Life Jackets For Dogs

Kathleen Underwood
14 min readSep 19, 2024

If your furry companion loves to join you on your aquatic adventures, investing in a quality life jacket is a must. In this comprehensive roundup article, "Life Jacket For Dogs", we'll uncover the top-rated dog life jackets that ensure safety, comfort, and fun for your loyal friend.

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Reviews

Kurgo Surf N' Turf Waterproof Dog Life Jacket: Comfortable and Stylish for Outdoor Adventures

Kurgo Surf N’ Turf Waterproof Dog Life Jacket: Comfortable and Stylish for Outdoor Adventures | Image

Dive into the world of water safety for your furry friend with the Kurgo Surf N' Turf Dog Life Jacket. This vibrant yellow vest is constructed with sturdy 400D and Ripstop fabric, providing both durability and functionality for your energetic companion. It boasts adjustable chest and stomach straps to ensure a secure fit and two side release Nifco buckles for easy on and off.

Designed with both the dog and owner in mind, the Surf n Turf Life Vest features two transverse handles for easy extraction, helping you quickly lift your dog out of the water. The rear leash attachment ensures they're always within reach on land. The standout feature? A metal D-ring that doubles as a bottle opener for those refreshing poolside moments.

The Kurgo Surf N' Turf Life Jacket is tailored for small breeds, with machine wash care instructions and a simple buckle closure. Don't let water fears hold your dog back from the fun in the sun—grab this versatile, well-designed vest for a carefree and comfortable outdoor experience.

Outward Hound Dawson Swim Dog Life Jacket - Small

Outward Hound Dawson Swim Dog Life Jacket — Small | Image

The Outward Hound Dawson Dog Vest proved to be a lifesaver for my dog, Luna, during our recent trip to the beach. As a small breed with some hesitation around water, the vest provided the perfect balance of comfort and safety. The grab handle at the top was a major bonus for peace of mind while she waded into the waves. The neoprene side panels didn't just keep her afloat but gave her the warmth she needed on chilly days by the shore. Luna was especially fond of the cute green color, which matched our beach towels perfectly.

However, there were a couple of cons to note. The vest seemed to be a bit tight around Luna's chest, which was a bit difficult to adjust. Also, we had to be extra careful not to leave her unsupervised near water after a few instances of her trying to wriggle out of the vest.

Overall, the Outward Hound Dawson Dog Vest was a hit in our household, providing the perfect blend of style, comfort, and safety for our little water baby.

Penguin Pet Life Vest for Small to Medium Dogs

Penguin Pet Life Vest for Small to Medium Dogs | Image

Our furry friends love to frolic in water, but their safety should always come first. The Medium 22 lbs.

  • 39 lbs. Penguin Dog Life Jacket fits just right for most dogs and comes in a sleek black color. What stood out for me was the easily accessible grab handle on the back, letting me scoop my little buddy back to safety if he ever needs it.

Plus, the heavy-duty D-ring hook is great for securing a leash, even without a collar and harness. The vest even comes with a 3-month limited warranty to give you peace of mind. So, with this dog life jacket, your pup can enjoy the water with confidence and peace of mind.

Cabela's Advanced Life Jacket for Dogs - TrueTimber Prairie - XL for 90-120 lbs. Hunting PFD with Adjustable Straps and Side Pockets

Cabela’s Advanced Life Jacket for Dogs — TrueTimber Prairie — XL for 90–120 lbs. Hunting PFD with Adjustable Straps and Side Pockets | Image

As a proud dog owner, I can attest to the safety and comfort the Cabela's Advanced Life Jacket for Dogs provides during water fun. The jacket, available in a true outdoor camo print, sports adjustable straps with snaps ensuring a custom fit while the reflective material promotes high visibility in any light. The TrueTimber Prairie design adds a cool, natural touch that will impress even the most fervent outdoors enthusiast.

One of the standout features is the triple-segmented foam, which provides buoyancy and security in water without hindering movement or hindering the dog's mobility. The adjustable straps ensure a secure fit and the two side pockets offer a handy storage space for essentials.

However, it's not perfect. There have been some issues with the underside straps that need improvement, as they sometimes come untucked or chafe against the dog. Additionally, a few users reported that the jacket did not fit well, which can impact its effectiveness as PFD for dogs.

