Dogs often accompany their owners on boat or SUP tours. A dog life jacket offers reliable protection and increases your four-legged friend’s chances of survival in the event of an accident in the water.
It gets even better:
The buoyancy of a swim vest allows dogs to enjoy the water for longer. Swimming is particularly good for the joints of older dogs.
Do you want to protect and support your dog safely in the water?
Discover the most popular dog life jackets 2024 reviewed below and find out which quality features are particularly important when buying.
The best dog life jacket 2024?
Content
- 1 The top 9 dog life jackets 2024
- 2 Bestsellers: The most popular swim vests for dogs
- 3 Buy swim vests for dogs: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about dog life jackets
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular swim vests for dogs reviewed
- 6 Specialist literature, sources & further links
In a hurry? Our favorite dog swim vest:
- Extra back handle
- Warning color
- Practical straps
- 5 different sizes
- Reflective stripes
Dog swim vest Checklist
- Size: The swim vest must be adapted to the weight of the dog. The dog must not be able to take them off itself.
- Color: High visibility colors are ideal for a quick rescue and good visibility.
- Safety: The dog must not bite into the material – otherwise it will draw water. Test the swim vest before each use.
- Service life: The swim vest must be replaced every ten years.
- Area of application: Some swim vests are also suitable as high visibility vests in road traffic.
Also interesting: The most popular life jackets 2024.
The top 9 dog life jackets 2024
1. Nobby swimming aid for dogs
Advantages
- Extra back handle
- Warning color
- Practical straps
- 5 different sizes
- Reflective stripes
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- No detailed size information
Summary
The swimming aid for dogs from Nobby comes in a typical neon orange swim vest. The straps are also fitted with reflectors. This makes the dog highly visible in the water.
The two waist straps allow optimum adjustment of the vest. It is simply fastened in front of the chest with a clip. The top is equipped with a sturdy handle and a canvas ring.
The material is polyester and a foam filling that ensures good buoyancy. It adapts to the movements of the animal. The swim vest can be cleaned at up to 30 degrees.
Conclusion
This swim vest is suitable for dogs of all sizes and offers a classic and safe design at a low price.
If you don’t like the color orange, it’s better to choose a different product (e.g. Beyondsurfing’s 6th place).
Product details
Size: XS -XL | Material: Polyester and foam | Weight class: 8 kg +
Customer ratings
The vest makes swimming much easier for the dogs. The material is supple and soft. The buoyancy supports old and weak dogs and they have fun in the water again. There are several straps and buckles that allow adjustment.
The carrying handle on the back is very practical. The dog can be easily lifted out of the water or carried. A leash attached to the handle makes it easy to retrieve the dog even in a current. The dogs move freely with the vest.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The seams could be of a higher quality. Unfortunately, the size information is inadequate, which makes it difficult to choose the size of the vest. One customer’s back handle is torn. This allows water to penetrate the material.
FAQ
2. ruffwear swim vest for dogs
Advantages
- 3 different colors
- Practical back handle
- Reflective stripes
- Linen ring
- 6 different sizes
Disadvantages
- Linen ring made of plastic
- High purchase price
Summary
The swim vest for dogs from Ruffwear comes in 3 different colors. The customer can choose from orange, blue and red. There are also 6 different sizes on offer.
Two waist straps hold the vest securely in place. The clips on the fasteners are covered with an extra layer of fabric. This minimizes the risk of injury. Reflective stripes increase visibility in the water.
The model is made from robust nylon. The inside is lined with foam and is very buoyant. The padded back handle enables large and heavy dogs to be lifted.
Conclusion
This swim vest is ideal for frequent use in water sports. The robustness of the material justifies the high purchase price.
If you are only looking for a swim vest for irregular swimming trips with your dog, you should opt for a cheaper product.
Product details
Size: XXS – XL | Material: Polyester, nylon and foam | Weight class: N/A
Customer ratings
The swim vest fits many dogs like a glove. The handle on the back makes it easier to handle young dogs on a boat. The vest complies with the guidelines of boat rental companies. The animals have full freedom of movement in this model.
The lift is powerful. The price for the quality of the vest pays off. There are no chafe marks or other problems with the material. They are really easy to put on and take off and the dogs are not afraid of the clips.
