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When the dog days of summer roll in, is there any better way to cool off than by floating on the water? While pool rafts and floaties are typically considered uniquely human, more and more pups are getting in on the fun with floats specially designed to hold up to canine claws. We’ve rounded up six of our favorite dog pool floats for pups who want to join the party.
Choosing the Right Float for Your Dog
Finding the right dog pool float depends a few different factors:
- Your dog’s size and weight
- Where and how you plan to use the floaty
- How much space you have for floating
- Your pup’s comfort level with water
If your dog is uncertain about water or not a strong swimmer, that doesn’t necessarily rule a pool float out—dog floaties can be a good way to gently introduce your pup to bodies of water, whether that’s a pool, lake, or river. But you’ll want to choose your float carefully, prioritizing stable shapes with bolstered sides to reduce the chance of unintended spills and keep the water on deck to a minimum. Pairing it with an especially buoyant dog life jacket is a good idea.
If you have a summer-ready pup with a love of water and paws made for paddling, you can get a little more creative. Consider skipping the bolstered sides, since they can make it trickier for your four-legged friend to paddle or embark and disembark for swims.
Next, think about where your dog float is likely to see the most use. Stability becomes important again if you’re planning to tether your pup to a kayak, a paddle board, or your own inner tube for a leisurely float down the river. But it’s not as big a deal if splashing around in the shallows is your dream.
It’s also important to consider your pup’s disposition. In general, dog floaties are great for calm pups who relax and enjoy the journey. Active dogs may struggle to settle onto a floaty, causing it to collapse or flip. High-energy land and water activities may be a better option for these pups.
Whatever float you choose, remember to equip your dog with a life jacket—a good safety precaution no matter how strong a swimmer they are.
Best All-Purpose Float: SwimWays Paddle Paws Dog Pool Float (Verified Review)
This top-rated pool float is made of rugged, toenail-resistant materials to last through all your dog’s lazy pool days. It features a sturdy inflatable ring surrounding a base made of a thick mesh. This allows your dog to enjoy the cool of the water while still relaxing on the surface. Plus, it deflates quickly and folds up easily for transport and storage—though in our testing, we did find inflating it without a pump was a challenge.
Because the mesh bottom lets water through, the SwimWays pool dog float is a good choice for especially hot weather—and for dogs who’d like to be in the water without the work of swimming.
Highlights:
- Two sizes: Small to Medium (under 65 pounds) and Large (65+ pounds)
- Heavy-duty, puncture-resistant materials
- Easy deflation and storage
- Inflated size (large): 64.5″L x 43.25″W x 9″H
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Best for Stability: Intex River Run Sport Lounge
This raft isn’t specifically intended for dogs, but it is built to withstand sticks and rocks and other sharp objects found in a river, so it should be able to hold up to your dog’s nails. It features a round inner tube with a mesh bottom, allowing your pup to experience the cool water while they float along. Plus, tubes can be easily connected, linking you to your dog as you relax together.
With its durable construction and primary use as a human raft, the sport lounge is perfect for the dog owner who wants to get out of the pool and into the wild.
Highlights:
- Mesh bottom keeps your dog in the float while letting water in.
- Two cup holders to stash your dog’s snacks.
- Easy connection between tubes and other floats from the Intex brand.
- Deflated size: 53″ Diameter
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Best for Paddlers: Puppy Paw Raft
This bell-shaped dog pool float features arm and leg holes for pups who want to dangle their paws but keep otherwise dry. The inflatable center rides high in the water (no permeable mesh here), making it a good choice for small dogs who want to take it easy. A built-in loop at the front makes the raft easy to guide or tether to the side of the pool or lake.
Highlights:
- Inflated size: 47″ x 36″ for dogs up to 80 pounds
- Double valves for secure closures
- Made of durable PVC materials
- Lightweight and easy to store—deflate and fold
Staying Safe While Floating
Now you have your dog’s raft and you’re ready to make a splash. But before you drift off from the shore, consider these safety tips:
- Never leave your dog unattended near any body of water, and always keep a close eye on them while swimming or floating.
- Get a dog life jacket for extra protection and flotation support.
- Make sure you know the water conditions before you set out too. Fast-moving currents, slippery rocks, and other obstacles can spell danger for your pet.
- Never pull a dog behind a motorized boat.
- Always check your dog’s raft for tears and leaks before using and never let your dog ride on a damaged raft.
