Bulldogs are friendly dogs that make great companions and pets. If you love water sports and you are intend to take your dog for sailing or kayaking, you need to invest in a bulldog life vest. Some dogs love water and easily learn how to swim easily and quickly. On the other hand, some dogs may find it hard to swim or might get tired quickly.
Bulldog life vests are designed to keep your dog safe and avoid putting your dog at risk of drowning. If you do not have enough space on your kayak for your dog, your dog can swim along beside you over long distances when he has a life vest.
Why Do Bulldogs Need a Life Jacket?
It is always recommended to ensure that your bulldog has a life jacket when spending time with him near water. Whether you are strolling along the beach, boating, swimming or just playing in a pool; ensure that your bulldog has a well-fitting life vest. Bulldogs are at a greater risk of drowning unlike other dog breeds.
Bulldogs are naturally poor swimmers due to their top heavy body and short legs. They have flat snouts that make it difficult to float. This causes bulldogs to sink instead of float. Most bulldogs love water despite them being poor swimmers. It is therefore important for you to ensure that your bulldog is properly fitted in a life jacket when near water. Constant supervision is also very necessary when bulldogs are swimming.
How to Choose the Best Bulldog Life Vest
Choosing the a life jacket for a bulldog is similar to selecting a life vest for any other dog breed; however, there are some small considerations that you need to make to get the best bulldog life vest. Here are some tips to guide you in selecting the best bulldog life vest.
Durability
A life jackets often gets snagged on bushes, soaked in salt water, and may need regular cleaning. The best bulldog life vests are strong, durable and designed to last and handle abuse. Look for life jackets made of durable materials such as neoprene and cordura which are particularly tough.
Buoyancy
It is important to consider type and amount of floating material used to make a bulldog life vest. Since bulldogs often struggle to keep their head above water, look for bulldog life vests that have both side and belly panels, to keep your dog riding high in the water.
Comfort
The comfort of your dog is very important when shopping for the best bulldog life vest. Swimming or boating is a fun activity and it should also be fun for your bulldog. A life vest that is not is ill-fitting or without padding can make your dog feel uncomfortable. Look for dog life vests that are comfortable for your dog.
Fitting Size
Bulldog life vests come in different designs and sizes to suit bulldogs of different ages and body types. Choosing the correct size is important to not only ensure the comfort of your dog but to also ensure that the life vest is reliable and effective. Always ensure that you read the sizing chart carefully and measure your dog to get the right fit.
Adjustable Design
It’s important to get a snug fit life vest for your dog without causing chafing. Look for a bulldog life vest with more adjustable straps to make it easier to match your dog’s body shape.
Top 10 Best Bulldog Life Vests
There are so many dog life vests in the market today but not all life vests can be ideal for your bulldog. We have researched and identified some of the most durable and reliable bulldog life vests in the market. We have provided you with reviews of life vests that are ideal for your bulldog. Here are reviews for the 10 best bulldog life vests.
#1) Ruffwear K9 Float Coat
The Ruffwear K9 Float Coat is a premium dog life vest that comes in seven sizes to suit any dog. The float coat has a generous 5-6 inch adjustment range which lets your dog use the coat without having to upgrade when your dog gets bigger. It is a one-piece unit to reduce the chances of a playful dog managing to wriggle out of it.
The dog life vest does not have any dangling straps or buckles that could get dangerously snagged on bushes and other sharp items. It has an adjustable neck closure and padded straps allow you to adjust it to your dog’s body shape. The straps under the belly provide extra buoyancy to make it easy for your bulldog to float. The dog life vest is abrasion-resistant and highly durable. The fabric exterior is strong and thick to resists snagging on bushes and other sharp items.
Pros
- It is a buoyant life jacket that is designed to let your bulldog float in a natural swimming position to minimize fatigue.
- The dog life vest is made of strong and thick exterior fabric that is abrasion-resistant and highly durable.
- It does not have any dangling straps to prevent them from being snagged on bushes and other sharp items.
- The float coat is a one-piece unit to reduce the chances of your bulldog wriggling out of it.
