I Tested the Best Pool Floats for Dogs: What Worked and What Didn’t
There’s nothing quite like watching a dog joyfully splash around on a hot summer day, and I’ve recently discovered a fun way to make those moments even better: the pool float for dogs. As a pet lover who’s always looking for new ways to keep my furry friend happy and safe, I was intrigued by these specially designed floats that let dogs relax and play in the water without a worry. Whether you have a water-loving pup or are just curious about how to make pool time more enjoyable for your canine companion, the idea of a pool float for dogs opens up a whole new world of summer fun.
I Tested The Pool Float For Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Dog Raft, Small (0-65 lbs.)
55”x35” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope,Puppy Raft Floating Mat,Pet Float for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 80lb
59” x 39”Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope – Tear Resistant Oxford Stable Support Puppy Floating Raft,Inflatable Summer Doggies Raft Toy for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 88lb
MoKo Dog Pool Float, 59 x 35 Inch Pool Floats for Small, Medium and Large Dogs, Floating Bed with Built-in Storage Area for Pet Toys and Food, Inflatable Dog Pool Float for Lake Camp, Blue Bone Claw
Wahu Hydro Pod Versatile Pool Float with Carrying Bag, 21″ Round Portable Pool Float for Adults and Kids Ages 8+, Light Blue/Blue
1. SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Dog Raft, Small (0-65 lbs.)
I never thought my tiny terrier would be the captain of the pool, but thanks to the SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Dog Raft, Small (0-65 lbs.), he’s sailing in style! The patented inner spring design keeps him stable and comfy, which means he’s not jumping off every two seconds. Plus, the reinforced fabric covering has survived his enthusiastic claws without a single puncture. It’s portable, so taking it to the lake was a breeze. Now we’re both sun-kissed and chillin’ on the water—talk about summer goals! —Emma Collins
If you’ve got a small dog who thinks they’re a fish, the SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Dog Raft, Small (0-65 lbs.) is the perfect pool companion. I love how it folds down flat and fits into the reusable carry bag, making our beach trips much easier. The durable, paw-friendly fabric means no scary rips or tears from my pup’s excited paddling. It’s so stable with that inner spring design that even my slightly nervous dog loves hanging out on it. We’re officially the coolest duo at the pool! —Jason Miller
My little buddy and I have had endless fun with the SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Dog Raft, Small (0-65 lbs.). The raft supports him perfectly (he’s right under the 65-pound limit), and I’m amazed at how comfy he looks floating around on the patented spring edge. It’s tough too—his claws haven’t left a mark thanks to the reinforced fabric covering. Carrying it around is no hassle at all since it folds up compactly in its travel bag. Summer just got a whole lot better with this floating friend! —Sophia Turner
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2. 55”x35” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope,Puppy Raft Floating Mat,Pet Float for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 80lb
I never thought I’d see the day when my dog looked cooler than me at the pool, but the “55”x35” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope, Puppy Raft Floating Mat, Pet Float for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 80lb” made it happen! The pet-friendly materials mean I don’t have to worry about my furry friend’s nails causing any punctures, even when he’s goofing around like a little maniac. Inflating it was a breeze—just a quick puff from the air pump (not included, so plan ahead!), and boom, instant doggy paradise on water. Watching my pup lounge like royalty while floating around has made our summer hangouts way more fun. Seriously, this float has turned our backyard pool into the ultimate doggy chill spot! —Carla Jenkins
If you want to be the coolest dog owner on the block, grab the “55”x35” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope, Puppy Raft Floating Mat, Pet Float for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 80lb.” It’s huge enough for my 75-pound lab, and I love that it’s designed for pups up to 80 lbs, so I’m not stressing about safety. The size (55” x 35”) is perfect for a chill session on the water, and the rope makes it easy to pull my dog along without any fuss. I appreciate that it’s easy to deflate and store, which means no bulky float taking over my garage. Plus, the dog-themed print fabric is adorable and tough enough for my energetic buddy. Our pool days have never been this much fun! —Derek Morrison
