The Best Hunting Dog Vests
For most of human history, dogs have served as man's loyal friends and hunting companions. Today, teaming up with Fido to capture our food is no longer a necessity, but it's still an enjoyable pastime for those who love being outdoors. Many dogs love it, too, especially those bred to hunt, such as hounds and spaniels. But staying safe is vital when hunting with your canine companion, which includes equipping them with a high-quality hunting vest. Available in various designs and bright colors, these garments will help protect your pooch by increasing their visibility in the field — thus improving your chances of success during your next outing.
What to Look For
The best hunting vests should keep your dog safe and comfortable as they roam outdoors. For safety, that may mean the vest incorporates colors and materials that increase their visibility, but it also may mean it features tough, protective materials that shield them from the elements. No matter the design, a good hunting vest should be durable enough to last through many outings. With all that in mind, our favorite hunting vest is the minimalist model from Browning, which is perfect for active dogs in temperate climates. If you’re looking for something a little more tactical, we also love the waterfowl vest from Rig’Em Right, which comes in a few stealthy camo patterns. For more on these vests and to find one that’s right for your hunting pup, read on.
Browning Protective Hunting Dog Vest
Safety first
Made by one of the most recognizable names in the hunting industry, this minimalist vest from Browning is the perfect garment for active dogs in temperate climates. The puncture-resistant chest plate will protect your dog’s underside from brush and rocks as they run through the woods. And the flexible straps keep the vest secure but still allow for plenty of movement and range of motion. We also love the classic safety orange color, which is highly visible in all conditions.
Pros:
- The velcro straps are strong and easy to adjust to fit different dog body types.
- The minimalist design ensures that dogs don’t overheat in this vest, making it ideal for warmer environments.
Cons:
- This particular model only comes in medium sizes.
Rig’Em Right Waterfowl Bloodline Elite Dog Vest
Through thick and thin
Whether you’re hunting in a swamp or the snow, this tactical vest from Rig’Em Right will ensure your pup is protected and comfortable. The neoprene construction helps to repel water and keep your dog insulated from the cold, while the tough canvas upper can prevent them from being scratched by debris. The vest comes in a few different camo patterns and incorporates a handle on the top, allowing you to pull your canine companion out of trouble when needed.
Pros:
- The variety of camo options helps this vest blend into several different environments, from desert landscapes to swamps.
- The handle is a nice touch, especially if you have a small dog that you can easily pick up.
Cons:
- The plastic zipper is not as durable as the rest of the vest.
SafetyPup XD Reflective Dog Vest
Always protected
For quick hunts or even just casual walks around the park, this vest from SafteyPup XD is a useful garment to have on hand. It includes everything you need to keep your dog safe when you’re out and about. The bright orange color keeps them visible to oncoming traffic, and the durable Oxford fabric with reinforced stitching shields them from unpleasant weather. It also comes in several sizes, so you can find the right fit for your pooch.
Pros:
- With two easily adjustable straps, this vest is easy to put on and take off your dog.
- Reflective details, including a reflective paw print, add to the vest’s visibility.
Cons:
- The vest doesn’t provide any insulation from the cold or wet.
Browning Camo Neoprene Dog Vest
Canine comfort
If you’re hunting for waterfowl, you’ll need a way to keep your pup warm and dry throughout the day. Luckily, Browning’s dog vest was designed to do just this, featuring neoprene construction that insulates your dog from cold and wet conditions. It also keeps them concealed from your prey, thanks to the authentic Realtree MAX-5 camouflage pattern.
Pros:
- The vest comes in two neoprene grades, making it suitable for multiple conditions.
- We love the integrated handle, which allows you to pick up your dogs quickly in an emergency.
Cons:
- The vest is a little more expensive than others on the market.
Vizbrite Reflective Dog Vest
Bright and shiny
Some of the best times of day to hunt are in the early morning and late evening. But with low visibility during these hours, it is harder to keep track of your pooch. That’s where this reflective vest from Vizbrite comes in. With bright silver stripes along the neck and back, the vest does a great job reflecting light and, as a result, increases your dog’s visibility. For that reason, it’s also a great garment to own if you routinely take your dog on evening walks since the vest will keep them seeable on busy roads.
Pros:
- In addition to safety orange, this vest comes in bright yellow.
- The strong neck and belly straps ensure the vest stays secure, even on especially active dogs.
Cons:
- The material is not the most durable.
Why does my dog need a hunting vest?
When hunting with your dog, staying safe is the number one priority. That’s especially true if you’re hunting in more densely populated areas, where running into other hunters is a real possibility. Thanks to their bright colors — usually safety or blaze orange — a hunting vest will keep your pup visible to other hunters. Some vests will also protect dogs from harsh weather conditions, including water, snow, or rocks and debris they may encounter in the wilderness.
Which hunting vest is right for my dog?
Hunting vests come in many different colors and designs. The perfect one for your dog will depend on where and what kind of hunting you plan on doing. If you’re hunting in a populated area, blaze orange will keep your dog visible to other hunters or people in the area. If you’re hunting in wet or cold climates, a vest that incorporates neoprene will ensure they stay warm and comfortable.
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