8 Best Coyote Vests for Dogs

Coyotes aren't just in the deep wilderness anymore. They've adapted, learning to navigate city streets, backyards, and parks, searching for easy meals. In California alone, the California Department of Fish and Game estimates that there are as many as 250,000 to 750,000 coyotes roaming its neighborhoods. 

The most unsettling fact is that coyotes are opportunistic hunters. They won't hesitate to target small dogs, especially those under 25 pounds - and it happens in the blink of an eye. For those of us who live near open fields, wooded trails, and suburban areas that border wildlife habitats, this isn't just paranoia - it's a reality we have to deal with. 

Although small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Dachshunds are more vulnerable, coyotes have been documented attacking dogs as large as Labrador Retrievers and Border Collies. And these encounters aren't rare. A study by Wildlife Management found that in some urban areas, over 30% of a coyote's diet consists of domestic pets. 

That's where coyote vests come in. They act as body armor for your dog. They are the defensive line between your pet and an attacking predator. They use sharp spikes, reinforced fabrics, and sometimes metal plates to protect your furry companion. So, if you love your dog and want to keep him safe, let's look at the best coyote vest you can buy for your dog. 

8 Best Coyote Vests for Dogs

Before I give you a list of the best coyote vests for dogs, here's why coyote attacks are becoming bolder and more frequent. Unlike decades ago, nowadays we have coyotes born in town. They don't fear sounds, cars and people. A study from the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Journal found that the frequency of coyote attacks increased by around 330%. 

Remember that coyotes are highly intelligent predators, equipped with razor-sharp teeth, incredible stamina, and a bite force of around 727 PSI. That's more than double the bite force of a German Shepherd. But what makes them truly dangerous isn't just their strength; it's their hunting strategy. Unlike wolves, which rely on brute force, coyotes are masters of ambush tactics.

A coyote spots a dog from a distance and watches, waiting for the moment when the dog is distracted or separated from you. Then, unlike wolves, which aim for the neck, the coyote attacks from behind, aiming for the lower back or hind legs. It knocks the dog off balance before going for the throat. 

So, what does this mean for us dog owners? It means we can't rely on yelling or waving our arms to scare off a determined coyote. We need something physical, something that stops an attack. Thankfully, we now have coyote vests for dogs specifically designed to do exactly that. 

Our Top 8 Coyote Vests for Dogs

The next big question is: Which coyote vest actually works? Not all vests are created equal. Some are built like medieval knight's armor, covered in spikes and Kevlar plates. Others focus more on agility, ensuring your dog can still run, jump, and play while staying protected. 

The best ones strike a balance between comfort, durability, and deterrence - but choosing the right one depends on your dog's size, environment, and lifestyle. Here are some of the best coyote vests on the market.

CoyoteVest Protective Dog Vest

The CoyoteVest Protective Dog Vest is a full-on defense system designed to keep your dog safe from predators. I've seen it in action during real coyote encounters. It looks and works like a battle suit - Kevlar-reinforced body and chrome spikes. First off, the side panels are reinforced with DuPont™ Kevlar®, the type of material used to make cut-resistant gloves and bulletproof vests. 

Remember that kevlar is five times stronger than steel on an equal-weight basis. In short, this vest is literally stab-resistant, and coyote teeth don't stand a chance. That's probably why police K9 units and military dogs wear Kevlar vests. On top of the tough material, the vest comes with a set of chrome spikes around the neck and back area for psychological and physical deterrents.  

Note that coyotes look for an easy meal, not a fight. When they see those spikes, they're like, nope, not worth it. And if a coyote lunges, anyway, he'll get one nasty jab in the mouth, and it's game over. The good thing is that the spikes are safe to touch but sharp enough to inflict pain if enough pressure is applied. Plus, these spikes are Velcro-attached and fully removable, so you can adjust them based on your dog's needs.

Vlkaviva Dog Deterrent Vest

Unlike most protective vests that focus purely on stopping coyote bites, the Vlkaviva Dog Deterrent Vest is an all-in-one defense system. It offers spike protection, high visibility, and a rugged build, making it an incredibly good deterrent against coyotes, hawks, and owls.  The spike setup includes: 

• One large spike on the neck - helping guard the most vulnerable area.

• Two back spikes - providing extra deterrence if a coyote lunges from behind.