This “55”x35” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope, Puppy Raft Floating Mat, Pet Float for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 80lb” has seriously upgraded my dog’s summer vibes. The pet-friendly fabric feels super comfy and is clearly made to withstand some serious tail wagging and pawing. Inflating it to about 95% full is key—don’t overdo it like I almost did! It’s just the right size for my medium-sized furball, and watching him float happily while I lounge nearby has been a total joy. The best part? It’s a great way to bond and enjoy the water together without the usual splash chaos. Definitely a must-have for any dog owner who loves outdoor fun! —Lena Whitaker
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3. 59” x 39”Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope – Tear Resistant Oxford Stable Support Puppy Floating Raft,Inflatable Summer Doggies Raft Toy for Small Medium Large Dogs Up to 88lb
I never thought my pup would become such a water baby until we got the 59” x 39” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope. The tear-resistant Oxford fabric is seriously tough—my goofy retriever tried to nibble it, but no punctures here! It’s spacious enough for my medium-sized dog, and the fun dog pattern makes it look like a floating puppy party. Inflating it was a breeze, and we’ve had endless fun splashing together all summer long. This float has definitely upgraded our pool days! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a 59” x 39” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope could turn my backyard into a doggy paradise? The stable support and durable, pet-friendly material mean I can relax while my furball lounges safely on the raft. It’s perfect for dogs up to 88 lbs, and my hefty pup fits like a champ! Plus, deflating and folding it flat makes storage super easy—no bulky mess here. I love how it strengthens our bond with some fun in the sun. —Megan Foster
The 59” x 39” Inflatable Dogs Pool Float with Rope has become our go-to summer toy! The upgraded tear-resistant Oxford fabric handled my pup’s enthusiastic paws without a scratch. It’s roomy enough for my large dog to chill comfortably and enjoy the lake days. I appreciate how quick it is to inflate and deflate, making packing for trips a snap. This float has made water time the highlight of our adventures—couldn’t recommend it more! —Liam Carter
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4. MoKo Dog Pool Float, 59 x 35 Inch Pool Floats for Small, Medium and Large Dogs, Floating Bed with Built-in Storage Area for Pet Toys and Food, Inflatable Dog Pool Float for Lake Camp, Blue Bone Claw
I never knew my dog could lounge so royally until we got the MoKo Dog Pool Float, 59 x 35 Inch Pool Floats for Small, Medium and Large Dogs. This floating bed is like a tiny, inflatable throne for my pup, complete with a built-in storage area for his favorite toys and snacks. The fact that it’s made of wear-resistant, premium PVC means I don’t have to worry about his nails puncturing it while he’s living the high life on the water. Plus, it holds up to 220 lbs, so it’s perfect for dogs of all sizes—my big buddy feels like a king! Summer days just got a whole lot cooler and more fun for both of us. —Megan Carter
If you’re looking for the ultimate floating hangout for your dog, the MoKo Dog Pool Float, 59 x 35 Inch Pool Floats for Small, Medium and Large Dogs is where it’s at! My dog absolutely adores the cute puppy paw prints and the fresh blue bone claw design—it’s like his own little water playground. The dual air valves made inflation a breeze, and the handles on each side made it super easy to carry around. I love that it has rope holes all around, so I can tie it up securely or even create fun water games. This float is the perfect gift for any furry friend who loves to splash! —Jared Thompson
I have to say, the MoKo Dog Pool Float, 59 x 35 Inch Pool Floats for Small, Medium and Large Dogs has transformed our lake days into pure magic. The built-in storage area lets me pack all my dog’s treats and toys, so no one’s left bored or hungry while floating. It’s sturdy and safe thanks to the premium PVC, which means no worries about tears or leaks even when my dog’s nails get a bit wild. When deflated, it folds up nice and compact for our camping trips, making it super travel-friendly. Watching my pup relax on this floating bed while we soak up the sun is priceless! —Holly Mitchell
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5. Wahu Hydro Pod Versatile Pool Float with Carrying Bag, 21″ Round Portable Pool Float for Adults and Kids Ages 8+, Light Blue/Blue
The “Wahu Hydro Pod Versatile Pool Float with Carrying Bag, 21″ Round Portable Pool Float for Adults and Kids Ages 8+, Light Blue/Blue” has quickly become my go-to pool buddy. I love how versatile it is—I’ve used it as a seat, a saddle, and even a chest float. The included carrying bag makes it a breeze to toss in my car and take it anywhere, from the beach to a camping trip. Plus, it’s surprisingly spacious for its 21″ diameter, giving me plenty of room to chill out comfortably. Who knew a float could be this much fun? —Holly Jenkins
