As a pet parent, you should not assume your pup is an adequate swimmer. Safety is paramount and the best dog life jackets guarantee a safe trip to the beach with your canine friend.
A day out on the water should be fun for all, however, it is difficult to relax and enjoy the boat ride if you are worried about your dog’s safety. Many dog owners overlook the need to have their dogs put on a life jacket when boating. However, this shouldn’t be the case.
With Mother Nature being always unpredictable, accidents and emergencies happen and a life jacket will keep your dog safe and sound, and save you the worry of him getting drowned. Some of the best dog life jackets even feature foam side panels that offer maximum buoyancy while naturally insulating your dog.
No matter how good of a swimmer your dog is, he will always benefit from the use of a life jacket. The best dog life jackets also make great tools for teaching your favorite canine friend how to swim.
With multiple life jackets available on the market today, some manufacturers even offering multiple models to choose from, choosing the best jacket for your dog can be challenging especially if you are in the market for the very first time.
Advantages of Best Dog Life Jackets
- Life jackets allow dogs to swim for longer periods.
- Using a life jacket keeps your dog safe from heavy tides and prevents him from drowning.
- A life jacket improves your dog’s swimming technique.
- With a life jacket, you get to support and encourage dogs that are afraid of water to learn how to swim.
- Using a life jacket prevents your dog from getting so much exhausted after swimming for a longer time.
9 Best Dog Life Jackets-Keeping Your Canine Afloat
Here is a review of the best dog life jackets available on today’s market, so let’s have a look.
#1) PETCEE Dog Life Jacket
If your favorite canine companion has a taste for the high seas, it is time that you got him the PETCEE dog life jacket. Aside from being relatively affordable compared with other dog life jackets, the PETCEE dog life jacket is rugged, durable, and very comfortable.
As one of the best dog life jackets, this gear comes with an extra float that rests under the dog’s chin and this helps poor swimmers to keep their head above the water.
To stay in place, the dog life jacket uses three different straps and each strap features a quick-release buckle that makes it easy to put on and take off. It is available in several sizes from x-small to x-large and a reflective trim increases its visibility during low light conditions. The jacket is made from a breathable material that keeps your dog cool and snug.
Key Features
- Reflective trims to increase visibility.
- Integrated front buoyancy panel.
- Made from breathable and snug fabric.
- Relatively affordable.
- Rugged, durable, and very reliable.
- Available in different colors and sizes to choose from.
- Adjustable nylon straps and quick-release buckles.
- Easy to wash and clean.
#2)Yoyoung Camo Pet Life Preserver Jacket
This is a heavy-duty life jacket that comes in a stylish and unique camouflage print which makes it suitable for fowl-retrieving dogs, as it keeps the dog hidden from the prey that it is hunting. Designed with the comfort and safety of your dog in mind, Yoyoung Preserver jacket is undoubtedly one of the best dog life jackets.
This life jacket is made from soft polyester oxford, a middle layer made with flexible nylon fabric, and a breathable mesh outer layer that keeps the dog snug and cool. The unique three-layer construction also makes the vest to dry off quickly. With a reflective strap attached, your dog’s visibility is enhanced in and out of water.
An included handle makes it easy to grab, direct, and guide your dog while buckles and straps let you adjust the jacket to a size that best fits your dog. Additionally, this jacket features neoprene side panels that offer maximum buoyancy while naturally insulating your dog when they swim.
This rugged and durable jacket will stand up for frequent use and play and the breathable mesh lining makes it easy to clean. Yoyoung Came Pet Life Preserver jacket being one of the best dog life jackets ensures utmost pet safety when you take adventures to the water bodies.
Key Features
- Stylish camouflage print that all dogs love.
- Reflective trims to increase visibility.
- Integrated front buoyancy panel.
- Made from breathable and snug fabric.
- D-ring included where you attach your leash.
- The included handle makes it easy to grab, direct, and guide your dog.
- Adjustable straps ensure a secure and snug fit.
- Rugged and very durable.
- Neoprene side panes naturally insulate the dog as it swims.
