If you’ve ever fumbled with a frozen zipper in the dark or had to cut a vest to make it fit your dog, you already know: not all dog vests are built the same.
Protect your dog from cold, abrasion, and fatigue.
Make your life easier in the field.
But most traditional vests miss the mark on both fronts.
Whether you’re buying your first dog vest or upgrading from one that didn’t cut it last season, this guide will walk you through what matters – and what to avoid.
What to Look For in a Waterfowl Dog Vest
1. Fast, Frustration-Free Fit
Early mornings and cold fingers don’t mix well with zippers. Especially when your retriever is bouncing with energy.
Look for:
No zippers or velcro (both can jam or freeze)
Easy, intuitive hardware
Multiple adjustment points for a custom fit
2. Water-Shedding Performance
Traditional neoprene holds water, which can lead to chill and added weight. A good vest should shed moisture quickly and prevent heat loss after retrieves.
Look for:
Materials that don't stay overly saturated
Insulated layers that trap warmth, not moisture
Fast-drying construction
3. Full Coverage, Without the Cut Job
One of the most common “solutions” hunters resort to is grabbing a pair of scissors to trim a poorly fitting vest. That’s not how it should work.
Design made for field dogs of all sizes and breeds
No need to cut or hack the product to make it fit
4. Built-In Protection
A proper vest doesn’t just keep your dog warm – it guards their chest and core from sharp stubble, sticks, ice, and hidden hazards.
Look for:
Reinforced chest plates
Durable outer shells that resist abrasion
Tight, secure fit that doesn’t shift
5. Odor + Hair Resistance
Let’s be honest: old vests can stink. Neoprene holds on to smell, hair, and mildew like it’s part of the job.
Look for:
Materials that resist hair buildup
Non-porous linings that rinse off easily
No stink, no soak
What to Avoid
Zippers (especially single-pull or plastic ones)
Inconsistent sizing — if you have to cut it, it doesn’t fit
Velcro closures that wear down or clog with hair
Non-reinforced belly/chest panels
Soggy neoprene that adds weight and traps odor
Generic designs rebranded by multiple companies
Why It Matters
When your dog is working hard in harsh conditions, their vest should be helping them – not holding them back. A poor-fitting or poorly built vest can cost time, comfort, and even cause injury. And on those below-freezing mornings? Every small detail makes a big difference.
As Addison Edmonds, founder of GUNNER, puts it:
"You shouldn’t have to wrestle your gear at 4AM. You should be focused on the hunt – and your dog should be protected."
Ready to Upgrade?
The GUNNER Waterfowl Vest was built to solve every one of the pain points listed above – and then field-tested across the country by real hunters and working dogs.
No zippers or velcro
5-Layer Performance System for warmth & water resistance
Easy-fit adjustment system — no cutting required
Reinforced protection in all the right places
Odor- and hair-resistant design
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Waterfowl Vest fit my dog?
Fit Range: Ideal for most waterfowl dog breeds like Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, German Wirehaired Pointer, Drahthaar. For medium breed recommendations, call 1-844-GUNNERK or email our CX team.
What's the best way to clean the Waterfowl Vest?
Rinse with fresh water after each use. Use mild soap and soft brush as needed. Hang to air-dry fully before storage.
What fit adjustments are on the Waterfowl Vest?
The Waterfowl Vest features six adjustment points for a dialed, secure fit across chest and shoulders. Once adjusted, use “set-and-forget” straps for consistent performance. Designed to clear most e-collars comfortably. For ideal fit, follow the two-finger rule around the neck.
What is the Waterfowl Vest made of?
GUNNER's 5 Layer Performance System™ works to keep your dog warmer in the field. With a TPU abrasion-resistant shell, insulating Ariaprene® foam, drainage mesh + wind barrier, and air-resistant interior liner, the Waterfowl Vest is a major upgrade from traditional neoprene vests.
