Do Dogs Need Life Jackets? – How to Stay Safe in the Water

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Just like adults and children, a dog needs a life jacket when he’s going to be out around a large body of water or in a boat. Most people assume that dogs are naturally great swimmers and that in any type of water condition, they’ll be fine. 

But that’s incorrect. Not all dogs swim well. Some larger dogs such as Greyhounds, are longer and thinner – which means they don’t have the same amount of body fat that other dogs have. 

This works against them when they’re in water since fat helps dogs float as well as regulate their body temperature. Larger, thinner dogs can struggle in the water.

Puppies are often full of energy and exuberant. They’ll leap into the water after something faster than you can blink. But no matter how much energy they have, a puppy is no match for long swimming sessions. 

Plus, some dogs just plain aren’t used to swimming and haven’t built up the stamina required for long periods in the water. They may get in over their heads swimming out far, and struggle to make it back to shore.

What Kind of Dog Can Benefit From A Dog Life Jacket?

Any dog – whether he’s a puppy or he already has gray around his snout – can reach the point where they get tired while they’re swimming. Just like humans, when a dog becomes tired, it can make swimming difficult. 

Plus, if he’s injured or leaps from the boat when you’re zipping along the lake, you want him to hang on until you can turn the boat around – and you want to be able to easily spot him in the water. 

A life jacket can give your dog the time he needs – plus, they’re highly visible. The handles on the back center of the jacket provide stability so that you can grip it in order to be able to lift your pet if you need to. 

A dog life jacket can save the life of any dog. 

What is a Life Jacket For Dogs?

A life jacket for dogs is a device that aids the dog and allows him to float on water if the dog’s master falls in the water. The life jacket keeps the dog afloat and helps him get back to his owner.

Why Do Dogs Need Life Jackets?

Well, some dogs are natural swimmers and some are not. Life jackets are a safety measure to ensure that your dog doesn’t drown in the event of an emergency. Even a dog who loves water and swims often can swim a bit too far and get tired out, so it’s a great habit to have your dog wear a life jacket whenever they’re around bodies of water.

Dogs swim with their head just above the surface for air, so when they stop swimming, you might not be able to see them. It’s important to have a life jacket on your dog so that if this happens you can pull them out of the water!

Picking The Best Life Jacket For Your Dog’s Needs

Picking the best life jacket for your dog is crucial as it can keep them afloat for a few extra minutes in case they fall in the water. However, there are various factors that need to be considered before buying a life jacket for your dog. For instance, some jackets are not comfortable to wear and others do not have enough buoyancy to keep their head above the water.

Here are our favorite dog life jackets!

Dog life jackets come in different sizes and styles to fit your dog’s needs. They are designed to keep your dog afloat, even if they are not strong swimmers. Dog life jackets are also great for senior dogs or dogs with health issues that may affect their swimming ability.

When shopping for a dog life jacket, there are a few critical things you should pay attention to. The first is the size and weight capacity of the jacket. It’s essential to choose a jacket that fits your dog correctly and can support their weight. The second is the material of the jacket. You want to choose a life jacket that is made of durable, high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best dog life jackets on the market, and what you should consider when making a purchase. So, whether you’re planning a summer adventure or just want to keep your pup safe during a swim, we’ve got you covered.

Best Dog Life Jackets

If you and your dog enjoy spending time in or around water, investing in a dog life jacket is a must. Not only does it provide your dog with an added layer of safety, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing that your pup is protected. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your dog. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog life jackets to help you make an informed decision.

Outward Hound Granby Splash Yellow Dog Life Jacket, Medium Granby

If you’re looking for a high-performance dog flotation device for boating, water sports, the beach, the pool, and other water adventures with dogs, the Outward Hound Granby Dog Life Jacket is a great choice. With a front neck float that adds extra support to help them keep their head above water, and top grab handles that provide an easy way to retrieve your dog in an emergency, this life jacket is designed with your dog’s safety in mind.

Pros

• The sizing is based on girth, making it easy to choose the right size for your dog.
• The bright colors and reflective accents provide better visibility while swimming.
• The adjustable straps and side release buckles provide a secure fit and neoprene belly band supports their chest and belly while getting their float on!

Cons

• The life jacket may not fit dogs with unique traits, such as large shoulders or a long torso.
• The life jacket may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
• The life jacket may not be suitable for all water activities, such as rough ocean waters.

