We sometimes encounter snickers when our dogs show up on the dock in their K-9 Float Coats. But we don't let that stop us. Our Portuguese Water Dogs are great swimmers, but when we're motoring across Lake Huron, we think putting them in a life jacket is insurance. We don't expect them to fall off the boat, but disaster sometimes strikes when you least expect it. We have heard on the VHF radio of people picking up a lab swimming in open water after falling off a boat. They may be good swimmers, but they can't swim forever. The life jacket would be useful in the event of a "dog overboard" situation. It would give the dog buoyancy while he waits for the boat to return. The bright color would make the dog more visible and the vest would make it easier to pull the dog ashore. Even if you have a good swimmer, in open water, a life jacket makes sense.

We've used other (cheaper) life jackets, but this one is a big improvement. Our dogs don't mind wearing it at all.

Pros: sturdy, better-fitting, comfortable

Cons: pricey

I bought our first ruff wear life jacket for an older golden. She kept swimming a long ways from the shore, and I was a worry-wart. She loved it so much! She could swim easier and therefore play fetch longer. We then got one for a very large mixed-breed who couldn't swim very well. As soon as he got in the water, he realized the jacket helped and went for a big loop! Our last purchase was for a smaller sight-hound mix. She was more confident in the water with her jacket on too!

Three very different sizes and shapes of dogs. Ruff Wear exceeded my expectations in the fit and durability of this product. The padding goes all the way under their chest to prevent rubbing of the straps. The product was made very well: durable fabric, strong stitching, etc that holds up well to repeat use. Also, there is a very useful handle on the back for humans to hold on or in a pinch pick up their pups. So much better than any other brand I've seen!

Pros: great fit, handle for humans!, leash connection, works great

Cons: dogs get very excited as soon as they seem them!

I've been pleased with all purchases from Ruff Wear, especially the Float Coat. I had purchased a less expensive water vest, and the handle ripped out the first time I pulled my 45 pound dog out of the water. The Ruff Wear K-9 coat is sturdy and strong. We've used it now for four summers on the lake and it still looks brand new. This is the ONLY floatation vest I would recommend.

Pros: Sturdy for large dogs, strong handle that won't rip out

Cons: a little pricey

Great for anyone in the party to capture a dog that has wandered off, on a float. Handle on back allows you to grab the pooch without tipping the kayak or canoe.

Pros: Great float

Cons: none

Sasha LOVES her float coat. She sinks down really far normally when she swims since she is a Siberian and not an oily furred water dog. She doesn't swim for as long either since I think she has to expend more energy when she swims without it.

The float coat allows more fun time in the water in the summer when it is too hot for her to run, what could be better?!!

Pros: Peace of mind for owners of water loving dogs

Cons: take a long time to dry out