Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat - Premium Dog Life Jacket for Swimming & Boating
Lake Tahoe's deep blue waters, the rushing Truckee River, Donner Lake, Fallen Leaf Lake — the Sierra Nevada is built for water adventures. If your dog is coming along, the Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat is the life jacket trusted by outdoor enthusiasts and professional water rescue teams alike.
Whether you're boating out of Tahoe City Marina, paddleboarding in Emerald Bay, kayaking the Upper Truckee River, or letting your pup swim at Kings Beach, the K-9 Float Coat provides the buoyancy, visibility, and rescue-ready design your dog needs on the water.
Key Features
- 🌊 Optimized Flotation — Strategically placed foam panels keep dogs in a natural swimming position, even in choppy lake conditions or river currents.
- 🏋️ Strong Rescue Handle — Reinforced webbing handle on top for quick water rescues and lifting onto boats, docks, or paddleboards.
- 🔒 Secure Fit System — Two side-release buckles and telescoping neck closure prevent slipping in current or waves.
- 💡 High Visibility — Reflective trim and bright colors make your dog easy to spot on a crowded summer lake or remote backcountry river.
- 🐾 Low-Profile Design — Full range of motion while swimming; won't restrict your dog's natural stroke.
- 🧵 PVC-Free Foam — Soft, buoyant, and comfortable for all-day wear on the water.
- 💧 Water-Compatible Webbing — Remains stable and secure in wet environments.
Size Guide
Measure your dog's girth at the widest part of the rib cage (behind the front legs).
| Size | Girth | Approx. Weight |
|---|---|---|
| XX-Small | 13–17" | ~11–14 lbs |
| X-Small | 17–22" | ~15–25 lbs |
| Small | 22–27" | ~25–40 lbs |
| Medium | 27–32" | ~40–55 lbs |
| Large | 32–36" | ~55–75 lbs |
| X-Large | 36–42" | ~75–100 lbs |
Sizing tip: When between sizes, choose the larger size for better flotation. Adjustable straps accommodate a range of body types within each size.
Built for Tahoe & Sierra Nevada Adventures
Lake Tahoe's cold, clear waters (averaging 68°F in summer) demand reliable safety gear. The K-9 Float Coat is built to Ruffwear's legendary durability standards and backed by a lifetime guarantee — so it'll be ready for every season of lake swims, river runs, and paddleboard sessions in the Sierra Nevada.
Care Instructions
Rinse with fresh water after each use. Air dry completely before storage. Hand wash with mild detergent as needed. Do not machine wash or dry. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Safety Note: This life jacket is a flotation aid, not a substitute for supervision. Always supervise your dog in and around water. Introduce the jacket gradually and test in shallow water first.
Available at Dog.Dog.Cat. — Your Local Lake Tahoe Pet Store
We carry the Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat in-store so you can try it on your dog before you hit the water. Our team knows the local lakes, rivers, and trails — and we'll help you find the right size and fit for your pup's next Sierra Nevada adventure. Stop in, or order online with fast shipping.