Boating, surfing, kayaking, rafting, canoeing – these popular water sports are even more fun with your dog. Water safety is just as important for dogs as it is for children. Your dog should always wear a dog life jacket in case they get tired, need extra lifting, and to avoid water-related drowning. Many people refer to dog flotation devices as dog life jackets or dog life jackets.
Criteria for choosing the best dog life jacket
“The dog flotation device assists dogs as they swim with strategically placed foam panels to assist,” says Becky Hendee, senior marketing manager for outdoor dog gear and clothing company. The dog’s natural swimming posture. Blazer. “We recommend looking for a dog flotation device that is built to float while allowing unobstructed movement.”
Another important feature of a dog life jacket is the sturdy top handle to help your dog get out of the water. For example, if your dog falls (or jumps!) off the paddle board, you can grab the handle to help him get back up. Becky also recommends looking for a dog flotation device with reflective properties, allowing you to easily see your pet, and a D-ring for attaching the leash.
Make sure the dog life jacket you buy meets the following criteria:
- Vibrant colors, very easy to see
- exalted
- allows unimpeded movement
- handle on top
- reflective properties
- D-ring for chain attachment
- Adjustable straps for a better fit
List of the best dog life jackets
The following top three dog life jackets (dog flotation devices) all feature our must-buy criteria and the companies that make them have an excellent reputation for making outdoor dog equipment .
This is a pretty affordable flotation device at $15.99 to $27.99. There are five sizes for dogs from 5 to 100 pounds. A chart with both weight and girth measurements is available, which is helpful and size selection is important. There are four bright colors: orange, green, pink and yellow. Plus, it has a float on the front of the neck to help keep your dog’s head above the water. There’s a dual top grip, adjustable straps for a better fit, and it features reflective accents.
Comfortable yet secure, this life jacket features a neoprene lining in high-contrast colors and reflective accents. Available in bright red or bright green and five sizes from XS to XL. Costs vary depending on size, from $44.95 to $69.95. There’s a nifty size chart on the Kurgo site and a video tutorial where you measure your neck, bust and back, or you can contact the customer care team for help. The dog life jacket has two steel D-rings (one that acts as a bottle opener) for leash attachment and two horizontal handles. Plus, there are adjustable chest and belly straps for a better fit.
This is a fully featured premium dog life jacket, priced at $89.95. It comes in six sizes to better suit dogs of all shapes and sizes. There’s a nifty sizing tool where you simply measure the widest part of your dog’s rib cage. Available in three colors: sumac red, wave orange and sunset blue. Features a sturdy top handle, lanyard clip and reflective trim. Made of PVC-free foam for maneuverability and comfort. The neck closure is adjustable for a better fit.
How to choose the size of a life jacket for dogs?
Generally, you’ll find dog flotation devices in sizes for small, medium, or large breeds, with some brands also offering extra-small, extra-small, and extra-large versions. Look for a dog flotation device with straps that allow you to make small adjustments to fit your dog’s specific size.
- The dog flotation device should fit snugly but not too tightly and should not cover your dog’s entire back.
- Your dog can move freely with the device on but cannot wriggle out of the device.
- Make sure you can slide no more than two fingers between the device and your dog.
With a properly fitted dog flotation device, your dog will be ready to join you on your next water outing. As Becky says, “Dog flotation devices allow people and their dogs to continue their adventures on the water with confidence, safety, and fun!”
