If you see a dog wearing blue gear like a vest or leash, it may be a service animal or in training. While there’s no official color code, blue is commonly used for dogs assisting individuals with disabilities. These dogs are working and should never be distracted or approached without permission.
Service dogs perform critical tasks, and interrupting them can be dangerous. Blue may also appear on service dog trainees or therapy dogs—but keep in mind, therapy dogs don’t have the same legal rights as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Sometimes, blue gear simply reflects an owner’s color preference. Always check for labels or behavior before making assumptions.
Other vest colors can signal different needs:
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Yellow often means the dog needs space—perhaps due to anxiety, reactivity, or recovery.
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Red typically signals “Do Not Pet,” meaning the dog is working or prefers no interaction.
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Green is commonly used for dogs in training or friendly service animals.
Recognizing and respecting these cues ensures the safety and effectiveness of working dogs in public spaces.
