Outward Hound made me float—finally, something safer than my doggy paddle panic routine

The safest dog life jacket I’ve ever worn—and I hate wearing stuff

Can big dogs swim? Yes. Should they wear a life jacket anyway? Absolutely.

Now listen hoomans—I may be a seasoned Rottweiler built like a tank with paws the size of your face, but even I say swimming ain't just about the doggy paddle. I’ve seen some of you toss tennis balls 20 metres into suspiciously deep water at the river, and then yell “Go on, swim!” while standing bone-dry on the shore. Rude.

Recently, my mum (bless her, she worries if I sneeze funny) got her paws on the Outward Hound Granby Splash dog life jacket. As someone who doesn't typically enjoy feeling like he's dressed for a float at Mardi Gras, I was suspicious. But hoomans... this thing changed my game at the lake.

So... what makes this jacket worth barking about?

• Visibility that screams: I’m here, I’m fabulous, and I float. Bright colours and reflective strips mean you can spot your soggy hero from across the park, even if your eyesight isn’t as sharp as a German Shepherd’s.
• That front floaty bit? Keeps my big Rottie head above water while I pretend I’m casually swimming and totally not chasing ducks out of panic.
• Neoprene belly support: It hugs the tum-tum in all the right places (which, for us big dogs, is a lot of real estate.)
• Double grab handles: There’s nothing dignified about needing a rescue lift... but if I have to be hoisted like a soggy potato sack, this jacket makes it quick and drama-free.

Rottweiler-approved fit (and I’ve got a broad chest—deal with it)

I know some dog jackets are clearly made for... let’s say, slimmer breeds. Terriers. Cavaliers. That sort of crowd. But this jacket? With sizes from XS to XL and adjustable straps to fit based on girth, even us chunky beefcakes have options. Mum followed the sizing guide, measured me properly (with a treat bribe, obviously), and went up a size because I’m a bit... enthusiastically built. Perfect fit. No wiggle, no squish.

But Thor, do you actually LIKE it?

I’ll admit—I don’t wag my tail when you say “let’s dress up,” but this wasn’t like wearing some gimmicky costume. The Granby Splash doesn’t restrict my zoomies. I could paddle, run, hop into the kayak (okay, more like clamber awkwardly) and lie down without feeling like a stuffed toy. That matters for us big dogs—we don’t do dainty.

“Used to dread the water past my elbows. Now I cannonball like a Labrador.” — Thor, confident, slightly soggy boi.

Is it just for rookies? Nope.

If your dog’s already an aquatic acrobat, you might think life jackets are unnecessary. But accidents happen—even the best swimmers can get tired, and not every current is friendly. Whether you're new to the splash zone or a seasoned dog-paddler, this gear’s about peace of mind. Yours and mine.

Reality check: Not indestructible. But worth it.

The product tag even says it: supervise your dog, and replace if damaged. Mate, we chew through nylon like popcorn chicken, so no judgement if a nibble happens. But treat it well, and this durable jacket will stay in your bag of summer adventure tricks. Besides, things that keep me alive kinda deserve respect. Especially when they’re this comfy.

Who should snag one for their furry adventurer?

• Big dogs with big energy (hi, it's me).
• Dogs new to the water.
• Pups who kayak, paddleboard, or river-wade with their hoomans.
• Adorable over-sharers who photograph everything and want their dog to match their hike aesthetic.

Whether you’re navigating canoe chaos or playing fetch at the local swimming hole, the Outward Hound Granby Splash Life Jacket just gets it. It's built for practicality but gives you the comfort of knowing your big softie is safe while fully living his lake fantasy. Trust me: you'll stress less, and your fluffball will stay afloat even when chasing floating sticks into reckless glory.

Final verdict from your soggy but stylish correspondent:

5/5 wagging tails. This isn’t just a life jacket—it’s canine confidence wrapped in floaty fashion. You style-conscious hoomans will love how it looks. We dogs just love that it works. And the ducks? Well, they’re still wary of me.

Belly rubs and snack dreams,

Thor 🐾

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