Best Dog Life Jackets of 2024
buoyancy and support for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and boating with your dog
October 14, 2024
Home > Gear Reviews > Water Sports
As a new dog dad, I've embraced my dog, Miles, as a cherished member of my family. Like with most pet parents, keeping him safe has become a top priority. That's why a dog life jacket, providing extra buoyancy and support, has become an essential addition to my dog gear kit. Whether you and your dog enjoy canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, boating, swimming or just playing in strong surf, a dog life jacket is a critical piece of gear for your water-loving dog.
I’ve always been into gear and trip research, and it’s clear that this has naturally extended to researching the right gear for Miles. When I started looking into dog life jackets, I was surprised to find so many options, and that choosing the best vest for my dog was actually more challenging than I thought it would be.
Living in Southern California near the beach, I’ve spent countless hours on and in the water, and know the conditions that quickly make it dangerous for both myself and Miles. That’s why I dedicated time to research and test a variety of dog life jackets to find the ones that could provide optimal fit and security, based on my dog’s physical size and characteristics.
In this guide, I’ve compiled a breakdown of my favorite dog life jackets. I’ve also shared tips on how to choose the right vest for your pup, and addressed common questions and concerns to simplify the research for you. When selecting our winners, I made an effort to pick the life jackets I thought would be best for most dogs, based on testing. Then, in the rest of the guide, I’ll walk through important factors for making your own choices.
The aim of this guide is to highlight the most important features of dog life jackets, and to help you navigate the vast spectrum of options for your canine friend. Whether you’re paddling on calm lakes or navigating choppy waves, this guide offers valuable insights for anyone looking to keep their dog safe and happy in the water.
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Comparison table
| DOG LIFE JACKET | TREELINE AWARD | SIZES | COLOR | MATERIAL | MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruffwear Float Coat | Best overall Read review |
XS: 17-22 inches, S: 22-27 inches, M: 27-32 inches, L: 32-36 inches, XL: 36-42 inches | Blue Dusk, Red Sumac, Wave Orange | 800-denier polyester, foam, polypropylene | $90 |
| Non-stop Dogwear Protector Life Jacket | Best for bigger dogs Read review |
[size 2] 3.3 - 15.4lbs, [size 3] 6.6 - 15.4lbs, [size 4] 15.4 - 37.5lbs, [size 5] 26.5 - 48.5lbs, [size 6] 48.5 - 72.8lbs, [size 7] 68.3 - 103.6lbs | Black/Orange, Teal | Polyester with HexiVent mesh, Duraflex bluesign-approved buckles, reflective trim | $159 |
| Kurgo Surf and Turf | Best affordable Read review |
XS-XL | red or green | 400-denier Ripstop material with a Neoprene liner | $38 - $55 |
| Astral Bird Dog | Best adjustable Read review |
XS-XL | Hound Gray, Ol’ Blue | 500-denier Cordura nylon canvas with 200-denier High Tenacity Nylon liner fabric | $75 |
| Outward Hound Granby Splash Life Jacket | XS-XL | Blue, orange, green, pink, yellow | 50% Polyester, 30% PU, 10% PP, 10% POM | $16-40 |
The winners
1. Best overall dog life jacket: Ruffwear Float Coat
Material: 800-denier polyester, foam, polypropylene
Available sizes (based on chest size): XS: 17-22 inches, S: 22-27 inches, M: 27-32 inches, L: 32-36 inches, XL: 36-42 inches
Color options: Blue Dusk, Red Sumac, Wave Orange
Price: $89.95
What we liked: Streamlined and secure design, rugged low-profile handle, attractive colors
What we didn’t like: Stiff, long straps and fabric that peeks where the bottom clips
Ruffwear is known for being the gold-standard in outdoor dog gear for a reason. The Ruffwear Float Coat fit Miles perfectly, from its clipless telescoping neck sleeve (that can be loosened or tightened) to its soft and secure wrap-around foam panels. The life jacket’s silhouette appears flawlessly efficient due to the low-profile handle design that sits flush with the foam and the sheltered buckles.
Compare prices of the Ruffwear Float Coat
Ruffwear’s Float Coat is one of the best life jackets we found in testing for comfort, adjustability, and general safety. Photo by author.