Around 1% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The leash ring on the vest is only made of plastic. This is not very stable and can break in case of doubt.
FAQ
3. vivaglory dog life jacket
Advantages
- Practical back handle
- Infinitely adjustable
- Various colors
Disadvantages
- For small dogs
- Only one size
Summary
The Vivaglory swim vest is available in an eye-catching red-orange color in XS.
The straps are infinitely adjustable. This enables precise adjustment to different body shapes. They are also made of nylon and are therefore particularly tear-resistant.
The shape of the vest is anatomical and snug. The manufacturer has incorporated a special recess in the rod. This allows the dog to move around in the water undisturbed. The cheerful design playfully rounds off the vest.
Conclusion
This vest from Vivaglory is a very affordable and stylish companion for occasional trips to the water.
If you prefer a fashionable swim vest, choose a different product.
Product details
Size: xs | Material: Microfiber, polyester and nylon | Weight class: N/A
Customer ratings
The vest leaves enough room for all the dog’s movements. It protects against falls from the boat or SUP and against impacts. The lift is very powerful. The color also increases safety because it makes the dog highly visible.
The vest has taken away some dogs’ fear of the water. The ring for attaching the leash is practical and putting on the vest is child’s play. The sizing chart is practical and accurate.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The straps loosen automatically. However, this only happens if the dogs are repeatedly lifted out of the water by the back handle. Some dogs didn’t like walking around on land with the vest on.
FAQ
4. berth Outward Hound lifejacket
Advantages
- Warning color
- Practical handles
- Increased buoyancy at the head
- Reflectors
- Neoprene belly band
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- Missing line ring
- No room for a collar
Summary
This life jacket for dogs is adjustable and comes in orange. The seams are covered with reflective fabric. This improves visibility in the water even more.
Two practical handles are sewn on. This means that even heavy dogs can be easily lifted out of the water. The filling is reinforced in the head area and an extra storage surface is attached. This makes it less strenuous for your dog to keep his head above water.
The waist belt is made of neoprene. As a result, it does not soak up water and protects this sensitive area from the cold. The fasteners are infinitely adjustable and can be closed with a clip.
Conclusion
The headrest makes this lifejacket particularly suitable for areas with a lot of waves. If you spend a lot of time at sea with your dog, choose this product.
If you don’t like the high visibility color and can do without a headrest, you can opt for a swim vest with a wider range of colors.
Product details
Size: XS -XL | Material: neoprene, polyester and foam | Weight: 159 g
Customer ratings
Delivery is very fast. The brand has a very good reputation and a lot of experience. The sizes are suitable. The two handles are very practical for pulling the dog out of the water quickly and easily.
The workmanship is of high quality. The adjustable straps close on the fabric. This means it doesn’t pinch or pinch anywhere. The vest is really visible. Even in low sun and reflective water, the dog cannot be overlooked.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
A linen ring is missing. This is not very practical because the dog can no longer wear a collar under the vest. The lifejacket is small.
5. EzyDog swim vest
Advantages
- 5 different sizes
- Two different colors
- Extra pocket with zipper
- Reflectors
- Ergonomically adapted foam
Disadvantages
- Heat development
- High purchase price
Summary
The dog life jacket from EzyDog is available in yellow and red. Customers can also select sizes XS – XL. This makes it suitable for almost all dog breeds.
They are easy to put on and take off thanks to the nylon straps and Velcro fasteners. At the same time, the vest offers good support and distributes the weight over a large area. This prevents pressure points.
The foam filling is distributed in such a way that the dog is held in the ideal swimming position. There is a practical handle and a small zippered pocket on the top. For example, the address can be stored here in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
This buoyancy aid has a pocket. If you want to store poop bags or a waterproof address, this product is a good choice.
For warm waters and hot days, the buoyancy aid is a little thick and can lead to overheating.
Product details
Size: XS – XL | Material: nylon, Velcro and polyester | Weight: 499 g
Customer ratings
Even after two years, the vest is still doing a good job. One customer took the extra time to update his review and is still very satisfied after such a long time. The quality of the workmanship is very high.
The straps on the stomach distribute the pressure over a large area. The dog life jacket is very easy to clean. One customer describes that her dog always tried to hold on to her in the water. That was no longer necessary with the vest.
Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
In summer, the vest is not suitable for walking around on land, the material keeps you very warm.
FAQ
6. vivaglory dog swim vest
Advantages
- 10 different colors
- 5 different sizes
- Reflectors
- Carrying handle
- Linen ring
- Extra cover for protruding Velcro
Disadvantages
- Slow drying material
- Visible seam
Summary
The Vivaglory life jacket for dogs is available in all colors of the rainbow. Sizes XS – XL are also available.
The handle on the back is made of durable material. A ring for attaching the leash is attached to it. The stomach area is fully padded, so there are no pressure points.
The eye-catching colors are also equipped with reflectors. The dog can also be seen in the vest at night and in fog. If the Velcro fastener is so loose at the front and some Velcro sticks out, fur can get caught. The manufacturer provides extra protection for this.
Conclusion
This product is particularly suitable for customers who are looking for a specific color. The manufacturer offers a very large selection of designs.
The vest restricts movement on land for some dogs. Therefore, check the fit carefully.
Product details
Size: XS – XL | Material: nylon, polyester and foam | Weight: 249 g
Customer ratings
The vest was able to take away some dogs’ fear of swimming. Freedom of movement is not restricted. The colors are very nice and swim vest is worth its price. According to one customer, this model is popular with his rescue team.
The small size is also suitable for larger breed puppies. The buoyancy is so strong that the dog remains on the surface even without moving. The handle is ideal if the dog jumps out of the boat. It can be lifted back in using the handle.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
A dog does not want to move with the vest outside the water. She seems to be squeezing his shoulders. The material dries very slowly. The seam peeks out in some places.
FAQ
7. namsan dog life jacket for small dogs
Advantages
- Perfect for small dogs
- Warning color
- Metal linen ring
- Wide back handle
- Inflatable
- Small pack size
Disadvantages
- Not for large dogs
- Less buoyancy than foam
Summary
The Namsan dog life jacket is particularly suitable for small dog breeds or puppies. It comes in an eye-catching neon yellow and therefore increases visibility in the water. The customer can choose from sizes S, M and L.
The model is inflatable and therefore easy to fold. The vest can be easily transported to the water in the bag. It is inflated on site with just a few breaths. The amount of air can be adjusted to the weight of the dog.
The material is foam and plastic and adapts to the dog’s movements. There is a sturdy handle and a metal linen ring on the top. Even strong traction does not affect the material.
Conclusion
This dog life jacket is suitable for small dog breeds such as Chihuahas or puppies. If you are looking for a swim vest with a minimal pack size, this is the product for you.
This swim vest is not suitable for larger dogs. The buoyancy is weaker than with a foam filling.
Product details
Size: S – L | Material: Plastic and foam | Weight: 222 g
Customer ratings
One customer deliberately opted for a swim vest filled with air. This cannot become saturated with water. The look is appealing and transportation is particularly easy. The vest can be folded up very small.
The vest effectively helped one dog with back problems. Uninflated, it can be used as a safety vest in road traffic. The vest helped a fearful dog to gain confidence in the water.
Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Customer service is complicated and an exchange was not possible. The line ring can tear off with slight pressure. This caused a customer’s dog to run away for a short time. The size information is inadequate.
FAQ
8. Astral Bird Dog
Advantages
- Reflective details
- Natural swimming position
- Back handle
- Signal color
- Safety lock
Disadvantages
- Only one color
Summary
The Astral Bird Dog swim vest is equipped with a sturdy back handle and has a comfortable front entry.
There are reflective details on the sides and the vest comes in the typical swim vest orange. The filling is adapted so that the dog is held in the natural swimming position.
Product details
Size: XS – XL | Material: 500D Cordura Nylon and 200D HighTenacity Nylon | Weight: 454 g
Customer ratings
The vest has given an old dog back the joy of swimming. Exercising in water is ideal for old joints. The color is radiant and the material makes a high-quality impression. The back handle carries even a 34 kg dog stably.
