Many dogs have great swimming instincts, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. It’s estimated that thousands of beloved pets die each year from water-related incidents1.
And while these accidents can’t be predicted, they can be prevented with the help of a dog life jacket.
Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat
This life jacket by Ruffwear is the best dog life vest you can currently get, and also the one I use for my dog (as you’ll see our paddle boarding video below).
Great quality, and easy to get a good fit. I’ve been using mine for over 4 years now (hiking all over the US) and it still looks nearly brand new.
BEST OVERALL: Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat
As I mentioned above, this is the dog life jacket that I use on Story, my Carolina dog.
Ruffwear has established itself as a quality brand throughout the years, and the rave reviews by dog owners are a testament to that.
The K-9 Float Coat has abrasion-resistant webbing and foam padding, keeping dogs comfy and safe. This jacket comes in sizes XX-Small to X-Large and is extremely accommodating to pets of all sizes with its telescoping neck closure and adjustable side straps.
The secure built-in handle allows you to lift your pet out of the water with ease. (I personally refuse to buy any jacket/harness product that doesn’t have this feature.)
The vest is also reflective and even has a built-in light loop, giving owners the option to clip an additional light on their pets. Ruffwear has their own attachable LED safety light called The Beacon.
- Good size range
- extremely well made
- has a loop for additional light attachments
- While the Float Coat is a high-quality product, the higher price point can be a turnoff to some
MOST BUOYANT: EzyDog Doggy Flotation Device
EzyDog’s Doggy Flotation Device is another fantastic option. Many reviewers can’t help but compare its quality to that of Ruffwear’s Float Coat but at a slightly cheaper price point.
Distinguishing features are the vest’s wide straps, heavy-duty buckles, impressive buoyancy, and D-ring for leash attachment. The DFD is made from neoprene, which helps keep your dog warm in cool water temperatures. However, its lightweight design allows dogs to wear it for hours without overheating.
EzyDog’s Doggy Flotation Device comes in three different and reflective colors: red, camo, and yellow.
- Its high quality and excellent buoyancy make it a great option for bigger dogs
- has a loop for additional light attachments
- Some reviewers have reported that the EzyDog DFD is a little on the bulky side, which can affect mobility. However, most dogs don’t seem to mind the slight bulkiness in the water
MOST POPULAR – Outward Hound Granby Dog Life Jacket
Another product owners can’t seem to rave enough about is Outward Hound’s Granby Dog Life Jacket. With nearly 5,000 reviews, this life jacket is one of the hottest ones on market. Its bright orange color and reflective piping make it highly visible, so you’ll never lose sight of your dog. There’s also an adorable “fun fish” pattern.
Outward Hound offers two grab handles on their Granby model, while most brands only offer one. This feature allows owners to retrieve their dogs easily and quickly in emergency situations.
The Granby dog life jacket also has a supportive neck float, helping to keep your dog’s head above water. This additional support makes this jacket a favored choice amongst small dog owners. Sizes range from X-Small to X-Large.
- Outward Hound is a crowd favorite with glowing reviews. Dual grab handles are a unique feature that makes retrieving dogs easier for owners
- has a loop for additional light attachments
- Some owners have reported that sizing runs small, so be sure to order a size up—especially if your dog is between sizes
CUTEST: SwimWays Sea Squirts Dog Life Vest with Fin
Is a “dog fin” necessary for your dog’s safety? No.
But is it adorable? Absolutely.
Not only will you have the cutest shark-dog hybrid on the beach, but you can also rest easy knowing SwimWays doesn’t sacrifice safety for cuteness.
Is a “dog fin” necessary for your dog’s safety? No. But is it adorable? Absolutely. Not only will you have the cutest shark-dog hybrid on the beach, but you can also rest easy knowing SwimWays doesn’t sacrifice safety for cuteness.
The vests are adjustable both in front and under your dog’s belly. The Velcro and snap buckle design combo is secure and ensures that nothing budges while your canine goes for a swim.
Unfortunately, the vest is only available in sizes “small” and “medium,” so it’s not a viable option for owners with bigger dogs.
- It’s cute and functional. Who doesn’t want a pet shark?
- has a loop for additional light attachments
- Limited sizing. Also, owners have reported that the Velcro strap sticks easily to fur, so this may not be the best option for long-haired dogs.
MOST ECONOMICAL: Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket
At only a fraction of the cost of other highly reviewed life vests, Vivaglory is a great budget-friendly option. It comes in 8 bright colors and has a size range from XS to XL.
This jacket also features a ring for leash attachment, a retrieving handle, and reflective strips.
The quick-release buckles allow owners to easily get their dogs in and out of the life jacket. Plus, to the delight of many owners and their dogs, the Velcro underbelly closure doesn’t grab on fur.
- Outward Hound is a crowd favorite with glowing reviews. Dual grab handles are a unique feature that makes retrieving dogs easier for owners
- Low cost with a variety of fun color and size options.
