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17 Best Dog Life Vests to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Water
Best dog life vests – Does your canine friend like to go swimming with you? Of course, he does. While many dogs naturally possess inherent swimming skills, known as doggie paddle, Many others are not good swimmers.
Take for example bulldogs – their body structures does not allow for swimming with their weight in front and their short legs. And they are not the only ones that may struggle. That’s why you need to provide a dog life vest to prevent any drowning accidents.
So whenever you are going for a swimming adventure such as boating or kayaking, ensure you carry a personal floatation device for your dog and of course yourself. And you don’t want to lose your best friend because of negligence. Therefore, invest in the best dog life vest for your pup if you plan to have some fun in the pool or the sea.
Essential Elements to Consider Before Buying a Dog Floatation Vest aka PFD for Dogs
There are some features an effective life vest must have. So before making any purchase, consider the following elements, enabling you to make an informed decision.
Buoyancy and Efficiency
You should choose a floatation vest with sufficient buoyancy to enable your mutt to stay afloat. Most premium quality products that will be reviewed in the next section have a floatation section under-belly, neck, sides, and around the back to assist your pup to keep his head on top of the water.
Therefore, ensure the life vest is efficient enough to keep your dog afloat. Besides, it should not restrict his swimming movements.
Shape and Size Get the Best Fit for Your Dog Life Jacket
Dogs come in varying sizes and shapes, so you’ll be required to choose a life jacket that best fits your dog correctly. Ensure your dog is comfortable, so he can easily sit or lie down, and he should be relaxed. Never to tight but snug enough.
If the vest is too small, it will restrict his movement and make him uncomfortable. If the life jacket is oversized, it becomes loose, and your dog might slip-up while in the water. For a perfect fit, take your dog’s actual measurement, especially the torso and girth.
High Visibility on Dog Life Vests
When you are swimming, you become pretty much invisible. This applies to your dogs too; thus, you should choose a brightly colored vest such as yellow, pink, orange, or green. Check if it has reflective trims for enhanced visibility.
Strong Handles
Sometimes dogs become extremely tired of swimming and can’t float; you should lift them out. So, you’ll need to purchase a life coat with solid handles for this purpose. Dogs can only climb onto the boat if assisted.
The rescue handles can act as harnesses, especially for dogs with impaired mobility. So ensure also it has a D-ring for connecting the leash.
Flexible Straps
Dogs grow very fast, and with time you’ll want to get a life vest that fits well. To avoid frequent purchases at each growing stage, acquire a floatation jacket with flexible straps which you can adjust the size when required.
You should ensure the straps are built with comfortable and durable materials, especially the mesh lining, for good drainage and dry off quickly.
Top 15 Best Dog Life Vests, Personal Float Devices and Life Jackets for Dogs
This article provides detailed information on life vests on the market. Have faith in any of them to keep your pooch safe and sound while in the sea or pool. You must ensure that you buy a suitable vest for him.
Best Life Vest for French BullDog Swimming Safety Jacket (English Bulldog Life Vest)
Not every dog is good at swimming, in this list is French bulldogs and English bulldogs. Their short legs has short legs and cute short nose make it difficult and even unsafe. This professional french bulldog life jacket assists your dogs swim easily.French Bulldog Life Jacket – Professional Dog Safety Vests for Swimming, Superior Buoyancy & Rescue Handle (Chest Girth: 17″-30″ Weight: 17-28LB).
Even if you don’t plan on taking your dog swimming, there may be times when he is walking near water or at a pool. So don’t take a risk and get your French bull dog a life vest for his water safety that is designed especially for him.
Ruffwear K9 Float Coat Life Jacket for Dogs Adjustable and Reflective
If your pup loves to swim, then you need to get him a jacket that can withstand the strength of water. It should also provide the necessary comfort for several hours. Therefore, the Ruffwear float coat is the best choice.
The Ruffwear K9 life vest is a highly rated product on the market due to its extreme resilience and durability. It is built of strong material that resists abrasion. Its closed-cell foam panels are strategically laced to enable your mutt to maintain the upright position while swimming or paddle-boarding.
