Life Jackets for Animals is a subcategory of Safety & Rescue. Here you’ll find swim vests and life jackets for dogs (and, depending on the model, for other pets on board) that provide added safety on board—when boarding and disembarking, in the dinghy, at the dock, while swimming, or if a pet unexpectedly falls overboard.
Our selection (subject to availability) includes brands such as Besto and Marinepool. Brand names are listed as they appear in the original—this is important for clearly identifying sizes, fits, and accessories.
In the main category Safety & Rescue, the following applies: Equipment only protects if it fits properly and is worn regularly. For pet vests, the focus is therefore on fit, buoyancy, visibility, and a secure rescue grip—so you can quickly and safely bring your pet back on board in an emergency.
Examples from the range: Besto Dog Deluxe Dog Life Jacket (Yellow-Black); Besto Dog Life Jacket (Orange); Marinepool Dog Life Jacket (Orange).
For everyday life on board and trips via jetty/dinghy, a vest with high visibility, sturdy straps, and a strong rescue handle is ideal. For animals that frequently go into the water (swimming/training), comfortable, low-friction models are important. In rougher conditions (waves, cold water), the most important thing is that the vest fits securely and that the animal is easy to grasp and rescue.
Measure the chest circumference (at the widest point behind the front legs), neck circumference, and back length. The vest should fit snugly enough to prevent slipping but not be too tight. Important: The animal must be able to breathe freely and move normally. If you’re between two sizes, the chest circumference is usually the most important measurement.
The vest should support the animal in a stable swimming position and not twist while swimming. A continuous, securely sewn rescue handle (ideally with additional strap guides) is crucial for lifting the animal out of the water in a controlled manner—especially onto a boat with high freeboard or over a swim ladder.
Pet life jackets are generally not inflatable and therefore do not have release mechanisms or CO₂ cartridges like automatic life jackets. Instead, regularly check straps, buckles, seams, the rescue handle, and reflective elements for wear and damage. Rinse and dry after contact with saltwater—this keeps the material and fasteners in good condition.
First, try it on briefly on land, praise your pet, and gradually increase the time spent wearing it. Then test it in a calm environment at the dock or in shallow water. Watch for chafing and ensure the vest doesn’t restrict shoulder movement. To ensure a stress-free process on board, it’s worth practicing putting on the vest before the trip.
After contact with salt or sand, rinse with fresh water, let it air dry (do not “bake” it on a heater), and store it in a dry place away from light. Perform regular visual inspections: straps, buckles, seams, and rescue handle. Replace damaged buckles or torn seams promptly—when it comes to safety equipment, having a spare is essential.
Grasp the rescue handle and, if possible, provide additional support at the strap/chest area to avoid sudden jerks. Use a swimming platform or ladder if available. For heavier dogs, a second helper is advisable. Important: The animal may be panicked—stay calm and act with control.