Why Do Dogs Need Lifejackets?

Good question.

Don’t all dogs swim? - Actually, no, not all. Some dogs don’t take well to water at all. In fact, some specific breeds with a lower amount of body fat (like Boxers and Doberman Pinscher) can have a harder time in the water then other dogs with a higher level of body fat. Like humans, older dogs may tire easily when swimming and any dog that has hip problems may find it more difficult to swim.

Also, keep in mind that no matter how well you know your dogs can swim, any dog can drown if left unsupervised. Dogs can get fatigued if they have to swim for a long time and they can also easily get disoriented if they fall off the boat. Many things can cause a dog (or human for that matter) to drown. While dog life vests may not be a save-all cure for 100% safety in the water, they are definitely an aid for safety.

Something else to keep in mind when the dog falls off the boat (or jumps off!): The life jacket will help keep your dog above water until you come back to get them and they have a great feature of a handle strap on the top for assisting you to retrieve the dog from the water in a rescue case.

There are many of good reasons why you should take a couple minutes and put a life vets on your dog when you are near the water – even if you assume that you will be supervising the dog the entire time!