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Get Your Canine the Best Dog Life Jackets

Destin Benoit
By Destin Benoit
Last updated: 3 Mar 2021

Dog life jackets are essential for your dog to ensure they can safely enjoy cooling off in a pool or larger body of water. Though most dogs can naturally swim, a life jacket for your canine is the smart option for trips with more violent water involved. Our DogGear team spent hundreds of hours testing dog life jackets to help you find the right fit. Here are our results for the best dog life jackets in 2021.

Top Pick
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Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket
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Best Visibility
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Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket Vest
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Fun Patterns
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HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket Vest
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Most Stylish
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Ripstop Pet Floatation Life Vest
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Show contents
  • 1 Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket
  • 2 Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket Vest
  • 3 HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket Vest
  • 4 Ripstop Pet Floatation Life Vest
  • 5 Queenmore Dog Life Jacket
  • 6 Float Coat Dog Life Jacket
  • 7 Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket
  • 8 Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket
  • 9 Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket
  • 10 Vivaglory New Sports Dog Life Jacket
  • 11 EzyDog Doggy Flotation Dog Life Jacket
  • 12 Queenmore Dog Life Jacket
  • 13 SwimWays Sea Squirts Dog Life Jacket
  • 14 ASENKU Dog Life Jacket
  • 15 ASENKU Dog Life Jacket
  • 16 Bess Bridal Dog Life Jacket
  • 17 Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket
  • 18 Vivaglory Ripstop Dog Life Jacket
  • 19 RUFFWEAR Dog Life Jacket

Best Dog Life Jackets Buying Guide

Dog coats are made from a wide range of materials including polyester, nylon, duck canvas, and sheepskin, to name just a few. There are also specialty dog coats that are designed to fit specific breeds. As a general rule, all dog jackets are suitable for dogs of a certain weight and height. They should also be weather resistant and made of water-resistant materials. Some coats can even be used as blankets for the dog outdoors. The right dog coat should fit comfortably, be functional and hold up to daily wear and tear. We've been investigating the best dog jacket options available so we can help you find the perfect dog cover for your furry friend. Read our buying guide below to learn more about dog jackets.

What are some tips for buying a jacket for my dog?

Dog jackets come in various shapes and sizes. We've collected some tips to help you find the best dog jacket for you and your pooch. Smaller dogs might not want a thick dog coat. Also, be careful of a dog that is overly muscular. You wouldn't want to try to pull him out of his coat for no reason.

  • A dog's coat is made of multiple layers. Go with a jacket with the correct amount of layers to meet your dog’s needs. For example, if your four-legged friend needs a heavy coat, you might want one with two- or three-layer fabric.
  • Dog coats are made from many materials. Although you can find fur and synthetic dog coats, some are lined with fleece. If you have allergies, check the coat's materials before buying.
  • Some people also choose to keep their dogs' coats clean. This keeps the exterior looking good while also helping the dog maintain his health.
  • Avoid thick, heavy, and dirty dog jackets. The weight of the jacket could cause your pup's fur to grow too quickly. It also may cause moisture to build up inside the lining and ruin the fabric.
  • Additionally, a dry dog coat can help keep your pet from whining while outdoors.

What should I consider when buying a jacket for my dog?

Durability

The best dog jackets we considered are durable enough to hold up over time with frequent wear. Most are made from water-repellent materials like nylon, but leather can be an option, too.

Weight

Dog coats can be heavy, and you want to be sure you pick a jacket that's not going to weigh your pup down, either in its interior or on its exterior. We like jackets that have a lightweight design that provides good support but isn’t too heavy to pack.

Design

Dogs don't exactly have the greatest sense of style, which is why so many dog coats look alike. However, a good-looking design doesn't necessarily mean a high-quality design. Many dog jacket designs are functional and fashionable, so you don‘t need to feel like you're dressing up your dog.

What do the prices for dog jackets look like?

As a rule, we found that the more coats a customer owns, the less they should pay. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, customers who already own a number of coats that fit the general price range can sometimes get away with paying a little more.

