Therapy dogs—who visit hospitals, nursing homes, or schools to offer emotional comfort—sometimes wear blue too. While they provide a big emotional lift, they don’t have the same legal protections or responsibilities as service dogs. Dogs in training also often wear blue to let people know they’re still learning and need space. Think of it like a “Student Driver” sign—cute, but not to be distracted.

That said, not every dog in blue is working. Some pet parents just like the color or chose that gear for visibility. So how can you tell the difference? Look for clear signs like patches or tags that say “Service Dog,” “In Training,” or “Do Not Pet.” When in doubt, it’s always better to observe from a distance and ask before approaching.

Colors can speak volumes. Yellow might mean the dog is nervous or needs space. Red usually signals “Do Not Pet.” Green can indicate a friendly pup or one who’s still learning.

By learning to recognize these signals, you’re helping keep dogs and their handlers safe and comfortable. So the next time you see a dog in blue, remember—it might be on a mission.