Protection

The “Protection” category features ballistic vests for service and working dogs from the Ukrainian manufacturer “Vartoviy K9.” Our K9 body armor provides protection against bullets in accordance with DSTU 8782:2018 (Class 1): it stops 9×18 mm PM/APS and 9×19 mm Luger pistol bullets and also resists fragments (V50 test per STANAG 2920). The ballistic panels are made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)—lighter and more water-resistant than aramid.

What Does the K9 Body Armor Protect Against?

The body armor is designed to protect against the most common threats to service dogs—pistol bullets and shrapnel. The protected area covers the chest, back (including the sides), and abdomen, where vital organs are located.

• Bullets: 9×18 mm PM and APS, 9×19 mm Luger (Parabellum).
• Shrapnel: Shrapnel protection per STANAG 2920 (V50 rating).

It is important to understand the difference between standards: NIJ IIIA is an American standard, the equivalent of which roughly corresponds to the level of protection against handgun bullets. Our product is certified specifically under the Ukrainian DSTU 8782:2018 standard, not NIJ. For more details on protection classes, read the article on body armor certification under the NIJ IIIA standard.

Materials and Construction

A body armor vest is not only protection but also a functional tactical platform. The outer shell made of Cordura 500D withstands heavy use, while the inner construction ensures the dog’s comfort during prolonged wear.

The modular design allows you to add or remove protection depending on the specific task. The MOLLE straps on the sides accommodate additional pouches, the two carrying handles help quickly lift or evacuate an animal, and the D-rings serve as attachment points for equipment. The product is protected by a Ukrainian patent.

Custom-made — no off-the-shelf S/M/L sizes

We don’t sell “off-the-rack” body armor. Each product is custom-made to your dog’s measurements, so it fits perfectly and doesn’t restrict movement. Before ordering, simply take a few basic measurements and note the back length.

How to measure your dog correctly—step-by-step instructions are provided in the article “How to Measure Your Dog for a Body Armor Vest.” If you have a small-breed dog, you’ll find the article on body armor vests for small breeds helpful.

Who is this body armor for?

Ballistic protection is chosen in situations where there is a real threat of gunfire: canine units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, the police, the State Emergency Service, and the Border Guard Service.

Warranty and Shipping

• Warranty: 12 months on tailoring and hardware, 3 years on the ballistic panel.
• Shipping within Ukraine: free via Nova Poshta (post office or courier), shipped within 1 business day.
• International shipping: according to carrier rates (starting at 850 ₴) — via airmail to 15 EU countries and the UK.

Return and service policies are described on the warranty and shipping pages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the K9 body armor stop a bullet from an AK-74 assault rifle?

No. The product is certified according to DSTU 8782:2018 (Class 1) and is designed to stop pistol bullets (9×18 mm PM/APS, 9×19 mm Luger) and shrapnel. Only heavy-duty protection with solid plates can stop 5.45×39 or 7.62×39 assault rifle rounds, but such protection is unsuitable for dogs due to its excessive weight.

Is this an NIJ IIIA-class body armor vest?

Our body armor is certified according to the Ukrainian standard DSTU 8782:2018 (Class 1), not the American NIJ standard. We mention NIJ IIIA only for the purpose of comparing levels of protection against handgun bullets—it would be incorrect to assign an NIJ class to our product.

What sizes are available?

There are no ready-made sizes—each bulletproof vest is custom-made to your dog’s measurements. This ensures a perfect fit and freedom of movement. Instructions for taking measurements are available on our blog.

Can a bulletproof vest be washed?

The outer cover of the Cordura can be gently cleaned, and the HMPE ballistic panel should be removed before cleaning. Unlike aramid, the HMPE panel is moisture-resistant. For detailed instructions, see the article on bulletproof vest care, washing, and storage.

How much does the body armor weigh?

The product weighs 2.4–2.8 kg, depending on the size and set of modules. Thanks to the lightweight HDPE panels, the dog can comfortably wear the vest for extended periods.

What is the product warranty?

12 months on the stitching and hardware, and 3 years on the ballistic panel. Each body armor vest is protected by a Ukrainian patent and is made to order.