While a good number of dogs are good swimmers, not all dogs can actually swim. It is for this reason that life jackets are important to ensure the safety of your dog in the water. Life jackets will give you peace of mind as your four-legged friend explores the water.
Just as a dog harness is meant for a specific breed, the best dog life jacket is especially important for those breeds that are more prone to sinking than floating.
With so many brands of dog life jackets on the market, we know that it can be daunting to find the best dog life jacket for your pooch. In this article, we reviewed some products which we believe are the best choices for dog life jackets.
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Why My Dog May Need a Life Jacket?
If you are a dog owner, you probably know that dogs are strong and enthusiastic swimmers. However, just like human beings, they are prone to fall overboard or even get tired after a long period of swimming.
It is for this reason that they need to wear life jackets during swimming sessions. Just like dog boots, life jackets will enable your Fido to enjoy themselves in the water for longer. Additionally, your dog needs a life jacket to help you and other boaters spot them from a distance.
How to Choose the Best Dog Jacket
To find the best life jacket for your furry friend, here are some factors you want to consider:
Size
The first and most important thing is to take the measurement of your dog. The measurements and sizes of different brands may vary. That is why you need to measure your pooch and compare it with the sizing options of the brand you are considering. This way, you’ll ensure that the jacket you buy will fit your dog comfortably without being too tight or too loose.
Buoyancy
When your dog is in the water for too long, he might get fatigued. Due to this, you need a life jacket with excellent buoyancy to keep him in the water for long and prevent drowning or breathing issues. The best jackets have floatation in the chest and neck area to keep your dog’s head above water.
Material
The other important factor to keep in mind is the material used. You want to ensure that the material is quality, long-lasting, waterproof, and stretchable to provide added comfort. A good example is the neoprene life jacket. Nylon is also a good choice if you want something lightweight.
Adjustability
A dog’s life jacket should be adjustable enough to accommodate the changes in your dog. Life jackets that come with adjustable straps make it possible for you to still use them even if your dog grows, gains weight or loses weight.
Reflective Strips and Bright Colors
It is vital to choose life jackets with bright colors for improved visibility. This helps you spot your pet during search efforts or in the event of an accident. It also adds more visibility and safety during night swimming sessions.
8 of the Best Dog Life Jackets
Outward Hound Granby Dog Life Jacket
Excellent Life Jacket for Its Price
If you are looking for a top-notch yet affordable dog life jacket, then this life jacket from Outward Hound is the ideal choice. Its simple yet effective design makes it one of the best dog life jackets on the market. We especially love the front float feature which enables your pooch’s head to float. Meanwhile, its adjustable straps and neoprene belly band ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
With quick release buckles, this life jacket is very easy to put on and off. You will undoubtedly love its reflective and bright color that offers your pet high visibility. This means that you won’t struggle spotting him even from a long distance.
One unique feature comes in the form of rescue handles which make it easy for you to pull your furry friend out of the water. Actually, the number of handles available depends on the size of the jacket. The small ones have one handle while medium jackets have two.
Why We Like It:
- There’s a variety of size options available
- It’s extremely affordable
- Comes with bright colors and reflective accent for nighttime visibility
- Features top grab handles to keep your dog safe
- Fully adjustable beck and chest straps
What We Don’t Like:
- Sizing may be inaccurate for some dogs
- Top grab handle may be far forward which can be tricky for lifting heavy dogs
Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket
Affordable Option Suitable for Most Dog Breeds
This is another great dog life jacket for those who are not looking to spend a lot of money. Despite it being affordably priced, this life jacket is available in five sizes ranging from extra small to extra large to accommodate most dog breeds. It is available in eight color options which all have a reflective strip for better visibility.
The Vivaglory life jacket is made of durable vinyl material and comes with extra padding to ensure buoyancy without limiting movement. Other great convenient features include a reinforced top grab handle that provides an easy way to carry your dog, a D-ring which allows you to attach the leash, and quick release buckles and adjustable straps for a secure fit.
With a fastening system around the neck and belly, you can be sure that the jacket will remain secure on your dog. We also love the fact that it dries quickly.
Why We Like It:
- Comes in 8 bright colors with reflective strips
- Features extra padding for buoyancy
- Available in a wide range of sizes
What We Don’t Like:
- Its adjustable straps may wear out with long use
Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket
Are you looking for comfort, style, and safety for your pooch? If so, then you should consider this life jacket which comes in a stylish and sleek design to match your dog’s personality. Although it has a great appearance, it does not compromise on safety.
The life jacket from Paws Aboard comes in bright colors and reflective strips that will make it easy for you to locate your pet. Another remarkable safety feature is the rescue handle that lets you lift your pet in case he gets fatigued. The jacket also has adjustable nylon straps and quick release buckles for a customized fit.
Designed for buoyancy, this life jacket features a durable nylon fabric that dries quickly. It is available in different colors and sizes to accommodate different breeds.