- Some reviewers have noted that the stitching around the handle had begun to come undone after regular use.
BEST FOR LARGE DOGS: Paws Aboard Neoprene Doggy Life Jacket
Finding a dog vest that fits muscular dogs with wide shoulders can sometimes be a challenge. For that reason, Paws Aboard is a favorite among large breed owners.
Owners of chubbier dogs have also hailed Paws Aboard life jackets as the only flotation device to properly fit their dogs.
This doggy jacket is lightweight, adjustable, and dries quickly. Its neoprene material also keeps dogs warm in adverse weather conditions.
Sizes range from XX-Small to X-Large.
- Outward Hound is a crowd favorite with glowing reviews. Dual grab handles are a unique feature that makes retrieving dogs easier for owners
- Good size range and fits great on muscular/chubbier dogs. Also has neoprene to keep your furry friend warm.
- Most reviews are positive but some users have noticed poor stitching along the chest and D-ring.
Does my dog really need a life jacket?
Despite popular belief, not all dogs know how to swim well.
Dogs with heavy coats, short legs, or large heads may find it particularly difficult to stay above water. Some breeds that are notorious for not being strong swimmers are bulldogs, boxers, chow chows, and dachshunds.
Older or overweight dogs may also find swimming strenuous and tire quickly. A well-fitted and padded life jacket will help even the most hesitant swimmers doggy paddle confidently.
Even if your dog is the Michael Phelps of the canine world, accidents can still happen.
It’s easy for dogs to excitedly jump off boats or get distracted by ducks or geese. Pets may stray too far from shore, get swept under harsh waves, or inadvertently injure themselves. A life vest ensures that your dog will stay afloat despite any unforeseen circumstances.
What situations are dog life jackets useful?
It’s a good idea to equip your dog with a life jacket anytime you’re head somewhere a large body of water may be present.
Even if you aren’t planning a lake trip anytime soon, unexpected storms and floods can put your canine at risk. Every owner should at least have a reserve doggy life jacket in case of emergency flooding (in the last decade alone there have been over 30 major floods in the US).
Aside from your own peace of mind over your dog’s safety, life vests have other benefits, such as keeping your dog warm and visible in open waters. And it can also diminish anxiety or help with fear of water if your dog isn’t comfortable or hesitant.
Most vests also have handles, allowing you to restrain or retrieve your dog easily at any moment.
How to Find the Right Fit for Your Pet
Like people, dogs come in all shapes and sizes. While your dog’s weight is a good starting point in figuring out what vest size to buy, be mindful of your dog’s other measurements. Be sure to record your dog’s waist, chest, and neck circumferences, as well as their back and shoulder lengths. Every product has its own size chart, so reference them before making a purchase.
Vests should be neither too big nor too small. If ill-fitting, a life jacket can move around in water—hindering your dog’s natural swimming ability. A good jacket should keep your dog’s head raised, keeping water away from your canine’s nose and mouth.
Make sure to also be cognizant of handle placement on your doggy flotation device, as this is what you’ll grip onto in order to restrain your dog. Make sure handles are secure and that the underbelly is padded to prevent injuring your pet.
After purchasing a jacket, be sure to adjust all straps and buckles to secure a proper fit. Your dog should comfortable and able to move properly in their new safety gear.
Finding the right life jacket for your dog shouldn’t be a daunting task. Here are some doggy life jackets that we and so many other dog owners can’t stop raving about.
Conclusion
Many dog owners have credited life jackets with saving their furry friends’ lives on multiple occasions.
Like most things in life, the general rule of thumb is that it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Whether your dog is joining you on a kayaking trip or just lounging around your backyard pool, be sure to equip your dog with a life jacket to keep them happy and safe.
Your pets are a part of the family, so why not do everything you can to keep them safe?
Sources
- Khuly, Patty. “Poolside Safety: Prevent Pet Drowning Deaths.” PetMD,
https://www.petmd.com/blogs/fullyvetted/2006/july/poolside-safety-prevent-pet-drowning-deaths-6591, Accessed April 23, 2019.
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Our dog struggles to keep his head up out of the water even wearing his old body glove life jacket. It is styled almost EXACTLY like the outward hound. The only difference is his has a roll under the chin rather than the flap on outward hound. I fear the Ruffwear, not having anything under his head would leave him struggling even more. In our pool at home he seems more interested in keeping his ears dry than swimming. 🤷♀️ Anyway we are getting back into boating and he needs a new jacket. Is there bouancy material in the belly of Ruffwear that would keep all of him higher in the water and then he wouldn’t need the extra head support? 1/4″ of neoprene in the body glove unit doesn’t seem to help much.
Thank you for your time
Amanda,
I wish we could give you an answer, but without seeing the dog (even with the details you’ve given) it’s hard to say. I can say we’ve tested the Ruffwear life jacket extensively, and the dog does still need to lift his/her head slightly. So, if that’s an issue with your dog perhaps extra head support is needed. Hope this helps.
ODW