness because it is available in a number of colors and “Service Dog” is prominently displayed on the sides.
It includes a strong, well-stitched top handle for longevity. The inside lining is constructed of neoprene and is cushioned to prevent chafing.
The vest has a robust D-ring made of stainless steel for leashes and ID tags. The front shoulder strap contains extra-reflective stripes for increased safety and visibility.
You can swiftly put on and remove the vest since the belly buckle is durable and simple to use. The size might be wrong, so measure your dog instead of relying on the breed recommendations.
Pros
- Strong top grip
- Neoprene lining and padding provide chafe-free cushioning.
- D-ring made of stainless steel for leashes and ID tags
- The front strap contains reflective elements for safety.
- Simple-to-use belly belt
Cons
- Sizing might be erroneous
ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness – The Best Available Option
The ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness is our top pick because it is constructed from 1050D nylon with a water-resistant finish. This sort of nylon is very robust and long-lasting, thus the harness will be long-lasting.
The harness has buckles in handy areas, such as the shoulder and abdomen. The buckles are very durable and can support up to one thousand pounds.
In addition, they contain a quick-release feature that makes it easy to put on and remove the harness. There is a hook-and-loop panel for an ID badge, which is useful for any credential that must be shown on your dog.
On each sides of the harness are two one-inch MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) strips for attachments.
This harness is pricey owing to the superior quality of its components. It is also inappropriate for little service animals.
Pros
- Utilizing resilient 1050D Nylon
- Two metal buckles on the dog’s shoulder
- Two POM buckles on the abdomen
- Panel of hook-and-loop for ID attachment
- Two 1-inch MOLLE strips stitched to either side
Cons
- Expensive
- Not appropriate for little dogs
Industrial Dog Service Logo Work Vest
The Industrial Puppy Service Dog Vest can accommodate even the smallest of canines. It includes a top-mounted grip that is simple to grasp.
The securely welded D-ring may be used to connect a leash. Brightly colored, quick-drying, and breathable fabric. The vest’s mesh inside is cushioned for comfort and to avoid chafing.
The vest’s quick-release parachute clasp makes it simple to put on and take off. The vest also has reflective safety patches, a reflective chest band, and a “Service Dog” badge that is easily visible.
This vest’s size is not particularly precise, so be careful to measure your dog instead of relying on breed standards. The top-mounted handle lacks cushioning and is not very pleasant to grasp.
Pros
- Top-mounted grip
- D-ring for leash attachment, welded
- A airy, quick-drying fabric with a mesh lining.
- Quick-release parachute clasp
- Safety reflective patches and chest band
Cons
- The sizing is inaccurate
- Not really comfy to hold.
Service Dog Harness Bolux DC118-Re-S
The Bolux Service Dog Harness is available in a selection of bright colors to increase the visibility of your dog.
The “Service Dog” patch is detachable and the harness contains 3M luminous strips to catch the light even on dark streets.
For your dog’s comfort and to minimize rubbing from the buckles, the harness is lined with soft sponge. It has a top-mounted nylon grip that is simple to grasp.
The harness also has a rustproof metal D-ring for attaching a leash. This harness is not appropriate for little dogs. In addition, the straps often get slack and need adjusting.
Pros
- A nylon grip attached atop the case
- D-ring made of rustproof metal for leash attachment.
- 3M retroreflective tape
- Soft sponge lining
- Available in a range of hues
Cons
- Not for tiny dogs
- Straps must be often adjusted
Doggie Stylz Service Dog Harness
The Doggie Stylz Service Dog Harness is constructed of a breathable, lightweight cloth that is cool and pleasant for your dog to wear.
The harness is brightly colored and features two changeable reflective patches on each side that indicate various things, such as “In Training” or “Service Dog.”
It has a welded D-ring for leash connection at the top. Additionally, it has two adjustable straps for a customized fit. The side-mounted quick-release clasp makes it simple to put on and remove the harness.
This harness’s handle is difficult to grasp for extended durations. In addition to being stiff and confining, the harness might be difficult for your dog to wear often.
Pros
- Material that is light and permeable
- Two detachable luminous patches for each harness side
- Top D-ring for leash attachment is welded.
- Two straps that are adjustable for an unique fit
- Side-mounted quick-release buckle for easy on/off
Cons
- Uncomfortable and diminutive handling
- Rigid and perhaps distressing for the dog
Fairwin Service Dog Harness Vest
The cushioned neck and back straps of the Fairwin Service Vest Dog Harness make it comfortable for your pet to wear.
To keep your dog cool, the harness is composed of a quick-drying, breathable fabric with a mesh interior. It has a standing, top-mounted handle that is strong and simple to hold.
Adjustable neck and chest straps allow you to personalize the fit of the harness for your dog. In addition, a quick-release clasp makes the harness simple to put on and remove.
