Life Vests for Dogs: Use our size chart & Include your pup in those water adventures!

Life Vests for Dogs​

Summer is coming, and a floatation device for dogs, aka a life jacket or vest, is the ideal piece of gear to keep your dogs safe in and around water. Vests can help novice dogs improve their swimming skills, overcome their fear of water, and learn to enjoy swimming. For breeds that are natural swimmers, like retrievers and spaniels, the life vest can keep them afloat when they’re exhausted, keeping them safe.

Purpose: providing buoyancy and support to dogs while in the water, they help keep dogs afloat and maintain a natural swimming position, reducing the risk of fatigue, panic, or drowning.

Buoyancy: made of materials, such as foam or inflatable chambers, they keep dogs afloat.

A Sturdy Handle: on the back of the vest allows you to easily lift or assist your dog in and out of the water.

Adjustable Straps or Buckles: ensure a secure and comfortable fit for dogs of all sizes.

Reflective Trim or Bright Colors: for increased visibility, especially in low light conditions.

Durable Materials: they’re made from tough, water-resistant fabric that can withstand exposure to water and rough play.

Safety Features: quick-release buckles, strong stitching, and flotation panels strategically placed for maximum buoyancy are things to look for. 

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What to look for:

velcro front neck closure to keep your dog’s head above water

top grab handles

quick-release buckles

ripstop material

adjustable strap fastenings

neoprene belly band

bright colors and reflective strips

Note the panel under her chin to keep her face out of the water​

Benefits

Safety: a dog floatation device provides you peace of mind by helping to prevent accidents and keeping your dog safe in the water.

Assistance: the handle on the back of many dog life jackets lets you easily lift your dog in and out of the water, making swimming sessions safer and more fun.

Buoyancy: even strong canine swimmers can benefit from the extra buoyancy provided by a dog life jacket, especially in rough water or strong currents.

Rehabilitation: dog floatation devices can be useful for dogs recovering from surgery, injury, or mobility issues. They allow dogs to exercise and rehabilitate in the water with a reduced risk of injury.

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Size Matters

It's important to choose a dog life jacket that fits your dog properly. It should be snug but not too tight, with room for movement and adjustment. Most manufacturers provide sizing guides based on the dog's weight, chest girth, and length. 

Weight: the first measurement you need, as life jackets are categorized by weight ranges. You can use a home scale or take your dog to the vet for an accurate weight measurement.

Length: measure your dog from the base of the neck (where the collar would sit) to the base of the tail. This measurement helps determine the length of the life jacket needed to cover your dog's torso.

Girth (Chest): measure around the largest part of your dog's chest, usually right behind the front legs. The tape should be snug but not tight. This measurement helps ensure the vest fits securely around your dog's body.

Neck: measure around the thickest part of your dog's neck, where the collar usually sits. This measurement ensures the life jacket doesn't choke your dog or slip over their head.

Width: for broad-chested breeds, you might also need to measure the width of your dog's chest. Measure across the breastbone from one shoulder to the other.

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Here's how to take these measurements accurately:

Use a soft measuring tape. If you don't have one, use string or rope, mark it, and then measure it against a ruler. The measuring tape should be snug, but you should be able to easily slip two fingers beneath it. Make sure your dog is standing in a natural position. Measurements taken while your dog is sitting or lying down may not be accurate.

Note: Manufacturers may have slightly different sizing, so always refer to their specific sizing chart. If your dog's measurements fall between two sizes, it's best to size up for safety and comfort.

Once you've chosen a life vest, test its fit by adjusting the straps and lifting your dog slightly off the ground using the jacket's handle. The jacket should stay in place and not twist or slide to one side.

Don't leave your pup on the beach...!