Best Dog Life Jackets

Purpose of A Dog Life Jacket

A dog life jacket usually looks like a vest and serves the same purpose as a life jacket for humans. Not all dogs can swim, it is always good to suit your dog with a life jacket when your pup is having fun in the water even if he is an excellent swimmer.

It is a lifesaving device used for dogs, to help them float when in water and prevent them from drowning during accidents at sea or lakes. A dog life jacket is also crucial in times of emergencies.

For example, if he gets separated from you at sea and cannot swim back to the boat/shore on his own; having a life vest will prevent your pup from drowning and give enough time for someone to rescue him.

Dog life jackets come in various sizes, colors, and styles. They are usually brightly colored so that your furry friend is clearly visible if he falls overboard in seas.

Table of Contents

Dog Life Jacket
KURGO Surf n’ Turf Lifejacket for Dog >>

Best Life Jacket For Dogs

Dog Life Jacket & Swimming Suit
KUOSER Shark Pet Life Jacket
20% Discount Code: DogLoversPupLJ20

Tips for Choosing a Dog Life Jacket

There are no standards for dog life jackets, yet some characteristics to search for include:

  • Handle: A handle on the dog life jacket makes it easier to hoist the dog out of the water if necessary.
  • Robust buckles: Look for buckles that will not open easily and remain closed.
  • Weight: If the life jacket is designed to keep a dog afloat, make sure the weight limit corresponds with the size of your dog.
  • Size: The proper fit of a life jacket is also important. It should not be too tight on your dog’s neck, nor should it be loose, as this may cause the dog to drown. The best way to get an idea of what size would fit your dog is by measuring its girth (chest circumference). A good guideline would be one inch bigger than your pet’s chest width.
  • D-ring: The dog life jacket or vest should have a D-ring to attach your dog leash or a clip that can hold onto your dog’s regular collar. This would be important should the need arise to rescue your dog from water danger.
  • Adjustable straps, reflective & bright color: The dog life vest should also come with adjustable straps so as not to slip out of place; Include reflective materials which can help you easily spot the dog at night, in dark waters, or during low light conditions such as at dawn, dusk, and nighttime; Printed with bright colors which increase visibility during times of emergencies & make it easier for boaters to spot your dog during search-and-rescue operations at sea or lakes

Best Dog Life Jackets

Some of the popular and quality dog life jackets brands such as KUOSER, KURGO, FRISCO, US ARMY, OUTWARD HOUND, KONG, EZYDOG, PAWS ABROAD, RUFFWEAR are provided here for your review and selection.

Highlights:

  • KUOSER Shark Dog Life Jacket
  • High-Quality BUOYANCY MATERIAL: Made of high-quality professional floating polyester and advanced breathable mesh underbelly to keep good flotation and proper draining and drying.
  • GREAT FEATURES – This cute shark fin design style life jacket is featured with quick-release buckles, adjustable nylon straps, a D-ring hook for leash, and a comfortable magic sticker fastening system around your dog’s belly and neck to keep it securely fastened
  • RESCUE HANDLE AT BACK – Comes with a sturdy nylon handle at the back to pick your dog up in emergency cases. 
  • EASY TO SPOT YOUR DOG – The life jacket has a bright color and reflective accents to help enhance the visibility of your dog.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT BUT STURDY –  Keep your small and medium dogs always afloat above the water when they are swimming, boating, surfing, or canoeing
  • COLORS: 2 bright colors – Blue and orange to choose from
  • VARIOUS SIZES –  6 sizes available to fit most dog breeds
 

Highlights: 

  • KURGO Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket.
  • DOUBLES AS DOG JACKET AND RAINCOAT – This 2 season coat can be used as a life vest to assist your dog when in water or on a boat, and as a raincoat by removing the flotation layer
  • 2 CONTROL HANDLES – Dog jacket has 2 transverse handles for quick control to extract dog from water when needed life vest for dogs is made of rugged ripstop material to withstand rough use
  • REFLECTIVE TRIM FOR VISIBILITY – Bright colored life vest is visible from farther distances and has reflective trim for night-time visibility has 2 metal D-rings for leash connections includes an attached bottle opener
  • VARIOUS SIZES – Small size fits dogs with 18 to 25 inches Girth, 12 to 23 inches neck.
  • COMMITTED TO QUALITY – Product includes hassle-free Kurgo lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects

Highlights:

  • FRISCO Neoprene Dog Life Jacket
  • SLEEK DESIGN – allows your dog to move comfortably in the water. 
  • DESIGNED WITH SAFETY – Front panel has a flotation flap that helps support your dog’s head and keep it above water. Side panels contain additional neoprene for extra buoyancy and warmth. The four reflective accents and bright color offer increased visibility so you can always spot your dog in and out of the water.
  • COMFORT FIT – Three adjustable straps with side-release buckles help to give your dog a great fit for your dog’s comfort.
  • WELL DESIGN – Grab handle on top of jacket lets you quickly and easily pull your pet out of the water in the case of an emergency. For dry land, a D-ring on the back allows you to attach a leash when necessary.
  • VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE – From extra small (for example chihuahua, toy poodle) to extra large (for example German Shephard, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever).

Highlights:

  • FRISCO Rugged Dog Life Jacket
  • TOUGH & DURABLE –  life jacket with a rugged, scratch-resistant nylon shell and reflective accents so you can always spot your pup in and out of the water.
  • COMFORTABLE FIT – Designed with 15mm foam side panels for buoyancy and a telescoping neck closure to help you find a comfortable fit for your dog.
  • EASY TO USE – Belly band has hook-and-loop fasteners, two adjustable straps with side release buckles and webbing keepers for a snug, comfortable and safe fit.
  • WELL DESIGN – Has two mesh pockets for treats or poop bags, a D-ring to attach a leash, sturdy grab handles and a place for your dog’s name and your phone number. 
  • VARIOUS SIZES – Extra small to Extra large.

Highlights:

  • US ARMY Dog Life Vest, Dark Camo.
  • HIGH BUOYANCY FOAM – will assist to keep your dog afloat in water.
  • HIGH VISIBILITY – with bright yellow accents on life jacket.
  • GOOD FIT – with adjustable neck and girth with buckles and fuzzy fasteners.
  • LIFT ASSISTANCE – using sturdy handle provided to you safely lift your dog out of the water.
  • SIZES AVAILABLE – Small to X-Large.

Highlights:

  • OUTWARD HOUND Neoprene Dawson Swimmer Dog Life Jacket
  • HIGH QUALITY – Life jacket features foam neoprene side panels for maximum buoyancy while naturally insulating the dog and keeping her warm while she swims thereby providing good thermal insulation. 
  • WELL DESIGN – The front float fits comfortably under her neck to support her head and keep it above water.
  • COMFORTABLE FOR YOUR DOG – Highly durable, quick-release snaps with adjustable straps on the belly and neck ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
  • SAFETY FEATURES – Include the high visibility red material, reflective piping and emergency lift handles. All these assist to ensure your dog stays safe while having fun in the water.
  • VERSATILE USAGE – Designed with the novice swimmer in mind but suitable for dogs of all skill levels.
  • VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE – From extra small to extra large.

Highlights:

  • KONG Sport AquaPro Dog Flotation Vest – designed to introduce your dog to the water.
  • MAXIMUM WATER RESISTANT BUOYANCY – made with 3 layers of XPE closed cell foam.
  • DURABLE – dog vest is rugged and tough with 1680D polyester construction is rugged
  • GOOD FIT – easily adjust belts and belly strap for a snug and optimal fit for your dog.
  • REFLECTIVE RESCUE HANDLE – allows you to pick up your dog easily
  • SIZES AVAILABLE – Large and X-Large.

Highlights:

  • EZYDOG Doggy Floatation Device Life Jacket
  • MORE BUOYANCY – Top performing dog life jacket that provides up to 50% more buoyancy to keep your dog upright in the water.
  • DURABLE – Made from heavy duty polyester and ultra buoyant foam with a comfortable, contoured neck.
  • EASY TO USE – Top grab handle makes it easy to guide your dog in and out of the water.
  • COMFORTABLE FIT – Adjustable neoprene straps form an ergonomic and secure fit with easy on/off. Easy to put on and take off by simply clipping around the neck and then the belly.
  • USE WITH LEASH – D-ring allows for convenient leash attachment.
  • VARIOUS SIZES – From x-small to x-large.

