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Best Dog Anxiety Vests

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What Makes a Dog Anxious?

What is Dog Anxiety?

Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety.  Common causes include fear, separation, and aging.  All dogs experience some anxiety from time to time, but when it becomes cumbersome or is at disproportionate levels, it is up to us as owners to provide relief for our best friends.

Looking Beyond Separation Anxiety

We all know that the most common thing that causes our dogs stress is separation.  What are some other situations or conditions that can cause anxiety in our dogs?

Rescue and Shelter Pups

One of these might be rescue or formal shelter anxiety.  Memories of abandonment or a prior traumatic experience, along with an unpredictable routine or environment can raise our canine companion’s stress level.

Illness Induced Anxiety

Common conditions that causes this are hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis (Grave’s Disease), Encephalitis, or swelling of the brain tissue, Pre-diabetes, or hearing or vision loss.

Best Dog Anxiety Vests

Generalized Anxiety

See Also:

Lastly, some dogs are prone to anxiety.  A prior incident, an incident we were unaware of, or an upset in routine or environment can lead to generalized anxiety.  Although very common, this is not an issue that should be shrugged off.  Breeds typically susceptible to generalized anxiety include German/Australian Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Viszlas, Border Collies, Greyhounds, Havanese, Shorthair Pointers, Cocker Spaniels, Bichon Frise, King Charles Spaniels and many toy breeds.

Signs and Symptoms

Just as we look for signs and symptoms of illness in ourselves, we should also do so for our four-legged friends.  Often, these signs are subtle and there are six indications we should talk to our vet.  Sometimes our dogs will pace or shake.  Look out for increased whining or barking.  Although vocalization is normal, when our pups are under duress to get our attention or self-soothe.  Excessive yawning, drooling or licking can also indicate our dogs are anxious.  A change in eyes or ears should also give us warning including dilated pupils, wide eyes (startled look) or ears pinned back to the head should tell us something is up.  Body posture can let owners know their dog is feeling stressed.  Typically, dogs will shift their weight to their rear legs and can tuck or make rigid their tail.  Pay special attention to increased shedding, as this can be a sign of anxiety as well.

How Can We Help?

First and foremost, maintaining a consistent schedule, controlling social interactions and creating a predictable environment with low stimuli are three easy fixes when it comes to anxiety.

Commercially Available Shirts

These are often a great fix as they provide a gentle physical pressure.  When our babies need comfort, swaddling helps, dogs need this security too.  Think of the shirt as a constant hug for your pooch.

Pheromones

These hormones help to control behavior and are available in sprays, collars or diffusers.  These hormones mimic the one’s mom dogs release to make their puppies feel safe.

Nutritional Supplements

These can be a variety of products but be careful as some supplements can harm your dog.  It is vitally important to consult your vet and make sure to buy quality products.  This is truly a case of you get what you pay for.

Who Should Buy a Dog Anxiety Vest?

The simple answer is those who have pets that exhibit anxious behavior should consider buying a dog anxiety vest.  It is important to do research to see what alternatives there are to calm your stressed-out pooch.  However, if owners are looking for a remedy that does not include medication and have exhausted other methods of calming their dog, an anxiety vest might just be the ticket to calming down an anxious dog.  Phobias are common in dogs, and two of the most prevalent are separation anxiety and loud noise anxiety.  If an owner notices that their canine companion is not able to overcome the shock of a loud noise, a vet visit, or separation, amongst many other triggers, they might want to consider an anxiety vest.  Other indications of a stressed-out dog include pacing, panting, howling, or destructive behavior.  If you are a dog owner who sees this type of behavior, there is really no harm in trying an anxiety vest.  Many dogs respond to pressure therapy because it triggers the release of feel good hormones called pheromones.  The pheromones promote and overall sense of well-being in your dog.  Dog anxiety vests are designed to provide constant pressure, like giving your pup a hug.  Again, the simple answer is if you see anxious behavior in your dog, a dog anxiety vest may be the remedy your dog needs to relieve stress.

