Are dogs required to wear a dog life jacket on boats?

Taking your furry best mate on a boat is an awesome way to spend the weekend—who doesn’t love cruising down our beautiful Aussie waterways? But dogs can be a little unpredictable, especially if they’re new to boating. So today, we’re answering some common questions about dog life jackets and sharing safety tips to keep your pup safe on the water.

Are dogs required to wear a dog life jacket on boats?

We get this question a lot. While Australian maritime laws don’t specifically mention dogs, the general advice is: treat your pup like any other passenger when it comes to safety.

Essentially, if you're required to wear a life jacket, then your dog should too. 

Each state and territory has different requirements for life jackets and safety equipment, so we recommend checking out your local authority's website:

• Queensland
• New South Wales
• Victoria
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Tasmania

Before hitting the water, always check the weather forecast. The Bureau of Meteorology offers real-time updates and marine safety advice so you can plan ahead and stay safe.

Safety tips for boating with your pup

1. Fit your dog with a quality dog life jacket: A must-have for every boating adventure! A dog life jacket helps keep your pup afloat and provides extra safety in case they fall overboard.

2. Train your dog before boating: Make sure your dog knows basic commands like sit, stay, and come. It’ll help prevent accidents and make it easier to manage them in an emergency.

3. Keep them hydrated: The sun can take a toll! Bring plenty of fresh water and provide shade so your dog stays cool and comfortable.

4. Protect their paws: Boat decks can heat up fast. Lay down a towel or mat for your dog to sit on—or consider dog booties to prevent paw burns.

5. Secure your dog: Always keep your dog safely tethered to the boat. Many life jackets come with a sturdy D-ring for this purpose.

Shop sun and water essentials for your next boating adventure

Our online surf shop is bursting with gorgeous sun and water essentials for the most stylish dogs on the water! Here's what we recommend for boating:

• Australian Made dog life jackets – Available in four vibrant colours for puppies to large sized dogs. Features include comfortable panelled foam for a snug and secure fit, adjustable straps, a D-ring for tethering, and padded handles to help lift your dog safely back onto the boat.

• Luxurious dog towels – Beautifully soft for your pup to lie on while cruising, and perfect for drying them off after a swim.

Catch you on the water! ✌️