There is a strong handle at the back that helps you pull your dog out of water effortlessly. It features a telescopic and adjustable neck closure that fits dogs of varying shapes and sizes. It attaches firmly in place, held steadily by the clip buckles.
It’s built with a webbing mechanism compatible with water for enhanced stability even in wet and humid environments. Besides, the reflective trim offers low-light visibility. But you will have to budget for integrated light to attach a beacon light to the vest.
Pros:
- Enhanced visibility
- Water-webbing design
- Comes with an extra beacon light
- Adjustable fit for dogs with different shapes and sizes
Cons:
- Not cheap
- Only suitable for dogs trained to swim
Bottom Line: The premium quality Ruffwear K9 float coat is a perfect fit for dogs of all sizes, 14inches in length and above.
Vivaglory Ripstop Dog Life Vest Reflective & Adjustable for XS, S, M, L, & XL Dogs
Personal dog flotation device comes in all size and a range of colors for your canine water safety.
The runner-up is the Vivaglory Ripstop life jacket from a reputable Vivaglory brand. It comes in varying colors and sizes, which makes it a highly-rated product. The colors range from yellow to pink to blue.
But before you choose the correct size for your dog, take his measurements, especially the ribcage and chest. The Vivaglory Ripstop dog PFD is built with an additional padding mechanism to offer extraordinary buoyancy for enhanced swimming. It has a resilient fastening system around the neck and stomach to fit your pup firmly.
The vest has a quick-release handle and flexible straps that attach firmly to your dog. The D-ring is for the leash attachment, while the heavy-duty grab handle, which acts as a life preserver, enables you to pull out your pup during an emergency.
It comes with reflective trims and different bright colors for enhanced visibility and identification. Vivaglory company guarantees you a 90-day product warranty against any issues related to manufacturing.
Pros:
- Available in 5 different shapes and sizes
- Comes with a 90-day product warranty
- Relatively affordable
- Optional leash attachment
- Bright multiple colors for improved visibility
Cons:
- It comes with single rescue handles, making it hard to pull out big and heavy dogs
Bottom Line: Vivaglory Ripstop life vest provides your pup extra safety and enhanced endurance while swimming.
Best Dog Life Vests for Small Dogs – Queenmore Ripstop Shark Life Vest for Dogs Safety
Beside being super cute this life vest is for small and medium dogs. Lightweight with a safety handle and shark tail keeps your dogs safe around water, in a boat or by the pool.
This Queensmore personal safety dog flotation device is made with high buoyancy fabric. High quality professional floating polyester and advanced breathable mesh underbelly to keep good flotation and proper draining and drying. Features a shark fin, nylon straps, quick release buckles and high quality comfortable magic sticker fastening system around a small dog belly and neck to keep securely fastened.
lots of reflective accents and the bright color to help enhance visibility of your dog. Best dog life jackets can keeps your small and medium breed dogs always afloat above the water when he/she is boating, canoeing, surfing, swimming.
ZippyPaws Adventure PFD Life Vest for XXS Dogs to XX Large Canines
ZippyPaws produced this product with your dog’s safety in mind. The vest provides the necessary security for your pooch in and out of water. For instance, if your dog collapses during swimming, it will keep him afloat.
It comes in 6 different sizes and colors. So it’s upon you to measure the size of your pooch and select a suitable size for him. This is the most prominent dog life vest, ideal for pups weighing between 50 to 86 pounds with girths ranging 11 to 40inches. To say that it’s perfect for both small and extra-large dogs.
This jacket is made of dense foam panels to keep your mutt safe and afloat at all times. The material is specifically designed to enable your dog to stay afloat. Moreover, your dog’s movement is not restricted while on land.
It has very bright and reflective strips that improve visibility and identification to any person and boat. It has in-built solid handles for easy retrieval of your dog drowned in water. This and many more features make this product the best dog life vest for your budget.
Pros:
- It comes in different shapes and sizes
- Robust, dense foam panels
- Excellent buoyancy
- Reflective trims for visibility and identification
- Suitable for both small and extra-large dogs
Cons:
- Relatively complex to adjust
Bottom Line: If you want to save your dog much faster if he is drowning, you should ensure that he puts on ZippyPaws because it will keep him safe and calm.
