The 10 best life jackets for dogs of 2021
Staff, courtesy of Outdoor Hound
Before you load your dog into the car for a day of kayaking, swimming in the pool, or surfing, be sure to pack the life jackets, for both of you. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even if yours is a pro, they can still get tired, making it difficult to keep their heads above water. So find the best dog life jacket for your pooch, then have some fun in the sun.
What to look for
Before we get to the reviews, let’s take a look at the must-have features. While there are no Coast Guard standards for dog life jackets (as there are for humans), here’s what you should be looking for:
D ring: Your dog’s life jacket should have a D-ring so you can attach a leash to keep your dog close, in and out of the water.
Manipulate: A handle sewn into the top of the coat makes it easy to carry your puppy in and out of the water. These also help you teach your dog to swim, as they allow you to hold the handle like training wheels until your dog is a confident paddler.
Good visibility: Bright colors and reflective stripes make it easy to see your pooch in any weather, day or night.
Balanced flotation: Balanced flotation works with the dog’s swimming ability, not against it. Excessive buoyancy or flotation in the wrong places can cause the dog to tip over or put it in a position it cannot swim in. Look for a flotation in the stomach, back and sides. If your dog is not a good swimmer, gets tired easily, or has a short muzzle, also look for a front flotation pad to keep their head above water, even if they are disabled.
The right fit: When your dog’s life jacket is properly fitted, it will keep the coat securely in place without getting stuck in the water. For a personalized fit, try a jacket that bases the sizes on the dog’s girth and comes with adjustable suspenders. Some floaty coats also offer quick release buckles for quickly removing the jacket.
How we selected
All of the dog life jackets we reviewed received at least four stars and most of them have ratings of 4.5 and above. We’ve looked at the must-haves from the list above, along with a range of styles and colors, including a few cute options like shark fins and mermaid tails. (Who said fun can’t be functional?) We’ve also covered a plethora of prices, from budget options to premium products, so you can find the right fit for your dog and your wallet.
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