What is the Official Color of a Service Dog Vest? – ADA Guidelines & Options

What is the Official Color of a Service Dog Vest?

One of the most common questions we receive from new handlers is: “What color should a service dog vest be?” The short answer: whichever color works best for you and your dog.

Is There an Official Color Requirement?

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), there is no legal requirement for a service dog to wear any vest — let alone one of a specific color. In fact, service dogs are not required to wear special equipment, ID tags, or display identification of any kind.

That said, many handlers choose to use a vest because it helps clearly communicate that their dog is working and not a pet. While red and blue are the most common colors, there are no official rules. You can choose the color that best suits your dog, your personality, or your organization’s branding.

Popular Vest Color Options

• Traditional Red or Blue – Professional and easily recognizable
• Bright Orange or Raspberry – High-visibility choices that stand out in busy environments
• Patriotic or Camouflage Styles – Great for veterans, military handlers, or those showing pride
• Custom Colors – Match your training program, brand, or personal style

More Important Than Color: Function

While color is a personal choice, there are other key factors to consider when selecting a vest:

Identification Patches

Most vests allow for patches that identify your dog’s role, such as:

• “Working Dog – Do Not Pet”
• “Seizure Alert Dog”
• “Diabetic Alert”
• “Hearing Dog”

These patches help communicate your dog’s job to the public and emergency personnel.

Choosing the Right Vest Style

• Mesh Vests – Lightweight and breathable for warm climates
• Padded Vests – Provide support and comfort; can be fitted with handles for balance assistance
• Vests with Pockets – Allow your dog to carry small items like medication, keys, or paperwork
• Small Dog Vests – Scaled-down versions designed for comfort and visibility on smaller breeds

Final Thoughts

There’s no one “official” color for a service dog vest — the right choice is the one that keeps your dog comfortable, visible, and ready to work. Whether you choose classic red, professional blue, or something unique, focus on the vest’s functionality and your dog’s needs.

Explore our full collection of service dog vests to find the color and style that’s perfect for you and your partner.