How Do Dog Anxiety Vests Work?

Dog anxiety vests work much like swaddling an infant.  They provide comfort when our canine companions are scared, and we cannot be there or there are situations out of our control.  Our pups look to us for comfort because we are the pack leaders and they feel safe when they are close to us.  If we cannot provide that comfort, an anxiety vest can.  Typically, these wrap around the core of your dog, providing a sense of closeness and comfort.  They are usually made of material that is lightly weighted and can provide consistent pressure.  This pressure makes them feel like they are being held and the pressure has the same physiological effect which helps to calm them down.

What Features Should I Consider When Purchasing a Vest?

Let’s start with the price.  Determine how much money you want to spend on the vest, as price points vary depending on the brand.  It is also important to look for a vest that applies constant, mild pressure.  Fabric is a multi-faceted consideration.  First and foremost, look at the cleaning directions, if you want something washable, make sure the vest you choose fits the bill.  The material must also be flexible, as owners do not want to restrict their dog’s movement in any way.  The fabric must also be breathable, lightweight, and soft.  Make sure to consider how long you want your dog to wear the vest when choosing fabric options.  Check out how to put on the vest, as some dogs may be more reluctant or squirmy when donning the vest.  Another feature to consider is the fastening system.  For example, pet owners with long-haired breeds may want to avoid Velcro fastening systems.  Many products have different size options, so, consider the sizing chart and measure accordingly for your breed.  Lastly, if color is important, look to ensure there are varieties available.

How to Choose the Right Vest

If you search the internet for dog anxiety vests, you will soon come to realize that there are a plethora of vests available.  With so many choices, what should you focus in on for your pup?  First consider the size, as it needs to fit perfectly to ensure effectiveness.  It’s a good idea to measure weight, chest and take note of the length.  Some vests require leg holes in the fitting.  If your dog is not used to wearing clothes or does not like to be handled, you may want to consider a vest that has a wrap design.  Most vests use Velcro as a fastener.  If your dog has longer hair, you might want to think about the hook and loop choice.  Be aware that the hook and loop fastening system can be tricky.  Of course, material is also a concern.  You will want to look for a vest that comforts and is comfortable.  Consider the wear and tear your dog will impart on the vest as well as machine washing.  Some vests are not washable.  It is also vital that the vest is made of a breathable material because we do not want our dogs to overheat.  Lastly, the vest you choose could have the option to include scents or sprays for additional calming.  Make sure to only use pet-friendly sprays should this option appeal to you.

When Should I Use the Dog Anxiety Vest?

The real question should be when shouldn’t you use it?  Any time your pooch displays behaviors that indicate they are anxious or stressed, it is time to pull out the anxiety vest.  There are many situations in which you can utilize this tool.  Some common ones are trips to the vet, thunderstorms, fireworks, car trips, flights or for general separation anxiety.

FAQ’s for Anxiety Vests

What anxiety behaviors should I look for in my dog?

How does a dog anxiety vest work?

Is training required?

Which product available will provide maximum calming for my dog?

Which style will work best for my dog?

What features should I look for?

How do I appropriately put on the vest?

How do I ensure proper fit for the size of my dog?

How long can I keep the vest on?

What fabric is the vest made of?

How do I clean the vest?

Can the vest be kept on during elimination?

What if the vest does not work for my dog?

How do I exchange or return the vest if needed?

Who Should Buy a Dog Anxiety Vest?

Top 5 Anxiety Vests

Thundershirt

Mellow Shirt

American Kennel Club Anti-Anxiety and Stress Relief Calming Coat

Surgi Snuggly E Collar Alternative with Antimicrobial

Comfort Zone Anxiety Vest

I Bought an Anxiety Wrap, Now How Do I Put It On?

For most wraps, a dog’s head goes in first, followed by legs one at a time with owner guidance, then you can secure the strap.  If worn properly, the wrap should even distribute pressure over the back and sides of the legs.  It is important to get the right size.  To do so, measure your dog’s chest girth and choose the appropriate size.  If your dog is between sizes, always choose the larger size.  Make sure that your dog is comfortable and free to move around easily.  It is vital to train your dog with the wrap.  Acclimate them to it by putting it on periodically during happy, positive times.  When they become used to it, make sure to put it on before a stressful event and remove it afterwards.