On the other hand, if you have a large number (at least five or six) of beloved pooches and want to round them all out for a bulk buy, you may need to pay a bit more to ensure that all of them fit. Consider the following price ranges when comparing jackets.

Inexpensive

For $10 to $20, expect to find softshell and full-body dog coats with a few pockets and a hood. Some have attached hoods to keep the wind out.


Mid-range

In the $25 to about $30 range, jackets generally have more pockets, plenty of lining, and hood inserts. They are made of more premium materials like cashmere and viscose fleece.

Expensive

The $40 to more than $50 price point is where you’ll find the finest, softest coats. Customers who spend this much should have the most durable, wind-resistant styles for their dogs.

What features should you look for in dog life jackets?

When choosing the perfect dog jacket, first consider how your best friend will wear it. Do they like to lounge outside? Do you prefer an open-back jacket or one with a hood? Does your furry friend like the idea of having a waterproof jacket? Select a style that works for you and your little friend.

Size

If you are buying a dog vest for larger dogs, then you need to ensure your purchase is not only appropriate for their size but also large enough for the additional fur that they will grow in. For smaller dogs that are more likely to be kept inside, a smaller jacket is more suitable. How will you be wearing the jacket while lounging in your garden? For most people, this is unlikely to pose any problems and they are unlikely need a larger dog Vest.

Weight

Depending on how much freedom you have in the outdoors, your jacket needs to weigh not just a little but not be a burden either.

Materials

The best materials for dog coats come down to comfort and breathability. Most of these jackets are made from the same soft, hypoallergenic materials found in all the most popular outdoor clothing and boots. Some of our recommended dog vests have been made with moisture-wicking materials to keep you cool and dry, while others have a rain-proof lining.

Style

Your dog needs the right jacket to match their other outdoor gear, which is why we have curated a diverse range to suit the different dog personalities and interests. Whilst one dog's hoodie might look the business, there‘s no denying that another doggie might have his more laidback notions when it comes to choosing a vest. However, if you're looking for something more casual, consider selecting a more classic style.

About

A dog jacket can prevent a dog from getting too cold, especially if you live in a climate with low temperatures. For dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, a coat with a windproof lining can help prevent them from getting too chilly quickly. Some dog jackets also feature insulation that prevents dogs from becoming cold, wet, or even freezing to the inside of the jacket. Wearing a jacket makes it much easier for your dog to stay warm if it’s cold outside. Some dogs can get cold pretty quickly, which is why it makes sense to choose a good-quality jacket that will keep your pooch warm and dry.

Best Dog Life Jacket

1

Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket

– Top Pick
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Key Features

Kyjen’s life jacket is constructed with quality materials and offers a high level of visibility with its orange color shade. We discovered that the product holds up well to frequent use with parts that stay intact. It also dries well with each use. We found the handles to be a little flimsy, but they’ll still get the job done if you need to lift your dog out of the water quickly.

THE SCOOP

Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket. With dual handles, this offers easy rescue when you need to pick up the dog. The vest provides a perfect fit with belly buckles, chest straps, and foam panels included.

2

Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket Vest

– Best Visibility
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Key Features

This Paws Aboard life jacket features a convenient clip for a leash and the material doesn’t shift or slide on the body. The durable design of the jacket helps to buoy the dog up out of the water to offer them a clear view while swimming or floating. The sizes tend to run small, making it necessary to order a size up.

THE SCOOP

Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket Vest for Swimming and Boating. Made with neoprene fabric, this life jacket has vibrant colors and reflective strips for increased visibility. It features a top rescue handle for carrying the dog and doesn’t restrict the range of motion.

3

HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket Vest

– Fun Patterns
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Key Features

This dog life jacket offers a high level of comfort with an adjustable belt and included quick-release buckles, which makes it easy to take on and off quickly. We found the handle on the top convenient to use when we needed to pick pups up. Front float assists are also included in the design, along with bright colors and reflective stripes that make it easy to spot pets in the water. The material of the life jacket is thin, but this doesn’t compromise on how well it works when it’s worn by the dog.

THE SCOOP

HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket Vest Saver Safety Swimsuit Preserver. HAOCOO’s dog life jacket includes a front float to keep the dog’s head above water and is constructed from durable nylon fabric and high-grade polyester oxford.