Overall, the Cabela's Advanced Life Jacket for Dogs offers a combination of safety, style, and convenience to ensure your dog's well-being when engaging in water activities. Despite a few drawbacks, the jacket is generally highly respected by other owners, and with a little refinement, it could become even better.

Neween Stylish Blue Dog Life Jacket for Safe Swimming

Neween Stylish Blue Dog Life Jacket for Safe Swimming | Image

I recently tried the Neween Dog Life Jackets for my furry friend who loves swimming and boating. This vest has become an essential part of our adventures, providing high buoyancy and keeping him safe while he splashes in the water. The lightweight polyester material made it comfortable for him to wear, and the adjustable straps ensured a proper fit.

However, I did notice that it was a bit challenging to get on and off my dog, which might be a minor inconvenience for some pet owners. Overall, the Neween Dog Life Jackets have proven to be a great investment for our water adventures.

Landshark Pet Life Vest: Comfortable and Stylish Dog Life Jacket

Landshark Pet Life Vest: Comfortable and Stylish Dog Life Jacket | Image

I recently introduced my dog to the LandShark Pet Life Vest for some water adventures, and I was really impressed with the design and craftsmanship of the vest. The vest has a top zip closure that makes it easy to get on and off my dog, and I love the shark fin detailing that makes my dog look like a true water adventure dog. The vest is made of a comfortable nylon material, and the handle with reflective material makes it easy for me to retrieve my dog from the water.

One of the features that really stood out to me was the adjustable neck buckle and ladder locks, which ensured a secure fit for my dog. The vest also has a leash attachment ring, which is perfect for attaching a leash when walking around the water. The only downside I noticed was that there were a few sizing issues reported by some users, but I found the sizing guide to be pretty accurate for my dog.

Overall, I'd definitely recommend the LandShark Pet Life Vest for any dog owner who wants to keep their furry friend safe and comfortable in the water. It's a fun and stylish addition to any dog's swimming gear, and I'm excited to take my dog on more water adventures with this vest on.

MTI Underdog Flotation Vest for Canine Safety

MTI Underdog Flotation Vest for Canine Safety | Image

The MTI Underdog Flotation Vest for Dogs is designed to provide support and comfort for your furry friend during water adventures. This vest, available in red/mango and XS size, is created with Cordura nylon to withstand rough terrain, ensuring durability and protection for your pet.

Equipped with ergonomic buoyancy, this vest places 90% of the flotation under your dog's neck and chest, mirroring their natural swimming angle and freeing up their hind legs for better efficiency in the water. The split foam body and mesh top provide cooling comfort, while the reflective trim enhances visibility.

The vest comes with two body straps, a neck strap, and an adjustable chest strap, allowing a range of dogs to wear it comfortably. The handles are well balanced for easy lifting, making it a convenient accessory for your dog's water activities.

Although some users have reported a slightly rough fit or challenges with adjusting, the majority of reviewers appreciate the product's functionality and comfort for their dogs during various water adventures.

Ruffwear - Float Coat Life Jacket for Large Dogs

Ruffwear — Float Coat Life Jacket for Large Dogs | Image

I recently tried out the Ruffwear Float Coat Life Jacket for my large breed dog, and I must say, it's been a game-changer for our water adventures together. The bright, reflective colors make it easy to spot our furry friend in and out of the water, which I appreciate for safety reasons. The life jacket has a comfortable fit and is easy to put on and take off, even with its secure closure.

One interesting feature is the strong handle on the back, which allows me to quickly help my dog out of the water, whether it's during a swimming session or after a fun day of boating. The handle is conveniently positioned to give me a good grip, and I appreciate how easy it is to use.

However, there are a couple of downsides to this life jacket. First, the price point is higher than some other options on the market, so it might not be the most budget-friendly choice for all dog owners. Additionally, I found that the jacket can be a bit stiff, which took some time for my dog to get used to. But overall, the pros outweigh the cons, and I'm glad I made the investment for our water-loving pup.

Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket: Safety, Style, and Durability for Canine Swimming Adventures

Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket: Safety, Style, and Durability for Canine Swimming Adventures | Image

The Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket Small Orange is an essential purchase for any canine swimming enthusiast. Designed with optimal safety in mind, this life jacket boasts dual grab handles for easy rescue, ensuring your pup stays afloat. Its adjustable straps and neoprene belly band cater to a perfect fit, while the front float support keeps your pup's head above water. Reflective accents and bright colors ensure high visibility, making it easier to spot your furry friend in the water. The thick buoyancy foam maintains your dog in a natural swimming position at all times.

This life jacket is well-received by pet owners, who praise its quality, comfort, and ease of use. Users appreciate the easy-to-put-on/take-off design, as well as the attractive appearance of the jacket. The jacket also performs well in terms of weather resistance and warmth, keeping your dog comfortable in various conditions. Some users have reported issues with the jackets' durability, while others have encountered sizing challenges. Nonetheless, the majority of reviews express satisfaction with the Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket Small Orange.

Tesoon Pet Doggy Life Jacket - Swimming & Safer Vest for Pets

Tesoon Pet Doggy Life Jacket — Swimming & Safer Vest for Pets | Image

Get ready to take your dog swimming in style and safety with the Tesoon Pet Doggy Life Jacket. This vibrant design features various colors to choose from, making it an eye-catching choice for a day at the beach or by the lake. The easy-to-adjust straps, coupled with quick-release buckles and ladder locks, offer your dog a customized fit for ultimate comfort.

Made with high-quality materials like polyester oxford, nylon fabric, and mesh, this life jacket is not only durable but also offers exceptional ventilation, keeping your furry friend comfortable even when they're in the water for an extended period. To ensure the best fit, you'll need to measure your dog's chest and compare it to the size chart provided.

With the Tesoon Pet Doggy Life Jacket, your dog can not only look good in the water, but they'll also be safer thanks to the rescue handle, built-in leash ring, and reflective accents that enhance visibility during outdoor adventures. This life jacket is a must-have for pet owners who want to provide their dog with a fun and secure swimming experience.

NRS Dog Life Jacket for XS Dogs in Orange Color

NRS Dog Life Jacket for XS Dogs in Orange Color | Image

The CFD Dog Life Jacket is a reliable and versatile option for pet owners seeking to ensure their furry friends' safety while enjoying aquatic activities. With a rugged ripstop nylon construction, it's built to withstand the rambunctious energy of dogs playing in water, providing them with the protection they need.

The seven-panel design efficiently wraps your dog in protection, while the enhanced customized fit ensures comfort and security. The two buckled side straps and ladder lock adjustment point around the neck allow for a secure and snug fit, ensuring your dog stays in the life jacket during playtime.

Additionally, the foam padding under the neck and belly provides extra buoyancy in tough swims, giving your dog the support they need when they're in the water. This feature is particularly useful during intense swimming sessions or when encountering strong currents.

After enjoying a day in the water, the CFD Dog Life Jacket can double as a walking harness, making it a convenient and practical choice for pet owners seeking a versatile life vest. The durable metal D-ring allows for easy leash attachment, offering your dog a comfortable and secure walking experience.

Overall, the NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket is a well-designed and functional product, appreciated by both dogs and their owners. Its sturdy construction and effective features make it a reliable choice for keeping your furry friend safe and secure while they enjoy their time in the water.

Buyer's Guide

When it comes to water safety for our furry friends, a life jacket for dogs is an essential piece of gear. Not only does it provide added buoyancy, but it also helps ensure they stay afloat and safe in case they fall in the water. In this buyer's guide, we'll discuss key features to look for, important considerations, and general advice for choosing the best life jacket for your dog.

Design and Fit

The design and fit of a life jacket should be at the top of your list when shopping for one. A well-fitting jacket will ensure your dog is comfortable and able to swim with ease. Look for jackets with adjustable straps and multiple points of contact to secure the jacket in place. Ensure the jacket is easy for you to put on and take off for your grooming sessions.

Buoyancy and Safety

The primary function of a life jacket is to provide buoyancy and safety for your dog in the water. Look for jackets with foam or air bladders that will help your dog float. It's also crucial to find a jacket with reflective materials for better visibility in low-light conditions. Many life jackets have built-in handles, making it easier for you to hold onto and rescue your dog if needed.

