Best Dog Lifejackets: Give Your Dog The Most Important Gift Of All!
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Finding the best dog lifejackets for your dogs can be tricky. When it comes to your dog’s safety, there is simply no substitute for prevention. However, if you do happen to get into a situation where your dog needs a life jacket, you’ll want the best one you can buy. That’s why we have done an extensive review of the top-rated products on the market and identified which ones are worth their asking price. Our goal here is to help you find the best dog life jacket available so you can enjoy your time together even more!
Best Dog Lifejackets
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Outward Hound Granby Splash Orange Dog Life Jacket | 9.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop & Reflective Dog Life Preserver | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket | 9.1 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Malier Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop Dog Life Vest | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | ASENKU Dog Life Jacket Ripstop Pet Floatation Vest | 8.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | MIGOHI Dog Life Jacket, Reflective & Adjustable Preserver | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | RUFFWEAR, Float Coat Dog Life Jacket, Swimming Safety Vest | 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | ZARYIEEO Reflective Dog Life Jacket | 7.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Doglay Dog Life Jacket, Dog Life Vest with Reflective Stripes | 7.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | ZippyPaws – Adventure Life Jacket for Dogs | 7.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Last update on 27th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Recommended Dog Life Vests:
Outward Hound Granby Splash Orange Dog Life Jacket
- SIZING BASED ON GIRTH: Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. Whether your dog is short and stout or long and lanky, there’s a dog life jacket fit for them. Available in sizes XS-XL and featuring adjustable straps, we’ve made it easy for you to choose a size that supports them based on their girth measurement. We recommend sizing up if the dog’s girth size is on the higher end of this size.
- SPLASH WITH SAFETY: The Outward Hound Granby Splash life jacket for dogs is designed with bright colors and reflective accents to provide better visibility while swimming. A front neck float helps keep your dog’s head above water whether they are a novice or experienced swimmer.
- NOVICE & EXPERIENCED SWIMMER-FRIENDLY: The Granby Splash dog life jacket is constructed with ripstop material that provides maximum buoyancy in the water without restricting movement on land. Adjustable straps and side release buckles provide a secure fit and neoprene belly band supports their chest and belly while getting their float on!
- SINGLE RESCUE HANDLE DESIGN: A top grab handle makes it easy to restrain and lift your dog out of the water and provides easy access for a rescue should they get into trouble.
- PLAY IT SAFE: No pet accessory is indestructible. Do not leave with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace if damaged.
Last update on 27th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is quite a popular option when it comes to dog life vests. Thanks to its reasonable price, this is also a great budget-friendly option to consider. The Outward Hound features reflective strips and two handles on top, while most competitors only have one handle. It is quite lightweight and made from durable ripstop material.
It is quite easy and straightforward to use, and its straps allow for comfortable movement while wearing it. You will find it in two colors to choose from and five sizes to pick the one that fits your dog. Overall a great and affordable option that you should have a closer look at while researching.
Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop & Reflective Dog Life Preserver
- MEASURE BEFORE PURCHASE: before choosing a size, please measure your dog’s ribcage at the DEEPEST part; do NOT judge your dog’s size from weight or other brands’ standard; if your dog’s measurement is between sizes, please choose the next size up
- FOR DOG’S SAFETY: Vivaglory dog PFD is constructed with extra padding to enable strong buoyance in the water without restricting your dog’s movement. Fastening system around belly and neck will keep the flotation vest securely on your dog
- CONVENIENCE & FIT: durable grab handle of the dog life preserver makes it easy to pull your dog out of any emergency. D-ring is for attaching dog leash. Adjustable straps and quick-release buckles ensure perfect fit for your dog
- HIGH VISIBILITY: comes with bright colors and reflective trims, this dog water vest enhances your dog’s visibility in and out of the water, allow you to identify your dog quickly
- KINDLY REMINDER: this dog life jacket gives your dog additional safety and endurance in the water. For your pet’s health, please do not leave dog unattended while using a lifejacket. And we recommend you to give your dog some time to get used to wearing this dog life jacket before using it in water
Last update on 27th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The company provides ten colors to choose from and five sizes to find the one that suits your dog. You can find this model at a very attractive price, so this is a great budget option to consider.