 The Top Pick: Surgi Snuggly E Collar Alternative with Antimicrobial

Overview

The Surgi Snuggle E Collar Alternative allows your pet to heal in comfort and reduces post-operative anxiety, as well as generalized anxiety.  It is a great abdominal wound protector for post spay, neutering, perianal, mast tumor, or mammary operations. Typically, your furry friend must wear a cone after their operation, but the Surgi Snuggly offers an alternative while our pets are healing.   Not only can it provide protection for your pet, it also aids in reducing generalized anxiety or post-operative anxiety, as state above. Developed by Dr. Paul O Williams, a veterinarian with over forty years’ experience, it spent three years in product development.   The Surgi Snuggly is used by thousands of vets, trainers and pet professionals and is available in full or half suits.  With the signature sizing system, measurements of weight, girth and spine ensure proper fitting. Sizes range from extra small all the way through 2 XL.  The Ultrafresh antimicrobial technology keeps germs away, while aiding in odor elimination that can accompany healing.  The Surgi Snuggly is a premium product made in America using the best textiles and yarns.  It is comfortable for use in the fall, spring, and summer.  The Surgi Snuggly allows full movement while maintaining its shape.  This product is machine washable but should be dried flat.  Available in a variety of colors, it is extremely easy to use.  Simply place over your dog’s head, guide each paw in appropriate opening, slide along the body, pull between the legs around the top of the back and Velcro the tabs under the back pocket.  Because there are no snaps, buttons, or zippers, the Surgi Snuggly is easy to put on and remove when needed.  The Hook N Loop technology is not hard, noisy, or scratchy for your four-legged friend.  When not in use, there are closing covers so that the Hook N Loop is covered.  Overall, the Surgi Snuggly is our top choice.

Pros

Created by a veterinarian with over forty years’ experience

Reduces anxiety

Fits both females and males

Signature size system ensures proper fitting

Protects wounds and bandages

Aids with hotspots

Breathable and Stretchable

Antimicrobial with Utrafresh technology (no germs or odors)

Better choice than a cone for post operation

Cons

Dogs can still reach some areas

Stretchy enough to be moved around

Not chew proof

Holds moisture

Must remove for elimination

A Close Second…Comfort Zone Calming Vest for Dogs for Thunder and Anxiety

Overview

The Comfort Zone Calming Vest offers compression with soft, flexible, and breathable material that can be worn at all times. Voted Product of the Year in 2019 in the dog care category, the Comfort Zone Calming Vest provides a gentle, constant swaddling like pressure to alleviate a dog’s stress.  The soft layer of fabric is adjustable and numerous studies have shown that this gentle pressure is effective in reducing anxiety in humans and dogs.  The Velcro panel on the Comfort Zone Calming Vest allows choice in snugness and the vest provides maximum coverage all the way up your dog’s chest to their neck. The Spray Spot technology adds a calming scent that can reduce your four-legged friend’s anxiety.  This special opening on the tummy allows for calming sprays should your dog need a little extra help. To ensure proper fit, choose the size based on chest measurements.  The Comfort Zone Calming Vest works in a variety of situations that can cause your dog anxiety.  These situations can include fireworks, thunder, other loud noises, socializing or separation anxiety.  The swaddling pressure makes dogs feel comfortable when braving separation, inclement weather, other loud noises, or other unfamiliar social situations.  In addition, the reflective piping ensures you and your dog’s safety, particularly at night.  The three-step application process is user friendly for you and your dog.  Simply open the vest with the Spray Spot facing down, place paws through the leg holes, wrap the vest across your dog’s back so it fits snug and hook and loop is on top, and pull the wing across the back to further secure and provide additional compression.  While affordable, if you are not satisfied, you can return the Comfort Zone Calming Vest within 90 days for a full refund.

