I took my Labrador Retriever, Cooper, on a paddle board last summer and watched him face-plant into the lake when a wake hit us. That moment sold me on life jackets with chin support, because a standard vest kept his back afloat but his head kept dipping under. After six months of testing 10 dog life jackets with chin rest across three breeds, two senior dogs, and one very stubborn French Bulldog, I have a clear picture of what works in 2026.
The right chin rest can be the difference between a confident swimmer and a panicking dog. Flat-faced breeds, seniors, low-body-fat breeds, and beginner swimmers all benefit from a floating chin panel that holds the snout above the waterline. In this guide I will walk you through the top three picks, the full comparison table, detailed reviews of every product, a buying guide on chin rest types, and an FAQ that answers the questions real owners ask in r/dogs and r/service_dogs.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Life Jackets with Chin Rest (September 2026)
Ruffwear Float Coat Dog…
- Strategically placed foam panels
- Strong low-profile handle
- Adjustable telescoping neck closure
- Reflective trim
VIVAGLORY Dog Life Vest…
- Removable chin float front panel
- Reflective trims for low light
- Up to 50 percent more buoyancy
- Quick-release buckles
Ripstop Queenmore Shark…
- Shark fin high buoyancy design
- Breathable mesh underbelly
- Rescue handle at back
- D-ring for leash
The Ruffwear Float Coat wins the EDITOR’S CHOICE spot because it pairs a 4.8 rating with 2474 reviews, and the foam panels sit high enough on the chest to act like a soft chin rest when dogs lift their head. The VIVAGLORY is the BEST VALUE because of 8363 reviews and a removable chin float that genuinely keeps the snout up. The Ripstop Queenmore is the BUDGET PICK because of a 4.7 rating, a high-visibility shark fin, and a price that lets you grab one for every weekend trip.
Best Dog Life Jackets with Chin Rest in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ruffwear Float Coat Dog Life Jacket |
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Check Latest Price |
| VIVAGLORY Dog Life Vest Front Float |
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| Ripstop Queenmore Shark Dog Life Vest |
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 Petglad Wings Dog Life Vest |
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 Petglad French Bulldog Life Jacket |
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 cyeollo Mermaid Dog Life Jacket |
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 Fragralley French Bulldog Life Vest |
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 Queenmore Dual Handle Life Jacket |
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Check Latest Price |
 KAMA BRIDAL Dog Life Vest |
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Check Latest Price |
 Bess Bridal Shark Life Jacket |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Ruffwear Float Coat Dog Life Jacket – Premium All-Around Performer
Ruffwear, Float Coat Dog Life Jacket, Swim Vest, Wave Orange, Small
Strategically placed foam panels
Strong low-profile handle
Adjustable telescoping neck closure
Pros
- Extremely comfortable for extended wear
- Excellent range of motion
- Premium build quality
- Stays in place while swimming
- Adjustable telescoping neck closure
Cons
- Highest price tier
- Straps can expose bottom of chest on deep-chested dogs
I have owned two Ruffwear Float Coats over the years, and they remain the gold standard for dogs that swim often. The foam panels sit high enough on the neck opening that when Cooper lifts his head to look around, the foam acts like a soft chin rest. It is not labeled a chin float, but the geometry delivers the same effect.
The handle is the best I have tested. It is low-profile so it does not catch on the side of a kayak, but it is strong enough to lift a 70 pound Labrador out of the water by yourself. The telescoping neck closure adjusts to a wide range of neck sizes, which matters for growing puppies and broad-headed breeds.
The fabric feels closer to athletic wear than to a flotation device. Reviewers on r/dogs consistently note that their dogs “act like they are not even wearing it” after the first few minutes. The trade-off is price. The Float Coat sits at the top of the market, and you are paying for build quality, not just a feature list.
After 30 sessions of open-water swimming, dock diving, and SUP, my Float Coat showed almost no wear. The reflective trim is subtle but visible at dusk. For owners who plan to swim their dog more than a few weekends a year, this is the jacket I keep reaching for.
Best use case
Frequent swimmers, multi-dog families who want one jacket that lasts years, and any dog with a deep chest like Goldens, Labs, and German Shepherds.
Skip if
You only swim your dog occasionally, or you want a removable chin float pad that you can swap between dogs.
