| Best for | Product |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | Ruffwear Float Coat Dog Life Jacket |
| Best for Experienced Swimmers | Bundle: Frisco Active Life Jacket and Flingz Buoy Dog Toy |
| Best for Small Dogs | Frisco Shark Dog Life Jacket |
| Best Budget Option | Lcybem Mermaid Dog Life Jacket |
Is your best buddy joining you on your next kayaking, canoeing, or surfing adventure? Do you have a favorite lakeside vacation spot or a pool? Whatever the case may be, always make sure your dog has a flotation device when you bring him to water activities.
A dog life jacket is essential for any active dog. In spite of the fact that most dogs are capable of swimming, even strong swimmers can become in danger when they’re in the water. With a secure water harness, you can keep your dog safe in the water if she is old, small, or not used to it. When on a boat or hanging out in the pool, every dog should wear a flotation device.
When choosing a dog safety vest, what should you look for? Safety features, such as reflective colors and a safety handle, should be included in the construction, as well as a comfortable fit. We’ve rounded up the best dog life jackets for you so you can keep your pooch safe!
Check Amazon- Sturdy dog life vest with Gaia foam for water outings
- Handle grip for lifting or controlling dog
- Adjustable straps for neck and waist
- Sizes XXS-XL
- Available in 3 shades
Check Chewy- Streamlined life vest for active swimming dogs
- Lightweight, comfortable design with adjustable neck and belly straps
- Made from ripstop nylon
- Memory foam fetch toy included
- Sizes XS-XL
Check Chewy- Shark dog life vest with detachable fin
- Uses 20mm foam panels for flotation
- Two security handles on back
- D-ring for leash attachment
- Sizes XS-XL
Check Amazon- Pink mermaid design dog life vest
- Adjustable straps on neck and belly and quick-release buckles
- Waterproof, quick dry cotton/nylon fabric
- Rescue handle on back
- Sizes XS-Large
Top Picks: The Best Dog Life Jackets Today
#1. Best Overall: Ruffwear Float Coat
The Ruffwear Float Coat is our choice for the best overall dog life jacket. Among Ruffwear’s high-quality line of outdoor gear for dogs is this durable, well-made water harness. With its vest-style design, two sturdy, easy-to-close buckles, and safety handle, this dog life jacket is a great choice. An integrated light loop and reflective accents provide enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. With the soft, comfortable fabric and foam padding, your dog will feel comfortable wearing the life jacket.
Your dog will be safe while swimming, floating, or enjoying dockside activities. Aside from the many features and extras it comes with, there are three floating toys that give your dog a lot of fun on a boat or in the water. The only negative reviews we have found mention that it can be stiff and not as breathable as owners would like.
Pros and Cons of the Ruffwear Float Coat
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A safety back handle adds an extra layer of security. | There have been complaints from some customers that the material is stiff and not breathable enough. |
| Foam padding makes this fabric soft and comfortable. | |
| A set of three floating toys is included. | |
| In low-light conditions, reflective accents make your dog more visible. |
- Sturdy dog life vest with Gaia foam for water outings
- Handle grip for lifting or controlling dog
- Adjustable straps for neck and waist
- Sizes XXS-XL
- Available in 3 shades
2. Best for Experienced Swimmers: Frisco Active Life Jacket and Flingz Buoy Dog Toy
Dogs that can swim well will enjoy Frisco Active’s Life Jacket and Flingz Buoy Dog Toy. Chewy’s Frisco brand of high-quality, trusted products will get your pooch ready for a full day of beachside fun. An active dog jacket with a reflective “Pup Guard on Duty” graphic is specifically designed for experienced dog swimmers. There are bright colors and reflective accents available on this life jacket that increase visibility.
You’ll appreciate the sturdy material of this comfortable, lightweight jacket if your dog is used to swimming. It is available in five sizes, with the smallest one designed for teacup dogs, including puppies and toy poodles. There are several advantages to owning the Frisco Dog Life Jacket, including its durability and reasonable price. A size chart is also provided, so unlike some competitors, it fits well. If you take your dog to the beach, lake, or pool, he will be entertained with the Flingz dog toy. It is also possible to purchase the dog toy separately if you want one for every dog in your household.
Owners reported that the jacket fitted female dogs more effectively than male dogs, but that was the only downside we found. They have found that some parts cover a dog’s private parts, preventing them from using the bathroom easily.Â
Pros and Cons of the Frisco Active Life Jacket and Flingz Buoy Dog Toy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A bright color scheme and reflective accents increase visibility. | The life jacket tends to fit female dogs better than males. |
| The material is lightweight and comfortable with plenty of room for movement. | |
| There is an accurate fit for most dog breeds and the sizing is accurate. |
- Streamlined life vest for active swimming dogs
- Lightweight, comfortable design with adjustable neck and belly straps
- Made from ripstop nylon
- Memory foam fetch toy included
- Sizes XS-XL
3. Best for Small Dogs: Frisco Shark Life Jacket
Frisco Shark Life Jackets are perfect for owners of small dogs. Your small dog will be safe on a boat or in the water with this fun, functional dog life jacket. The buoyancy is provided by 20mm foam panels. It is made of durable, lightweight material with thick foam padding for buoyancy.