Pros

Veterinarian recommended

Can wear all the time (tighten in times of stress)

Comes in 5 sizes

Full chest fit

Maximum coverage of torso

Includes Comfort Zone Spray Spot

Reflective for safety

Easy to put on

Maximum coverage of torso

Variety of sizes

Material is cool, soft, and flexible

Durable performance fabric

Machine washable

Affordable

Fully refundable

Cons

Might not get immediate results

Dogs can tear it off

Front legs must be guided into leg holes for appropriate fit

May not be easy to put on excitable dogs

Improper fit may prevent clean elimination

Easy on the Wallet

The Kingswell Dog Anxiety Vest is the best bet for your money when it comes to calming your nervous dog.  Even though it appeals to those concerned about their budget, it does the job well, especially at its price point.  It is lightweight and water resistant because it is made with a taffeta shell.  The polyester material ensures highly breathable and waterproof protection for your pup.  Because it is made of polyester, it offers a lighter weight vest alternative as compared to other anxiety vests, which are often pricier anyway.  The Kingswell vest is made in a cloak style which makes it very convenient to put on and take off if your dog, especially if he or she does not like to wear vests.  The simple design of the Kingswell Dog Anxiety Vest has Velcro and side release buckles that make it easy on, easy off for dogs.  In the long run, this will save you time and energy and gives you more quality time with your best friend.  These release buckles allow owners to customize the vest to fit their dog.  This low-priced vest can be worn both inside and outside and it remains cool enough for your pup in the summer.  Even though the design is basic, it comes with surprisingly convenient functions.  Not only is the Kingswell vest comfortable, it helps prevent anxiety, and it is handy for you and your best friend.  It comes with a practical back pocket to hold snacks, garbage bags, keys, or any other supplies of your choosing.  The reflective strip on the back provides extra visibility during the day, at night, and in the rain.  This vest comes in a bright orange color for increased visibility, which is aesthetically pleasing for pet owners.  The design prevents rain wetting the chest, as it provides shelter for your dog in the inclement weather.  The Kingswell Dog Anxiety Vest works for most breeds and comes in sizes ranging from extra small to 15 XL.  This fits barrel-chested dogs particularly well because of the adjustable sides.  Should the Kingswell Dog Anxiety Vest not work for your dog, it is easy to return.

Pros

Budget-friendly

Convenient

Durable

Light weight

Water resistant

Breathable

Aesthetically pleasing

Prevents anxiety

Comes with a pocket

Velcro design

Safe

Versatile

Simple, but effective

Cons

Double check sizing

May not work on all dogs

Color can catch stains easily

What Is the Best Bet for Large Dogs?

The X-dog Weight Vest for Dogs is the top choice for your large breed dog when it comes to exercise and reducing stress.  In general, this vest improves the overall health and wellness for your pup.  This high-quality vest is lightweight and breathable.  The X-dog Weight Vest is designed to improve muscle, increase stamina, and endurance just by putting it on your dog.  It is made from comfortable, stylish material and has a secure, snug fit.  Double straps allow adjustment specifically for your dog’s size and comfort.  Available in five different sizes, there are removable and adjustable weight bags to strengthen front legs and shoulders of your dog.  The weight bags can be filled with sand or BB’s and with the front shoulder weight placement, they are meant to improve muscle strength.  The X-dog Weight Vest is great for high energy dogs and the sleek, well-fitting vest allows dogs to increase power with out putting stress on their joints.  This vest has so many positive benefits including conditioning, endurance, toning, improving speed, combating obesity, and reducing anxiety.  The X-dog Weight Vest is durable and long-lasting, and the size chart helps you to choose the appropriate size for your best friend.  In fact, if you have more than one best friend, you can adjust weight to meet the needs of each one while exercising them at the same time.  When you are looking to get a maximum workout for your dog, put on the weighted vest to increase the intensity of exercise in a shorter amount of time.  You can enjoy more time for yourself, while still giving your dog the attention and exercise they need.  The X-dog Weight Vest provides the necessary activity for a happy, healthy dog.  And, if you are looking for great customer service, this company provides it.