The fit is appropriate and the vest keeps the dog securely on the surface. The model is particularly suitable for very large breeds. The straps are easy to adjust. The material dries quickly.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestsellers: The most popular swim vests for dogs
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
Buy swim vests for dogs:
How to make the right decision
Sina Hildebrandt ★★★★★
(Dog owner from Germany)
Several studies indicate that the majority of fatal accidents on the water could have been prevented by a swim vest. This applies not only to humans, but also to dogs.
Play it safe:
More and more companies are producing swim vests for dogs. But even with a swim vest, you must not take your eyes off your dog in the water for long. The animal is often unable to correctly assess dangerous situations.
Combining design and safety:
BeyondSurfing shows you tips and tricks for choosing the right vest in the following guide.
What you need to consider when buying a swim vest for dogs
When looking for the best rescue and swim vest for dogs, make sure you pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Size
- Weight class
- Accessories
- Color
The right size
Most manufacturers offer detailed size charts. Measure your dog’s back length and size and then follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition to the right size, it is important that the vest is designed for the weight load. If your dog is overweight, you will need to choose a vest with more buoyancy.
The weight class
The right weight class is just as important as the right size
Why?
Only if the swim vest is appropriate for the dog’s weight will it provide safe buoyancy. With a weight of 6 kg, for example, buy 5 – 10 kg and not 1 – 5 kg.
The accessories
Manufacturers try to stand out on the market with various extras. Some of these can prove to be very useful, e.g:
- Linen ring
- (Double) carrying handles
- Reflectors
- UV protection
- Belly pad
- Headrest
- Shark fin design
- Zip pocket for address or similar
- Neoprene heat belt
The color
Go for bright colors or neon colors. This improves the dog’s visibility in the water. Safety is increased enormously.
Care tips for longevity
To ensure that a dog life jacket lasts a long time, it must be properly cared for. Use these tricks to increase the durability of the dog life jacket:
- Rinse with fresh water after each use. This is especially true after use in salt water.
- Particularly thorough: Fill a bucket with mild soap and water – place the dog’s swim vest in it and leave to soak.
- Never leave the buoyancy aid in direct sunlight.
Regular maintenance for dog life jackets too?
Only a well-maintained and undamaged swim vest will reliably protect your dog:
- Check the swim vest thoroughly at least every 2 years.
- Replace the model every 10 years.
- Watch out for damage caused by bites or claws.
Well-known brands and manufacturers
The best-known and most popular dog life jacket brands and manufacturers include
Trixie, Ruffwear, Nobby swimming aid for dogs and Hunter
Use resources such as buying guides, reviews and finally the product test on your own dog. Even unknown brands can supply high-quality swim vests.
How do I put a swim vest on my dog correctly?
It’s easy with these tips:
- Place the vest on the dog’s back with the straps open.
- Pull the vests over your head when slipping.
- Close the straps carefully, watch out for trapped fur.
- Do not forget when adjusting: Firm enough for a good hold but in such a way that your dog does not get any pressure points.
Before it goes into the water:
Test whether the vest cannot be moved in any direction (up, down, left, right, front, back). If the swim vest fits well, nothing should slip.
Is your dog not a water rat or a shy puppy?
Here are tips and tricks for your first attempts in the cool water:
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about dog life jackets
Why do dogs need swim vests?
Swimming can provide good joint therapy for old dogs. However, their muscle strength is often no longer sufficient for longer swimming sessions. Swim vests also help here.
How expensive are dog life jackets?
Where can you buy dog life jackets?
An even larger selection is available online. Here you will find what you are looking for on websites such as Amazon or Ruffwear.
What to look out for in swim vests for dogs?
The buoyancy of the vest must also be strong enough for the weight of your dog.
How safe are swim vests for dogs?
How should a dog’s swim vest fit?
You can find more questions and answers about swim vests here:
Conclusion: The most popular swim vests for dogs reviewed
Dogs are safely protected with swim vests during water sports and older dogs can enjoy swimming again with the right support.
How to recognize the right dog life jacket
- good fit,
- is well processed,
- eye-catching colors
- sufficient buoyancy
In BeyondSurfing’s guide you can find out how to recognize a good fit and workmanship. You are guaranteed to make the right purchase decision.
Specialist literature, sources & further links
You can find more information on this topic here:
- Study on fatal accidents on the water: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24686261
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evhC7mTInJs
Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.
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