Miles wore the Ruffwear Float Coat for two hours of non-stop fetch play in the Pacific Ocean, and we found that his maneuverability was unaffected by the light, form-fitting flotation device. He ran with agility down to the breakers and appeared highly stable as he swam in the sea. The Float Coat kept his head above the water and gave him unrestricted freedom to doggie paddle back up to the beach.
Buckles and hardware on the Ruffwear Float Coat.
We did find that the straps were long, and the velcro, which keeps them folded, came undone frequently. This may be because the Ruffwear Float Coat we were testing is new and the straps are stiff out-of-the-box. Another issue we noticed was that the underbelly fabric where the buckles close sometimes became untucked, which looked sloppy on an otherwise sleek jacket.
2. Best dog life jacket for big dogs: Non-stop dogwear Protector Life Jacket
Material: Polyester with HexiVent mesh, Duraflex bluesign-approved buckles, reflective trim
Available sizes: [size 2] 3.3 - 15.4lbs, [size 3] 6.6 - 15.4lbs, [size 4] 15.4 - 37.5lbs, [size 5] 26.5 - 48.5lbs, [size 6] 48.5 - 72.8lbs, [size 7] 68.3 - 103.6lbs
Color options: Black/Orange, Teal
Price: $159
What we liked: Most buoyancy and support, sturdy heavy-duty handle, quick drying
What we didn’t like: Price may not fit most people’s budgets
Although it’s the highest price option, the Protector Life Jacket offered impressive features for keeping a bigger dog like Miles safe and comfortable in the water. Miles is nearly 70 lbs, so it was important to find a dog life jacket that could offer stability as well as maneuverability for a dog his size, like when he’s tossed around in ocean whitewater.
Compare prices of the Non-stop dogwear Protector Life Jacket
The large, close-cell foam inserts on the Protector life jacket provide excellent buoyancy, especially for bigger dogs. On this jacket, there’s also a grab handle for assist. Photo by Marek Bowers.
For bigger dogs, the closed-cell foam panels are in an ideal position—higher on the sides to add buoyancy without creating underwater resistance. The vest is also excellent in the way it fits Miles' body: it’s form-fitting and less restrictive than other options.
The mesh lining inside of the Non-stop Dogwear Life Jacket adds breathability and padding. Photo by Marek Bowers.
The handle on top is sturdy and makes it easy to lift your dog, while the wide belly section distributes weight evenly and is secured with velcro and buckle straps. The mesh lining inside adds breathability and comfort, and the vest dries quickly, staying light even when wet. The adjustable neck and chest straps make it easy to get a perfect fit, ensuring stability both in and out of the water. The Protector Life Jacket provides the right amount of support, keeping Miles’ head above water without hindering his swimming.
While we haven’t found any significant drawbacks yet, we believe it’s important to keep testing the Protector Life Jacket for long-term durability. So far, we haven’t encountered any major issues, but we want to make sure it holds up over time.
3. Best affordable dog life jacket: Kurgo Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket
Material: 400-denier Ripstop material with a Neoprene liner
Available sizes: XS-XL
Color options: red or green
Price: $37.95 - $54.95
What we liked: Easy to spot in the water and on land, highly adjustable secure fit
What we didn’t like: Less buoyancy than the Protector, pulling large dogs out of water by the straps may cause discomfort
If you’re looking for a lower-cost option with solid adjustability and high visibility, you won’t need to look further than the Kurgo Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket. One of the standout features of the Surf N Turf is its vibrant color, which significantly enhances visibility when out on the water. We had no problem spotting Miles from a distance when he was near the breakers, or even sprinting down the beach chasing his ball.
View the Kurgo Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket
Miles testing out the Kurgo Surf N’ Turf life jacket while wading and playing in the water. Photo by Marek Bowers.
We also found the adjustability to be top-notch and had no problem fitting it to Miles’ body. The jacket remained secure and comfortable when he was swimming and fetching with no issues.
The Surf N Turf’s quality felt more in line with a budget-friendly option compared to the other jackets we tried, evidenced in a couple key areas: buoyancy and strap padding. The Surf N Turf didn’t offer the same level of buoyancy as the other jackets, so Miles had to use his own power to stay afloat. Also, the straps have no padding, which seemed to make it uncomfortable for Miles when we lifted him out of the water.