- Easy to clean.
#3) SwimWays Sea Squirts Dog Life Vest
This is an adorable and stylish dog life vest for use in swimming pools and other shallow and calm water bodies. The SwimWays Sea Squirts Dog Life Vest is a high-quality life preserver that is available in a wide range of colors and styles as well. Each of its styles features top-notch construction, made from high quality and breathable materials which keep the dog cool and snug.
As one of the best life dog jackets, this dog jacket also offers full-body water floatation support for your dog and it comes with a metal D-ring where you secure your leash. This jacket is also designed with a stylish shark fin that’s not only flexible but solid enough to grab onto.
Key Features
- Metal D-ring for securing a leash.
- Provides full body water floatation for your dog.
- Flexible and durable.
- Available in a wide range of colors and styles.
- Made from top quality fabric that’s breathable and very snug.
- Whimsical blue shark design with a shark fin.
#4) Paws Abroad Life Jacket for Dogs
Provide your dog with the ultimate safety and comfort when swimming by getting him the Paws Abroad Life Jacket for Dogs. Specially made with the dog’s comfort in mind, this jacket features a sporty design and flexible neoprene fabric that gives your water-loving dog great buoyancy while still being lightweight.
With this life jacket, safety always comes first. Consequently, it is equipped with reflective strips that enhance your dog’s visibility in and out of the water and the bright colors make your dog easy to locate. The Paws abroad life jacket is a solid choice for best life dog jackets as it promotes safety and features unique construction.
And that’s not all. The dog jacket also comes with a top rescue handle for a quick and easy grab on the go. The jacket is made of quick-dry, breathable neoprene fabric with the right amount of buoyancy that allows a wide range of motion for all-day comfort.
Unlike traditional life jackets that cause chafing and heat exhaustion, the advanced design of this jacket features a breathable mesh that allows proper water drainage as well as great dog’s comfort. The adjustable collar and Velcro secured mesh create a custom fit for dogs of all sizes. The jacket is also easy to clean.
Key Features
- Made of high-quality materials.
- Lightweight, flexible, and durable.
- Breathable mesh construction that keeps the dog snug and dry.
- Mesh adjustable collar and Velcro secured mesh create a custom fit for dogs.
- Reflective strips and vibrant colors increase visibility.
- Highly buoyant without being bulky.
- Heavy-duty construction with integrated grab handle.
#5) Vivaglory Ripstop Dog Life Jackets
If you are looking for a top-quality life jacket for your dog but tight on budget, you don’t have to worry anymore. The Vivaglory dog life jacket is one of the least expensive models out there that still provides effective buoyancy for your dog. The sizes of this dog life jacket are adjustable to suit a wide range of dog sizes and the built-in extra padding provides enough buoyancy for any dog.
The fastening system with hook and loop fasteners, adjustable straps with quick-release buckles keeps the vest secure and snug while still ensuring a perfect fit for the dog.
The other good thing about this life jacket is that it is available in ten different bright colors with reflective straps that enhance your dog’s visibility in and out of water.
The bright colors also make your dog look fashionable. The snug and ergonomic handle sewed with durable stitching makes it easy to pull your dog in and out of water. Your search for the best dog life jackets ends now! The Vivaglory Ripstop dog life jackets are a fantastic choice.
Key Features
- D-ring included for attaching a leash.
- Reflective strips and vibrant colors increase visibility.
- Adjustable size to suit more dogs.
- Built-in extra padding provides enough buoyancy.
- Comfortable and ergonomic grip rescue handle.
- Fully adjustable straps and easy to fasten quick release buckles.
- Less expensive.
#6) HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket Vest
HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket Vest is made of top-notch materials and comes in multiple colors and styles to meet the needs of different dog owners. If your dog prefers to keep things low-key, you can select a fairly standard life standard shape, or you can choose models with funny styles that resemble lobsters, mermaids, or sharks.
Any style you choose is made from high-grade polyester oxford and nylon fabric, mesh fabric, and pearl cotton foam. An ergonomic and comfortable handle is included on the back to make it easy to lift your dog out of the water and a D-ring situated at the back gives you a place to attach a leash or tether.