Your dog’s head will be supported by a flotation flap and will stay above water. With the addition of a shark fin design that is easily detachable, it can be transformed into a fun costume with ease. There are two security handles on the back of this safety vest that make it more secure. There is an extra small size available for tiny pooches like mini poodles and chihuahuas, so the life jacket can fit dogs of all sizes.
The downside, according to customer reviews, is that some dogs have difficulty moving around in it.
Pros and Cons of the Frisco Shark Life Jacket
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| There are two security handles on the back to keep your dog safe. | It can be difficult for some dogs to move around in it. |
| The shark fin design makes it fun and can also be worn as a costume. | |
| For small dogs, this is an excellent life jacket. |
- Shark dog life vest with detachable fin
- Uses 20mm foam panels for flotation
- Two security handles on back
- D-ring for leash attachment
- Sizes XS-XL
4. Best Budget Option: Lcybem Mermaid Dog Life Jacket
Lcybem’s Mermaid Dog Life Jacket is the perfect choice if you are on a budget but want to keep your dog safe.
This adorable dog safety vest is of great quality for a reasonable price. Many customers were astonished by its quality for the price. Choose from bright pink or teal and a mermaid or shark design. Both are cute and both jackets are fully functional. An attached leash can be attached via a D-ring and quick-release buckles. Security is enhanced by a sturdy rescue handle. A fully adjustable strap ensures a perfect fit, and the fabric is lightweight and comfortable for most dogs.
The downside is that it isn’t particularly thick or sturdy. It probably won’t last more than a couple of seasons, and it may not be the right choice for dogs with large, active bodies. In spite of this, it’s a great option for those on a budget and looking to keep their dog safe while swimming.
Pros and Cons of the Lycbem Mermaid Dog Life Jacket
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| There is an adorable mermaid or shark design to choose from. | The material isn’t particularly thick or sturdy and may need to be replaced more frequently. |
| A security handle is located on the back of the life jacket. | |
| Straps can be adjusted to fit a wide range of sizes. |
- Pink mermaid design dog life vest
- Adjustable straps on neck and belly and quick-release buckles
- Waterproof, quick dry cotton/nylon fabric
- Rescue handle on back
- Sizes XS-Large
What to Look For in the Best Dog Life Jacket
A life jacket can be used by any dog who goes near the water. There is no telling when your dog might fall into a pool, lake, or ocean. Some dogs are born for the water, but even the strongest swimmers can struggle in rough water or a sudden wave. Falls overboard may cause a dog to flounder because it is not prepared to swim. A flotation device prevents a dog from floundering and possibly drowning.
However, there are many different types of life jackets available on the market. So how do you know which one to choose? There are a few features to consider when choosing a dog life jacket. The first thing to consider is the durability of the material. A jacket must be able to withstand water, rain, wind, and the energy level of your dog. In addition, you’ll want to choose one with lightweight foam padding that provides flotation without hampering your dog’s movements.
When it comes to security features, it’s important to consider security handles, reflective materials, and safety flaps. It is possible to pull your dog from the water with the help of a security handle on the back. It should be firmly attached to the safety vest so that it does not fall off. If your dog is wearing reflective colors or a distinctive design, you will be able to spot it no matter where he is swimming. When you have a dog who is smaller or is not a strong swimmer, you may want to consider a safety flap that keeps the head of your dog out of the water. There is, however, the possibility that you will not need this feature if your dog is an experienced, active swimmer.
Up Next…
- The 6 Best Interactive Dog Toys: Reviewed — You can stimulate your dog’s mind while decreasing boredom with interactive dog toys. Find out which interactive dog toys are the best in this review.
- The 4 Best Dog Sleeping Bags: Reviewed — Do you want to take your dog camping or backpacking in the great outdoors? For indoor or outdoor fun, here are some highly recommended dog sleeping bags.
- The 6 Best Dog Pajamas: Reviewed — There are several great options for dog pajamas that can be worn during the holidays, cold winter nights, or other occasions. Check them out here!
| Best for | Product |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | Ruffwear Float Coat Dog Life Jacket |
| Best for Experienced Swimmers | Bundle: Frisco Active Life Jacket and Flingz Buoy Dog Toy |
| Best for Small Dogs | Frisco Shark Dog Life Jacket |
| Best Budget Option | Lcybem Mermaid Dog Life Jacket |
The 4 Best Dog Life Jackets: Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do you measure a dog for a life jacket?
The best way to make sure the jacket fits is to measure your dog’s chest. Be sure you measure your dog at the widest part of her rib cage.
For most manufacturers, sizing is as follows:
• XXS: 13 to 17 inches
• XS: 17 to 22 inches
• S: 22 to 27 inches
• M: 27 to 32 inches
• L: 32 to 36 inches
• XL: 36 to 42 inches
It’s always smart to check your measurements against each brand’s size charts.
How should a dog life jacket fit?
It is important that your dog’s life jacket fits snugly around her chest without restricting her ability to move. You should choose a lightweight yet sturdy material. In most cases, dogs need their legs free to swim, so make sure the head and chest are properly fitted. Make sure the jacket is adjustable, and measure your dog carefully.
Where can I buy a dog life jacket?
The dog life jackets on our list are available from Amazon and Chewy.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.