Close-up on the straps on the Kurgo Surf n Turf dog life jacket. Photo by Marek Bowers.
Because of its highly visible bright colors and versatile fit, the extra small or small Kurgo Surf N Turf dog life jacket is a good choice for small pups. However, because of the thinness of the handle and lesser buoyancy than the other vests we tried, we wouldn’t recommend the Surf N Turf for heavier dogs or sustained wear and tear.
4. Best adjustable dog life jacket: Astral Bird Dog Life Jacket
Material: 500-denier Cordura nylon canvas with 200-denier High Tenacity Nylon liner fabric
Available sizes: XS-XL
Color options: Hound Gray, Ol’ Blue
Price: $75
What we liked: Vintage look, more coverage, easy to adjust, durable
What we didn’t like: Rigid construction may hinder full range of motion while swimming
The first thing we noticed about the Astral Bird Dog Life Jacket was its high-quality construction (that, and its retro ‘80s aesthetic). Astral has a well-earned reputation for making durable gear, and the Astral life jacket is no exception. It was clear out-of-the-box that it would be able to withstand wear and tear from an active, adventurous dog like Miles.
Compare prices of the Astral Bird Dog Life Jacket
Adjusting and testing the fit of the Astral Bird dog life jacket around the chest and torso. Photo by Marek Bowers.
Putting the Bird Dog Life Jacket on and taking it off Miles was easy, thanks to the jacket’s convenient design. The Bird Dog’s neck and chest straps are adjustable, ensuring a secure fit for dogs of different sizes. Miles is large (~70 lbs) and we found that the Astral easily adjusted to fit his large frame. We found that the Bird Dog stayed in place without causing discomfort or hindrance to Mile’s movement.
Although the Astral Bird Dog Life Jacket adjusted well to our dog’s body, it’s somewhat stiff in its construction. We didn’t find that this limited Miles’ movements significantly; however, we could definitely tell that the Bird Dog’s hinged foam panels were more rigid than the competition. For this reason, the Bird Dog may be best suited for less-active dogs who will be sitting in a boat or kayak, versus actively swimming in their life jacket.
Close-up on the buckles and padding for under the dog on the Astral Bird Dog Life jacket. Photo by Marek Bowers.
Why your dog needs a life jacket
Safety in the water
A dog life jacket is important for your pet because it prevents them from drowning, and provides extra buoyancy when swimming. Like humans, even the strongest dog swimmers in the world can get tired, or come across a situation in the water which they cannot deal with. A life jacket provides general safety, aids with buoyancy, and ensures visibility (most dog life jackets we reviewed have reflective material or trim).
Assistance for non-swimmers
Not all dogs are strong swimmers. Swimming with a life jacket provides support for dogs that are either new to swimming or are generally concerned about water, keeping them buoyant so they can enjoy their time getting wet.
Boating or kayaking
You should never go out on a boat or kayak without putting your dog in a life jacket to help keep them safe should they fall overboard. A life jacket increases the likelihood of you being able to see your dog in the water and retrieving them, significantly lowering the chance of tiring, choking, or drowning. Plus, in some states or state parks, there are laws requiring life jackets on board for not just adults and kids, but dogs too.
Helpful for Senior dogs or dogs with health conditions
A life jacket is especially helpful for elderly dogs or those with health challenges so that they can enjoy the water with a little added buoyancy, minimizing strain on their joints. Grab handles and multiple attachment points also help here for dogs’ comfort, and ease of getting onto a boat or in the water.
Water activities
Whether it’s swimming, fetching, or playing, a dog life jacket supports your pet in water activities with less risk, more safety, and more fun.
Visibility
Many dog life jackets come with bright colors and reflective strips. With this increased visibility, you can always keep an eye on your dog, even in low light conditions or busy waters.
Unpredictable situations on the water
Water conditions can change in an instant. A dog life jacket offers that extra measure of security should the water conditions get too powerful, the weather changes suddenly, or other unforeseen circumstances occur that could put your dog at risk.
Peace of mind
When your dog is wearing a life jacket, you know they are safe. You can focus on having a great time, without needing to worry about your pup struggling in the water. Think of the life jacket as a confidence booster for both of you.