It has reflective material for great visibility after dark and is made from lightweight and durable material. An affordable life jacket that is straightforward to use, so if you like any color variations, this is your best bet for this price range.
Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket
- MEASURE BEFORE PURCHASE: before choosing a size, please measure your dog’s ribcage at the DEEPEST part; do NOT judge your dog’s size from weight or other brands’ standard; if your dog’s measurement is between sizes, please choose the next size up for more comfortable fit
- New Sports Style Design: Sports-style design gives your beloved dog a new look and does not hinder his/her natural movement. Thoughtful strategically positioned neck design not only provides more space but also keeps your dog in a natural swimming position, making them feel more comfortable and eased
- Safe Material: The materials of Vivaglory dog life jacket have passed CA65 test, keeping your dog safe wherever he/she roams. Upgraded ripstop 600D cloth makes our safety vest quite durable. Heavy-duty yet more comfortable fastening system around the belly and neck to keep securely fastened
- High Visibility: Designed with bright colors and Reflective trims, our pet life jackets can enhance visibility in and out of water or low-light conditions; No worry about your dog disappearing from your sight
- Kindly Reminder: this dog life jacket gives your dog additional safety and endurance in the water. For your dog’s safety, please do not leave dog unattended while using a lifejacket. And we recommend you to give your dog some time to get used to wearing this dog life jacket before using it in water
Last update on 27th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It shares the same principle, yet comes with a more modern design. You can find this in ten different colors to choose from among five sizes. Made from durable yet lightweight material, featuring reflective trims and easy use quick-release buckle. Another great option from Vivaglory, if it is within your budget, I would highly suggest you get a closer look at this one.
Why Should I Use a Dog Life Jacket?
Many pet parents never think about their pets when they are taking them on a boat trip or other water-related activity. But accidents can happen even with the best intentions. Severe weather, accidental falls overboard, or just plain old carelessness can result in your pet becoming lost at sea. And even if he doesn’t, being out in the water for an extended period of time can be fatal for many animals. That’s why I feel it is important for every pet parent to wear a dog lifejacket while their pet is in the water.
Dog life jackets are designed to keep dogs safe in or near water. They are very affordable. And, you can find them at just about any pet store. Not only can they save your pet’s life if he falls into water, they can also prevent serious injury (or even death) if your dog is involved in a boat accident.
However, many people don’t bother to buy dog life jackets because they are so bulky and uncomfortable. This is a horrible mistake.
When Do I Need a Dog Life Jacket?
They are required by law to be worn by all dogs that are in or near water over six inches deep. Some people wear them just because they feel safer with their dog wearing one… even though there is no real benefit to doing so. However, there are several real benefits to using a dog lifejacket!
For starters, wearing one will make your dog much more tolerant of the water. He will learn very quickly that being in the water is not so bad when he has something to hold onto. If your dog is afraid of the water, then wearing a lifejacket will allow him to gradually get more comfortable being in it.
Another great benefit of using dog life jackets is that they help keep your pet safe when you are boating. Boats are dangerous for animals because if something does happen, your pet won’t be able to climb back on board by himself. A dog life jacket can help keep your pet afloat and in a position where he might be able to grab onto the boat when it is right above him.
Even though dogs don’t seem to get old, they age very quickly. And when your pet is older, his muscles can become weaker in the water. This makes swimming much more difficult and a lifejacket will provide that extra bit of safety in an emergency.
Moreover, just about any water-based activity will put your dog at risk of drowning. Even a short encounter with water can leave your dog exhausted and hypothermic. Most dogs do fine with just a quick dip in a pond or lake. But, if you like to take your dog on overnight or longer hikes, you will need to make sure he is properly equipped to handle an emergency situation.
Having a swimming pool at home is also a good reason to get your dog such a flotation device. Even a strong swimmer can find danger in a pool filled with large objects (such as air mattresses, floats, etc.) And even if you just take your pet out on the deck every day for some fun, he will still need to wear one.