Bess Bridal Dog Floatation Life Vest Fun Life Jacket for Small to Extra Large Dogs
Small, medium, large and extra large dogs, swimming, safety life preserver vest for you canine.
Bess Bridal is a well-respected brand known to produce life vests with unique styles; the most common and popular is the Bess Bridal Dog Life Vest. It has shark and mermaid designs that make your dog feel like a pro while swimming.
This is the perfect dog swim vest for pool parties as well as other water-based activities. It is made of premium quality materials that include top-notch polyester oxford, mesh fabric, and pearl foam cotton.
The ripstop nylon fabric allows your pup to float on top of the water without causing any discomfort. The mesh fiber also enables it to have proper drainage and to dry pretty much faster. Bess Bridal dog life vest is available in 3 distinct sizes.
Measure your dog’s size and purchase the right one that fits him well. It has two straps around the belly and chest region that feature a quick-release button to offer a proper fit for him. So it’s easy to put on and take off.
There is a convenient handle at the top for swift and easy grabbing. Besides, the sturdy D-ring hook is perfect for leash attachment for enhanced control.
Pros:
- Available in 3 varying sizes to choose from and a measurement notice
- Fun shark and mermaid design life vest for dogs
- Adjustable and safe belts
- Top handle for quick rescues
Cons:
- Not suitable for puppies and extra-large dogs
Bottom Line: Bess Bridal gives you varying options to suit your pooch’s needs. It also makes it easy to save him if he is drowning. And you won’t regret your choice.
AOFITEE Dog Life Jackets Ripstop Safe Flotation Dog Device with Fin and Rescue Handle
The next product on the list is the AOFITEE dog floatation vest in unique styles and appealing designs. You can choose either the pink mermaid or grey shark shape that suits your pup. These designs make him look adorable and feel like a start while swimming, surfing, or boating.
This product is delicately built with a combination of abrasion-resistant nylon fabric and cotton foam. Therefore, the swimsuit gives your dog extraordinary buoyancy while swimming in the water.
The dog swimsuit features the most convenient and sturdy rescue top handle. It enables you to grab your mutt firmly when submerging him or pull him out of the water. It is effortless to use, especially quick-release buckles and adjustable straps around the neck and belly regions for tight fit and enhanced comfort.
It’s easy to put on and off due to its robust hook and loop closure. The pet swimming vest comes in 5 distinct sizes. It is ideal for both small and large dogs. Therefore, it provides you a wide range of options to choose from that suit your dog’s swimming needs.
Pros:
- Appealing designs and styles
- Robust and convenient rescue handle
- Keep dogs very comfortable
- Easy to use
- It comes in 5 different colors
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
Bottom Line: Do you want your pup to feel like a pro while swimming or surfing, then get him an AOFITEE floatation vest, and it will enjoy water-based activities.
SNIK-S Dog Life Vest Super Cute Flotation Device for Dogs
When it comes to safety, the SNIK-S floatation vest takes the lead. It is delicately made with high-quality Oxford polyester and nylon fabric, pearl cotton, and mesh fabric, giving your dog healthier and comfortable conditions.
The nylon fabric is ripstop, while the mesh fiber allows for correct drainage and quick drying. It comes in 3 different sizes; all you need to do is take accurate measurements to buy the right size. It’s critical to know what you will receive regarding sizes when making an online product purchase.
The front float helps your dog to hold his head above the water. The reflective stripes improve visibility, while the bright colors are for identification. It has a quick-release buckle, making it easy to put on and off, while adjustable belts fit your dog appropriately.
The top handle is strong for easy grabbing, while the D-ring hook is for leash attachment and supreme control. The company guarantees you 30 days’ warranty to replace this product if damaged.
Pros:
- Mesh fiber for proper drainage and faster drying
- Affordable
- Suitable for both small and large dogs
- Adjustable belts to fit the dog well
- Reflective trims enhance visibility
Cons:
- It does not provide enough buoyance for big dogs
Bottom Line: If you are looking for a life coat that can serve you for a very long time, then look no further, because SNIK-S Dog Life Vest got you covered.
Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket PFD for Dogs
Outward Hound dog swimsuit provides your dog necessary protection and safety. So whether he is small or big, best swimmer or sinker, this product takes care of that. It features high-grade materials, robust construction, and maximum comfort.
Outward Hound is constructed for both intermediate and amateur swimmers. It is made of dense, buoyant foam panels in a ripstop nylon fabric to prevent any form of drowning. It has an adjustable neoprene band with three strong Velcro strips and two flexible, quick-release buckles to wrap around the stomach, while another buckle strap fastens the chest firmly.
A foam panel assists your pup in keeping the head up, which is a feature that you must check in a vest. Since it is brightly colored with reflective strips, you can quickly identify your canine friend. This product is designed with a low-profile technique that doesn’t restrict his movement.
Outward Hound is affordable and can fit extra-large dogs. Regardless of swim and size, this is the best dog life jacket for all dogs.
Pros:
- Made of superior quality materials
- Available in 3 varying colors
- It’s ideal for intermediate god swimmers
- Affordable
Cons:
- The handles start to wear off after constant use
Bottom Line: The Outward Hound Dog Life vest is built with high-grade materials, affordability, and comfort in mind for both extra-large and small dogs.
Kurgo Surf n’ Turf Dog Life Water Kayak Jacket for Dogs
This is the perfect multipurpose jacket that keeps your pup safe and sound in any wet environment such as the beach, pool, or sea. It is precisely made of ripstop quality materials for extraordinary strength; you can use it for a lifetime. In addition, it can endure rough water activities.
Kurgo Surf is a 2-in- 1 product; it’s a life jacket and also a raincoat. That is to say, your dog can use it as a swimsuit, and if you remove the floatation layer, it becomes a raincoat. The product comes in 5 varying sizes, a flexible strap, and quick-release strong handles for proper fitting.
The handles are robust and durable, allowing you to rescue your dog from water without ripping off the body. Kurgo Surf is brightly colored for enhanced identification, while the reflective straps improve visibility, both at night and during the day.
The metallic D-rings allow you to attach the leash efficiently. It fits dogs with girth from 12 to 22 inches and neck size from 8 to 14 inches. It comes with a lifetime product warranty. If you buy it from an authorized shop dealer, you can make defect claims, and it can be replaced for you.
Pros:
- Constructed from durable and high-quality materials
- It’s a multipurpose life vest
- Robust dual top handles
- D-ring for leash attachment
- Extremely visible
Cons:
- Not suitable for deep seawater due to very restricted buoyancy
- Insufficient floatation
Bottom Line: If you want a friendly dog life vest that keeps your mutt comfortable the whole day and doubles up as a raincoat, then Kurgo Surf n’ Turf is your best choice.
Queenmore Dog Life Jacket Adjustable Safety Vest High Buoyancy PFD for Small, Medium and Large Dogs
It features a gray shark style with a fin-like thing that protrudes out of the water while your pooch is swimming, making him feel like a shark itself. It also comes in a pink fish-like design. Besides, it comes in five different sizes with flexible straps around the chest, belly, and chest for a perfect fit.
Queenmore dog life vest is made of nylon foam and high-quality oxford cloth. The manufacturer also included a resilient grab and rescue handle for pulling out your pup for emergencies and a long-lasting D-ring for connecting the leash. This vest has superb buoyancy, reflective trims for outstanding visibility.
This dog floatation jacket has a delicate mesh lining in the belly that allows your pup to be calm and dry pretty much faster. The vest has a sports design around the neck region, enabling your pooch to participate in various water-based activities such as kayaking, swimming, surfing, and many others.
You’ll love this vest because it’s easy to put on and off of your mutt. The adjustable parts ensure that your dog’s movement is not restricted while in water. This is the right dog floatation vest because it comes with the necessary accessories.
Pros:
- Funky fish design
- Made of superior quality materials
- Extraordinary fastening sticker
- Excellent floatation
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with a large chest size
Bottom Line: Queenmore Dog life vest is attractive yet highly functional. This is what you should look for if you want an outstanding safety for your mutt.
