War Dog Armor

Protective armor for military canines

War dog armor was small-scale protective equipment for military canines, typically consisting of a spiked metal collar and a body covering of chain or hardened leather. The spiked collar served a dual purpose — defending the dog's vulnerable neck while adding offensive capability during charges. From the Roman Molossus to the medieval Alaunt, various large breeds served in scouting, guarding, combat, and messenger escort roles. The tradition of armoring war dogs directly continues in modern military and police K-9 ballistic vests, demonstrating thousands of years of continuity in canine military service.