What to look for in a dog life jacket
The Ruffwear Float Coat (size M) on Treeline Review editor Mary Murphy's 10-year old Lab Mix. Photo by Chris Peters.
There are some important features to look for when you are buying a dog life jacket, so that your dog stays safe and comfortable during water activities.
Buoyancy
Flotation is the most important feature of a dog life jacket. The jacket should have enough buoyancy to keep your dog’s head well above water and to make swimming effortless for them. Unlike human personal flotation devices (PFDs), canine flotation devices (CFDs) are not Coast Guard certified, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s size chart, which is typically based on your dog’s weight, chest circumference, or back length.
Secure Fit
It’s important that a good life jacket hugs your dog’s body, doesn’t move too much, but also never restricts movement. In addition, a dog life jacket should have flexible and releasable buckles for safety.
Durability
Try to find a dog life jacket made of materials suitable for constant wear and tear, with reinforced stitching and quality fabrics. Most dog life jackets are made with high-denier nylon, polyester, and/or neoprene, all of which are UV resistant and durable against abrasions. To increase the longevity of your dog life jacket, wash it after every use (especially in saltwater) and store in a cool, dry place.
The orange grab handle and leash attachment point on the Ruffwear Float Coat on a 12 month-old black Lab. Photo by Mary Murphy.
Handle
The extra-strong handle on the back of a dog life jacket makes it easy to lift your dog out of the water quickly and easily in an emergency, or if you need to get your dog over an obstacle to reach dry land. Some dog life jackets can double as helpful harnesses, if you are hiking to a destination with water.
D-ring
A built-in D-ring for leash attachment can be very handy. It allows you to keep your dog on a leash while they wear the jacket, making it easier to control them around water.
Reflective Strips
Reflective strips or bright colors enhance visibility, making it easier to spot your dog in the water, especially in low light conditions. This added safety feature is crucial for busy or dimly lit environments, and when in large bodies of water.
Comfort
Your dog should feel comfortable wearing the life jacket for extended periods. Look for jackets with padded straps and breathable materials to prevent chafing and overheating.
Size Options
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to find a life jacket that offers multiple size options. Ensure you measure your dog correctly and choose a jacket that fits their specific measurements. Sizing is typically based on a combination of your dog’s weight, chest circumference, and back length. If your dog is in between sizes, we recommend seeing if there’s a way to try a jacket on in-store, or ordering a size up if the jacket offers enough adjustability.
Color Options
It’s certainly not necessary for the functionality of the harness, but colors are a nice way to customize your dog’s gear — and fun too! Bright colors may also help with visibility, which can provide added safety.
Breathability
Life jackets can get heavy when they’re waterlogged, so look for vests with vented, breathable materials to keep your dog cool in warm weather. With ventilated materials like HexiVent, water can flow through to help prevent your dog from overheating. An additional benefit is that a material like HexiVent has excellent airflow, which means that the vest will dry quickly after use.
How to choose the right life jacket for your dog
The Kurgo Surf N' Turf was the most adjustable dog life jacket we tested with ample straps to allow big and smaller dogs to fit. Photo by Marek Bowers.
How big is your dog?
If you have a bigger dog over 40 pounds, look for a jacket that has extra buoyancy and stronger materials to support their weight, like the Non-stop Dogwear Protector Life Jacket. For smaller dogs, look for models with multiple adjustment points, like the Kurgo Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket, which can be secured snugly around their body without being too bulky.
What kind of water activities will you be doing?
For calm lakes and swimming pools, a basic life jacket with sufficient buoyancy and visibility will suffice. However, if you plan to take your dog on rough waters, such as rivers or the ocean or multi-day boating trips, choose a jacket designed for high-performance with added safety features like a sturdy handle for easy rescue and reflective strips for visibility, like the Ruffwear Float Coat.
How experienced is your dog with water?
For novice swimmers or dogs that are new to water activities, opt for a life jacket with extra flotation support around the neck and chest area, such as the Ruffwear Float Coat or Protector Life Jacket. This helps keep their head above water and boosts their confidence. Experienced swimmers might prefer a more streamlined design that allows for better range of motion while still providing essential buoyancy, like the Astral Bird Dog.
Does your dog have any special needs or health concerns?
