A dog wearing blue gear is often a service dog or a service dog in training, though blue isn’t an official standard. These dogs assist people with disabilities, so it’s important not to distract or approach them while they’re working. Therapy dogs may also wear blue, but they don’t have the same legal access rights as service animals.

Because blue is also a common personal choice, not every dog wearing it has a special role. It’s always best to look for labels on the vest or observe the dog’s behavior instead of relying on color alone. Clear markings usually indicate whether a dog is performing a job.

Other vest colors can signal specific needs. Yellow often means the dog needs space due to anxiety, reactivity, or recovery. Red commonly indicates “Do Not Pet,” warning that interaction could disrupt the dog’s focus or responsibilities.

Green is frequently used for friendly dogs or those still in training. Understanding these color cues helps the public respond respectfully and safely, ensuring that working dogs can perform their duties without interference.