If you are looking for a life jacket for your Frenchie, we just want you to know straight up that there are numerous products to choose from.
That is a good thing right? Well, not if it makes you unable to pick the right jacket for your pooch. Even though your French bulldog gets along well with people around them, the same cannot be said about their relationship with water.
In that regard, you want to get the best life jacket for French Bulldog to ensure that your pooch stays safe anytime they are enjoying the water.
Contents
Why You Should Get Your Doggie a Life Vest?
Although dogs are naturally good swimmers, they can only paddle for so long. So, the key reason for getting a life jacket or vest is to ensure that your furry-friend is always on the safe side.
Most importantly, should a disaster happen at sea, a well-made jacket can quadruple your pet’s chances of coming out alive.
If anything, this swimming gear typically features bright colors for enhanced visibility. Enhanced visibility adds a protective layer to your pooch and also makes it easier for emergency rescuers to spot the pet.
So, even if your dog is a water-loving one, we highly encourage you to get them a good life jacket. Plus, it doesn’t really matter whether they are senior dogs with mobility issues or pups. Every water-bound doggie should never lack this essential gear.
The Best Life Jacket for French Bulldog – Reviewed
Don’t like the idea of reading long review paragraphs? Take a peek at the following summed up list.
1. Outward Hound Splash Granby Dog Life Jacket
Top on our list is the Outward Hound Splash Granby Dog Life Jacket. This life jacket is designed with bright colors, which makes it for you to spot your furry friend. It is available in pink, orange, or fish design.
To effectively secure your pup, this unit features a chest strap as well as two belly buckles. Then there are two rescue handles located on the top, which makes it easy to pull your pooch out of water in case of an accident or emergency.
What’s More?
To prevent your pup from going underwater this product is fitted with multiple foam panels, which keeps him afloat. Besides that, it has a neck float that keeps the dog’s head above water for breathing.
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On top of that, the product comes in five different sizes, so finding the right fit for your hound should be pretty straightforward.
Pros
- Sturdy and secure handles
- Multiple foam padding
- Multiple sizes
- Easy to put them on and off
Cons
- Limited color options
2. RUFFWEAR Float Coat Adjustable Dog Life Jacket
Ruffwear is a popular brand that produces high-quality pet products, and the RUFFWEAR Float Coat Adjustable Dog Life Jacket lives up to the expectations. It is available in three multiple different colors for easy visibility.
Finding the right size for your pooch is also easy since it comes with six different sizes. Then there are reflective trims that further improve visibility. The strong handle makes it easy to lift the life jacket from water.
What’s More?
If your canine accidentally, this item will return him to the natural swimming position. Also worth noting is that this float coat is made of durable and abrasion-resistant fabric. It has an underbelly flotation, which makes it ideal for larger breed dogs.
[amazon fields=”B005OTYEJA” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”RUFFWEAR Float Coat Adjustable Dog Life Jacket”]
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Pros
- Secure straps and buckles
- Sturdy rescue handle
- Multiple colors and sizes
- Durable webbing
Cons
- A bit pricey
3. EzyDog Dog Flotation Life Vest Jacket (DFD)
Another fantastic option is the EzyDog Dog Flotation Life Vest Jacket. Most reviewers compare this option with the RUFFWEAR Float Coat Adjustable Dog Life Jacket but at a lower price. This floatation device is available in three bright and reflective colors for easier visibility.
Other distinguishing features include heavy-duty buckles and a wide strap, which holds your fluffy friend securely. What’s more, this DFD is made of neoprene, which keeps your pooch warm in cold water temperatures.
What’s More?
This device has impressive buoyancy that helps to keep your four-legged canine afloat. It has an excellent design that allows your pet to wear it for a long time without overheating. The integrated ergonomic handle makes it easy to grab the vest and guide your pet in the water.
[amazon fields=”B004ZQGM4S” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”EzyDog Dog Flotation Life Vest Jacket (DFD)”]
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Pros
- High-quality fabric
- Excellent buoyancy
- Bright colors
- Ergonomic handle
Cons
- A bit bulky
Also Read: 10 Best Dog Hunting Vests – Latest Insights & Buying Guide
4. Vivaglory Reflective Ripstop Life Jacket for Dogs
Next up is the Vivaglory Reflective Ripstop Life Jacket for Dogs. This option is available in a wide range of colors, which are all bright and reflective for easier visibility. Besides that, there are multiple sizes to choose from, so finding the right fit for your hound should be easy, no matter the size of your pooch.