4

Ripstop Pet Floatation Life Vest

– Most Stylish
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Key Features

This Ripstop floatation vest is lightweight without any sharp corners and can be adjusted in seconds. The handle on top makes it easy to quickly lift dogs out of water for added safety. It should be noted that when the fin gets wet, it tends to droop to the side, but this doesn’t affect how well the jacket functions.

THE SCOOP

Dog Life Jackets, Ripstop Pet Floatation Life Vest for Small, Middle, Large Size Dogs, Dog Lifesaver Preserver Swimsuit for Water Safety at The Pool, Beach, Boating. This life vest is made with high grade polyester and nylon fabric with pearl cotton foam. It comes with an adjustable belt and quick-release buckles to ensure it fits dogs comfortably.

5

Queenmore Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

The Queenmore stood out to us for its reflective accents, durable grab handle, and waterproof material. The bright colors available offer added visibility in the water. It also includes a durable D-ring hook to add a leash onto the back to keep your dog close. At times, we found that the fin on the back falls flat instead of standing up straight in the water, but the product is still worth purchasing for its durability and function.

THE SCOOP

Queenmore Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop Life Vest for Small, Middle. Queenmore’s dog life jacket stands out for the included fin, which makes dogs look like sharks in the water. It’s heavy duty and comfortable to wear with its adjustable straps.

6

Float Coat Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

RUFFWEAR’s Float Coat dog life jacket is constructed with reflective trim and an integrated light loop for attaching a Beacon light. It’s also built with a telescoping neck closure that fits different shapes and stays in place. We discovered that the material on the life jacket begins to fade over time, but this is a minor issue that can be expected when the material is exposed to the elements.

THE SCOOP

Float Coat Dog Life Jacket for Swimming, Adjustable and Reflective. This life jacket has closed-cell foam panels that allow dogs to swim freely while supporting an upright position. It features water-compatible webbing material for added stability.

7

Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

We discovered that the Vivaglory is heavy duty but still offers a high level of comfort. A secure fastening system is also included around the neck and belly for added safety. It even uses 50 percent more floatation material than other vests in the industry. We found that the sizing runs a bit small, so we recommend ordering a size up for your pup.

THE SCOOP

Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket Safety. The sporty design of Vivaglory’s dog life jacket helps dogs maintain their natural movement. The oxford cloth is extremely durable and makes it easy to spot the dog with its bright color.

8

Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features
  • Reflectorized dual grab handles
  • High-visibility color
  • Sizes available for small to large dogs
THE SCOOP

This life jacket lets your dog enjoy the water safely, whether he’s a beginner or a pro swimmer. It is constructed with a front neck float that keeps your dog’s head above water. It also has dual grab handles that will make it easier for you to pull him out of the water in case of emergencies.

9

Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features
  • Has ventilated closures
  • Sporty design
  • Easy to hold
THE SCOOP

Designed to give your dog ultimate comfort, this dog life jacket uses a flexible, quick-dry neoprene fabric that lets him enjoy the water without all the bulk. It is tailored with reflective strips and bright-colored materials that help increase visibility.

10

Vivaglory New Sports Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features
  • Wide style range
  • New sports-style design
  • Has a “bio-fit” neck design for added comfort
THE SCOOP

With 10 different colors available, this dog life jacket is a stylish pick. It can fit most dogs of different breeds and sizes with its wide size range, ranging from XS to XL. It also has a center-weighted grab handle and quick-release buckle for added convenience and safety.

11

EzyDog Doggy Flotation Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features
  • Contains more flotation material
  • Has an ergonomic grab handle
  • Features a contoured neck design
THE SCOOP

This dog flotation device is designed to give your dog an ergonomic and comfortable fit. It has adjustable neoprene straps, a high-strength D-buckle anchor point, and reflective piping.

12

Queenmore Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

This Queenmore life jacket has a breathable mesh lining underbelly for comfortable airflow and quick drying times when cleaning. The nylon straps are easily adjustable and include quick-release buckles. This dog life jacket also includes a handle on top for easy grabbing and a hook for a leash. The sizes tend to run large. The shark fin on top has trouble standing up straight.

