Neck protection for a working dog — a Vartoviy K9 armour module
Dog body armour with a modular neck-protection module. Developed by the Ukrainian brand Vartoviy K9: Ukrainian utility-model patent No. 160096 (06.08.2025) and industrial-design certificate No. 48008 (12.11.2025).
Why neck protection is critical
A working dog's neck is the most vulnerable area during combat operations, assault missions and humanitarian demining. It contains:
- Carotid artery — bleeding from it is fatal within seconds;
- Trachea — an injury makes breathing impossible;
- Cervical spine — damage leads to complete paralysis.
Most body armour for working dogs covers only the torso and chest, leaving the neck exposed. In the Vartoviy K9 design, neck protection is a separate removable module.
How our protection works
The vest is fitted with a modular ballistic collar made of UHMWPE panels. The ballistic package was tested to DSTU 8782:2018 (class 1) — test report No. 5513/2026 of the NDI VVM test center. Construction:
- Does not restrict the dog's natural head movement — the dog can turn, tilt and lift its head;
- Does not press on the airways — the collar rests on the shoulders, not the throat;
- Comes off via the rip-away system, without unfastening the main vest;
- Compatible with electronic collars and ID patches.
Registered rights
The design is covered by two documents issued by Ukrpatent:
- Utility-model patent No. 160096 "Body armour for dogs" — registered 06.08.2025;
- Industrial-design certificate No. 48008 "Modular body armour for dogs VARTOVIY K9" — registered 12.11.2025.
These are two different instruments: a utility-model patent protects the technical solution, an industrial-design certificate protects the appearance of the product. Both are valid in Ukraine. Scans are published on the DSTU 8782:2018 standard page.
Medical rationale
The design was developed together with veterinarians and canine anatomy specialists. The collar weighs less than 380 g and is included in the total weight of the vest. Testing was carried out together with the Step Up rehabilitation centre for working dogs returning to duty after injuries.
Who it is for
- K9 units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine — operations in combat zones;
- Humanitarian demining — dogs searching for explosive ordnance;
- Police units — apprehending armed offenders;
- SBU, State Border Guard Service, State Emergency Service — special operations and rescue;
- Private security services — perimeter protection.
How to order
Orders are accepted through the website or by phone +38 (067) 465-68-64. Military units and charitable foundations are invoiced. Delivery terms and lead times are on the delivery and payment page.
"The Vartoviy K9 brand — sturdy armour for those who are always on guard."