10 Best Thunder Vests For Dogs 2025 in the United States

The ThunderShirt for Dogs in Medium size is a popular calming vest designed to reduce anxiety by applying gentle, constant pressure around your dog's torso, similar to swaddling. It fits dogs with a chest size of about 25 inches and a neck size of 19 inches, making it suitable for medium-sized breeds around 20 pounds or more. The material is lightweight and breathable, which helps keep your dog comfortable during use, and it’s machine washable, making it easy to clean after outings or playtime. The vest is easy to put on and take off, with simple fastenings around the neck and torso, so no special training is needed for either you or your dog.

Many pet owners find it effective for calming dogs during stressful events like thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, or travel. One nice feature is its adjustability, allowing a snug but gentle fit that is key for its calming effect. While it works well for many dogs, it might not fully replace other anxiety treatments for more severe cases, and some dogs may need to be gradually introduced to wearing it. The ThunderShirt is also a bit basic in design, focusing mostly on function rather than style, but its Heather Gray color is neutral and discreet.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, vet-recommended, drug-free option to help calm your dog's anxiety, this vest is a solid choice. Keep in mind that its effectiveness can vary depending on your dog’s specific needs and temperament.

The CozyVest Dog Anxiety Vest is designed to provide comprehensive stress relief for dogs by combining touch, smell, and hearing. It mimics swaddling to comfort dogs while emitting lavender and chamomile scents and playing calming music through built-in speakers. This vest is particularly useful for a range of anxiety-inducing situations like fireworks, thunderstorms, and separation anxiety, making it a versatile solution for many pet owners. It’s also a drug-free calming option, which is beneficial for those looking to avoid medication for their pets.

The vest is made from soft, breathable fabric and is available in various sizes, including XL for dogs weighing between 65-110 lbs. It's easy to use as it requires no training—just slip it on your dog. Additionally, it is machine washable, making maintenance simple. One of the vest’s strong points is its adjustability, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for different breeds.

However, some users might find the built-in speakers and essential oil scent overwhelming or unnecessary. Moreover, the need for AAA batteries could be seen as an inconvenience. While generally praised, some users have reported mixed results regarding its effectiveness, so it might not work for every dog. The money-back guarantee is a reassuring feature, allowing pet owners to try the vest risk-free. If you’re looking for a multi-sensory approach to calm your dog, the CozyVest could be worth considering.

The ThunderShirt XX Large Camo Polo is designed to help calm anxious dogs using gentle, constant pressure around the torso, similar to swaddling. It is made of breathable cotton, which makes it comfortable for your dog and suitable for various climates. The XXL size fits dogs with a chest up to 50 inches, making it a good choice for larger breeds. It has adjustable straps around the neck and torso, allowing for a snug but comfortable fit without the need for training.

The vest is lightweight and easy to put on or take off, which is great for quick use during stressful events like thunderstorms or vet visits. One standout feature is that it’s machine washable, so keeping it clean is hassle-free. Many pet owners report visible stress relief in their dogs while using it. However, because it relies on pressure, dogs that dislike tightness or are very sensitive might need some getting used to the vest. Also, while it fits larger dogs well, owners of smaller dogs should look at other sizes.

The camo polo style is simple and practical but doesn’t offer much in terms of visual flair. This vest is a suitable option for dog owners looking for a drug-free, easy-to-use calming solution that can be worn regularly and cleaned easily.