The life vest is super lightweight, which allows your pet to stay free and enjoy moving around easily. On top of that, it is fitted with a top grab handle that you can easily catch with a hook. This allows you to control your pooch when in water and to pull him out should there be an emergency.
What’s More?
You can also attach the D-ring on your pup’s leash once you get your pet out of water or when you need to tether him on the boat. The stitching on the handle seems cheap, although it is ideal for occasional use. Overall, this is an affordably priced life jacket for pool and yard use.
[amazon fields=”B01H0FW8OS” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Vivaglory Reflective Ripstop Life Jacket for Dogs”]
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Pros
- Fully reflective
- Inexpensive
- Easy to wear
- Lightweight
Cons
- Cheap stitching around the handle
5. Queenmore Ripstop Life Jacket for Dogs
If you are looking for a secure and waterproof life jacket, consider checking out the Queenmore Ripstop Life Jacket for Dogs. It is made with polyethylene foam and oxford cloth, which makes it quite sturdy and durable.
The breathable lining underbelly makes it super warm and comfortable. It also makes it easy to clean and dry. In addition, the quick realize buckles and adjustable nylon straps hold your pup’s neck, chest, and belly securely.
What’s More?
Then there is the low-profile handle that is quite strong for easy and quick grabbing. Your canine cannot run away all thanks to the sturdy D-ring attached to the leash. The bright colors and reflective accents help to improve visibility when your pooch is swimming underwater.
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Pros
- Sturdy grabbing handle
- Durable fabric
- Impressive buoyancy
- Safe and secure
Cons
- Limited sizes
6. HAOCOO Safety Vest Life Jacket for Dogs
Another life jacket to earn a spot on this list is the HAOCOO Safety Vest Life Jacket for Dogs. This option is available in seven different sizes, so finding the right size for your fluffy friend should be anything but difficult. Still, on choices, it comes in ten reflective and bright colors for better visibility.
This life jacket is made of high-quality nylon and polyester fabric for sturdiness and durability. It is made from a mesh material, which makes it quick to dry after cleaning. Quick-release buckles and an adjustable belt make your pet fit comfortably.
What’s More?
This further makes it easy to put on and take it off. It also features a handle on top for easy and quick grabbing. The float design helps to keep your pup’s head above water. Lastly, t is fitted with a heavy-duty D-ring that you can attach on the dog’s leash.
[amazon fields=”B01HJACGDM” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”HAOCOO Safety Vest Life Jacket for Dogs”]
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Pros
- High-quality fabric
- Safe
- Multiple colors and sizes
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- Small sizing
7. Kurgo Inflatable Water Life Jacket for Dogs
The Kurgo Inflatable Water Life Jacket for Dogs might be an excellent option for dog owners who want a solid dog life jacket that is not too expensive. The most outstanding feature about this product is that it doubles as a pet raincoat.
It is designed to help your furry friend when on a boat or in water. The two handles featured on this life jacket make it easy for you to control and remove your pup from water when necessary. Also worth noting is that this unit is made from ripstop fabric so it can withstand regular and rough use.
What’s More?
The reflective trim and bright reflective colors help in enhancing visibility in the water. Also included are two metal D-rings for attaching to the leash. More importantly, it comes with a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty against any defects.
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Pros
- Easy to clean
- Lifetime warranty
- Highly visible
- Versatile usage
Cons
- Fit for small pups might be loose
8. Paws Aboard Vest Life Jacket for Dogs
Moving on, we have the Paws aboard Vest Life Jacket for Dogs. This product by Fido pet products is available in a wide range of bright colors for enhanced visibility. No need to water getting in the vest since it is made with high-quality and waterproof neoprene.
In addition, it is fitted with an ergonomic handle on the top, which makes it easy to hold in the event your furry friend experience any difficulty in the water. However, this Paws aboard Vest Life Jacket for Dogs is bulky and may cause balance problems for smaller pets.
What’s More?
This unit features the right amount of buoyancy that helps to keep your pet afloat. Then there is the breathable mesh underbelly for easy drying and proper drainage. While well-priced, there are cheaper life jackets which lack bulkiness issues like the Outward Hound Splash Granby Dog Life Jacket.
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Pros
- Waterproof
- Rescue handle
- Bright colors
- Reflective strips
Cons
- Quite bulky
9. Outward Hound Ripstop Dog Life Jacket
Next up is the Outward Hound Ripstop Dog Life Jacket. This item features two grab handle that allows you to quickly get your pooch out of water In case of an accident or emergency. Besides that, the front float keeps your pet’s head above water.
What’s More?
On top of that, it features side realizes buckles that can easily be adjusted to fit your fluffy buddy comfortably. It is available in five different sizes, which makes it ideal for all dog sizes. The bright colors and reflective accents help to improve visibility.