- It is available in seven sizes to let dog owners choose the size that suits their bulldog.
- Ruffwear K9 Float Coat comes with an adjustable neck closure and padded straps allow you to adjust it to your dog’s body shape.
Cons
- It is an expensive dog life vest.
#2) EzyDog DFD
The EzyDog DFD is a quality dog life vest that is made of heavy-duty polyester to ensure longevity. It is commonly used by many of the top dog trainers and services dogs worldwide. The dog life vest offers superior flotation, making it ideal for dog’s that lack swimming ability or for long journeys in open water. It comes with two straps underneath the belly to keep the vest in place.
The dog life vest is available in bright colors to make sure you always know where your dog is. It comes in X-Small, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large sizes to let you choose what suits your dog. The life vest has a lot of floatation material and highly reflective parts for easy visibility. It includes a handle to help you lift your dog.
Pros
- The dog life vest comes with a D-ring that can be used to attach your leash and a zip pocket for treats and other items your dog needs.
- It comes in different bright colors to lets you select the color that suits your pooch.
- The life vest has reflective parts for easy visibility.
- It is made of heavy-duty polyester to ensure durability and reliability.
- EzyDog DFD has a handle to help you lift your dog.
- It provides superior flotation capabilities for dogs that lack swimming ability.
- The dog life vest includes two straps underneath the belly to keep the vest in place always.
- It is available in different sizes.
Cons
- The dog life vest lacks underneath flotation.
- The handle of the vest is not easy to hold.
#3) Outward Hound Granby
Outward Hound Granby is a cheaper option to the K9 Float Coat. It is made from strong neoprene and cordura, to ensure that it is not only durable but also warm. The dog life vest has a neat under-chin front float to help your dog keep its head above water even in rough conditions. It comes with three adjustable straps; one neck and two on the belly for a snug fit on your dog’s body.
The dog life vest includes a strong handle for hauling your dog into a boat or pier. It has a highly visible design that makes it easy for you to spot your pet even from a distance. The life vest comes in five size options to let you choose what suits your dog.
Pros
- It has 3 adjustable straps to make it easy to snuggly fit on your dog without moving.
- The dog life vest strong neoprene and cordura to ensure durability and keep your dog warm and comfortable.
- It comes with a neat under-chin front float that keeps your dog’s head above water always.
- Outward Hound Granby has a strong handle for hauling your dog into a boat or pier.
- It is available in five size options to let you choose the size that suits your dog.
- The dog life vest includes a highly visible design for easy visibility even from a distance.
Cons
- It does not have a D-Ring for leash attachment.
- There is no much underbelly padding as other options.
#4) Kurgo Surf N Turf
The Kurgo Surf N Turf is a versatile dog jacket that can be used for multiple purposes. It can be used as a life jacket, as a rain coat when the floatation liner is removed or you can convert it into a warm three-season coat when Kurgo’s Wander Dog Coat is inserted into the shell. The dog jacket is available in 5 different size ranges with a minimum girth of 14 inches.
The dog life jacket has two metal D-rings that provide a secure leash connections. It has two transverse handles that provide quick and easy control or extraction in the water. The jacket is highly reflective and comes in color selections that include red on red or red on light grey. It has floatation material on the belly so that your dog has an easy time staying upright in a current even when exhausted.
Pros
- It comes in five different size ranges to let you choose the size that suits your dog.
- The jacket has a lifetime warranty, provided you buy it new from an authorized seller.
- It has two metal D-rings for a secure leash connections.
- Kurgo Surf N Turf includes two transverse handles that provide quick and easy control when the dog is in the water.
- It features a highly reflective design and comes in color selections to choose from.
- The dog jacket can be used as a life jacket, as a rain coat by removing the floatation liner or as a warm three-season coat by inserting the Kurgo’s Wander Dog Coat into the shell.
- It has floatation material on the belly to ensure your dog stays upright always.
