Fit is the single most important thing about a flotation vest. A vest that is too loose rides up over your dog's head; one that is too tight restricts their swimming. Please measure before you order.
How to measure
- Use a soft tailor's tape (a piece of string and a ruler works too).
- Wrap it around the widest part of your dog's ribcage, just behind the front legs.
- Keep the tape snug against the fur but not tight.
- Note the measurement in inches or centimetres and match it to the chart below.
Size chart — by ribcage girth
| Size | Ribcage girth (in) | Ribcage girth (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| XXS | 11" – 14" | 28 – 36 cm |
| XS | 14" – 17" | 36 – 43 cm |
| S | 17" – 21" | 43 – 53 cm |
| M | 21" – 25" | 53 – 64 cm |
| L | 25" – 31" | 64 – 79 cm |
| XL | 31" – 38" | 79 – 97 cm |
A few notes
- Don't size by breed or by weight. Two dogs of the same weight can have completely different chest shapes. The tape measure is the only reliable guide.
- Between two sizes? Size up. The adjustable straps take up the slack, and a slightly large vest is far easier to fix than one that's too tight.
- Deep-chested breeds should be measured carefully at the widest point — this is often further back than you'd expect.
- Growing puppies should be re-measured before any big trip.
Checking the fit
Once the vest is on and the buckles are fastened, tighten the straps until you can just slide two fingers underneath. Check the fit again after the first swim — wet fabric settles.
What we don't publish
The manufacturer specifies ribcage girth only. Neck girth, back length and recommended dog weight are not provided for this vest, so we don't list them rather than guess at numbers you might rely on.
Still unsure?
Email us your dog's ribcage measurement and breed and we'll tell you which size to order. If the size turns out to be wrong, we'll exchange it within 30 days.