[amazon fields=”B012AG38IC” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Outward Hound Ripstop Dog Life Jacket”]
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Pros
- Multiple sizes and colors
- Dual gran handles
- Adjustable straps
- Float design
Cons
- Small sizing
10. Pettacc Floatation Life Jacket for Dogs
The last item on this list is the Pettacc Floatation Life Jacket for Dogs. This life jacket is made from tear-resistant and durable oxford nylon. In addition, the breathable mesh allows water out of the vest and helps it to dry faster.
You can easily grab your pooch out of water when he is in danger using the strong rescue handle. It also features a floating design of the belly, back, and neck for providing your dog with excellent security and buoyancy.
What’s More?
Quick-release buckles with an adjustable belt make this life jacket easy to put on and remove. It also has an excellent shark design with vivid teeth and eyes.
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Pros
- High-quality material
- Strong rescue handle
- Attractive shark design
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- Only available in one size
Buying Guide for Life Jacket of French bulldog
As we have previously mentioned, there are numerous life jackets to choose from when it comes to your pooch. As such, you want to consider a few crucial factors to ensure you are getting the best.
JacketBuoyancy
The purpose of a life jacket is to keep your dog afloat. Therefore, it is vital that the jacket you pick is packed with floatation material to ensure that your dog is able to stay above water at all times.
We recommend getting a jacket with both belly and side panels to keep your pooch safe.
JacketDurability
You can expect your dog’s life jackets to get drenched in water, be snagged on bushes, and many other things that can damage it.
You want to get one made from durable material to ensure that it can withstand any kind of abuse.
Comfort of the Jacket
Swimming or any time spent in water is supposed to be fun for your pooch. However, they cannot enjoy their time in water if they are uncomfortable.
For that, you need to get a jacket that properly fits your pooch and with extra padding especially under the arms.
Adjustability of Jacket
It is important to get a jacket that will fit your dog snugly without causing any chaffing. While there is no one size fits all jacket, sometimes even the right sized jacket will have a few issues because of your pooch’s shape, weight gain, or weight loss.
In respect to that, you want to get a jacket with adjustable straps to take care of that.
Color Brightness
Most people often make the mistake of going for the cutest life jacket available forgetting the importance of color brightness. You reduce your dog’s chances of survival the moment you settle for a dull-colored jacket.
Talking about colors, red is the most vibrant color. It is thought to travel faster to the eye than all other colors.
Red is followed by orange and then fluorescent green. The yellow color is the fourth easiest-to-spot color on the spectrum.
So, try to get a life jacket that’s either red, orange, fluorescent green or yellow. It can go a long way in protecting your lovely pet from jet skiers and boaters also.
Frequently Asked Questions about Life Jackets for French Bulldogs
We believe you have a few questions you want answered on this topic. The ones below might be of help.
Q: How should a life jacket fit?
A: A good jacket should not be too tight or too loose. This is why it is important to get one with adjustable straps to allow for customized fitting.
Q: Do dogs float in water?
A: Naturally, a dog will begin to paddle when they find themselves in water. That said, it is not a guarantee that they will be able to stay afloat hence the need for a life jacket.
Q: Are life vests just for boat trips?
A: There’s a common misconception that life jackets are only suited for boat trips but that’s not really the case. Just like humans, dogs also get tired and can also drown. In fact, thousands of dog deaths are reported every year when pets fall into swimming pools.
So, in our view, life vests are quite important to get especially if your dog is involved in any kind of water activity.
Also, if you enjoy water sports and have a dog that loves to be near you all the time, it’s important to get them a life jacket even if they don’t swim. This applies to all those who enjoy water skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Best Overall Choice
In our view, the Outward Hound Splash Granby life jacket is probably the best one for Frenchies. We like the fact that it’s well-built and quite straight-forward to use. As such, we’re of the opinion that it provides good value for money.
Final Thoughts
It is great that you have a French bulldog, but you should know that their short snout, top-heavy, body, and short legs make them terrible swimmers.
However, that should not be the reason why they should not enjoy water sports. Use this guide to get the perfect life jacket to keep your pooch safe when they are in water.

Dr. Elly has always loved animals, and she knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. After studying hard in veterinary school, she practiced in several different countries before moving to North Carolina with her husband and young family. She currently works part time as a veterinarian while caring for her 4 busy children and writing this blog. Dr. Elly genuinely cares about the welfare of her patients. She currently has three dogs, two cats, 5 chickens and 2 rabbits (yes a bit of a zoo!)