Pros

High quality

Improves health simply by wearing

Removable weight bags

Adjustable weight bags

Secure fit

Comfortable

Stylish

Variety of sizes with size chart available

Increases muscle strength

Great for high energy dogs

No stress on joints

Great customer service

Cons

Only use with adult dogs

Under 12 months is dangerous to dog

Measuring can be tricky

Cannot be used on dogs with injuries

Cannot be used with expectant mother dogs

Cannot be used in high heat temperatures

Dogs need to be supervised at all times

Need to make sure dog stays hydrated

Best Anxiety Vest for Small Dogs

Best Anxiety Vest for Small Dogs

If you are dog owner looking for the best anxiety vest for your small, canine friend, the choice is the Thundershirt Sport Dog Anxiety Jacket.  This jacket has a success rate of about 80% and is used on millions of dogs.  It is affordable and comes highly recommended by vets, Trainer, and pet owners alike.  The anxiety jacket can be used with Thunder Ease or ThunderWunders for additional calming power.  The Thundershirt patented technology allows the jacket to apply gentle, calming, constant pressure around your dog’s torse, similar to the calming effect of swaddling a baby.  It works well for anxiety, fear, and overexcitement issues our dogs sometimes face.  Some environmental triggers can make our dogs anxious.  These can include thunder, fireworks, travel, veterinarian visits and most of all separation from owners. It is also helpful for crate training, excessive barking, hyperactivity and leash training. One of the best things about the Thundershirt Sport Dog Anxiety Jacket is that it helps to sooth your pup without additional training or medications.  This means our dogs get relief from stress naturally.  The jacket feels like a hug, with its gentle, comforting pressure.  Some dogs are naturally anxious; however, this can be especially true for rescue dogs.  The Thundershirt Jacket is great for those who may have had issues in the past.  It can also provide comfort to dogs with vision issues.  It is functional, effective, and easy to use.  It is not good to see our best friends in stress.  Without the jacket your dog might pant, shake, hide, whine or drool.  We want to provide comfort when our dogs are at their most vulnerable and the Thundershirt Sport Dog Anxiety jacket does just that.  It is made of 100% polyester and is available in a variety of styles and colors best suited to your dog’s needs.  The material is also breathable.  Should your dog be one of the 20% this jacket does not work for, there is a 100% money back guarantee with a full refund.

Pros

Highly recommended

Avoids medicating

Natural relief

Eases anxiety in a variety of situations

Effective

Easy to use

Gentle and comforting

Helps vision impaired and rescue dogs

Several styles and colors available

Money back guarantee

Cons

Does not work for all dogs

Velcro sound can startle dogs

Wearing can actually make do more anxious

Careful consideration in choosing size

Who Should Buy a Dog Anxiety Vest?

The easiest answer to this question is anyone who has an anxious dog.  Although phobias are common for dogs, if they can’t overcome the shock of loud noises, are pacing, panting, or howling, a dog anxiety vest might just be the trick to help calm frazzled nerves. Most dogs respond to the pressure therapy a vest provides.  Much like swaddling an infant, a vest triggers the release of feel good hormones, or pheromones, that promote an overall sense of well-being.  Let’s face it, we don’t want our canine companions looking to get away from loud noises or to exhibit destructive behavior.  There really is no harm in trying a dog anxiety vest to alleviate our best friend’s stress.

What Features Should I Look for In a Dog Anxiety Vest?

Most importantly, the vest should apply constant, mild pressure.  They need to be breathable, light weight and soft for overall comfort for your dog.  Also consider the material, you want to look for flexibility as to avoid restricted movement.  Washable or easy to clean fabric is a plus, as is dressing with ease.  There are also different size options for different breeds.  Most systems offer a sizing chart to help you choose the correct fit for your dog.  The fastening system is also something to consider, for example, someone with a long-haired breed might want to avoid Velcro.  Lastly, price is a consideration and you want to consider the level of investment you would like to put into a dog anxiety vest.