Paws Aboard Dog Life Vest for Swimming, Boating and Kayaking with Dogs
Paws Aboard is an excellent option, especially if you are looking for dog life vests for small-sized dogs. If you see the product for the first time, it looks pretty much boxy. Its bright colors and reflective strips increase your pooch visibility both day and night.
It’s equipped with a top solid rescue handle to grab the dog from the boat or water. Most brands focus on paddling to enable the dogs to stay buoyant, but their products become too large for small dogs.
Paws Aboard dog life jackets are against this odd; this product is made of premium quality and breathable neoprene foam for comfortable wear and durability. The flexible and lightweight materials enhance your dog’s movement and comfort in the water.
The mesh lining under the stomach allows for proper drainage and drying, thus improving his health too. The strong HD Velcro straps are designed to fasten tightly on the belly and neck regions. At the same time, the quick-release buckle and nylon straps make it easy to put on and take off.
The D-rings are for maximum pup control. Paws Aboard are designed with a stylish silhouette touch. These dog life vests comes in different shapes and sizes that suit your pooch.
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable
- Highly suitable for small pooches
- It quickly dries off.
- Superior quality HD Velcro straps
Cons:
- It does not provide enough buoyancy for large dogs
- Not ideal for hairy pups
Bottom Line: If you keep dogs with a large chest, especially bulldogs, this is the right product for them. It fits comfortably without restricting movements.
HAOCOO Dog Floatation Vest Life Jacket with Reflective Stripes/Adjustable Belt for Dogs
It is a unique personal floatation device for dogs. It comes in different designs and styles, especially the flashy purple and pink colors, with each design featuring high-quality mesh fabric, oxford nylon materials, which is ripstop.
The mesh fiber for apposite drainage and fast-drying, while the cotton fabric filling provides your great pup buoyancy to keep him afloat and swim safely out of water. The chest belts and two strong straps around the belly features a quick-release control to fit him well.
Durable rescue top handles make it easy for you to lift your dog in and out of water. In addition, its solid D-ring enables you to attach the leash for excellent control. The dog life vests has a front float which helps your canine friend to keep his head above water while swimming.
This product comes in nine varying colors and 3 distinct sizes. The vibrant colors and a reflective strip improve visibility. This life vest for canines is ideal for small, medium, larger and extra large dogs.
Pros:
- Robust construction
- Sufficient buoyancy
- Sturdy handles and straps
- D-ring for total control
- Colorful designs and styles
Cons:
- Not suitable for extra-heavy and or tiny dogs
Bottom Line: HAOCOO varying sizes and vibrant colors give plenty of options suitable for your mutt’s different needs.
ASENKU Ripstop Life Jacket Flotation Device for Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large Dogs
Do you know any brand that can produce quality life vests that ASENKU? This company produces some of the best dog life vests in the market. The outer part consists of superior quality oxford polyester nylon, while the inner part has a foam lining.
ASENKU dog life jacket allows for not only faster drying and sufficient drainage but also its ripstop. The front float features an under-chin that helps your pup keep his head on top of the water, especially in harsh conditions.
In addition, the convenient and solid rescue handles make it easy for you to lift him out of the water safely, either by hook or hand. Reflective trims are perfect for enhancing your mutt’s visibility, particularly in blurred conditions. The D-ring at the back allows you to attach it to the leash for excellent control.
It comes in 6 different sizes to choose from. You need to take your dog’s measurement and get the right size that suits him. This product is attractive and stylish, featuring a waterproof foam, which gives him warmth during winter.
Pros:
- It is stylish and appealing
- Strong quick-release buckles to pull the pooch out of water
- Provides safety while swimming
- Waterproof
- Made of high-grade materials
Cons:
- Inconsistent sizing
Bottom Line: ASENKU Ripstop is waterproof, which keeps your canine friend warm in winter. In addition, it provides adequate safety for him while in water, which makes it a valuable product to acquire.
Fragralley High Visibility Dog Life Vest for Small Dogs Through to Large
If you want a cheap floatation jacket with high visibility, performance and safety, the Fragralley model a life vest for your dog worth being on your list. It’s designed with vibrant colors, which allows you to find your dogs in a crowded place. Besides, it makes it easy for you to identify him on the beach, surfing, or kayaking.