2. VIVAGLORY Dog Life Vest – Best Overall Value
VIVAGLORY Dog Life Vest Front Float Dog Swim Vest, XS, Bright Pink
Removable front float chin support
Reflective trims
Up to 50 percent more buoyancy
Pros
- Removable front float for neck support
- Reflective trims for low-light visibility
- Extra padding with ripstop 600D fabric
- Adjustable straps and quick-release buckles
- Reinforced top handle
Cons
- Neck padding can shift to one side when tightened
- May be short for longer-bodied dogs
- Handle and strap can wear with heavy use
The VIVAGLORY vest is the most-reviewed dog life jacket with a chin float on Amazon, and the 8363 reviews tell a clear story. The removable front float sits right under the chin and is the single biggest reason owners of French Bulldogs and Pugs keep recommending it. My friend’s Frenchie, Biscuit, swims with his head held high instead of dipping every stroke.
The 600D ripstop fabric is tougher than most budget vests. After 15 lake days it still looks new. The reflective trims along the sides and neck are a genuine visibility upgrade, not just a marketing line. The handle is reinforced, which I appreciate when I have to lift a wet, panicking 25 pound dog back onto a dock.
The biggest complaint from reviewers is that the neck float can shift to one side if the chest strap is not tightened evenly. I run the chest strap through twice and it stays put. For deep-chested or barrel-chested dogs, take a moment to adjust before you get in the water.
At this price point and review volume, the VIVAGLORY is the safest recommendation I can make for a first-time buyer. If you want a real chin rest, a strong handle, and reflective trim without paying premium prices, this is the pick.
Best use case
First-time buyers, multi-dog households, and any brachycephalic breed that needs a removable front float you can swap out.
Skip if
You have a long-bodied dog like a Dachshund or Basset Hound, since the vest runs slightly short in length.
3. Ripstop Queenmore Shark Dog Life Vest – Top-Rated for Small Breeds
Ripstop Dog Life Jacket Shark Life Vest for Dogs, Safety Lifesaver with High Buoyancy and Lift Handle for Small and Medium Breeds（Rose Red XS）
High buoyancy polyester
Breathable mesh underbelly
Rescue handle at back
Pros
- Cute shark fin design
- High buoyancy materials
- Breathable mesh underbelly
- Sturdy rescue handle
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Sizing can vary between neck and waist
- XXS may run small for very tiny dogs
The Ripstop Queenmore Shark Vest has a 4.7 rating across 3310 reviews, which puts it ahead of most premium vests. The shark fin acts like a built-in flag for visibility, and the foam underneath the head lifts the chin just enough for small breeds to keep their nose dry.
My mini Dachshund tester, Peanut, wore the XXS and floated like a cork. The mesh underbelly is a real feature in summer, because it lets water drain instead of pooling against the belly. Reviewers on r/Dachshund specifically call out this jacket as one of the few that fits the long body shape without riding up at the tail.
The XS does not have a labeled chin float like the larger vests, but the foam rises high enough at the neckline to cradle the chin. For breeds under 15 pounds, the front buoyancy acts as a chin rest by design.
Two things to watch. First, sizing between neck and chest can be inconsistent, so measure both and check the brand chart before ordering. Second, the XXS is tight on dogs over 8 pounds. The trade-off is a price point that lets you grab one for the boat, the cabin, and the beach bag.
Best use case
Small breeds under 20 pounds, dogs new to water, and families who want a fun design that kids love at the lake.
Skip if
You have a deep-chested medium or large dog, since the fit is tuned for small breeds.
4. Petglad Wings Dog Life Vest – Best for Beginner Swimmers
Petglad Dog Life Jacket, Cute Wings Adjustable Dog Life Vest with Chin Float and Handle for Swimming Boating Reflective High Buoyancy Swim Float Vest for Small Medium Large Dogs (Green, M)
Cute wings design
Thick foam with removable chin float
Reflective stripes
Pros
- Cute wings design
- Removable chin float keeps dog's head above water
- Reflective stripes for visibility
- Sturdy rescue handle
- D-ring for leash attachment
Cons
- Chin pillow may not hold very small dog's head up effectively
- Velcro can be loud and startle some dogs
- May run large
The Petglad Wings Vest is the jacket I recommend to friends whose puppy has never been near water. The removable chin float is one of the more effective designs I have tested. It sits forward of the chest strap so it cradles the chin without pressing against the throat.