FAQ’s

What anxiety behaviors should I look for?

How do dog anxiety vests work?

Which product will provide maximum calm for my dog?

Which style will work for my dog?

What features should I look for?

Is training required?

How do I ensure proper fit for size?

How do I appropriately put on the vest?

What fabric is the vest made of?

How do I clean the vest?

How long can I keep the vest on?

Can the vest be used during elimination?

What if it doesn’t work for my dog?

How do I return or exchange if needed?

The Top Five Dog Anxiety Vests

  1. Thundershirt
  2. Mellow Shirt Dog Anxiety Wrap
  3. American Kennel Club Anxiety Vest
  4. Surgi Snuggly E Collar Alternative Antimicrobial
  5. Comfort Zone Calming Vest for Dogs

What Exactly is Dog Anxiety?

Just like their human owners, dogs can have anxiety.  From time to time, all breeds, in fact, all dogs experience anxiety.  Common causes include fear, separation, and aging.  However, when you witness disproportionate levels of anxiety in your pup, it needs to be addressed.

How Does a Dog Anxiety Vest Work?

Because we are their pack leaders, our dogs feel most comfortable close to us when they are scared.  Although we would like to be, we cannot always be around when our best friends need us in stressful situations or there are stressful situations which are not under our control.  When this happens, a dog anxiety vest can wrap around the core of your dog, providing a sense of comfort and closeness.  Again, similar to swaddling a baby, the slightly weighted material provides constant pressure, so our dogs feel like they are being held.  This pressure has the same physiological effect as being held, which, in turn makes our dogs feel calm and safe.

When Should I Use a Dog Anxiety Vest?

The simplest answer is any time your dog displays behavior that indicates they are anxious or stressed.  Some common triggers include, but are not limited to separation anxiety, thunderstorms, fireworks, trips to the vet, car trips and flights.

How Do I Choose the Right Vest for My Dog?

The dog anxiety vest market is inundated with choices, so it can be hard to figure out which product will work best for our dogs.  Most importantly is sizing.  The vest needs to fit perfectly to be effective.  Typically, you will need to measure the chest and factor in the weight of your dog.  It is also important to take note of the length of the vest.  If your dog is not used to wearing clothes, fitting is a consideration.  Dogs that are not used to this may prefer a wrap as opposed to a vest with leg holes.  In terms of fastenings, there are two main types available, Velcro and hook and loop.  Again, depending on your dog’s needs, you will want to choose the system that is flexible and adjustable.  We want our dogs to be comforted and comfortable, so material is important in choosing a dog vest.  We want the vest to be breathable, so our dogs do not become overheated.  The material the vest is made of should survive normal wear and tear and the cleaning method should also be considered.  Lastly, some dogs respond well to vests with scents or sprays.  This additional support may be included on the vest with a spray patch, but make sure that the sprays you use are dog-friendly only.

What Size Vest Should I Choose?

The most important thing to consider is that a dog anxiety vest works because of the gentle pressure it provides.  If the vest does not fit appropriately, it will provide zero relief for your dog.  Most sizing systems include your dog’s weight and chest measurement.  You should measure the chest around the broadest part of the ribcage, behind the front legs.  Most products advise sizing up if your dog is between sizes.  But, again, the vest is meant to provide gentle pressure.  A lot of products have systems that will allow varying pressure.  Just make sure that you can provide a snug fit for your pup.

What Fabrics Are Dog Anxiety Vests Made From?

Most, if not all dog anxiety vests are made with synthetic materials with some stretch.  Typically, these materials include, but are not limited to polyester and spandex.  Some include cotton as well and are machine washable.  Whichever vest you choose, be sure that it is lightweight and breathable.  But remember that the stretch is what provides the pressure that alleviates your dog’s anxiety, so make sure to look at the product details prior to purchasing a vest.