In short, the spikes are strategically placed to protect against attacks from all angles, whether you're dealing with airborne predators or ground-level threats. I've seen a hawk swoop down; take one look at the spikes, and nope, right out of there. 

Unlike some vests that use hard plastic, the Vlkaviva features metal spikes. This means they're more durable and inflict more discomfort on an attacking coyote. What's nice about this design is the removability. The spikes attach via hook-and-loop fasteners, so if you're just taking your dog on a low-risk walk, you can take them off for comfort. 

Now, one common issue with protective vests is heat retention. Things can even be disastrous when dealing with long-haired and brachycephalic breeds like the French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Shih Tzus. 

The Vlkaviva Dog Deterrent Vest solves this with breathable mesh panels, allowing for airflow while still offering protection. The fabric is tough enough to withstand scratches and tugs yet lightweight enough to avoid weighing your dog down.

XSFANCYFUN Tactical Camouflage Protective  Dog Harness

The XSFANCYFUN Tactical Camouflage Protective Dog Harness takes a military-inspired approach, blending high-strength materials, defensive spikes, and tactical carrying capability into one serious piece of gear. The foundation of this vest is 1000D Oxford fabric - a heavy-duty, military-grade material used in high-end backpacks and military gear. 

It's abrasion-resistant, water-resistant, and tough enough to handle whatever your dog throws at it. I've seen this thing go through thick brush, muddy trails, and even a few wrestling matches with other dogs, and it still looks brand new. While the outer shell is rugged, the inside is lined with a breathable air mesh. 

It keeps your pup cool and comfortable during long training sessions, walks, and hikes. But the front rubber handle is one of my favorite features. It gives you maximum control over your dog without hurting your hand.  I've used this handle to guide dogs over fallen logs, through crowded areas, and break up a scuffle at the dog park. 

Plus, the XSFANCYFUN Tactical Camouflage Protective Dog Harness takes an interesting approach to spike protection. Instead of permanent spikes, it includes four detachable spike strips that attach to the Velcro panels on the back. 

That means you can easily remove or reposition. Then, the camouflage design actually serves a purpose, not just for looks. The camo pattern helps your dog blend into their surroundings. This makes it hard for the coyote to spot it in the first place.

Buvub Bendable Steel Plate Dog Protection Vest 

The Buvub Bendable Steel Plate Dog Protection Vest is a full-on suit of armor for your dog. I've tested this thing in some pretty intense scenarios, and it's as tough as it looks. Most coyote vests rely on spikes, Kevlar, or thick fabric to create a painful deterrent, but Buvub takes a completely different approach. It's made of bendable stainless steel plates, creating a physical barrier that stops teeth and claws from penetrating at all. The stainless steel plating is:

• Stab-resistant – Coyote teeth and raptor talons are built to pierce flesh. Steel doesn't give in.

• Bendable and adjustable – Unlike rigid armor, the plates can be molded to fit your dog's shape. I've tested this feature on everything from a slender Greyhound to a stocky Bulldog, and the results are impressive.

• Surprisingly lightweight – Weighing only 0.6 to 0.7 lbs, it's lighter than you'd expect for something this durable.

One of the complaints people have about protective vests is fit. If a vest is too loose, a predator can slip past the defenses. If it's too tight, the dog won't want to wear it. Buvub solves this problem in a smart way:

• The steel plates are manually adjustable – You can bend them to match your dog's body for a snug, custom fit.

• The Velcro system lets you adjust the vest's length, making it adaptable to different breeds and sizes.

• The removable rivet collar adds neck protection, one of the most vulnerable areas in an attack.

PredatorBWear Mini Predator Dog Protection Harness

If you've got a small dog, you know the struggle. They're vulnerable to predators like coyotes, hawks, and aggressive dogs. At the same time, their frames are so delicate they can't wear protective coyote vests made of heavy-duty materials like Kevlar and steel. That's where the PredatorBWear Mini Predator Dog Protection Harness comes in. 

The vest is specifically designed for teacup breeds and small dogs, so it's lightweight and breathable. Unlike other coyote vests that use metal spikes, this vest uses hollow plastic spikes.  They're lightweight, yet they create a visual and physical deterrent for predators. I've tested this harness in areas with high coyote activity, and the spikes are enough to make a coyote think twice before approaching. 