It’s also important to note that you should never leave your dog unattended while he is wearing a lifejacket. Even if your pet doesn’t like the jacket, he still needs to wear it until you are ready for him to get out of the water. Leaving your pet unattended even for just a few minutes could be enough time for him to get into some trouble.
How to Measure Your Dog for a Life Jacket
One of the biggest problems that pet owners have is getting their pets to wear the life jackets they have purchased for them. Often, the pet will resist wearing the life jacket. The reasons for this are many.
Fortunately, the majority of dog life jackets are incredibly comfortable while they are being worn. The main problem with them is that many dogs refuse to wear them at all because they are so bulky and annoying. This is often the result of poor fitting life jackets. A dog life jacket that fits poorly can cause serious problems for an animal, especially if it prevents him from being able to move freely in the water.
Once it becomes an accustomed part of his life, he will likely wear it without complaint.
Getting a small dog life jacket for a big dog or vice versa will only cause your pet discomfort and could even injure him if he falls into the water unexpectedly.
Before purchasing a lifejacket, you need to determine what size your dog will wear. This is very simple to do as long as you have the right equipment and are not in a rush. If you are using a tape measure make sure it can get to the tip of the dog’s nose before you take any measurements.
Pull out enough tape to reach from your dog’s shoulder, around his girth or rib cage, back up to his second front leg. Once you have this measurement, add about ½ an inch.
What to Consider When Looking for the Best Dog Life Jackets?
Size and Fit
There are several things to consider when purchasing a dog lifejacket. The first is the size and fit. As mentioned, getting a lifejacket that’s too small will not protect your pet in an emergency situation. It can also make him uncomfortable because it will be too tight around his body or restrict the movement of his legs. This will only cause your dog to become agitated or try to remove the lifejacket.
Getting a lifejacket that is too big for your pet is not necessarily dangerous, but it can be extremely uncomfortable. If you have purchased a lifejacket that has straps around the neck and one around the stomach, this type of jacket should come with a small pocket located in the back to help it stay afloat. When a lifejacket is too big, it can prevent this from happening. This will make your pet hotter and also uncomfortable because he cannot get out of the water as easily.
Another thing you should consider when looking for a life jacket for your dog is whether or not the jacket will interfere with your pet’s vision or movement. Before buying one, try it out to make sure your dog can walk and swim freely. Try walking around the store to make sure he does not turn to the side too much as this can cause discomfort as well as safety issues if your pet falls off a pier or boat.
Making sure your pet can swim freely is also advisable. Before finalizing the fit of the life jacket, take it for a test swim to make sure he can still move his legs and tail normally.
Comfort
The second most important consideration when looking for the best lifejacket for your pet is comfort. There are many factors to consider in terms of keeping your dog comfortable, such as adjustable straps and lining that make it easier for him to stay afloat.
An adjustable neck and chest strap ensure that you can get a customized fit. This will keep the lifejacket from moving too much as your dog walks or swims. It will also allow you to tighten the jacket so it does not come loose if your pet jumps off of a ledge unexpectedly.
Buoyancy
The buoyancy levels for jackets differ depending on the type and way they utilize foam panels. Flotation sections are usually included under the belly, as well as the back and sides, in top-of-the-line dog life vests.
The most common type of life jacket is one that uses closed-cell foam to create buoyancy around the dog’s body. Buoyant material is essential for keeping your pet afloat in an emergency situation where you are not able to help him. It is also important to make sure the material does not absorb water.
Floating jackets will also help keep your pet safe and calm as he waits for rescue. Since anxious dogs can struggle in the water, they will usually require more flotation. There are also heavier dogs who, due to their size, will require additional flotation too.
Color and Visibility
The best way to ensure visibility is by choosing a bright, vibrant color that contrasts with the water. A bright blue, orange, red or yellow jacket should do the trick.
This is crucial so as your dog remains visible and easy to locate in an emergency. If you like to have a life vest with reflective trim, you can also go this way, as this reflective accent is ideal for night boating trips.