#5) Paws Aboard Neoprene Doggie Life Jacket
Paws Aboard Neoprene Doggie Life Jacket is a mid-range dog life jacket that come in a one piece design. It features soft and flexible foam panels to ensure that your dog is comfortable. The collar and belly straps are secured with both Velcro and buckles, for security and easy adjustment. It also has grab strap on the back.
The life jacket is ideal for dogs with a large chest like a boxer or bulldog. It provides a comfortable fit for your bulldog without restricting his movements. The bright red life jacket has reflective trim for easy visibility even from a distance. It is available in 5 sizes to let dog owners choose what suit their pooch. The jacket is made of quality material to ensure durability and reliability.
Pros
- It is available in five sizes to choose from.
- The dog life jacket is suitable for dogs with a large chest such as the bulldog.
- It has a one piece design for added durability and reliability.
- The Paws Aboard Neoprene Doggie Life Jacket uses both Velcro and buckles to secure the collar and belly straps for security and easy adjustment.
- It has a reflective trim for easy visibility.
- The jacket is designed to provide your dog with a comfortable and snug fit.
Cons
- It is not ideal for dogs with a small chest.
#6) Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket
The Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket is a durable dog life jacket that is made of Ripstop 600D Oxford cloth. It is available in; X-Small, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large sizes to let you choose what suits your dog. The dog jacket has a lightweight and non-restrictive design to ensure the comfort of your pooch. It comes in a range of bright, vivid colors that are easily visible even from a distance.
The dog life jacket has reflective trim that will make your dog visible at nighttime. It includes a sturdy handle to make it easy for you to retrieve your dog from the water. The jacket has a removable front float to release neck pressure and keep the dog comfortable. It has a lot of padding for better floatation capability. The jacket is easy to adjust and comes with a sturdy belly band for extra comfort.
Pros
- It comes with a sturdy handle that is easy to grab and retrieve your dog from the water.
- The life jacket is made of Ripstop 600D Oxford cloth for durability.
- It has reflective trim for easy visibility at night.
- The jacket is available in a range of bright, vivid colors to let you choose what is best for your dog.
- It comes in different sizes to choose from.
- Vivaglory Dog Life Jacket features a lightweight and non-restrictive design that is comfortable for your bulldog.
- It includes a removable front float to release neck pressure.
Cons
- It has weaker seams.
- The jacket is not always stable enough.
#7) Outward Hound Standley Experienced Swimmer
Outward Hound Standley Experienced Swimmer is a durable and reliable life jacket for dogs. It is made of Ripstop and mesh material. The material is breathable to ensure there isn’t any water sticking around. The dog life jacket comes in Green or Blue colors. It is available in; X-Small, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large sizes to let dog owners choose what is suitable for their dogs.
The jacket is designed for experienced swimmers. It comes with sternum support and two handles, both facing in different directions, which makes it easy for two people to lift a larger dog. The dog life jacket comes in bright, stylish colors that are easily visible. It includes a sturdy D-ring for a firm connection with a leash.
Pros
- It is made of breathable material that is durable and comfortable.
- The life jacket comes with 2 handles facing in different directions to make it easy for easy for two people to lift a larger dog.
- It has a belly band made of mesh, to ensure that there isn’t any water sticking around.
- The Outward Hound Standley Experienced Swimmer is made of Ripstop and mesh material for a lightweight and comfortable fit.
- It has a sturdy D-ring for leash connection.
- The jacket comes in different sizes to let you choose the best size for your pooch.
- It is available in bright colors that are easily visible.
Cons
- It is not suitable for beginners.
- The jacket’s flaps might get misaligned.
#8) Petleso Dog Saver Inflatable
The Petleso Dog Saver Inflatable life jacket is not only a padded life jacket, but it also has airbags that can be filled to provide additional buoyancy, extra security and comfort for your dog. It made of Ripstop nylon for durability. The dog life jacket is available in Small, Medium and Large sizes to choose from. It comes with a breathable belly band for added comfort.
