A Pet Owner’s Guide to Dog Anxiety Shirt
Regardless of what size your dog is, it is a common experience to find them anxious when left alone for a longer period of time. Dog anxiety shirts are vet recommended jackets that target certain pressure points, inducing sensations that calm the dogs. It is a drug free, safe option to prevent anxiety in your pet. Anxiety shirts are known to work 80% on all dogs, even without training. The sensation it creates is like cradling a baby, preventing the dog from panicking when shut in an enclosed area.
How do they work?
Research shows that the anxiety and stress in dogs can make them hyperactive. The fear often causes them to feel threatened, which may also lead to aggressive behavior. It is common to find dogs fearful of loud noises. To relieve them from such a psychological state, dogs were earlier prescribed drugs, or pet owners were requested to cuddle them with love.
The sensation of being “held tightly” relieves anxiety and stress. Provided that, anxiety shirts are designed to induce pressure on the acupressure points of dogs to make them feel secure. It is basically to deceive the dog into a constant state of being held tightly, reassuring safety and security. It is best for dogs who are exposed to the following situations:
- Thunderstorms
- Long drives
- Hunting
- Fireworks
- Dogs healing from trauma
1、ThunderShirt Classic Dog Anxiety Jacket
This patented dog jacket is designed to apply a gentle and constant pressure on the dog to prevent anxiety and induce a feeling of calmness and love. It works best when the pet gets exposed to thunder, fireworks, vet visits, separation, or travel.
This jacket works without medication and training, and is a drug free resource for the dog. It is recommended by vets and trainers as being an alternative to drug addiction for stress. Dogs who are on drugs may find it difficult to face the withdrawal symptoms, hence a solution that is medication free is always more flexible for pets.
In case of unsatisfactory results, you can claim your money back. The refund policy allows you to exchange the size in case you purchase a wrong size. The design of the jacket comes backed by science.
Thunder Shirt has been studied by Dr. Temple Grandin and recommended as effective for dogs exposed to anxious situations. Pets who have severe anxiety issues may also benefit from this jacket, as it puts them in a constant state of ease and relief.
Pros:
- Works best to calm dogs down
- Easy to apply
- Easy to clean
- Good quality product
Cons:
- Not shaped for all sizes of the dogs
- Not sized for Great Danes
2、Mellow Shirt Dog Anxiety Calming Wrap
The Mellow Shirt Dog Anxiety Calming Wrap has one of the most appealing designs. With its stretchy material, it is simpleto apply on the dog, with easy-to-adjust fasteners. The most interesting feature of this wrap is that it is made from a lightweight breathable fabric that allows you to let it stay on the dog for a longer period of time.
Many similar jackets can cause overheating, making the dog uncomfortable. Dogs who have heavy fur may feel uncomfortable with the number of other jackets available in the market, as the fabric leaves little space for ventilation. But in the case of Mellow Shirt, there is no stress of overheating.
Mellow Shirt Wrap is an effective and optimum solution for dogs living in humid areas. Unlike other anxiety shirts, this vest comes in accurate sizes. There is a size chart available, which makes it easy for you to buy the right size. You can find sizes from extra-small to extra-large, with straps and fittings adjustable to the size.
Pros:
- Breathable, easy to wash
- Easy to apply
- Accurate sizing
- Available in multiple shades
Cons:
- The lightweight fabric may be too light for cold temperatures
3、 Thundershirt TS00145
Another innovation from Thundershirt, this anxiety vest is recommended by trainers and veterans alike. Like other Thundershirt products, this item also applies constant and gentle pressure to relieve canine anxiety.
It is a safe and drug free solution to calm agitated pets and provides instant relief. The shirt calms most dogs within minutes of first use and is considered completely safe and comfortable for dogs.
Another great aspect of the design is that it is available in an assortment of sizes. The shirt can fit on most breeds, and the fabric is comfortable and fashioned to be soft and stretchable. It is the fabric that eventually makes the dog feel relaxed and comfortable.
There is no training required when using for the first time and you can simply slip it onto your pet and begin using. The bright pink color makes for great visibility as well as standing out in a crowd.
Customers give this product a very high rating for being effective.
Pros:
- Comfortable to wear
- Safe for use
- Suitable for bigger breeds
- Recommended by trainers and veterans
Cons:
- N/A
4. ThunderShirt Polo Dog Anxiety Jacket in Camo
Thunder Shirt Polo is another top listed product for dogs. It features a patented technology, clinically certified to ease anxiety and stress in dogs. The patented technology provides relief to the dogs by applying constant pressure on acupressure points. This induces a sensation of being held tightly, that makes the dog feel safe and secure.
The product claims to have 80% successful results, with a money back guarantee offer. Dogs who are being trained for travelling or movements in the wild/hunting, can benefit from using this Polo Dog Anxiety Jacket as it supports the training. The camouflage print is attractive for wildlife, and at the same time detectable from a distance. The Thunder Polo Shirt is easy to wash in the machine. It is suitable for dogs living in any temperature.