This harness is thick and hefty, which may cause your dog discomfort while used. Additionally, the buckles are fragile and do not last long.
Pros
- Neck and back straps with padding
- Fabric that is quick-drying and breathable, with a mesh lining
- A standing, top-mounted handle that is strong and simple to hold.
- Adjustable shoulder and neck straps
- A quick-release clasp makes the harness simple to put on and remove.
Cons
- Dense and weighty
- Buckles are ephemeral.
rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Vest
The Rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness Vest is composed of 1050D nylon, which is very sturdy and resistant to wear and tear. The vest includes reinforced stitching for security and longevity, so fraying is not a concern.
The vest’s breathable mesh keeps your dog cool for its comfort. Both sides have a MOLLE system for attachments.
Additionally, the vest has two metal leash rings, one on the front to avoid dragging and one on the rear for daily walks.
Pros
- Vest constructed of 1050D nylon is resistant to wear and tear.
- Reinforced stitching for durability and security
- Mesh allowing for maximum comfort
- On both sides MOLLE system
- Two metal leash rings, one for preventing tugging and the other for regular walks.
Cons
- Only camouflage colors
- Straps must be often adjusted
- No reflective strips or “Service Dog” label are present.
OneTigris Dog Vest
The OneTigris Dog Vest is constructed with 1000D nylon for durability. The vest is resistant to dirt, dampness, abrasions, and rips, allowing it to withstand rigorous everyday usage.
It incorporates a MOLLE attachment mechanism for patches and accessories. A fleece-padded front strap prevents rubbing and ensures your dog’s comfort. The quick-release buckles make it simple to remove and reattach the harness.
Plastic leash attachments are not as durable as metal D-rings that have been welded together. The vest is also cumbersome and difficult to properly fit, particularly for extremely little dogs.
Even after measuring your dog, the size advice for this vest is wrong. You must provide your own reflective strips and “Service Dog” patch, since this vest does not contain either.
Pros
- Durable 1000D nylon material construction
- Dirt, water, abrasion-resistant
- MOLLE system and front strap with fleece padding
- Quick-release buckles for effortless donning and doffing.
Cons
- The leash attachment is plastic.
- Bulky and difficult to properly fit
- Sizing guide is incorrect
- No reflective strips or “Service Dog” label are present.
Outstanding Elite Spanger Tactical Dog Harness
The EXCEPTIONAL ELITE SPANKER Tactical Dog Harness has a plush, cushioned control handle that is comfortable to use for extended durations. It has two adjustable straps for a customized fit.
It also has two quick-snap buckles for easy donning and doffing. The harness is equipped with a MOLLE system for attachments or patches as well as an ID panel for stickers.
This harness’s straps need frequent modification, which is aggravating when required daily. If your dog is powerful enough and pulls with sufficient force, the clips may be undone.
This might rapidly become a safety issue. The harness may easily chafe and rub. The buckles on this harness are insufficiently sturdy for large, powerful canines.
The harness also lacks luminous stripes to increase your assistance dog’s visibility. It is only available in hues that are difficult to see, such as tan and black.
Pros
- Softly-padded control grip
- Two adjustable straps and two quick-release buckles.
- Sticker identification panel and MOLLE system
Cons
- Straps must be often adjusted
- Dogs with sufficient force can unscrew clips.
- Can rub and chafe some dogs
- Not ideal for large, powerful dogs
- Lacks reflective stripes and is colored in inconspicuous hues.
Buyer's Guide
Service dog vests and harnesses offer a variety of characteristics to consider while looking for the ideal one for your dog. We have compiled a list of crucial factors in a buyer’s guide.
Strong Handle
One of the most crucial characteristics of a service dog vest and harness is a sturdy, long-lasting handle.
Frequently, service dogs are employed to aid individuals with movement and stability, thus a handle that can withstand frequent usage is crucial.
The handle should be securely sewn to the rest of the harness so that there is no chance of it detaching when pulled.
It is also essential that the handle is comfortable to grip for extended periods of time, thus cushioning in this region is a characteristic to look for.
Fit
It is also crucial that the vest or harness fits your dog appropriately. It should not be so huge that it slides about, since this poses a safety risk if it slips off too readily. It should not be so tight that it makes it difficult for your dog to run or do its duties.
The easiest method to guarantee a correct fit is to measure your dog and compare the results to the size chart provided by the manufacturer. Measuring is more exact and will get better results than using a dog breed guide as a size chart.
Comfort
Service dogs generally work long hours and wear their vests and harnesses daily. Therefore, the vest and harness should be really comfortable for your pet to wear. Adjustable harnesses are advantageous since their fit may be customized.
Additionally, it is essential to choose a vest or harness with padding to minimize chafing. Vests and harnesses that are lightweight and breathable are essential in warm conditions to ensure that your dog is comfortable and does not overheat.