The inflatable life jacket is foldable for easy storage in a bag. It is a portable dog life jacket that is ideal for travelling. The jacket comes with a wide handle to easily lift and retrieve your pooch from the water. It has a D-ring for attaching a leash. The life jacket comes in a bright color that is easily visible. It includes adjustable straps, which make it a great option for a dog that is growing.
Pros
- It has airbags that can be filled to provide additional buoyancy.
- The dog life jacket is foldable for easy storage and transportation.
- It comes in 3 sizes to let you choose what is ideal for your pet.
- The jacket has a wide handle that is easy to grab and retrieve the dog from the water.
- It includes a breathable belly band for comfort.
- Petleso Dog Saver Inflatable life jacket comes with a D-ring for attaching a leash.
- It is available in a bright color which is easily visible.
Cons
- It is not available in a wide range of sizes.
- The jacket is in only one color.
#9) HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket
The HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket is a stylish dog life jacket that is designed for dog owners who want their dogs to still look unique and attractive in a life jacket. It is made of Polyester, oxford, nylon and mesh. The jacket is very durable and reliable. It is available in unique colors and designs such as Pink Mermaid, Shark, Lobster and more.
The life jacket has reflective trim for easy visibility at night. It comes with a handle to make it easy to lift your dog from the water. The jacket dries quickly, making it very convenient. It includes a D-ring for attaching a leash. It features a pretty scaley pattern in pink and purple and has a little tail. The dog jacket has adjustable straps for a comfortable and snug fit.
Pros
- The jacket dies quickly, making it very convenient.
- It comes with adjustable straps that make it easy to snuggly and comfortably fit your dog.
- The life jacket is made of Polyester, oxford, nylon and mesh for reliability and durability.
- It includes reflective trim for easy visibility.
- The dog jacket has a d-ring for attaching a leash.
- It has a convenient handle that makes it easy to lift and carry your dog.
- HAOCOO Dog Life Jacket features pretty scaley pattern in pink and purple with a little tail that gives it a unique and stylish look.
Cons
- It can be hard to get the right size.
#10) Queenmore Flotation Vest For Dogs
The Queenmore Flotation Vest for Dogs is a reliable dog life vest that comes in a fun design that features Shark/fish design. The dog jacket is made to add a little style to your dog’s safety. It is a mid-range price dog life vest that provides you value for your money. The vest comes with a rescue handle that makes it easy to retrieve your dog from the water.
The dog life vest comes with reflective accents for improved visibility. It is padded on the neck, belly and back for comfort and improved buoyancy. It has a mesh underbelly that is breathable and comfortable. The vest dries quickly and has adjustable nylon straps for a snug fit. It is available in two designs – grey shark and pink fish. The life vest has added neck float to keep the dog’s head above water with ease.
Pros
- It has added neck float that ensures that the dog’s head is always above the water.
- The dog life vest has reflective accents for visibility.
- It has a rescue handle to easily retrieve your dog from the water.
- Queenmore Flotation Vest for Dogs is designed to add a little style to your dog’s safety.
- It dries quickly for convenience.
- The vest includes adjustable nylon straps for a snug fit.
Cons
- The grey design impedes visibility.
- The shark/fish design adds extra material that can easily get trapped/stuck.
Conclusion
The best bulldog life vest should be made of quality and durable material. It should fit snuggly on your dog to keep him safe. Most dog life vests are not comfortable for bulldogs but if you get a bulldog life vest, your dog can be safe and comfortable.
We have reviewed some of the best bulldog life vests available in the market. The life vests vary in prices and in the features they offer. Any of the bulldog life vest in our review would make a great choice for bulldogs. We hope that the article was informative and helpful for bulldog owners looking for the best bulldog life vest.
Dr. Candy, a holistic veterinarian and certified raw dog food nutrition specialist, graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2009 with a DVM and has since specialized in companion animal nutrition, advocating for species-specific diets. With a background in wildlife rehabilitation and oil spill response, she combines holistic health and conventional medicine in her unique approach to treating chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions in pets. As the owner of a veterinary practice in Colorado and an author, Dr. Candy is dedicated to educating pet parents and improving the health and happiness of animals.