The strips attach with Velcro, so they're easy to remove and reattach. If you're heading to the dog park or having a playdate, simply take the spikes off for safe group play. Something else: the vest comes with a sturdy D-ring at the collar base. This lets you attach any standard leash, making it just as functional as a regular harness.

Raptor Shield Puncture Resistant Dog Protection Vest

The Raptor Shield Puncture-Resistant Dog Protection Vest was born out of a real-life attack when a 10-pound Silky Terrier was snatched by a red-tailed hawk but miraculously survived. Her owners developed their own solution after lacking viable protective gear for their furry friend. 

Instead of using spikes to intimidate coyotes, this vest uses an impact-resistant shell that prevents an attack from causing harm. But instead of using steel plates like the Buvub Bendable Steel Plate Dog Protection Vest, it uses polycarbonate, the same stuff used in bulletproof windows and riot shields. I've tested this material against simulated predator attacks, and it's virtually indestructible. 

The vest can withstand forces of up to 900 pounds, which is more than enough to stop a hawk's talons or a coyote's bite. What's great about polycarbonate is that it's not just strong, it's also lightweight. The entire vest weighs just 3.53 ounces, so it doesn't weigh your dog down. 

I've seen small dogs wearing this vest run, jump, and play like it's not even there. It's like giving your dog a suit of armor that feels like a second skin. The lack of spikes also makes the vest safe for your entire family. The rounded edges make handling safe, even for kids.

Huvqianu Anti-Coyote Spiked Dog Vest

The Huvqianu Anti-Coyote Spiked Dog Vest prioritizes pure, uncompromising protection. It's a tough, heavily reinforced defense vest built for serious outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and nighttime walks. The spikes on this vest are no joke. They are made of metal, so they're not going to bend or break. 

The vest itself is made from high-quality Oxford cloth and sandwich net, making it tough enough to withstand rough terrains. The materials are weather-resistant, so your dog stays dry and comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. That said, the vest is on the heavier side, weighing in at 1.94 pounds. 

While this isn't a dealbreaker for larger dogs, it can be a bit much for smaller breeds. I've tested this vest on a 20-pound Beagle, and while she handled it fine, she did seem a bit weighed down after a while. If you've got a smaller dog, this might not be the best choice. It's for strong, adventurous dogs that love venturing into the wild. 

OneTigris Detachable Riveted Metal Spikes

Most protective vests come as a single unit, but what if you could customize your dog's armor based on the situation? That's exactly what the OneTigris Detachable Riveted Metal Spikes offer. It's a flexible, tactical upgrade that adds an extra layer of defense to your existing harness. Instead of buying a harness with spikes, you're basically buying a set of strategically positioned spikes that you can attach to your tactical harness. 

These spikes are made from a unique metal alloy with a black matte finish, giving them a sleek, tactical look.  The spikes are 29mm long, a perfect size to deter coyotes.  The spikes come with 3M light-reflective fabric, which is a big plus for nighttime walks and early morning hikes. I've tested this setup during evening walks, and the reflective strips are bright enough to catch the light from car headlights and flashlights. 

However, one of the standout features of the OneTigris Metal Spikes is the loop-faced patch space. It allows you to attach your own patches. I prefer using these spikes with the HNTR 3.0 Tactical Dog Harness. This is a rugged tactical harness made to withstand any kind of abuse. 

First off, the harness is made of 1050D ballistic nylon, and the attachment points are machine-welded and hot-rolled.  I've tested this harness during high-energy activities like hiking and agility training, and it held up beautifully. 

Then, the inside of the harness is lined with neoprene, which provides a sweat-resistant, odorless layer of comfort. This is a big plus for dogs with sensitive skin and fur. The harness is designed for full mobility, with adjustable straps on all four sides. This ensures a snug, comfortable fit for dogs of all shapes and sizes. After testing the other coyote vests, I must admit that this combo outmatched them all.     

Final Thoughts

Coyotes, birds of prey, and aggressive dogs are a real threat, but that doesn't mean you have to live in fear every time you let your dog outside. You can actively prevent an attack before it even happens by using the right protective gear. Fortunately, there's a wide array of options, from Kevlar-reinforced body armor and metallic spikes to steel-plated defenses. But protection doesn't have to mean bulky, uncomfortable gear. That's why modular options like the OneTigris Detachable Riveted Metal Spikes paired with the HNTR 3.0 Dog Harness outshine all of the single-unit options.