Astral

Bird Dog Life Jacket

Great for making nervous pup at ease in the water!

My dog barks at sticks when you throw them in the river because he's too scared to dive in and retrieve them – looking forward to building up his confidence with the Bird Dog! He's around 50lb which was on the cusp of M/L. Went with the M so it fits on the snugger side, but he was happy & comfortable running around in it. Think L would've worked great too.

Swimmer

I just bought my second one of these for my second pup. Great quality, color, and ease of use.

Love, love, love!!

Love for both my pups! Handle on back strong enough to lift my 90+ lbs German Shepard without tearing into her belly.

Perfect! Snoozing dog approved

The birddog is a great CFD! The handle on top is perfect for loading dogs into boats and the leash clip makes it an easy transition when you're back on land. Our dogs took a few minutes to adjust, but now they treat it like any other harness.

Well-built and comfortable (apparently)

Used it for the first time on a kayak trip at Wambaw Creek. Took about 30 seconds for Lucy to acclimate to it, then it was back to normal. Didn't really get to test how well it floats (not necessarily a bad thing) but it's easy to see how well it's constructed with the stitching and design.

I like it. Ruby loves it!

My Ruby’s favourite jacket that gets her dancing knowing fun, supportive swimming is about to happen.

Fury Fun On The Water

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Our kayaking escapades with McKinley and Kaya are a total thrill. Their tails wag like crazy when they spot the life jackets, which fit perfectly and provide peace of mind. The added bonus? The grab handle is a lifesaver for effortlessly pulling them back into the kayak after their refreshing swims. The Birddog has truly elevated our outdoor adventures, making every paddle a mix of excitement and practicality that we need.

Fits perfect for my 50lb dog

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Size Bought:

L

This jacket fits great on my 50lb lab and she seems happy when wearing it. The flotation padding is thick and feels very durable. A good quality life jacket for dogs. The other jackets I have purchased from other brands are not as good as this one. Keeps her warm, keeps her afloat, and fits her very nicely. I trust this life jacket would keep my dog afloat if she ever goes overboard on rivers which was my biggest worry.

Well built!

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Size Bought:

Small

Purchased for my Mini Aussie, as we are on the water till it freezes. I got the puppy a small as he was about 15# when first used and it was bit roomy, but now at 22# if fits great. Construction is really durable and I love the handle and leash point on the back. Floats well and the pup doesn't mind it at all, so it is very comfortable. Picture is when he was 15#

Better Than Ruffwear

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Size Bought:

Small

Weight:

25

Love this jacket. Our other dog has been using the Ruffwear model but decided to try the Astral for our pup. After the first trip I like the Astral better in terms of flotation, fit, and durability. The Ruffwear is quicker on and off but the Astral is more robust and provides a more customizable fit along with more flotation. In heavier water I would trust the Astral over the Ruffwear. The Astral is a bit stiff and bulky when you first put it on but after some time in the water it softens up and is a nice fit. My dog is a mini Aussie about 25lbs and the size Small was perfect.