THE SCOOP

This extra small shark fin vest is a cute yet secure option for your small dogs when out near the water. The material includes reflective accents for added visibility and safety.

13

SwimWays Sea Squirts Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

The straps on this SwimWays life vest close with both velcro material and a snap buckle for added security. It includes a handle and a metal D-ring on top for easy grabbing and leash attachment. The strap around the neck is bulky and may constrict movement in smaller dog breeds.

THE SCOOP

The bright blue color and decorative shark fin on this dog life jacket will keep your dog safe and looking adorable during water time. Its full-body water flotation keeps your dog afloat.

14

ASENKU Dog Life Jacket

Key Features

This ASENKU dog life jacket includes reflective accents and bright colors to aid in visibility when in the water. It also features a handle and metal ring on top for grabbing and attaching to a leash. The strap around the neck is a bit stiff and the decorative fin doesn’t stand up well.

THE SCOOP

Have an aggressive dog that likes to rip and chew through items? This life jacket is made with rip-resistant polyester and nylon that is also windproof and waterproof.

15

ASENKU Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

ASENKU Dog Life Jacket Ripstop Pet Floatation Vest Saver features durable handles to pull your dog out of the water in an emergency. The belt is adjustable for a more secure fit. The vest can be used as a jacket in colder weather. The fin doesn’t stand up straight.

THE SCOOP

This life jacket contains an inner layer of cotton foam for extra buoyancy. This jacket dries quickly once your pup is out of the water. The under-chin float keeps your dog’s head above water.

16

Bess Bridal Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

A metal D-ring hook on top of this Bess Bridal life jacket makes it easy to attach a leash. It also includes a handle on top for quick grabbing. This product includes mesh fiber inside for faster drying and water drainage. The handle and leash attachment on top is not secured well and may rip.

THE SCOOP

Looking for a fun life jacket for your dog that is also easy to strap on and off? This life jacket features quick-release buckles and adjustable straps to make your dog’s water safety quick and easy.

17

Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket features a front neck float that keeps your pup’s head above water. A secure neoprene stomach band secures the chest and belly. Dual grab handles make it easier to grasp to pull your pup out of the water. The sizing chart might not be accurate and you might have to size up or down.

THE SCOOP

This life jacket fits snugly, yet comfortably for dogs to swim and splash without restriction. Since the jacket is made of durable ripstop material, your dog gets total buoyancy to stay afloat.

18

Vivaglory Ripstop Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

Vivaglory Ripstop Dog Life Jackets, Reflective & Adjustable Preserver Vest features quick-release buckles and adjustable straps. The bright colors make this vest highly visible. The velcro can get stuck to your dog’s hair and pull it out. It can be difficult to put on some dogs.

THE SCOOP

A velcro system keeps your pup secure since it fastens snugly around the neck and stomach. The grab handle is positioned in a great location to grasp to pull your dog out of the water.

19

RUFFWEAR Dog Life Jacket

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Key Features

RUFFWEAR – Float Coat Dog Life Jacket for Swimming has a telescoping neck closure that can be adjusted. The webbing helps keep pups stable in the water. The chest strap can loosen on its own. Due to their shape, this vest isn’t a great fit for bulldogs.

THE SCOOP

This versatile jacket is great for pups who are in the water swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. The foam panels allow your dog to swim naturally in an upright position.

Dog Life Jacket FAQ

Q: What is a dog life jacket?

A: Dog life jackets are designed to keep your pooch safe from the elements. They are often made from flexible materials that wick moisture to prevent water and cold from seeping through.

Q: How to wash a good-weighted dog life jacket?

A: A good-weighted dog life jacket is easy to wash, as long as you keep it dry. If you hand-wash it, be sure to put it in a warm place for a couple of hours afterwards. We recommend placing it on a gentle-dryer setting if necessary.

Destin Benoit
By Destin Benoit
Destin has experience working with dogs in the most high stress environments on earth. He currently is a canine handler as a security contractor, helping to keep US diplomats safe in some of the most dangerous regions of the world.
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Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket
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