RUFFWEAR Float Jacket

Highlights:

  • RUFFWEAR Float Coat
  • CANINE LIFE VEST – A life jacket designed just for dogs. Great for rafting, kayaking, boating, surfing, paddle boarding and swimming
  • EASY SWIMMING – Strategically placed closed-cell foam panels let your dog swim naturally and support an upright position
  • SAFE TO USE – Strong, low-profile handle on the back to help dogs out of the water
  • COMFORTABLE ADJUSTABLE FIT – Telescoping neck closure adjusts to fit different shapes and attaches securely in place. Easy-to-clip buckles firmly hold straps
  • DURABLE WEBBING – Water-compatible webbing maintains stability in wet environments
  • REFLECTIVE TRIM – Low-light visibility for additional safety.  Integrated light loop for attaching The Beacon light (sold separately)

PAWS ABOARD Dog Life Jacket Vest for Swimming and Boating

Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket

Highlights: 

  • PAWS ABOARD Dog Life Jacket Vest for Swimming and Boating
  • SAFETY FEATURES – Vibrant colors and reflective strips increase visibility of your dog day and night. Dog life vest is equipped with a top rescue handle for a quick and easy grab on the go.
  • QUALITY MATERIALS – Life Jacket is made of quick dry, breathable neoprene fabrics and the right amount buoyancy. 
  • EASE OF USE – Made with lightweight and flexible materials thereby allowing a wide range of motion comfortably for your dog. Great for dogs and owners who love water sports
  • STYLISH – Life jacket combines a stylish silhouette with premium neoprene materials and bold awesome colors and patterns.
  • COMFORTABLE FOR YOUR DOG – This Paws Aboard advanced design features a breathable mesh underbelly that allows for proper water drainage and drying to provide your dog greater comfort and healthier conditions. Adjustable collar and the velcro secured mesh underbelly create a custom fit for all breeds and body shape.
  • VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE – From xx-small to x-large.
  • VARIOUS COLORS & DESIGN AVAILABLE.

FAQs on Dog Life Jackets

Is a dog life jacket necessary?

This depends on how often you bring your dog out for activities where he/she could get into water hazards, such as boating and kayaking. If you take your dogs with you frequently to these places then a life jacket is a great protective device for them. It may also depend on the type of dog breeds who have low body mass and would have difficulty swimming should they fall into deep waters.

What are some safety guidelines when using life jackets for dogs?

Make sure that your pet will have the freedom to move around while wearing his life jacket, but not enough room that he can easily take off the garment. Watch out for any sharp objects on your boat which may tear your dog's vest during playtime, especially if it is made of neoprene

How do I choose a proper size for my pup?

To ensure that your dog will be comfortable wearing its life jacket, remember that size matters. Measure your pet's chest girth (usually one inch bigger than its actual chest). Note also that neoprene is not as stretchable as nylon.

How to get your dog used to wearing the life jacket?

Many dogs are initially uneasy about their vests because they are new and confining never worn anything like them before. Here are some steps on how to make the best out of this situation which will ultimately benefit both owner and pet greatly in safety terms when around water areas:

a. Put the life jacket on your pup before going out to a lake or a swimming pool and let him/her get used to wearing it in the comfort of your home.

b. Play with your dogs while they have the life vests on so that it will be more enjoyable for them.

How do I clean the life jacket after use?

First of all, always check the label instructions before cleaning your life jacket to avoid damages. Most life jackets for dogs are machine-washable and can be put in a gentle cycle so as not to damage the reflective strips and other materials on the vest. It is important to wash them regularly especially if they get dirty or smelly often so as not to irritate your pet's skin. Make sure that there are no sharp objects left on the pockets when machine washing, thus avoiding puncturing the fabric through its protective layers.

How does a life vest for dogs work?

Most of these vests/jackets support or stick to the animal's body, thus keeping it afloat and upright even in rough conditions such as strong winds and currents without hindering its movements. This allows pets to enjoy swimming with their owners more comfortably.

How do I prevent my dog from being afraid of its life vest?

Buy one that is made of soft, comfortable material for your dog to wear. Remember also that you should not force him/her to wear it if he/she is uncomfortable with the idea or does not want to swim at all.

Why should I choose a life jacket for my dog?

Dog life jackets are the best form of flotation devices available for dogs, which come in different styles and ranges of prices as well as with features such as reflective material, cord handles on the back to easily pull your pet out from the water, adjustable straps to support their head above water during times of distress or after falling into deep waters. With these benefits - you not only provide protection from drowning but also keep them secure and comfortable afloat while waiting for help to arrive if ever needed.

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