Review: Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat

My little dog Brutus goes almost everywhere with me, including many waterborne adventures. He swims well, but he’s getting older, so I decided it was time for a life-vest. But it ain’t easy finding a PFD that fits an eight-pound Chihuahua (please, don’t judge—there’s an explanation). Luckily for me, the friendly folks at Dee-O-Gee suggested the XXS K-9 Float Coat from Ruffwear. This fully-featured vest is made to keep Brutus afloat—way better than the alternative, which is strapping a water-wing around his midsection. The Float Coat adjusts easily with dual belly straps and one around the neck. It’s also designed to keep my canine companion’s head above water without interfering with his natural swimming motion. Other details include a burly back-handle to quickly lift Brutus to safety and reflective trim for enhanced visibility in or out of the water. This is a premium PFD, so it’s a little on the spendy side; but being confident with Brutus on the water is priceless. Available online; $90.