This is what it means when you see a yellow ribbon on a dog's collar

Color-coded ribbons are a safe way to communicate

Just like humans, dogs have different personalities and what one dog may be comfortable with, another may struggle. While some pet owners provide anxiety relief for their dog in the way of behavioral or anxiety medications or by having them wear dog anxiety jackets, others focus on communicating their dog's skittish behavior to others, rather than medicating or covering these behaviors up. That's why you may see a dog with a yellow ribbon tied to their collar. The yellow ribbon signifies a skittish dog.

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A yellow ribbon signifies a skittish or anxious dog

There are many reasons why an owner might want to tie a yellow ribbon on their dog's collar. Mainly, a yellow ribbon is a way to communicate to other owners how to best proceed around the animal, but individual reasons could include a service dog that's in training, has PTSD or other health issues, is deaf or blind, a rescue dog or is generally anxious around other animals and humans, too.

What does a red ribbon on a dog's collar mean?

Other color-coded ribbons are sometimes used to communicate different messages as well. A red ribbon tied onto a dog's collar indicates an aggressive dog. In that case, it is advised not to approach the dog. Red and yellow are the most commonly used color-coded ribbons, but there are a few others, too.

Green indicates a friendly dog that welcomes pets, while an orange ribbon signifies that the dog likes humans, but that other dogs should keep their distance. A white ribbon is traditionally used to indicate that a dog is blind or deaf. A blue ribbon means that a dog is in service training (though yellow is sometimes used for this, too), and purple indicates that a person should not feed the dog (be it because of allergies or another reason).

Sometimes a bright yellow ribbon is used to indicate that a dog is up for adoption. Because there is a significant difference between a nervous/anxious dog and one that's up for adoption, always ask a dog's handler for clarification before approaching or petting. In either scenario, make sure to give the dog space.

Best products for nervous dogs

Strella Lab Calming Hemp Chews

This anti anxiety dog treatment contains 120 soft chews, "made with premium quality, all-natural and safe ingredients. No chemical relaxants or sedatives are used. Easy to serve treats, no hassle with pills, capsules or powder."

Sold by Amazon 

Dexil Limited Nervous Yellow Padded Dog Leash

Like a yellow ribbon, this yellow dog leash communicates to other pet owners, and people in general, to be careful around this dog. To make sure nothing is lost in translation, the word “nervous” is printed on the leash.

Sold by Amazon

Cozyvest 3-in-1 Anti-Anxiety Jacket

Using compression that promotes feelings of calmness and safety, this vest also features a music player and pocket for essential oils. It's designed to touch on a dog's three senses — touch, smell and hearing — and reduces stress during fireworks, vet visits, thunderstorms, travel and separation anxiety.

Sold by Amazon and Walmart

ThunderEssence Natural Oils Calming Spray

A drug-free way to quell a skittish dog, this calming spray uses lavender, chamomile and Egyptian geranium essential oils. Pet owners can spritz it on a dog's anti-anxiety jacket, on their bed, blanket or in the air.

Sold by Petco, Amazon and 1800PetMeds

Dexil Limited Nervous (Give Me Space) Yellow Vest

This harness makes it easy to communicate to other pet owners and people that the dog wearing the vest needs to be given space. It reads “Nervous” at the front of the harness and on both sides as well. It also has both front and back rings for a no-pull walking experience.

Sold by Amazon

HMone Max Potency Hemp Oil for Dogs and Cats

This hemp oil is cruelty-free and made in the U.S. It helps relieve joint pain and irritation, relieve stress and anxiety, and promote calm and relaxation. 

Sold by Amazon

Jxgzso Nervous Anxious Dog Bandanna

The words “I'm a little scared, please ask to pet” are emblazoned on this yellow dog bandanna. It's also available in a similar phrase — “please don't pet, I'm a little anxious." Both bandannas help notify others that this dog is skittish or anxious.

Sold by Amazon

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Stephanie Osmanski writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.