Blue gear on dogs—such as vests, leashes, or bandanas—is commonly associated with service animals, but not always. While there are no legal requirements for gear colors in the U.S. or most other countries, blue is widely recognized as signifying that a dog is a service animal or in training. Service dogs assist people with disabilities through tasks like guiding the visually impaired, alerting to seizures, or offering mobility support. These dogs are not pets and shouldn’t be approached, distracted, or petted while on duty. Therapy dogs, which provide emotional comfort in places like hospitals or schools, sometimes wear blue as well, though their gear varies by organization. They do not have the same legal access rights as service dogs and should only be approached with permission.

Dogs in training also often wear blue gear, signaling that they’re still learning to focus and function in public settings. Like a “Student Driver” sign, this is meant to remind others not to interfere. However, blue isn’t always a signal of working status—sometimes it’s just a color choice by the dog’s owner. Context matters: look for labels like “Service Dog” or “In Training,” note the dog’s focus and the handler’s demeanor. Recognizing gear colors like blue, yellow (nervous or reactive dogs), red (no petting), or green (approachable or training) helps people interact respectfully with dogs and their handlers. Ultimately, reading the situation—not just the color—ensures we support these animals and their crucial roles in human lives.