Did you know that not all dog bandanas are cute accessories? Sometimes, dog owners use them to communicate important information, and while this isn’t universally known and understood, it is very valuable information, so I want to take a moment to introduce this to you. If you see a dog wearing a solid color bandana, it never hurts to ask the owner if it means something specific.
For example, I have a cooling bandana that I use for Riley that just happens to be red – while it’s true I don’t want people approaching her without permission and instruction, the bandana is simply a cooling device. She also has other cute bandanas that she wears from time to time. They don’t “mean” anything. I also know how to advocate for Riley and have a lot of practice telling people, “No, you can’t touch my dog.” And “Please don’t approach us with your dog, child, etc.”
With that said, here’s a review of the generally understood meanings of each of the different bandana colors for dogs.
GREEN
A GREEN bandana means the dog is friendly and sociable with humans and dogs. They are likely playful and enjoy both on and off-leash interactions. They might be young and energetic.
YELLOW
A yellow bandana means approach with caution. This dog may be nervous, anxious, or fearful. They may need space or require time and care when being introduced to new people. Ask before approaching but do so from a distance, respecting what the owner may be trying to communicate with the bandana.
ORANGE
An orange bandana often means the dog is friendly toward humans but is not okay with other dogs. If you’re out with your dog and see another dog in an orange bandana, give them and their owner some space.
RED
A red bandana often means do not touch or approach the dog. Give them as much space as possible. The dog may be nervous or fearful, they may also be reactive. It’s likely, if the dog is wearing the bandana as a communication to the public, that approaching the dog might trigger a reaction. Don’t look at or talk to these dogs and don’t approach them.
While this is just good etiquette around any dog you don’t know, it’s especially important with dogs whose owners are doing everything they can to work with them while communicating their needs to the public in a non-confrontational manner.
BLUE
A blue bandana might be communicating that the dog is working or in training. Not every working dog or service dog wears a collar or vest. The blue bandana lets you know to leave the dog alone and allow them to do their work, or practice doing it.
WHITE
A white bandana can indicate that the dog has issues with hearing or sight; they may even be completely blind or deaf. Talk to the owner to find out if it’s okay to approach them, and how to do so in a way that makes it a positive experience for the dog.
PURPLE
A purple bandana may communicate that the dog has allergies or food sensitivities. Don’t offer any treats of any kind to a dog wearing a purple bandana without clearing it with the owner/handler first.
