Canine Vanguard Mk.I - Chico

Canine Vanguard Mk.I – Chico Edition 

This is my first wearable armor concept for dogs, built and tested on my own hero: Chico (my amazing American Staffordshire Terrier), 7 years old. He’s patiently endured all the fitting, measuring, and “just one more test” moments… without complaining - but also without looking particularly impressed…

The armor is made up of 3 main body parts plus individual leg pieces, and it’s size-adjustable using chains so it can fit a wide range of medium-to-large dogs. So far it’s been tested at home, during walks, while playing around, and even when visiting friends… and it’s held up great.

The only thing I haven’t been able to test it in yet is actual warfare. Still waiting on that opportunity.

This is V1, and I already have ideas for improvements and optimizations for a future redesign when I’ve got the time (and filament) to push it further.

Big thanks to @koolm for the Cuban Chain Generator - that tool made the adjustable chain setup possible. I am using chains since i liked the sound it made for the realism. 

And most importantly: thank you, Chico. You’re the real vanguard.

Before you print anything: please read the description + instructions all the way through.

This project isn’t a “press print and forgett” model - it’s a wearable, size-adjustable armor concept, and the text explains how the fit works, what to expect from passform, and what you should check before committing to hours of printing.

I’ve included the important details (fit notes, assembly flow, and what to look out for) so you can make a grounded decision before you start.
If you skip that part, you’re basically printing blind - and I really don’t want you to waste filament.

And if you have any questions, ideas, adjustments, or thoughts while reading - please reach out. I’d genuinely love feedback and I’m happy to help you get the fit right.

Read first. Decide confidently. Then print. Thank you guys! I hope this eliminates “bad” prints.