Pros:
- Attractive print
- Available in a range of sizes
- Comfortable to wear
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Finding the right size for your canine can be tricky. The size chart is a little different than standard. The recommendation is to buy one size larger than your dog’s size on the chart.
5、ThunderShirt SPORT Dog Anxiety Jacket
Thunder Shirt SPORT Dog Anxiety Jacket is clinically proven as one of the best anxiety vests for dogs. It is clinically certified for its effective results. It comes in original design with patented technology that applies pressure on the acupressure points.
There are a few products that come with a thick fabric which makes it difficult for the dogs to wear during summers. Thunder Shirt SPORT Dog anxiety Jacket gives a full coverage to your dog with proper ventilation.
The fabric with which the product is designed is breathable and lightweight, preventing overheating. Another exciting feature is the reflective trim which allows the owners to easily detect the dog when walking in the dark. Owners who use their dogs for hunting will find it easy to track the dog if lost. The product is delivered in a good quality and works 80% on all dogs.
Made with a soft and washable fabric, Thunder Shirt SPORTDog Anxiety Jacket is washable at home in a washing machine.
The company gives a money back guarantee on the product in case you are not able to calm your dog down with this vest.
Pros:
- Clinically Proven to be effective for treating anxiety in dogs
- SPORTS jacket that maintains temperature
- Soft and comfortable fabric- easy to clean
- Breathable and lightweight
Cons:
- The sizing of the Thunder SPORT are off. But the refund policy makes it easier to exchange one size for the other without any hassle
- Vest is designed for dogs 15 pounds or more
6、AKC Calm Anti-Anxiety and Stress Relief Coat
AKC Calm Anti-Anxiety vest is suitable for dogs having undergone trauma or anxiety of different forms. For dogs who have been rescued and are hyperactive to loud noises, this vest is a viable solution.
Developed and designed by American Kennel Club, the vest is available in a range of colors and sizes. The size range starts from extra small to extra-large. Pets with a huge torso will easily adjust in the vest. For smaller dogs the smallest chest size available in 13”-18” and for larger dogs the largest chest size available is 30”-38”.
It is easy to apply the vest as well as take-off. The quality of the fabric makes it machine washable. The durability of the fabric adds another attractive element to it. It has a proven track record to show relief in traumatized dogs within a few days of use. It gives the dog a feeling of being cradled, making him feel secure. It alleviates the fear of lightning, fireworks and thunder.
Pros:
- Comes in a number of sizes and colors
- Can be machine washed
- Easy to apply and take off
- Cheaper compared to other products
Cons:
- Difficult to find the proper fit, orelse the product does not work
7、The Original Anxiety Wrap
One good looking wrap around dogs, The Original Anxiety Wrap goes down to the torso. It is designed by trainers who are in search of optimum effectiveness and comfort. This anxiety wrap is specially designed to maintain the pressure and strength. Carefully designed to touch the acupressure points, it relieves stress in the animal.
It is recommended for dogs who are being healed from fear and anxiety. The material is breathable and lightweight. It is stretchable in all four directions, providing maximum comfort and coverage. The soothing effect of the fabric enhances the feelings of comfort. It is practical for terrible noises, and strong thunderstorms. You can put it on the dog during any stressful activity.
The use of breathable material keeps the dog well-ventilated. In case you are not satisfied, the company offers a money back guarantee. You may find issues with the straps and fitting, as the dog becomes anxious when looking at it.
Pros:
- Coverage for complete torso
- Is designed by certified trainers
- Crafted from a breathable lightweight material
Cons:
- Buyers have noticed problems with the fittings and adjustment
- May not fit all dogs
8. ZenDog Anxiety Vest Calming Compression
This Compression Shirt is not only durable but extremely attractive looking. With a design featuring style and utility, the jacket ensures comfort and function. This east to apply jacket is also washable in the machine.
The shirt comes in various sizes, you are likely to find the best size for your dog quite easily. It is very effective in certain situations for pets who are hyperactive and fearful of loud noises. For preventing the anxiety triggers, it may be helpful. The combination of comfort and pressure is a drug free solution for anxious dogs.
The company also gives a money back guarantee. For Restless pets with extreme anxiety, ZenDog Vest is a calming product. For dogs who get treated out of medication, this may also help heal withdrawal symptoms.
Pros:
- Machine washable
- Available in different sizes
- Money back guarantee
- Attractive looking
Cons:
- May not be perfect for traumatized pets
Conclusion:
Finding the best Anxiety Shirt largely depends on the size and conditioning of your pet. If you have a dog who has experienced trauma or is extremely sensitive to stressful situations, it is wise to invest on a jacket that comes with a patent technology.
Acupressure points are tricky, and is exactly what you should be looking for when buying an anxiety vest for your dog. It is recommended to keep your pets in an open area for a longer period of time, to prevent them from feeling claustrophobic.
Go through the size chart prior to purchase, as not all companies may have an exchange policy. The above listed products are the top listed amazon products that are authenticated to be the best for dogs of all sizes.