Keep in mind that in the case of a rescue mission, these small things can make a huge difference when you need to locate your dog.
Material and Durability
Life jackets for dogs can be made from a variety of strong materials. One of the most popular material types is ballistic nylon, which is also found in human life vests. Ballistic nylon will keep your pet afloat and help him stay comfortable in a smooth, cool material. Another strong material is polypropylene, which has the advantage of keeping your dog cool in the water while also keeping him afloat.
If you plan on using your dog’s life vest for boating trips, then it will be necessary to find a lightweight option that does not put too much strain on him. Keep in mind that even strong materials can become too much to handle if they are not lightweight enough for the occasion.
Rescue Handles and D-Rings
Many life jackets for dogs also come with a number of handles and D-rings. This is so pet owners can have an easier time getting their dogs out of the water if the need ever arises.
You can also use this handle if you plan to go tubing and need to get ashore quickly. There are plenty of occasions that you will need to carry your dog, especially on a boat, so try to avoid units that don’t have a strong handle.
Another D-ring is usually included on the back end of the life vest, which makes it easy for people who are not wearing a life vest to tow you and your pet into shore. Several people can also use the D-ring attached to the back of the jacket if they find themselves in a situation where they need to pull multiple people out of the water at once.
This is an important consideration for dog owners who like to participate in different types of boating activities or who enjoy hanging out with their furry friends at the beach.
Safety Tips
1) Make the Vest a Positive Experience for the Dog
Your dog should get used to wearing the life vest before you take him out on an actual boat or water activity. This will be useful so he can become familiar with his new accessory and stop being afraid of it.
The life vest should fit your dog well, but it should also be easy enough for you to take on and off. The best-fitting life jacket will be the one that does not tangle around your dog but makes it easy for you to take off in case of an emergency.
The straps should hug your pet snuggly, but there should also be some extra space for him to move around comfortably. If your dog is still hesitant to put on the life vest, consider using treats or another type of reward system.
2) Always Double-Check That the Straps Are Correctly Fastened and Secured.
If anything should happen to the quick release buckles, it would be nearly impossible for your pet to stay afloat if he was not properly buckled into his new accessory.
Whether you are buying a simple dog life jacket or investing in an advanced model designed for large breeds, make sure it is made from strong material that will float your pet if he falls into the water. If possible, look for models with handles and D-rings that will make it easier for you to pull your dog back into a boat or onto the shore.
3) Never, Under Any Circumstances, Allow Your Dog to Swim Alone.
Make sure he can’t get his head caught or stuck in something if you are not around to supervise.
If your dog begins to act nervous around the life vest, consider taking him to a professional trainer who can help him overcome his fears of water. If you are exhausted from trying different techniques and methods on your own, you can always ask for help from a pet training center.
FAQ
Do Dog Life Jackets Really Provide the Protection They Promise?
What Is the Most Popular Life Jacket Color?
Is It Possible to Make a Life Jacket From Scratch?
What Activities Should a Dog Do in a Life Jacket?
Do Dog Life Jackets Need to Be Worn on Boats?
Is It Safe for My Dog to Wear a Life Jacket Around the Pool?
Is It Possible for a Dog to Drown While Wearing a Life Jacket?
What Is the Correct Size for a Dog Life Jacket?
How Much Do Dog Life Vests Cost?
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Dog Life Jacket?
How Do I Make My Dog Comfortable Wearing a Life Jacket?
You can try training your pet to get used to wearing his life jacket on dry land before taking him out into the water. Start by putting it on for short periods of time and slowly increase both the amount of time and the distance you take him with it on.
If your dog is having trouble with it, you may want to try and distract him by keeping him engaged in some other activity – especially if you are trying to work on his swimming skills.
What Is the Best Way to Clean and Maintain My Dog’s Life Jacket?
At the same time, you should also try to maintain the jacket in good condition. Check for any holes or tears on a regular basis and sew them up if necessary. Also, make sure that it is not too loose or too tight by checking the chest measurements every so often.