Most dogs have some level of skill in the water, but they can only swim for so long. The best dog life jackets provide your pup with support and safety in the water, while being comfortable enough to wear for longer periods of time. Our top pick is the Ruffwear Float Coat for its safety features and top-quality materials, but those with larger dogs may prefer the EzyDog Premium Doggy Flotation Device for its high weight capacity.
Dog life jackets are vital support systems for pets who around water, stresses Brian Collins, DVM, a veterinarian at the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center. “A dog life jacket can help dogs swim longer before they get tired, can help weaker dogs swim more safely, can help dogs get physical therapy and exercise, and can help prevent dogs from drowning when they get fatigued or get muscle cramps,” he says. When choosing a life jacket for your pet, consider features like adjustability, breathability and comfort. Handles are a plus, too, so you can grab your dog quickly if needed. Whether you have long boating days ahead or plan to spend time at the beach, these are the best dog life jackets to keep your pup safe in the water.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted home editors have years of experience testing, researching and reviewing the top products for the home and for pets. We’ve published countless expert-backed roundups on pet gear, including the best dog beds, dog food delivery services and cat collars.
- The Forbes Vetted home team includes three seasoned editors: deputy editor Rebekah Lowin, senior editor Amanda Arnold and editor Sholeen Damarwala.
- Korin Miller, the author of this piece, is a regular contributor with more than a decade of experience covering home, pet and lifestyle topics.
- To enhance knowledge of the best dog life vests, Miller consulted with Brian Collins, DVM, a veterinarian at the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center and Stacie Atria, DVM, a veterinarian at Lotus Veterinary Alternatives. Both offered advice on what to look for in the jackets, as well as features for pet parents to be aware of.
How We Chose The Best Dog Life Jackets
To find the best dog life jackets, we analyzed the market, sorting through dozens of popular products. We compared features and asked veterinarians for insight.
- The Forbes Vetted home editorial team focused on dog life jackets from trusted brands like Ruffwear and LandShark.
- Each life jacket was analyzed for features such as materials, size options and adjustability.
- Customer reviews and average star ratings were taken into careful account. We selected models that have at least an average rating of 4 stars, with only a negligible amount of concerning reviews, if any.
- The final life vests that made this list are the results of in-depth research conducted by our writer and vetting by the editorial team.
What To Look For In The Best Dog Life Jackets
The right life vest can make a big difference in safety and comfort of your pet in the water. Consider these options as you shop.
Sizing
Most dog life jackets will have clear sizing options available, along with a size guide. Read the sizing guide and take careful measurements of your pet to make sure a life vest you’re interested in will fit. Keep in mind that many life jackets have a minimum and maximum weight. You’ll want to ensure that your dog will fit within this range.
Safety Features
Aside from flotation, many dog life jackets will offer added features to keep your pet safe in and around the water. Those include reflector strips, a leash ring and handles to make it easy to get your dog in and out of the water.
Comfort
Having a comfortable life vest will raise the odds your dog will wear theirs without protest. “When selecting a dog life jacket, look for one with adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit,” says Dr. Stacie Atria, a veterinarian at Lotus Veterinary Alternatives. “The jacket should be comfortable enough for extended wear and not impede the dog’s natural movement in the water.”
What Is The Best Dog Life Jacket?
The best dog life jacket is ultimately one that will meet the needs of you and your pet. “Wearing something snug like this can contribute to overheating, so an ideal design should allow breathability and for quicker drying,” Collins says. “Obviously, most of all the jacket should keep your dog buoyant.” A design that allows your dog to have a good range of motion is also ideal. We like the Ruffwear Float Coat for its smart design, high adjustability and ability to be tossed in the wash.
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