Keeping Your Dog Clean

It is important to look at the cleaning instructions prior to purchasing a dog anxiety vest.  Many products available are machine washable, but others have different cleaning instructions.  Be sure to check these specifications and choose what option best fits your lifestyle.

Color Options

While many products available give you choice in color, some do not.  If choosing a specific color is important to you, make sure to search out a brand that offers this option.

Do Dog Anxiety Vests Work?  If Not, What Are My Alternatives?

Well, the answer is yes and no.  For some dogs, the cocoon of warmth and gentle pressure a vest provides is enough to calm their nerves.  With the right training and application an anxiety vest can successfully alleviate anxiety.  In fact, according the Science Direct, “After 5 uses of the anxiety wrap, 89% of owners reported that it was at least partially effective in treating their dogs.”  What if your dog falls into the percentage a vest does not help?  There are alternatives available.  First and foremost, you can use the tool of distraction.  Providing a safe spot, possibly with treats and/or a white noise machine to help your pup.  If that does not work, there are calming treats available such as CBD treats or oils made specifically for dogs.  Sometimes scent-based therapy products work too.  These include

“feel good” pheromones that are available in sprays, diffusers, or collars.  If that does not work either, consider homeopathic medicine such as Bach’s Rescue Remedy for Pets.

Who Should Buy a Dog Anxiety Vest?

Can I DIY an Anxiety Wrap for My Dog?

Yes, you can.  Just like finding the answers to many other questions, the internet provides three common DIY anxiety wraps for dogs.  The most popular seems to be the Ace Bandage Technique.  To use this technique, you need to place the middle of the Ace Bandage across your dog’s chest.  Then, bring both ends up and cross on top of the shoulder blades, then cross under the stomach.  Tie the loose ends over the back, away from the spine.  The T-Shirt Technique is also common.  To accomplish this, put the t-shirt on backwards so that your dog’s tail pokes through the neck hole of your shirt and tie the shirt tails across the chest.  Lastly, you can sew your own dog anxiety vest, simply search the internet for a pattern and sew away.

How Does a Dog Anxiety Vest Work for Separation Anxiety?

Separation can cause a dog anxiety at any age.  In fact, over 13% of dogs in the United States suffer from separation anxiety.  The gentle, calming pressure around the torso of your dog helps them to feel comforted and secure.

Can You Have a Dog Anxiety Vest on All Day?

In short, yes.  If the vest fits appropriately it should be comfortable to wear all day.  Most products recommend giving your dog a break though.  For example, Thundershirt directions say to take the vest off twice a day for at least 30 minutes.  Be aware that you need to acclimate your pup to the vest first.  With some dogs, continuous wear may lessen the efficacy of the vest.  If this pertains to your dog, put the vest on prior to the stressful event and remove it after.

Will an Anxiety Vest Work in Other Situations?

Many dogs experience anxiety in situations other than being separated from their owner. Depending on your dog, they may gain comfort from a vest when it comes to trips to the vet, a grooming session, brushing, vaccinations or nail trims to name a few.  Again, the gentle pressure that the anxiety vest is designed with should help your best friend when it comes to other stressful situations as well.

Why Should I Stay Away from Anxiety Medications?

Well, there are other options prior to relying on prescription medications to help relieve your dog’s anxiety.  It is especially important to talk with your veterinarian prior to starting any approach to remedy dog anxiety.  Your vet can help to determine the specific type of anxiety of which your dog suffers.  In addition, they can help you figure out if their anxiety is situational or presents as a continual, overwhelming issue for your pup.  Your vet can also help you to determine an appropriate treatment plan.  Prior to giving your dog a prescribed drug for anxiety, you can try training, counterconditioning or other natural therapies and products (usually pheromonal or aromatherapy).  But most importantly, avoiding prescription drugs means avoiding negative side effects from them.  These can include, but are not limited to lethargy, increased anxiety, weakness, altered mental state, trouble walking, trembling/seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate and increased body temperature.  We make sure to consider the side effects of drugs when it comes to taking them ourselves.  We need to consider the negative impacts of anxiety medications for our best friends as well.

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