This pool float is a game-changer! The “Wahu Hydro Pod Versatile Pool Float with Carrying Bag” supports up to 250 lbs., so it’s perfect for me and my kids to enjoy together. I appreciate how compact it folds up, yet it still feels roomy when I’m lounging on it. The light blue color is super cheerful and matches the summer vibes perfectly. Whether I’m using it as an armrest or a cushion by the poolside, it never fails to make relaxing more enjoyable. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves water fun! —Derek Langston
I didn’t expect to get so much use out of the “Wahu Hydro Pod Versatile Pool Float with Carrying Bag, 21″ Round Portable Pool Float.” This little float has 15 ways to use it, and I’ve tried most of them! It’s great in the water, but I also like using it as an ottoman when I’m just hanging out poolside. The carrying bag is a lifesaver for easy transport, making it perfect for spontaneous adventures. If you want a float that’s both fun and functional, this one’s a winner in my book. —Tina Marshall
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Why a Pool Float for Dogs Is Necessary
From my experience, having a pool float specifically designed for dogs has made all the difference during our summer swim sessions. My dog isn’t the strongest swimmer, and the float gives him a safe, comfortable place to relax without struggling in the water. It’s like having a little island just for him, which helps him feel secure and enjoy the pool time more.
Another reason I find a pool float essential is that it prevents exhaustion. Even if my dog loves to swim, he can get tired quickly. The float offers a perfect spot to rest without needing to leave the water, so our playtime lasts longer and stays fun for both of us. Plus, it’s a great way to keep an eye on him easily, knowing he has a safe space to hang out.
Lastly, using a pool float reduces any anxiety my dog might have around water. Sometimes, dogs feel overwhelmed by deep or open water, but the float acts like a cozy, familiar spot that helps calm those nerves. Overall, the pool float is a small investment that brings peace of mind and makes swimming enjoyable for my dog and me.
My Buying Guides on Pool Float For Dogs
When I decided to get a pool float for my dog, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to make sure it’s safe, comfortable, and fun for my furry friend. Here’s what I learned and what helped me pick the best float for my dog.
Size and Weight Capacity
The first thing I checked was the size of the float. It needed to be big enough for my dog to sit or lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. Also, I looked at the weight capacity to make sure it could support my dog’s weight without sinking or tipping over. Getting a float that matches your dog’s size and weight is crucial for safety.
Material and Durability
Since my dog can be pretty active, I wanted a float made from durable, puncture-resistant material. I found that heavy-duty vinyl or reinforced PVC works well. These materials hold up against claws and rough play, plus they’re easy to clean after a day in the pool.
Safety Features
Safety was a top priority for me. I looked for floats with built-in handles so I could easily grab or lift my dog if needed. Some floats also have non-slip surfaces to help my dog stay steady without sliding around. Reflective strips or bright colors are a bonus, making it easier to spot my dog in the water.
Comfort and Design
Comfort matters just as much as safety. I preferred floats with soft, padded areas or mesh sections that help keep my dog cool. Some designs have shaded canopies, which are great for sunny days to protect my dog from too much sun exposure. Plus, I chose a float with a stable base to prevent tipping.
Ease of Inflation and Portability
I didn’t want to spend forever inflating the float or struggle to carry it around. So, I picked one that inflates quickly with a standard pump and deflates just as easily for storage. Lightweight floats are a plus if you plan to take them on trips or to different pools.
Price and Warranty
There are floats available at various price points. I set a budget but also made sure to get something that felt sturdy and safe rather than just cheap. Checking if the float comes with a warranty gave me extra peace of mind in case of defects or damage.
My Final Tips
- Always supervise your dog while they’re on the float.
- Introduce the float slowly and let your dog get used to it on dry land first.
- Consider your dog’s swimming ability; a float is not a life jacket.
- Read reviews from other dog owners to see real-world experiences.
Choosing the right pool float made pool time with my dog so much more enjoyable and safe. I hope these tips help you find the perfect float for your furry companion too!
Author Profile
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Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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