March 20th is #DogsInYellow Day, a special awareness day dedicated to helping the public understand why some dogs wear yellow—and why it’s important to give them space. Created by My Anxious Dog, this movement supports nervous, reactive, and anxious dogs, ensuring they can enjoy stress-free walks and interactions.
At The Pet Carpenter, we know firsthand how crucial this awareness is. Our own rescue dog, Loki, has benefited from yellow space awareness products, helping him feel safe and reducing unnecessary stress. Here’s why #DogsInYellow matters and how you can help spread awareness.
Why Do Dogs Wear Yellow?
If you’ve ever seen a dog wearing a yellow lead, harness, bandana, or collar, it’s not just for style—it’s a sign they need space. Many people mistakenly assume that a dog who is barking, lunging, or avoiding contact is aggressive, when in reality, they may be:
- Rescue dogs adjusting to new environments
- Dogs recovering from past trauma
- Dogs with anxiety or nervous tendencies
- Elderly or injured dogs needing calm spaces
- Dogs in training who should not be approached
By respecting the yellow warning, we can help create a safer and more compassionate world for all dogs and their owners.
The Story Behind #DogsInYellow Day
The movement was founded by Sarah Jones, owner of My Anxious Dog, after her own dog, Bella, was attacked as a puppy. Bella became fearful of other dogs, reacting defensively when approached. The lack of awareness from other dog owners made everyday walks stressful. Sarah started using yellow gear to indicate Bella’s need for space, and from there, the Yellow Army movement was born.
Today, #DogsInYellow Day is an opportunity for dog lovers, trainers, and businesses to educate others about canine anxiety and the importance of giving dogs space when needed.
Loki’s Story: How Yellow Changed Our Rescue Dog’s Life
At The Pet Carpenter, we have our own Dogs in Yellow success story—our rescue dog, Loki.
Loki, a Podenco x Bull Terrier mix, was found as a stray in Spain before joining our family at 10 months old. His past was a mystery, but his nervous behavior around bearded men suggested previous mistreatment. His fight-or-flight response was intense, and he even slept standing up, a sign of deep-rooted anxiety.
Through training, socialisation, and trust-building, we’ve helped Loki gain confidence. However, one of the most effective tools in his journey has been his yellow nervous collar and lead.
- Non-verbal communication – Instead of explaining to every passerby that Loki is nervous, the yellow gear instantly signals that he needs space.
- Less stressful walks – Other dog owners are more mindful, keeping their dogs at a distance rather than rushing over.
- Increased confidence – Knowing that others respect Loki’s boundaries means we, as his owners, can relax too, helping him feel safer.
This simple yellow signal has transformed Loki’s walks, making them far more enjoyable for both him and us.
How You Can Support #DogsInYellow Day
Want to make a difference? Here’s how you can help on March 20th:
- Wear yellow – Whether it’s a scarf, a badge, or a full outfit, show your support for anxious dogs.
- Educate others – Share social media posts, start conversations, and encourage friends to respect the yellow.
- Respect nervous dogs – If you see a dog in yellow, give them space and remind others to do the same.
- Share your story – If your dog wears yellow, post about how it has helped them!
At The Pet Carpenter, we believe that every dog deserves to feel safe, whether that’s in their home with a bespoke dog crate or outdoors with yellow nervous gear.
💛 Join the movement. Respect the yellow. Make a difference. Discover more from My Anxious Dog. 💛