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Life jacket for your dog: when is it needed?

Life jacket for your dog: when is it needed?

Written by Mara | July 15, 2026

Many dogs are true water lovers and happily jump into a lake, river or the sea. Still, a dog that can swim is not automatically safe in the water. A life jacket can provide extra safety and support in many situations, even for dogs that can swim well. In this blog, you can read when a life jacket is sensible, what to look for when buying one and which dogs particularly benefit from a life jacket.

Is a life jacket for dogs useful?

Yes, a life jacket is a valuable addition for many dogs. A life jacket helps your dog stay afloat more easily, so swimming takes less energy. This can make a big difference, especially during long swimming sessions or in flowing water. In addition, a life jacket makes it easier to help your dog out of the water thanks to the handle on the back, which many models have. A life jacket is not only intended for dogs that cannot swim well. Even experienced swimmers can become tired or end up in an unexpected situation.

Life jackets for dogs

When is a life jacket recommended?

A life jacket is especially recommended when:

you go boating, paddleboarding or canoeing with your dog
your dog swims in open water or flowing water
your dog still needs to learn how to swim
you have a puppy or senior dog
your dog has a medical condition, such as joint problems or reduced muscle strength
your dog has a heavy body or short muzzle, such as a French Bulldog, Pug or English Bulldog

For dogs that like to swim after a ball or toy, a life jacket can also provide extra safety if they go further into the water than expected.

How do you choose the right life jacket?

A good life jacket fits securely without restricting your dog’s movements. The jacket should fit well around the chest and belly, but should not pinch. Also pay attention to adjustable straps, a sturdy fastening and a handle on the back. A bright colour also makes your dog more visible on the water.

Let your dog get used to it calmly

Not every dog accepts a life jacket straight away. First let your dog get to know the jacket indoors and reward them when they wear it calmly. Then practise on dry land before you go into the water together. After swimming, always check that the life jacket is clean and let it dry completely before storing it.

Safe swimming remains important

A life jacket increases safety, but never replaces the owner’s supervision. Therefore, never let your dog swim unsupervised and take account of currents, waves, water quality and the temperature of the water. Would you like more tips for swimming safely with your dog? Then also read our blog 7 tips for safe swimming with your dog. Are you looking for a suitable life jacket? Then view our range of life jackets for dogs and choose a model that suits your dog’s size and activities.

Also read our other blogs

7 tips for swimming safely with your dog

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About the author

Mara van Brussel-Broere, Veterinarian at Vetsend

Graduated as a companion animal veterinarian from Utrecht University, she uses her practical experience to advise customers and share knowledge at Vetsend. She finds it important to provide pet owners with clear information about health and wellbeing.