2nd May 2023
Dog life jackets are a type of personal flotation device designed to keep dogs safe while they're in or around water. Just like human life jackets, dog life jackets come in different sizes and buoyancy levels to fit different breeds and weight ranges.
Do dogs really need life jackets?
There are several reasons why a dog might need a life jacket. For example, dogs that are not natural swimmers, or those with short legs, can struggle to keep their heads above water. Additionally, dogs that are prone to exhaustion or that have health conditions may also benefit from wearing a life jacket.
Choosing A Dog Life Jacket
When selecting a dog life jacket, it's important to consider your dog's weight and body shape to ensure a proper fit. The buoyancy level of the life jacket should also be appropriate for the activity and conditions you'll be in. For example, a higher buoyancy level may be necessary for rougher waters or for dogs that aren't strong swimmers.
Best Dog Life Jackets
1. Crewsaver Petfloat Dog Life Jacket
Crewsaver's Petfloat Dog Life Jacket contains soft, closed-cell foam that reduces fatigue when in the water, whether that be during general in-water play or during an emergency. The dog life jacket has a low profile design that is comfortable, super easy to fit and has an integral handle that provides a load spreader lift point. There's also a handy pocket for a lead and a disposable bag storage.
Here's a video of the dog life jacket in action:
2. Besto Dog Buoyancy Aid
Besto Dog Buoyancy Aid is constructed from a highly visible fabric with a light PE foam filling, so your dog is comfortable in the water and will stand out from the surrounding area. The floatation device features two straps around the belly and another around the collar that ensure a secure, comfortable fit. On the top is a d-ring attachment point for a lead and also a grab handle that will come in handy if a quick release is required.
3. Besto Deluxe Dog Buoyancy Aid
Besto Deluxe Dog Buoyancy Aid is based on Besto's hugely popular standard Dog Buoyancy Aid and sees the addition of a clear pocket where details such as name, address and phone number can be stored and a striking new colour scheme which further increases your dogs' visibility in the water.
4. Marinepool Dog Life Jacket
Given its super-low price which is often around half that of Crewsaver's Petfloat, Marinepool Dog Life Jacket is an excellent budget buy that will still keep your four-legged friend safe. The dog life jacket is constructed from a high visibility orange foam and contains three adjustable straps for a comfortable, secure fit. There's also a handle on the top for easy retrieval from the water. However, unlike the three dog life jackets above, there is no d-ring attachment point for a lead.
5. Baltic Dog Life Jacket
Baltic Dog Life Jacket is constructed from a high visibility orange foam and also features a reflective panel at the rear to further increase the visibility provided. Delrin buckles provide an easy fit and there's also a D-ring for the leash.
Where can I buy dog life jackets?
We stock a leading range of life jackets for dogs, as well as adult life jackets and kids life jackets, so the whole family can enjoy the fun! We also supply buoyancy aids too if you're partaking in any watersports.
If you're not sure which dog life jacket will be most suitable, our highly experienced team are here to help! Call us on 01634 295 233, email customerservices@piratescave.co.uk, or visit us in Rochester! We've also written the ultimate life jacket guide which answers all our most frequently asked questions about life jackets.