Comfort and Durability

A comfortable and durable life jacket will last longer and provide better protection for your dog. Check the material it's made of; it should be lightweight and water-resistant. Also, pay attention to the stitching and any other potential stress points. The jacket should be easy for your dog to swim in and not restrict their movements.

Cost

When shopping for a life jacket for your dog, be aware of the cost. While it's essential to choose a high-quality jacket, you can still find affordable options on the market. Research various brands and models, compare prices, and consider the value each jacket offers. Remember, a well-fitted and comfortable life jacket can make all the difference when it comes to your dog's safety in the water.

FAQ

Why do dogs need life jackets?

Dogs, especially those who love water, can benefit from life jackets for safety and buoyancy. They can prevent drowning and provide comfort when swimming. If a dog is not a strong swimmer or has a health condition that affects its ability to swim, a life jacket can be essential to ensure their safety in or around water.

Life jackets for dogs are also useful during water-based activities like boating, rafting, or kayaking. They help to keep the dog afloat, reduce the risk of being swept away by the water, and provide a layer of protection against potential underwater hazards like rocks, branches, or strong currents.

Which type of material is best for a dog life jacket?

The ideal material for a dog life jacket is a lightweight, water-resistant material that allows for good airflow, minimizes the risk of overheating, and can dry quickly in between swimming sessions. Neoprene or foam materials are commonly used as they are buoyant and offer insulation for cold water.

For ultimate durability, look for life jackets made with marine-grade materials that are designed to withstand saltwater, sun, and potential damage from sharp objects. High-quality materials will ensure long-lasting performance and safety for your dog during water activities and emergencies. Ensuring that the harness or straps are made of sturdy materials, such as webbing, is also essential for comfort and security when your dog is wearing the life jacket.

How do you size a dog life jacket?

Measuring your dog for the correct size life jacket is crucial for ensuring its safety and comfort. Most manufacturers provide size charts or guidelines on their websites or in the product packaging. To find the right size for your dog, measure your dog's girth using a measuring tape at its widest point, usually around the ribcage, and compare it to the appropriate size for the life jacket.

Always choose a life jacket with adjustable straps or a harness that can be easily tightened or loosened to ensure a proper fit. The snug fit should allow your dog to move comfortably and freely, with no irritation or restriction. Test the life jacket on your dog by ensuring that it fits snugly but not too tightly, and that it does not hinder their ability to paddle or swim.

Do dogs get used to wearing life jackets?

Some dogs may take time to adjust to wearing a life jacket, while others may have no issues at all. Introducing the life jacket to your dog gradually and positively can help with the transition. Let your dog sniff and explore the life jacket when it's off, or even let them wear it in short, supervised sessions around the house. Praising and rewarding your dog for wearing the life jacket can also help establish a positive association.

If your dog is hesitant or resistant to wearing the life jacket, try practicing with rewards or positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to reinforce its comfort with the life jacket. Also, ensure that the life jacket fits properly, as a poorly fitted life jacket can cause discomfort and potentially lead to a reluctance to wear it.

How long should a dog wear a life jacket?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long a dog should wear a life jacket, but it is essential to ensure that your dog is comfortable and safe while wearing it. Monitor your dog to make sure they are not experiencing discomfort, overheating, or difficulty swimming with the life jacket on. Depending on the activity and the specific life jacket, the dog may need to wear it for the entire duration of the event or just while engaging in water-related activities.

As a general rule, follow the manufacturer's guidelines or consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate time for your dog to wear a life jacket. When your dog no longer needs the life jacket, ensure that they remove it and try to maintain that habit for future water activities, always prioritizing safety and your dog's comfort.

What are some key features to look for in a dog life jacket?

When shopping for a dog life jacket, look for key features that ensure safety, comfort, and function. Some of these features include an adjustable harness or straps for a proper fit, reflective or bright coloring for increased visibility, and a buoyant design that helps to keep your dog afloat. Life jacket materials should be water-resistant and comfortable, allowing for proper airflow, and durable enough to withstand potential damage from sharp objects or underwater hazards.

Additionally, consider choosing a life jacket with convenient extras, like easy-to-grasp handles for your dog during water activities or built-in D-rings for leash attachments. These features can enhance the overall experience for both you and your dog, improving safety and enjoyment for everyone during water-based adventures.

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