Tips & Guides
PURELAND
02
2023
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06
The 8 Best Dog Life Jackets of 2023
Whether you're heading for a pool, river, lake, or the ocean, it’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind. It’s true that most canines instinctively know how to “doggy paddle,” but never be overconfident about your dog’s ability to swim. A scared or tired dog can begin to struggle to stay afloat in the water and even strong swimmers can be overcome by a powerful current. For safety’s sake, always use a life jacket when taking your dog on a boat or for dogs that aren’t naturally strong swimmers or face mobility issues or advancing age.
When shopping for a dog life jacket, the most important factor to consider is the size of the jacket. You should choose a life jacket that will maximize visibility, looking for a bright color, and perhaps even a version with reflective strips. A handle is another essential feature; it can help you to hold on or retrieve your dog in an emergency.
Here, the best dog life jackets.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Outward Hound Granby Dog Life Jacket at Amazon
Best Budget:
Vivaglory Ripstop Dog Life Jacket at Amazon
Best for Small Dogs:
Frisco Dog Life Jacket at Chewy
Best for Large Dogs:
EzyDog Doggy Life Vest Jacket at Amazon
Best Design:
SwimWays Sea Squirts Dog Life Vest at Amazon
Best for Active Dogs:
RUFFWEAR Dog Life Jacket at Amazon
Best Multipurpose:
Kurgo Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket at Amazon
Best Durable:
NRS Dog Life Jacket at L.L.Bean
FAQ
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Do dogs need life jackets?
A life jacket is a good idea for any dog that spends time on, in, or around the water. Though most dogs instinctively know how to swim, they may grow tired or become frightened—inhibiting their ability to continue swimming. Plus, most dog life jackets have a handle on the back that you can use to grab your dog in a potentially dangerous situation.
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Do dogs have to wear life jackets on boats?
Laws may not require your dog to wear a life jacket while on a boat and the U.S. Coast Guard does not regulate floatation devices for dogs. However, a life jacket is a good idea for any dog on a boat. In the event that your dog falls overboard (or jumps into the water), the life jacket can provide buoyancy support and also provide you with a handle to assist in pulling your dog back in.
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How do I measure my dog for a life jacket?
Most manufacturers of dog life jackets provide specific measuring instructions. Generally, your dog’s weight, chest, and neck measurements will determine what size life jacket is required. To measure your dog’s chest, place a tape measure behind the armpits and at the bottom of the rib cage—this should be the widest part of the chest. Bring the tape over the dog’s back and down to the rib cage to find the total girth of your dog’s chest. You may also need to measure your dog’s neck and body length to find a life jacket that fits securely and comfortably.
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Can dogs wear human life jackets?
You should always use a proper fitting canine life jacket for your pet, rather than attempting to make a human life jacket fit. Life jackets designed for dogs have support panels and buckles in the right places to support canine anatomy and ensure a secure fit. In addition, most dog life jackets have a D-ring for a leash, along with a handle, to keep firm hold on your pet.
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How should a dog life jacket fit?
A properly fitting dog life jacket should fit close to the body without being overly restrictive. It should allow your dog to breathe easily and also allow for a full range of motion—including walking, running, and jumping.
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Ashley is a product reviewer who is passionate about writing service-focused content that brings joy into people's lives. From home decor to pets, she loves to cover everything lifestyle. Her over 10 years of experience has included writing for TIME, AOL, and Fundera.
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Updated on 04/12/22