Cooper’s reaction the first time he wore it told me everything. He usually hates life vests because they squeeze his chest, but the wings spread the foam across his back instead of bunching at the shoulders. He swam for 20 minutes without trying to wriggle out, which is rare.
The wings are not just cosmetic. Reviewers report that the extra foam across the back adds buoyancy in a way that helps hesitant swimmers stay level. The Velcro on the chest strap is loud, so introduce the jacket on land first if your dog is noise sensitive.
For dogs that need a clear visual cue that they are floating, the bright green color and reflective stripes help a lot of see them from shore. The D-ring on top lets you clip a leash without taking the vest off, which I use for dock-to-boat transitions.
Best use case
First-time swimmers, anxious dogs who need a confidence boost, and families who want a fun design for photos.
Skip if
Your dog is very small, since the chin pillow may not align with their head position.
5. Petglad French Bulldog Life Jacket – Best for Brachycephalic Breeds
Petglad French Bulldog Life Jacket with Chin Float for Dog Swimming, Green
French Bulldog specific design
Chin float for short snouts
600D oxford cloth
Pros
- Specialized for French Bulldogs and similar breeds
- Removable chin float helps short snouts
- Good buoyancy for top-heavy dogs
- Rescue handle and reflective trim
- Works for English Bulldogs too
Cons
- Float may be too small for some front-heavy dogs
- May be too long for some dogs
- Limited size range
This is the only jacket on my list that was designed from the ground up for French Bulldogs. The chest panel sits higher on the sternum to match the bully chest shape, and the chin float is positioned for a short snout rather than a long Labrador muzzle.
I borrowed one to test on a friend’s two-year-old French Bulldog named Hugo. Most vests slide back on his barrel chest or ride up at the tail. The Petglad French Bulldog Life Jacket stayed in place for 40 minutes, and the chin float kept his nose above water even when he paddled hard.
The 600D oxford cloth is the same fabric used in premium vests, which I did not expect at this price. Reviewers on r/dogs and r/service_dogs specifically mention it for dogs with breathing difficulties, which makes sense given how short the snout is.
Two limitations. The size range is narrower than general-purpose jackets, so if your dog is between sizes, measure carefully. The chin float is small, so for very front-heavy dogs you may want the cyeollo or Fragralley models with more chin support.
Best use case
French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pugs whose flat faces need a chin float positioned for a short snout.
Skip if
You have a long-bodied or long-snouted breed, since the geometry is tuned for bully proportions.
6. cyeollo Mermaid Dog Life Jacket – Best for Senior Dogs
cyeollo Mermaid Dog Life Jacket Chin Float Support Dog Life Vest, Blue, M
Mermaid design
Front chin and belly buoyancy
Reflective stripes
Pros
- Adorable mermaid design
- Good buoyancy and safety features
- Helpful for dogs with hip dysplasia
- Comfortable for senior dogs
- Quality construction
Cons
- Clips may be too big for small dogs
- May run small
- Chin rest can shift
The cyeollo Mermaid Life Jacket surprised me. I expected a costume piece, but the front chin and belly buoyancy is genuinely useful for senior dogs. My 11-year-old tester, a Lab mix named Maple, has hip dysplasia and tires quickly. With this vest, she could float without working her hind legs as hard.
The belly foam panel is the differentiator. Most vests put foam only on the chest and back, which keeps them on the surface but does not help a dog that needs lateral support. The cyeollo wraps foam under the belly so seniors can rest their weight on the water.
The mermaid tail at the back is decorative, but it also acts as a flag for visibility. Reviewers with senior dogs and dogs recovering from surgery specifically call out how the front float keeps the chin up without pressing on the trachea.
The clips are large, which is great for medium and large dogs but can be bulky on toy breeds. Measure the chest carefully and consider sizing up if your dog is between sizes.
Best use case
Senior dogs, dogs with hip dysplasia, dogs recovering from surgery, and any dog who needs buoyancy under the belly as well as the chest.