Fragralley is made of a comfortable and durable material similar to the human jacket. The material is buoyant pearl cotton, and its ripstop provides your sturdy pup buoyancy keeping your afloat. It is lightweight and doesn’t restrict your dog’s movement in the water.
The adjustable belts and quick-release buckles fit comfortably on your pup perfectly. Upgradeable rescue to handles enables you to pull him in and out during an emergency. In addition, the D-ring is suitable for leash attachment without any collar.
Durable foam lining helps your pup to float on top of the water while swimming. It also adds exquisite insulation to enhance warmth. This jacket is affordable and is produced by a reputed brand. This safety swim vest comes in a variety of sizes. Life vest for small dogs and available in medium and larger life saving vests.
Pros:
- High visibility
- Made of robust materials
- Comfortable fit and improved buoyancy
- Durable and robust rescue handles
- Available in different sizes
Cons:
- Limited lifespan
Bottom Line: This is one of the best dog life vests if you find it difficult to spot your pup in a crowd or water while swimming? The Fragralley is the best product for you due to its high visibility feature and vibrant colors.
EMUST Dog Floatation Vest
EMUST is the final product to complete the 15 best dog life vests with its original ripstop qualities. The model is designed to be durable due to the premium quality materials. The vest is constructed with solid polyester nylon and oxford, featuring a mesh foam.
The materials not only allow for fast drying and adequate drainage, but it’s also ripstop. The swimsuit provides your dog with excellent buoyancy need to move freely while swimming. The vest comes in 5 different sizes to fit him perfectly.
This life vest has adjustable and durable straps around the chest, neck, and belly. The quick-release buckle and Velcro belts ensure that it fits comfortably with restricting your dog’s swimming ability.
This model includes rescue grab handles for convenience and safety, while the D-ring for leash attachment. The reflective stripes and vibrant colors for enhanced visibility. EMUST vest made this in stylish and appealing designs, especially the shark style.
Pros:
- Adjustable and durable quick-release belts
- High-quality construction
- It has an excellent design and style
- Convenient and robust rescue handle
Cons:
- Not suitable for extra small dogs
Bottom Line: EMUST constructed this life jacket with only your dog in mind and make him feel like a swimming star while in the water. It does not restrict his movement and keeps him comfortable.
A-MORE Dog Life Vest, Personal Flotation Device with Shark Fin and Handle
A-MORE is a well-respected brand that produces resilient products such as the A-MORE floatation vest. This vest comes in bright gray color and has adorable styles and designs. The product is lightweight and is made of durable and superior-quality materials.
The A-MORE dog life vest is made in different shapes and sizes, with rescue handles for convenience and safety for pulling out your pup in case of an emergency. It’s one of the best dog life vests and include velcro straps around the neck, chest, and belly, as well as the sides.
With adjustable buckles, you can fasten and loosen it as you wish. The dog has a safety handle at the top to lift your dog out of a boat or water. The mesh lining around the belly for enhanced drainage and fast drying.
The size chart for this product is pretty much accurate, which enables you to find the right size. The straps are durable and elastic for improved security.
Pros:
- It is exceptionally durable
- Lightweight
- Adjustable Velcro straps
- The materials are portable and of high-quality
- Affordable
Cons:
- It does not provide enough floatation for extra-small dogs
- Not suitable to use in strong sea currents
Bottom Line: You can put your trust in the A-MORE dog life vest to provide comfort and safety for your pooch while swimming. Besides, it’s suitable for outdoor activities.
Concluding the 17 Best Dog Life Vests
If you decide to purchase or invest in any of the best dog life vests, this comprehensive product list will assist you greatly to narrow down your best and affordable choices. You don’t need to purchase a costly model; instead, you can look for affordable and high performance options in the market.
But first, you need to conduct thorough product research by doing product comparisons and sizes. Most importantly, you must consider the value of the product as well as all the essential elements. If you do this, you will be able to choose the best floatation vest for your canine friend in a short time.
Consequently, you need to ensure that you use the life jacket for its anticipated purpose. Some stylish models are specifically designed for surfing or swimming pools, while the more buoyant and resilient ones are used in deep seawaters. Always supervise your mutt, regardless of the jacket’s safety.