The Outward Hound Granby Splash Yellow Dog Life Jacket is a great choice for novice and experienced swimmers alike. Constructed with ripstop material that provides maximum buoyancy in the water without restricting movement on land, this life jacket is designed to support your dog in and out of the water. With dual grab handles that make it easy to restrain and lift your dog out of the water, and a multi-handle design that provides easy access, this life jacket is perfect for all your water adventures with your dog.

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog life jacket that provides maximum buoyancy and support, the Outward Hound Granby Splash Yellow Dog Life Jacket is definitely worth considering. With its bright colors, reflective accents, and adjustable straps, this life jacket is designed to keep your dog safe and comfortable while swimming.

EMUST Dog Life Vests

If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable life vest for your dog, the EMUST Dog Life Vests are worth considering.

Pros

• The vest is equipped with reflective strips that make it visible in low light conditions, ensuring your dog’s safety.
• The adjustable belts, quick-release buckles, and underbelly with wide Hoop&Loop areas make it easy to put on and take off the vest, providing a comfortable fit for your dog.
• The vest is made of premium polyester oxford & nylon and mesh fabric, which is waterproof, quick-drying, and allows for proper drainage.

Cons

• The vest may not fit well for some dogs, so it’s important to measure your dog carefully to ensure the right size.
• The vest may not provide enough buoyancy for dogs who are not good swimmers, so it’s important to supervise your dog while wearing the vest.
• The vest may not be suitable for all types of water activities, so it’s important to consider your dog’s needs and abilities.

The EMUST Dog Life Vests are designed to offer comfort, safety, and buoyancy for your dog. The vest is available in six sizes, from XS to 2XL, and features a heavy-duty D-ring hook for dog leash. The vest’s bright colors and high buoyancy material ensure your dog stands out and stays afloat in the water. Overall, if you’re looking for a functional and eye-catching dog life vest, the EMUST Dog Life Vests are a great choice.

EMUST Dog Life Jackets

If you’re looking for a dog life jacket that is both stylish and functional, the EMUST Dog Life Jackets might be a good option for you.

Pros

• Made of premium polyester oxford & nylon and mesh fabric
• Available in 6 sizes to fit most dogs
• Features a sturdy rescue handle on top and wide reflective strips

Cons

• Some reviewers noted that the sizing runs slightly small
• The loop to attach a leash on top of the vest is made of plastic and not sewn on very strongly
• The design might not be suitable for all dog owners’ tastes

The EMUST Dog Life Jackets are made of high-quality materials that allow for quick drying and proper drainage. The jacket is also available in 6 sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your dog. The rescue handle on top and wide reflective strips make it easy to control your dog in the water and keep them visible in low light conditions.

Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and functional dog life jacket, the EMUST Dog Life Jackets might be a good choice for you and your dog.

VIVAGLORY Sports Style Dog Life Jacket

If you’re looking for a dog life jacket that provides both safety and style, the VIVAGLORY Sports Style Dog Life Jacket is a great option.

Pros

• The exclusive patented sports-style design provides a new look for your dog and doesn’t hinder their movement. The strategically positioned neck design provides more space and keeps your dog in a comfortable swimming position.
• The materials of the VIVAGLORY dog life jacket have passed CA65 test, ensuring your dog’s safety wherever they roam. The upgraded ripstop 600D cloth makes this safety vest quite durable. The heavy-duty yet comfortable fastening system around the belly and neck keeps the jacket securely fastened, and the reflective trim makes your dog visible in all levels of light.
• The center-weighted durable grab handle makes it easy to carry your dog over any fallen danger or in cases of emergency. The high-quality fastening system with quick-release buckle creates a comfortable and custom fit so that dogs can swim with confidence.

Cons

• Some users have reported sizing issues, so be sure to measure your dog carefully before purchasing.
• The vest may not be suitable for dogs with a particularly deep chest.
• The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.

The VIVAGLORY Sports Style Dog Life Jacket is a smart choice for pet owners who want to ensure their dogs are safe in and around the water. The smart neck design, easy-to-use features, and durable materials make this jacket a great investment for pet owners who love to travel with their dogs.

RUFFWEAR Float Coat Dog Life Jacket

RUFFWEAR makes some of our favorite dog backpacks and accessories, and this life jacket, the Float Coat, is another high-quality product from them.