This life jacket is available in seven sizes to choose from and it also features two belly straps and one chest strap that keep the vest comfortably attached to the dog.
Reflective strips are also included which enhance your dog’s visibility in and out of water. With extra built-in padding, the HAOCOO life jacket provides plenty of buoyancy as well as great value for your money.
Key Features
- Lightweight yet very durable.
- Top grab ergonomic handle.
- D-rind for leach or tether attachment.
- Various tail designs.
- Adjustable belt and quick-release buckles.
- Reflective strips and vibrant colors increase visibility.
- Built-in extra padding provides plenty of buoyancy.
- Available in seven different sizes
#7) RUFFWEAR K9 Float Coat
The best dog life jackets are essential pieces of safety devices on water not just for humans, but also for dogs. Ruffwear K9 float coat is a fantastic dog life jacket whose top-notch construction lasts for years.
This high-end dog jacket is made of abrasion-resistant materials that make it great for dogs who often need a life jacket for sailing or a lot of water activity. The vest features an adjustable neck closure that allows for the natural and snug movement of your dog.
You’ll also notice that this jacket features extra floatation beneath your dog’s belly to increase buoyancy and ensure that he stays afloat. The vest also comes with reflective trims that enhance your dog’s visibility in and out of the water, even at dusk or when the waves get a little bit rough.
To prevent any chance of dangerous snagging, this life jacket doesn’t have any exposed straps or buckles. It comes in several sizes from extra-small to extra-large.
Key Features
- Telescoping, adjustable neck closure.
- Strategically placed buoyant panels support natural swimming position.
- Reflective strips and bright colors increase visibility.
- Easy on/off side release buckles
- Water compatible webbing maintains stability in wet environments.
- Made from high quality and durable materials.
- Strong, low-profile ergonomic handle at the back.
- Machine washable.
#8) Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket
This is a top-quality dog floatation device designed to promote safety when boating and water sporting with pups. The dog life jacket is specially crafted to enhance buoyancy for seamless swimming.
It has bright colors and reflective accents to enhance visibility when on water. For novice swimmers, the life jacket features a front float support to keep the head above the water.
Besides, this dog life jacket has adjustable straps to secure your canine both in and out of water. The device comes in different sizes to cater to the needs of various dog breeds.
What’s more? The outward Hound Dog Life jacket has a multi-handle design. The dual grab handles offer an effortless method of retrieving your pup is an emergency arises. As one of the best dog life jackets, this device is indestructible so it a worthy investment for any pet owner.
Since the life jacket is constructed with a ripstop material, your pooch benefits from maximum buoyancy while on water. The lightweight design helps with effortless movement on land. Promote pet safety and have joyous adventures with your best friend.
Key Features
- Has bright colors and reflective accents to enhance visibility on the water
- The front float supports help keep the dog’s head above the water
- Ideal for both beginners and experienced swimmers
- Built with a ripstop material that enhances buoyancy in the water
- Fitted with two grab handles for easy access when rescuing the dog
- Available in a variety of sizes
#9) EzyDog Doggy Flotation Device Dog Life Vest Jacket (DFD)
This fantastic floatation device combines an advanced manufacturing technique and premium materials to deliver the most ergonomic and comfortable life jacket. The material used in this vest has up to 50% floatation to ensure maximum buoyancy. Fitted to the vest is a grab handle that facilitates quick and easy guiding of the dog into and out of the water.
For optimal visibility when on water, the life vest jacket has highly reflective detailing. The reflective trim also helps enhance nighttime safety. As one of the best dog life jackets, EzyDog Life Vest jackets are available in different sizes and colors.
Surely you will find a suitable fit for your best friend. The belly straps are easy on your dog and fit perfectly to allow seamless swimming. At the center is a weighted grab handle that lets you scoop the pooch away from danger easily. The vest has an ultra-buoyancy foam that promotes natural swimming positions every time you take your pup out for swimming.
