Dog Life Jacket Shopping Tips

By Rich Armstrong, BoatU.S. Magazine Senior Editor

Dog owners love to brag about how good their pooch can swim, but even true "water dogs" can only doggie paddle for so long before exhaustion sets in and drowning becomes imminent. Although it's not a legal requirement, BoatU.S. encourages all boaters to outfit their dogs with a life jacket - and put it on them every time - whether on the docks or out on the water.

There are well over a dozen brands of canine life jackets, each with its own design details. Unlike human life jackets, where Coast Guard certification is the gold standard, there are no standards for dog life jackets. Here are some features you should look for:

>>Handle(s): Regardless of size, chances are you'll have to lift your dog out of the water and back onto the boat. Most brands have a handle on the top center of the jacket aligned with your dog's spine, so you can pick him up (like a briefcase). Some designs for larger dogs incorporate two handles. Keep in mind the added weight of a wet dog. Check the handle stitching (preferably double stitching), since it's going to be put under a lot of strain.

>>Buoyancy: Superior dog life jackets have flotation under the belly as well as on the back and sides. Some jackets have flotation sections under the neck to help keep your dog's head above water.

>>Color: Earth tones may look cooler on your boat, but should your four-legged buddy go overboard, high visibility is essential. Bright colors, preferably with a reflective strip, make a dog easier to spot in the water.

>>D-ring: This is a nice feature to look for, so you can attach a leash.

>>Straps: In general, the more adjustments, buckles, and closures, the better the final fit.Touch tape closures work well, and they're easier to put on and take off, but consider that they tend to attract hair/fur and need cleaning so they maintain their cling. For straps, the wider the better, since they're less likely to chafe your dog. Straps under the belly should be padded. And you don't want an excessively long dangling straps after fitting, since they're just asking to be chewed or could get tangled on something.

>>Size and fit: Make sure you're purchasing a dog life jacket that is the proper size for your dog, so a prepurchase fitting is ideal. Stores like West Marine, Petco, and PetSmart allow customers to bring in their dogs to try on life jackets.