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From fireworks on the 4th of July to heavy rain and thunderstorms, life isn't always easy for anxious dogs. Loud noises, unexpected guests, or trips to the vet can leave them stressed and unhappy, but dog anxiety jackets can help. If you're considering a dog anxiety jacket for your canine companion, you might be wondering where to start. You'll find a range of options for sale, and all of them look fairly similar to the outsider. But, worry not, because we at BestReviews are here to simplify matters.
Dog anxiety jackets use gentle compression to provide your pooch with a sense of reassurance. This is akin to swaddling a baby or using a weighted blanket. Dogs are pack animals who innately want to be close to their family group during times of stress. A dog anxiety jacket gives your four-legged friend the same physiological effect as being close to you when you can't be there — or when your pup is too anxious to settle and receive your attention.
Anxiety jackets are beneficial in a range of stressful scenarios: during thunderstorms and firework displays, on car rides, at the vet's office, and when left home alone.
Size
From tiny Chihuahuas to giant Great Danes, dogs come in a wide range of sizes, and so do anxiety jackets. It's obvious that a one-size jacket wouldn't fit all dogs, so the majority are available in five or six sizes, from extra-small to extra-large. We don’t recommend guessing which size would fit your dog. Check the size guide to pick the jacket that would fit your four-legged friend correctly. Sizes are typically correlated with weight ranges rather than measurements. If you're unsure of your dog's weight, either search the internet for the average weight range for your dog's breed or, better yet, take your dog to be weighed at the veterinarian's office.
Material
Most dog anxiety jackets are made from synthetic materials, but you can find some made from natural materials, such as cotton. Although natural materials are generally more breathable — and therefore cooler — than synthetics, there are some special synthetic blends designed for breathability. This is ideal if your dog will be exercising in the anxiety jacket. Dog anxiety jackets tend to work best with a degree of stretchiness; the goal is to apply even pressure without being too tight. Spandex or elastic may be added to the material to make this so.
Cut
The cut of your dog's anxiety jacket makes a difference, especially if you want to walk your dog in it. Jackets that are cut slightly further forward on the underside allow free movement of the back legs, making them more comfortable for running and jumping around.
While some dogs only need to wear their anxiety jacket at home, others need to wear the jacket when out and about. For instance, if anxiety causes your four-legged friend to be reactive toward other dogs, or if your pooch is scared by gunshots when walking in the countryside, it’s probably best for the dog to wear the jacket during outings.
Fastenings
Many dog anxiety jackets fasten with Velcro. This is superior to old-fashioned buckle fastenings, as they can be uncomfortable if your dog lies on them. The one issue with Velcro, however, is that extremely anxious dogs may dislike the sound of it. For Velcro-averse pooches, the best option is a stretchy, fastening-free jacket that goes on over the head like a T-shirt. However, these aren't great for older, arthritic dogs, as you may cause them discomfort when getting their legs through the leg holes. Ultimately, there's no perfect fastening option, so just choose the one that works best for your dog.
Color
The majority of dog anxiety jackets come in several color choices. Some options are only available in a couple of neutral colors such as gray, black, or beige. Others have a much wider color selection, including bold colors and patterns. One famous manufacturer of anxiety jackets has partnered with several sports teams to bring you jackets emblazoned with team logos!
Just how much should you expect to pay for a canine anxiety jacket? You can find dog anxiety jackets for as little as $10 to $15, but these often come from unknown brands and may not be as effective as higher-end options. Expect to pay at least $20 to $30 for a basic yet effective anxiety jacket. The best models cost between $40 and $50.
Q. Will a dog anxiety jacket stop all unwanted behaviors?
A. An anxiety jacket can help dogs in stressful situations, but it isn't a cure-all for every unwanted behavior. Dog anxiety jackets are only useful for anxiety-induced behaviors. For instance, if your dog is urinating in the house due to anxiety, one of these jackets may help the issue. If the dog simply hasn't been toilet trained, however, it won't make a difference.
Even for anxiety-related behaviors, you should continue with other training or therapy, too, for the best results. For instance, an anxiety jacket can help dogs who are afraid of fireworks, but it would be more effective when used alongside desensitization therapy.
Q. How do I put on my dog's anxiety jacket?
A. The exact method of putting an anxiety jacket on your dog varies depending on the model. Some are completely self-explanatory, whereas others can be more complex. If you need help, consult the instruction leaflet that comes with the jacket.
Q. For how many hours can my dog continuously wear an anxiety jacket? A. As long as your dog's anxiety jacket is comfortable, it can be worn for eight to ten hours continuously. For instance, a dog who suffers from separation anxiety could wear the jacket all day while you're at work. That said, in rare cases, anxiety jackets can rub away the fur and cause sores or skin irritation. So, you need to be home the first time your dog wears the jacket for a long stretch of time. Take the jacket off every couple of hours to check for signs of rubbing or irritation. If you see any, take the jacket off and discontinue use. If the jacket is comfy and doesn't rub, it's fine for your pooch to wear all day.
