Is your dog afraid of loud noises? Do they get scared when they hear thunder or fireworks? Does your dog experience separation anxiety when you leave the house? Just because you have a large dog, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a product to help them. A calming vest for large dogs may help to ease their anxiety.
This post will look at what a calming vest is, how it can help your dog, and how to find the best one for your large dog.
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What Is A Calming Vest?
A calming vest, or anti-anxiety vest, is a vest you put on your dog to help calm them in stressful situations and times of anxiety.
How Does An Anti-Anxiety Vest Work?
A calming vest works by providing a gentle yet constant pressure on your dog, giving them the feeling of being hugged. This in turn helps to decrease stress and anxiety.
Some calming vests may have weight to it as well, providing extra comfort to your dog.
Who Is A Calming Vest For Large Dogs Good For?
Calming vests are good for large dogs who:
- Are afraid of loud noises, like thunder, fireworks, or even the vacuum.
- Experience separation anxiety when you leave the house.
- Have anxiety about going to the veterinarian or being in the car.
- Need to have an area protected after having a surgical procedure.
Do Anti-Anxiety Vests Work For All Dogs?
Unfortunately, calming vests do not work for all dogs. Some dogs’ anxiety is just too much and they may need to be on medication to control it.
An anti-anxiety vest is good for dogs with minor or occasional anxiety.
You won’t know if a calming vest will work with your dog until you try it in them.
How Do I Fit My Large Dog For A Calming Vest?
To find the proper fit for a calming vest for your dog, you will need to measure them.
Measure your dog at the widest part of their chest, which is right behind their front legs. Compare this measurement to the manufacturer’s chart to find the right size. If your dog is between sizes, you will probably have to size up.
Some companies may suggest measuring the length of your dog as well. To do this, measure from the base of their neck to the base of their tail.
Will A Calming Vest Fit My Large Dog?
You may think just because you have a large dog that there may not be an anti-anxiety vest available for them to try in their size. Actually, there are a few brands of calming vests that do offer bigger sizes to accommodate larger dogs.
Measure your dog first to be sure you are getting the right size vest for your dog.
Anti-anxiety vests for large dogs can be in a Large, X-Large, or even XX-Large size to fit bigger dogs.
What Should I Look For When Buying An Anti-Anxiety Vest For My Large Dog?
When buying a calming vest for your large dog, here are some things you may want to look for:
Size
Of course, you will want to look at the size first. Always measure your dog to be sure you get the correct fit. Some companies may also offer a weight amount along with the measurements to give you an idea if a certain size will fit your dog.
Fit
The fit is just as important as the sizing. The calming vest should provide your dog with gentle, comforting pressure, not suffocate them. If your dog seems uncomfortable at any time wearing the vest, take it off them.
Closure
Check how the vest will fasten onto your dog. Most, if not all, calming vests use Velcro. For dogs that do not like loud noises, this may not be a good idea as the sound of the Velcro when you take the vest off may scare them.
Weight
If you opt for a weighted vest for your dog, make sure the weight is not too much for your dog. This is similar to a weighted blanket. Too much weight and it may have the opposite effect.
Care Instructions
Check the care instructions. Look for a vest that can be machine washed for easy cleaning.
How Long Can A Dog Stay In A Calming Vest?
A dog can spend multiple hours wearing a vest. Even if your dog enjoys wearing the calming vest, it is important to take it off of them a few times a day to allow their skin to breathe and to avoid them becoming too reliant on wearing the vest.
Can Dogs Sleep Overnight In A Calming Vest?
Dogs can sleep overnight with a calming vest. When your dog is up for the day, it is important to take the vest off of them for the reasons stated in the section above.
Best Calming Vests For Large Dogs
Here are 5 examples of calming and anti-anxiety vests for large dogs. Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Remember that these vests may not work on all dogs, but it is worth a try to see if it helps your dog.
If your dog continues to have anxiety, especially if it is severe, please see your veterinarian.
Best Classic Calming Vest
Thundershirt Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest
The ThunderShirt is the first thing people think of when they hear the words “calming vest”. The largest size can accommodate dogs 110 pounds or larger.
- Applies gentle calming pressure.
- Helps calm fear, anxiety, and over excitement.
- Produces a gentle hugging effect.
- Uses a Velcro closure.
- Large fits dogs up to 64 lbs.
- X-Large fits dogs up to 109 lbs.
- XX-Large fit dogs 110 lbs. or more.
- Made in the USA.
Best Weighted Calming Vest
Canada Pooch Weighted Dog Calming Vest
This vest uses a weight that is inserted into the vest. This weight can also be heated for extra comfort.
- Weighted insert.
- Evenly distributes weight across shoulders.
- Insert is made of non-toxic microbeads.
- Designed to be up to 3% of your dog’s body weight.
- Machine washable.
- Velcro closure around chest and belly.
- Insert is also microwaveable.
- X-Large for dogs up to 65 lbs.
- XX-Large for dogs up to 120 lbs.
Best For Color Options
American Kennel Club Anti Anxiety And Stress Relief Calming Coat
This vest comes in a variety to choose from and is for dogs up to 100 pounds.
- Available in various colors.
- Applies gentle constant pressure.
- Velcro straps.
- Machine washable.
- Large for dogs up to 70 lbs.
- X-Large for dogs up to 100 lbs.
Best Calming Vest With Bells And Whistles
CozyVest 3-in-1 Anxiety Calming Vest
If you want some more extra help in calming your dog, this vest comes with a device that plays relaxing music and a refillable crystal with relaxing scents.
- Applies gentle calming pressure.
- Features relaxing sounds.
- Includes lavender and chamomile refillable scent crystals.
- Machine washable.
- Large for dogs up to 64 lbs.
- X-Large for dogs up to 110 lbs.
- XX-Large for dogs greater than 110 lbs.
Best Breathable Calming Vest
Yrenoer Dog Anxiety Vest
This anti-anxiety vest is made of breathable fabric and also has reflective stitching for visibility at night.
- Applies gentle calming pressure.
- Made of soft, breathable fabric.
- Includes reflective stitching.
- Uses a Velcro closure to secure it to your dog.
- Machine washable.
A calming vest for large dogs can help keep your amazing, yet highly anxious big dog calm during stressful situations. By applying a constant gentle pressure they feel more secure and like they are being hugged. It is worth it to give it a try for your dog to help ease their stress and anxiety.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.