If your dog has mobility issues or arthritis, look for easy-on, easy-off features, such as wide openings and quick-release buckles. Some jackets also come with added padding to provide extra comfort and support, like the Astral Bird Dog jacket.
What is your dog's breed and body shape?
Different breeds have different body shapes which can affect how well a life jacket fits. Breeds with deep chests, such as Greyhounds, might need jackets that accommodate their unique shape, like the Ruffwear Float Coat, which has a telescoping neck closure that adjusts for a range of dog sizes. Conversely, breeds with shorter necks might benefit from jackets with lower necklines like the Surf N Turf. Always check a brand’s sizing chart and recommendations.
How should a dog life jacket fit
Ensuring your dog's life jacket fits correctly is essential for their safety and comfort. The jacket should fit snugly around your dog’s body without being too tight—you should be able to slide two fingers between the jacket and their body. This way, it stays secure without causing discomfort. Your dog should also have a full range of motion; they should be able to walk, swim, and play naturally without any restrictions. Make sure all buckles, straps, and Velcro closures are properly adjusted and secure. At home, before getting in the water, test the fit by gently lifting your dog by the handle (note: we don’t recommend jackets without handles) to see if it stays in place without slipping off.
The jacket should cover most of your dog's back without extending beyond the base of their tail, ensuring balanced buoyancy and free tail movement. The neck opening should support your dog's head above water comfortably without causing strain, and they should be able to move their head freely. Look for life jackets with multiple points of adjustability to fit your dog'sshape perfectly.
How do you measure a dog for a life jacket?
Measure the Girth (Chest): Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. Record the measurement.
Measure the Neck: Measure around the base of your dog’s neck, where it is the thickest. Record the measurement.
Measure the Length: Measure from the base of your dog’s neck to the base of their tail. Record the measurement.
Weigh Your Dog: Weigh your dog to help determine the appropriate size based on the manufacturer's guidelines.
Dog life jacket care and maintenance tips
Here are some tips to help you keep your dog life jacket in top shape:
Rinse After Use: Always rinse the life jacket with fresh water after each use, especially if it has been used in saltwater, chlorinated pools, or stagnant bodies of water. This helps remove salt, chlorine, dirt, and vegetation that can degrade the material.
Dry Thoroughly: Allow the life jacket to air dry completely before storing it. Hang it up in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent mold, mildew, and material degradation. Avoid using a dryer or placing it near heat sources.
Check for Damage: Regularly inspect the life jacket for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed straps, broken buckles, or punctured flotation material. Address any damages promptly by repairing or replacing the jacket.
Store Properly: Store the life jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid folding or compressing it for long periods to maintain its shape and buoyancy.
Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Different materials and designs have specific maintenance requirements.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use mild soap and water for cleaning if necessary. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners that can damage the material and reduce the life jacket’s effectiveness.
How we researched and tested
To research the top dog life jackets, I started by looking for the most popular and highly-rated models online. I cross-referenced these with recommendations from outdoor media including articles and videos, and then conducted due diligence by reading customer reviews.
I live in Southern California and tested the life jackets at the Huntington Dog Beach, in low to moderate surf. Miles was tasked with retrieving a ball thrown into the ocean between depths of 6 inches to 3 ft with 1-2 ft wave heights. I also tested visibility on the beach and dog walks up to a distance of approximately 100 ft.
About the Author / Why you should trust us
Marek Bowers is known as “the ball guy” (he created the Rawlogy Cork Massage ball) and is no stranger to outdoor adventures. A trail runner, backpacker, paddleboarder, cyclist, triathlete, lifter, skier, and snowboarder, Marek has researched gear for most of his adult life. His interest in testing dog gear, however, was born out of a simple, yet unexpected transition in his life: adopting his first dog, Miles. This leap into a dog-dad role was a whole new adventure for him, filled with excitement but also a lot of uncertainty. Marek found himself diving into a sea of options for outdoor dog gear, trying to figure out not only the best products, but also trying to determine the essentials for his canine companion.
As a result, Marek started Fluffillow, a website that features technical, side-by-side comparisons of dog gear, as well as reviews of products and services that all dog owners should know about. Marek is also the founder of the Daily Self—a weekly newsletter on how to build real change in your fitness and mindset with science. You can follow him on Instagram.