Why We Like It:
- Easy to wear on and off
- Adjustable straps for a perfect fit
- Offers ultimate comfort
- Sleek design
What We Don’t Like:
- The straps may tear when lifting larger dogs
RUFFWEAR- K-9 Float Coat for Dogs
The Ultimate Jacket in Terms of Durability
If your four-legged friend loves to spend long hours in the water, then he needs a life jacket that will stand the test of time. The Ruffwear k9 life jacket is an extremely durable life jacket which features a simple yet functional design. It is very multifunctional and can be used for swimming, kayaking, boating, surfing, and rafting.
We love the fact that it comes with a reflective trim that makes your pooch visible at all times. This fully-featured jacket includes a strong low-profile handle that makes it easy to lift your pet out of water.
The vest lets your dog swim in a natural position due to the closed cell foam panels that are well placed. Besides, it features additional floating under the dog’s belly in order to help them stay afloat.
It is designed with a telescoping neck closure that is adjustable and accommodates different shapes. The straps are kept in place with easy-to-clip buckles. This float dog coat comes in 6 sizes, allowing you to find the one that can easily fit your dog.
Why We Like It:
- Supports natural and upright swimming position
- Comes with a reflective trimming
- Offers extra floatation
What We Don’t Like:
- It’s a bit on the expensive side
HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket
A Fun Yet Fully Functional Option
If you are looking for a life jacket for your fashion-forward pet, then this might be what you need. This life vest is uniquely designed with a fin at the back that will allow your pooch to swim in style. In addition, it is constructed from nylon fabric and high-grade polyester Oxford with mesh fabric for quick drying.
With this product, you won’t have to worry about the safety of your canine friend as they take on different water activities. It features reflective strips and vibrant colors to enhance the visibility of your dog in the distance. Another safety feature that we think you will love is the front float which enables your dog’s head to be above water.
Apart from the safety features, this vest comes with a lot of convenient features to keep your dog comfortable at all times. It features quick-release buckles, an adjustable belt, and a heavy-duty D-ring for attaching a dog leash.
Why We Like It:
- Features an adorable tail design
- Durable but comfortable construction
- Reflective strips
- Vast range of sizes to choose from
What We Don’t Like:
- Fitting can be difficult
EzyDog Doggy Floatation Device Dog Life Vest Jacket
Ideal for Maximum Buoyancy
If your dog needs extra help while in the water, then you should consider this floatation device. EzyDog Doggy Floatation device is great for buoyancy since it is constructed from heavy-duty materials that support your canine’s natural swimming position. It features 50% more floatation material.
It also features a D-ring leash attachment, reflective trim for visibility, and a strong ergonomic handle. There are even adjustable neoprene straps and quick release buckles for a snug fit.
Why We Like It:
- Adjustable design and 50% more buoyancy material
- Reflective trim for visibility
- Ergonomic grab handle
What We Don’t Like:
- Not the best choice for very small dogs
Kurgo Surf ‘n Turf Dog Life Vest Jacket
The Perfect All-Rounder Jacket
This is without a doubt the best multipurpose dog life jacket on the market. Unlike other life jackets, the Kurgo jacket has a 3-in-1 functionality, allowing it to serve as a raincoat, life vest, and 3-season shell jacket. This means that along with keeping your pet safe while swimming, it can also protect him during wet conditions.
The Kurgo life vest is designed for dogs who require a little more support while in water. It comes with two strong handles so you can train your dog to swim and two metal D-rings for leash attachment.
Why We Like It:
- Made of rugged ripstop material
- Comes with a removable floatation layer
- Reflective and brightly colored
What We Don’t Like:
- Not buoyant for small dogs
- Rather expensive
Queenmore Dog Life Jacket
Functional Device with a Simple Yet Fun Design
If you are a pet owner who loves to watch your dog have fun on the beach but are concerned about their safety, then this life jacket from Queenmore is ideal for you. A notable spec is its floatation system that complements your canine’s swimming ability and enables them to spend more time in the water.
Due to its waterproof and secure material, this life jacket is great for dogs who enjoy swimming, surfing, boating, and hunting. The durable material includes a breathable mesh lining that is beneath the belly which makes it easy to clean and dry.
As required, this safe jacket features reflective accents and bright colors that make it easy for you to spot your dog as he swims underwater. You will also love its strong handle, D-ring hook, adjustable nylon straps, and quick release buckles.
Why We Like It:
- Made of a durable and waterproof material
- Excellent buoyancy
- Comes with reflective markings
- Features a durable handle
What We Don’t Like:
- Your dog might experience possible buoyancy problems
FAQs
Q: Are dog life jackets only used for swimming?
A: Apart from swimming, there are other valid reasons why your pet may need a life jacket. If you are going for boat trips, kayaking, rafting, or surfing, you need to get your canine friend a good life jacket as it will keep him safe should the worst happen.
Q: How do I take measurements of my dog’s girth?
A: In order to find the perfect size for your dog, you need to measure their girth (circumference of the chest) by using a measuring tape. With that, start measuring the front part of the back legs which is usually the widest. Make sure you measure him as he stands.
Final Thoughts
Getting the best dog life jacket while you are out swimming or taking a boat trip is very crucial. You should take into consideration factors such as measurements, colors, and material used. Once you know what to look for in a dog life jacket, it will be easier for you to find the right one for your pooch. We hope that this article helps you buy the correct product effortlessly.