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. Service dogs are not required to wear special equipment, ID tags, or display identification of any kind.

That said, many handlers use a vest because it helps clearly communicate that their dog is working. Red and blue are among the most common colors, but there are no official rules. You can choose the color that best suits your dog, your visibility needs, or your organization’s preferences.

Popular Vest Color Options

• Traditional Red or Blue – Professional, easy to recognize in public spaces
• Bright Orange or Raspberry – High-visibility choices for crowded or low-light environments
• Patriotic or Camouflage Styles – Preferred by many veterans and handlers wanting something distinctive
• Custom Colors – Useful for training programs or handlers who want coordination with other gear

More Important Than Color: Function

While color is a personal choice, it’s helpful to consider how the vest will perform in day-to-day situations.

Identification Patches

All of our vests allow for patches that help communicate your dog’s role, such as:

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

Patches are especially helpful in busy environments where people may not realize your dog is performing tasks.

Choosing the Right Vest Style

• Mesh Vests – Lightweight and breathable for warm climates and active dogs
• Padded Vests – Supportive, comfortable, and often available with handles or reflective trim
• Vests with Pockets – Useful when your dog needs to carry small items such as medication or paperwork
• Small Dog Vests – Scaled-down versions that help maintain visibility and comfort for smaller breeds

Final Thoughts

There is no official or required 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, focusing on function and fit will make the biggest difference.

For more options, explore our full selection of service dog vest styles and colors to find the color and style that’s perfect for you and your partner.