Solidity and Endurance
Vests and harnesses for service dogs must be robust and resistant to regular wear and tear. Choose one composed of a durable, preferably waterproof material, such as nylon. The vest or harness should be well-sewn so that none of the rings or buckles may be removed without difficulty.
Attachments
Your service dog may aid you by pulling your wheelchair or providing you with an alternative mode of transportation. Therefore, attachments such as D-rings must be sturdy and resilient enough to resist regular usage and hard tugging.
MOLLE attachments, which stand for Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment, are included on several harnesses. These attachments are generally used by the military and are constructed to be sturdy and resilient.
Pockets
When you’re out and about with your service dog, vest or harness pockets make it easy to carry items. You can put treats, food, and even a collapsible water dish for your dog inside, and then your dog will carry it for you.
Reflective Streifen und Etiketten
For safety reasons, you want your assistance dog to be extremely visible while you’re outside with it. Bright colors and bright strips make it easier for people to see your dog, particularly at night.
A “Service Dog” label must be applied to the vests and harnesses of service dogs. Some vests and harnesses already have this label, while others let you to affix one. In any case, the label should be prominent, easily readable, and reflective.
Simple on and off
Because your dog will wear a service dog vest and harness every day, it must be simple to put on and take off. Ideally, it should be removable with a single hand. This will prevent it from becoming a daily battle.
Some vests and harnesses have a Velcro strap in addition to the buckles, so that after the buckles have been adjusted and fixed, the vest or harness may be placed on or taken off using the Velcro.
Buckles
The buckles on your service dog vest or harness should be robust and of high quality construction. Because buckles are often what hold a dog’s vest on, it is crucial that they remain intact despite intense tugging.
A damaged buckle might result in the vest or harness falling off, posing a safety risk. Additionally, you should search for quick-release buckles so that you may simply put on and remove the harness.
Material
Nylon is the greatest material for a service dog vest and harness since it is weather-resistant and robust. However, nylon may chafe easily, thus padding is necessary to protect the skin and hair of your dog. Although nylon is not the most breathable material, strategically placed mesh may help keep your dog cool.
Density of Vest
Typically, your service dog will wear the vest or harness daily. Because of this, it is essential that your dog’s harness does not weigh him down. Additionally, it should not be so cumbersome that it hinders your dog’s mobility.
FAQs
1. What is a vest for assistance dogs and how does it function?
A service dog wears a vest, sometimes referred to as a harness, which is a specialized piece of equipment. This equipment has a dual purpose: first, it indicates to the dog that he is working. Second, it informs everyone you meet that your dog is a service animal. This indicates that people should not touch or feed your dog without your explicit consent.
Vests for service dogs feature labels that read “service dog.” Depending on the circumstances, your service dog’s vest may have extra or alternative labeling. Some vests and harnesses contain pockets for carrying essentials. Others carry a backpack to work. The particulars depend on your and your dog’s demands.
2. What are the many sorts of service animals?
There are several varieties of service dogs. A service dog assists a person with a disability or mental or physical condition in doing tasks that would be difficult for them to accomplish on their own.
Visual Assistance Dogs, which guide the blind and visually impaired; Hearing Dogs for the Deaf; Wheelchair Assistance Dogs, which may pull a wheelchair; Seizure Assistance Dogs, which can warn their handlers of an impending seizure and also provide assistance or get help for the handler; and Psychiatric Service Dogs, which assist owners with psychiatric conditions.
3. Does my service animal need a vest?
It is not required by law for a service dog to wear a vest. It depends on personal choice and the demands of the owner. Some service dogs must transport objects for their owner; in these instances, a vest with pockets or one that is compatible with a backpack is helpful. However, if you prefer that your service dog not wear a vest, that is also acceptable.
4. Can an emotional support animal wear a vest for service dogs?
No, an emotional support animal does not need to wear a vest. An emotional support dog is permitted specific privileges, including the right to live with their owner in pet-free accommodation and the ability to travel in the aircraft cabin.
However, stores and restaurants are not required to let emotional support dogs inside; in many regions, it is actually against the local health code to do so. It is vital not to mistake a support dog vest with a service dog vest, but you do have the option to get one.
Conclusion
The ALBCORP Service Dog Vest Harness is the best option overall since it is lightweight, cushioned, and highly luminous. The vest is constructed of a nylon-polyester combination for increased durability, and it is well-stitched. With sturdy, adjustable straps and an easy-to-use clasp, this vest may be swiftly donned and removed.
The pawshoppie Reflective Service Dog Vest Harness offers the greatest value since it is available in a range of bright colors and is highly reflective, making your dog visible even at night. It is well-padded and features a durable, stitched handle for increased durability. Additionally, the vest is simple to put on and remove.
Vests and harnesses for a service dog must be robust and well-constructed to withstand everyday usage. BestForPets (bestforpets.org) hopes that our reviews and buyer’s guide have helped you discover the best service dog vests & harnesses.
Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.
Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher
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