Why Dog Life Jackets As Safety Equipment Are Important When Near Water

As with humans dogs need dog life jackets when they are in and around water. If you have a pool or are frequently at a beach then your dog should have a life jacket. There are many different dog life jacket style sand sizes so you will be sure to find one that fits your dog comfortably. You can be assured that your dog will be safe when wearing a life jacket when in or by the water.


XS dog life jackets are recommended for Bichon, Pekingese, Silky terriers, toy poodle sand other dogs that are between 7 to 15 pounds. Very small dogs like Yorkshires, Pomeranians and Chihuahuas should use XXS life jackets. Dogs 15 to 20 pounds, such as Jack Russell terriers, Dachshunds and Welsh Terriers would use S life jackets. There are also large life jackets for bigger dogs.


Most life jackets will have a quick grab handle on the top so you can reach out and quickly catch your dog if it is in trouble. It I advised to not use a neoprene life jacket as many dogs tend to become overheated and it can case a rash by chafing. The current life jackets are breathable and the material allows for fast drying and draining.


Many people believe that all dogs can swim, hence the doggy paddle, but actually some dogs can't swim and don't like being in water. Certain dogs, such as greyhounds, tend to be low in body fat will quickly become cold in water. Additionally certain dogs may have had a traumatic experience revolving around water, such as falling in as a puppy and they will actually have a water phobia. Even if your dog loves the water and it is a strong swimmer it is possible for them to become fatigued or be overcome by the tide and waves. Wearing a life vest can save your dogs life.


Even if your dog loves the water being overweight, old or sick can fatigue them and they can succumb. Everyone even dogs can reach a point where they have difficulty keeping their head above water. A life jacket can help your dog float if it should reach that point. You should think about it this way if you require your kids to wear a life jacket or flotation device then so should your dog. They are part of the family too.


It is a good idea to make your dog wear the life jacket on land a few times so that they become accustomed to the life jacket. This way they will have one less thing to be anxious about when being introduced to water for the first time. To ensure that your dog loves the water you should gradually introduce them to the water and all the fun you can have in the water.


When choosing a life jacket you want one that fits your dog, is made of good breathable material and has a buoyancy rating. Always make sure your dog is within sight range when wearing a dog life jacket so they do not become entangled. By taking some time and care you will provide a great water experience and your dog will soon enjoy the water just as much as you do.


Dog life jackets can come in fun prints and patterns. Some may have reflexive strips making them very easy to see in the water. To correctly size a dog life jacket you will need to measure your dog from the base of its tail to the base of the neck. Overweight dogs should go one size larger then recommended and long backed dogs should go one size smaller.

Next, find out about the best dog life jackets and see which ones customers liked best!