Make sure your dog’s life vest fits

When it comes to our furry best friends, we will do practically anything to make sure their lives are the best they possibly can be. From the tastiest treats to fun walks, there are so many things we love to do and experience with our dogs. This also means having to have the same safety precautions, like wearing life vests on boats! But how exactly should a dog life vest fit?

To be sure that your pooch is as safe as can be on your boat, pontoon, or lake cabin getaway, a life vest can make all the difference. Whether you have one dog, find it’s better with two dogs, or need to know how to keep your best bud safe, it’s essential to know exactly HOW to put on a dog life vest properly.

Does My Dog Need a Life Vest?

Keeping your furry companion safe near the water is extremely important. If you plan to be out on the water with your dog, then it’s necessary to ensure that your dog can stay afloat.

Here are some places where it will be a good idea to have a puppy life vest:

• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Paddle Boarding
• On the pontoon
• Swimming in the ocean, lake, river, etc.
• And pretty much anywhere where a human would need a life vest

Just because your dog is an animal, doesn’t mean they innately know how to swim! Even if they are a frequent friend of aquatic landscapes, it’s still important to keep them safe. Just like humans need life jackets, dogs need them also.

How to Fit a Dog Life Vest

Just like clothing, there are plenty of different sizes for dog life vests. Be sure you know the height, weight, and girth of your pet before purchasing a dog life vest. If it is too small, too big, too long, etc. then you’ll have to suffer through returning it!

Another essential factor to consider is how big the life vest is for your animal. Sure, the vest provides water safety, but it needs to make your dog comfortable as well. If it is too loose, you can find your dog caught on underwater branches, seaweed, or other things.

If it is too tight for your pooch, then they may not be able to have a full range of motion to get themselves to safety. It may also cause your dog to panic in the water, which NO ONE wants! It shouldn’t be too loose or too tight.

Features to Consider in a Dog Life Vest 

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a life vest is to find something that is colorful! This is for visibility in the water for other boats, swimmers, etc. Another element is how heavy the vest is. You don’t want your dog to be weighed down by a heavy vest and find themselves in trouble!

Handles for your dog’s vest is another significant factor! They should be sturdy enough to hold your dog’s weight if you are lifting them out of the water. Because there are more water safety issues other than your dog not being able to swim, you should find a sturdy grip-handle to lift them to safety.

Last, but certainly not least, you should find a vest that is comfortable for your puppy! It should be able to support your dog, but not make their neck or head be pushed into the water. A good quality vest will also have a place for you to attach your dog’s leash as well!

Finding the Perfect Fit

Your dog is a part of your family. Finding the best fit in a life vest doesn’t have to be complicated! Find the best vest for your furry friend, and you’ll find peace of mind knowing your dog is safe in the water!