Custom Service Dog Handler Apparel and 'In Training' Tees

Service dog handlers, owner-trainers, and SDiT (Service Dog in Training) handlers benefit from clear branded apparel that signals context to the public. Tees with 'Service Dog in Training' or 'Don't Pet Me, I'm Working' reduce unwanted public interaction with the dog. Professional service dog trainers also run branded apparel for their training business. Note: Bear Grips prints shirts and polos. Service dog vests, harnesses, and patches come from specialty service dog equipment providers.

Service Dog Handler Apparel Categories

• 'Service Dog in Training' (SDiT) tee. Worn by handlers training their own service dog. Reduces public petting requests.
• 'Don't Pet Me, I'm Working' tee. Worn alongside a working service dog. Public-facing signal.
• Professional service dog trainer polo. Embroidered polo for trainers who work with service dog placement organizations.
• Service dog organization branded apparel. Branded apparel for the organization (foundation, school, or training center).
• Puppy raiser apparel. Branded apparel for volunteer puppy raisers in service dog organizations.

What Bear Grips Makes for Service Dog Contexts

In the catalog:

• Cotton and moisture-wicking tees
• Performance and pique cotton polos
• Quarter-zip pullovers
• Hoodies and crewneck sweatshirts
• Branded hats

Not in the catalog (sourced from service dog equipment specialty providers):

• Service dog harnesses or vests
• Service dog patches (Velcro patches for vests)
• 'Do Not Pet' patches
• Working dog gear

Bear Grips apparel is for the handler. Equipment for the dog comes from specialty providers.

Bear Grips Pro Shops: Custom Apparel for Your Team. No Minimums. Free Shipping.

Catalog Picks for Service Dog Handlers

• Airlume Cotton Athletic Tee (Bear Grips), $19.88 VIP base. SDiT and 'Don't Pet Me' tee.
• Women's Favorite Tee (Bella+Canvas), $19.88 VIP base. Women's-cut tee.
• Men's Moisture-Wicking Tee (Sport-Tek), $23.86 VIP base. Performance tee for active service dog work.
• Men's Performance Polo Shirt (Sport-Tek), $34.88 VIP base. Professional trainer polo.
• Comfort Soft Hoodie (Bear Grips), $36.88 VIP base. Branded hoodie for the organization or trainer.

Slogans That Signal Service Dog Context

• 'Service Dog in Training' (SDiT). Standard text for handlers in the training phase.
• 'Working Service Dog - Do Not Distract'. For handlers with placed service dogs.
• 'Don't Pet Me, I'm Working'. Direct public-facing message.
• 'Service Dog Handler' with handler name. Professional identification for trainers.
• 'Puppy Raiser - [Organization Name]'. For service dog organization volunteer puppy raisers.
• 'Service Dog Trainer - [Credential]'. For professional trainers working in service dog placement.

Professional Service Dog Trainer Branding

Trainers working in service dog placement run a more polished apparel program:

• Embroidered polo with the organization name. Worn during public access training outings.
• Trainer credential embroidery. 'CPDT-KA, SDC' or 'IAADP, SDT' on the right chest.
• Organization signature color. Many service dog organizations have a brand color (royal blue, burgundy, forest green) that the trainer apparel matches.
• Subtle 'Service Dog Trainer' designation. On the sleeve cuff so it does not dominate the polo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bear Grips make service dog vests?

No. Service dog vests, harnesses, and patches come from specialty service dog equipment providers (Working Service Dog, Active Dogs, Service Dog Patches). Bear Grips makes apparel for the handler.

What is the difference between a service dog and a service dog in training (SDiT)?

A service dog has completed training and is publicly access-ready under ADA protections. An SDiT is still in training. Some states have laws protecting SDiT public access; federal ADA only protects fully trained service dogs.

Can the SDiT tee include the dog's name?

Yes. The Pro Shops design tool supports customer-input fields at checkout. The handler can add the dog's name to the tee design.

Should the SDiT tee be visible during public access training?

Most service dog trainers recommend visible context signaling during public access work. The tee plus the dog's vest patches together signal both 'service dog' and 'in training' to the public.