Dog Life Jacket Size Guide: How to Measure Your Dog for the Perfect Fit

Two dogs floating in Trail Club life jackets

A life jacket only works if it fits — too loose and it slips, too tight and it's uncomfortable. Measuring takes one minute.

What you need

All you need is a soft measuring tape (or string + ruler), with your dog standing relaxed.

Three measurements to take

  1. Chest — Measure around the widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs.
  2. Back length — Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
  3. Neck — Measure around the middle of the neck where a collar sits.

Life Jacket with Chin Float size chart (inches)

Size Back length Chest Neck
XS 8.3 11.8–16.5 9.8–13.7
S 10.2 16.1–20.9 14.2–18.5
M 11.8 16.1–24.8 15.7–18.9
L 13.8 19.7–29.5 16.5–21.3
XL 17.7 27.6–37.4 19.7–27.9

Fit tips

  • The chest measurement matters most.
  • If your dog is between sizes, size up.
  • The jacket should be snug but let you slip two fingers under the straps.
  • The chin float should sit under the chin, keeping the head above water.

Shop the Life Jacket with Chin Float