Key Features
- The superior construction of up to 50% more flotation material
- The vest is easy to fasten and remove
- A center-weighted grab handle allows easy lifting of the pup from danger
- Reflective trim provides optimal visibility
- Available in different sizes and colors
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Best Dog Life Jackets Buying Guide and FAQs
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Dog Life Jackets
With tons of dog life jackets available on the market today, sorting them all can be a little bit overwhelming. Before you settle down to a specific dog life jacket, try and make sure that the model meets the following criteria.
Buoyancy
Generally, you will need a dog life jacket with enough buoyancy to keep your dog floating on water. The best dog life jackets should have floatation sections under the belly and around the back and sides.
Anxious dogs usually require more buoyancy since they can struggle to stay afloat in water. With such dogs, you may have to look for additional padding or buoyant mechanisms that help keep them afloat. Some dogs are also heavier than normal, so they too will require extra floatation.
Size and Fit
The best dog life jackets come in a wide range of sizes to ensure that no dog is left out. When buying a dog life jacket, make sure that you get one that’s the proper size for your dog.
When your dog wears the life jacket, he should feel snug and shouldn’t have trouble relieving himself. For the perfect fit, make sure that you measure your dog’s girth and torso, then choose a matching size. The correct size of any dog life jacket is important in fully optimizing its benefits.
Bright Colors
If your dog is going to use the life jacket in a swimming pool, it doesn’t matter what color you select. However, if you are planning on taking him to the open seas or any other large water body, you will be required to get him a life jacket with bright colors that draw your attention even from far.
The tiny reflective strips found on most dog life jackets become super easy to miss when the waves get rough but if the jacket is of bright colors, it becomes hard to lose your dog. Brightly colored dog life jackets with reflective strips also enhance your dog’s visibility in and out of water.
Rescue Handles
Purchase a dog life jacket with top grab ergonomic handles that allow you to pull the dog out of the water if an unforeseen circumstance arises. The handles will also double up as a lift harness in water if you have an old dog that gets tired easily. These handles will also help you get your dog on and off the boat with ease.
Comfort and Security
The other important feature to pay keen attention to is how comfortable and secure the dog life jacket is. If the life jacket isn’t snug for your dog, he is going to hate wearing it. However, if it fits him snuggly, he is going to have no problem wearing it. When it comes to security features, there is no point in having a life jacket if it isn’t secure.
Make sure that the material and buckles of the jacket are of good quality and adjustable to provide the dog with the maximum security that he should have. If you are in rough or deep waters, you are going to need a jacket with safety mechanisms that enable you to easily haul your pooch into the boat if an unforeseen circumstance arises.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Dog Life Jackets
Q: Are Dog Life Jackets Really Important?
While some dogs are great swimmers, others are not. Regardless of your dog’s expertise in swimming, he/she needs to put on a life jacket before getting in any water body. An unforeseen circumstance can always arise, but with a life jacket on, your dog will be safe and sound.
Q: Which is The Ideal Life Jacket Size for My Dog?
A life jacket should fit your dog in the same manner that a harness does. It should be tight or the dog will hate wearing it. When your dog wears the life jacket, he should feel snug and shouldn’t have trouble relieving himself. For the perfect fit, make sure that you measure your dog’s girth and torso, then choose a matching size. The correct size of any dog life jacket is important in fully optimizing its benefits.
Q: What Important Features Should One Look For in A Dog Life Jacket?
The most important features one is supposed to take into account include proper size and fit, comfort, security, visibility, buoyancy, and safety.
Q: Are Dog Life Jackets Just for Boat Trips?
No. dog owners should always consider wearing their dogs a life jacket whenever they go in the water, regardless of the size of the water body. An unforeseen circumstance can always arise, but with a life jacket on, you won’t have to worry about your dog’s safety.
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Conclusion
Regardless of your dog’s relationship with water and expertise in swimming, a life jacket is an important piece of safety device whenever he gets in the water. Mother Nature is always unpredictable and unforeseen circumstances can always arise. We have reviewed the best dog life jackets and we hope that you and the dog gets to love them too.