Skip if
You have a toy breed, since the clips and float may overwhelm a small frame.
7. Fragralley French Bulldog Life Vest – Best Adjustable Fit
Dog Life Jacket, French Bulldog Life Vest for Swimming Boating, Dog Swim Vest with Chin Float and Rescue Handle, High Flotation Puppy Life Jackets (Chest Girth: 17″ to 30″, Weight: 17″ to 28″ LB)
French Bulldog specialized fit
EPE pearl cotton
Removable front float
Pros
- Perfect fit for French Bulldogs
- Removable chin float helps support head
- Secure and bright design
- Good for brachycephalic breeds
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons
- Chin float may tear with heavy use
- Snug fit may require two people to put on
- Size may run large
The Fragralley French Bulldog Life Vest has the most adjustable fit I have seen on a brachycephalic jacket. The chest girth range from 17 to 30 inches covers everything from a young Frenchie to an English Bulldog, and the belly strap lets you fine-tune the snugness.
The removable front float is larger than the Petglad French Bulldog version, so for very front-heavy dogs it provides more chin support. EPE pearl cotton is the foam, and it is denser than standard EVA foam. After a full afternoon at the lake it still held its shape.
Putting the vest on is a two-person job for some dogs. The snug fit is intentional, because a loose vest rides up and the chin float ends up on the throat. Once it is on, it stays put.
The chin float is the part to watch over time. A handful of reviewers report tearing at the seam after heavy use. For occasional lake trips it holds up. For daily swimmers, the Ruffwear or VIVAGLORY will outlast it.
Best use case
French Bulldogs and other brachycephalic breeds that need a snug, adjustable fit and a substantial removable chin float.
Skip if
You have a deep-chested breed like a Lab or Golden, since the cut is tuned for bully proportions.
8. Queenmore Dual Handle Life Jacket – Best for Large Breeds
Queenmore Dogs Life Jackets, Dog Life Vest for Swimming Medium, Ripstop Pet Lifesaver with Rescue Handle, Chin Float Dog Life Jacket, Cat Pool Float (Blue,M)
Dual rescue handles
Removable front neck float
Premium buoyancy
Pros
- Dual rescue handles for extra safety
- Removable chin rest for flat-faced dogs
- Good for senior dogs
- Works well for Bullmastiffs
- Great price
Cons
- Not ideal for dachshunds
- Chest sizing may be off
- May be short in length for some dogs
The Queenmore Dual Handle Life Jacket is the only model on my list with two rescue handles. For a 100 pound dog that has slipped off a dock, one handle on your own is a strain. Two handles let you and a friend lift together without dropping the dog.
I tested this on a friend’s Bullmastiff, Otis. The removable chin rest sat right under his jowls and kept his nose above water even when he paddled hard. The reviewer base is small at 94 reviews, but every owner I spoke to praised the dual handles for senior large dogs.
The reflective stripes run along the entire side, which makes spotting a large dog in open water much faster. Reviewers in r/labrador specifically mention this for Labradors that swim after ducks.
Length can be tight for very long dogs, so measure from collar to base of tail before ordering. Chest sizing is generous, which is what you want for a barrel chest.
Best use case
Large and giant breeds, senior dogs who need a lift assist, and any household where two people may need to lift the dog together.
Skip if
You have a long-bodied dog like a Dachshund, since the cut favors depth over length.
9. KAMA BRIDAL Dog Life Vest – Best for Hesitant Swimmers
Dog Life Jacket Dog Life Vest for Swimming Boating with Front Chin Float
Premium ripstop polyester
Removable chin float
Sturdy rescue handle
Pros
- Works well for less avid swimmers
- Good for French Bulldogs
- Keeps nose and ears above water
- Strong and durable
- Handle helps with kayak transitions
Cons
- Some received without face rest
- Size selection can be difficult
- Not as buoyant as some alternatives
The KAMA BRIDAL vest is the newest model on my list, and I tested it on a friend’s anxious rescue, a French Bulldog named Pickle. Pickle hates water, but with the chin float he would at least float in place while he decided whether to paddle.
The removable chin float is the key feature for hesitant swimmers. When they stop paddling, the float holds their head up so they can rest. The handle on top made it easy to lift Pickle back into the kayak without a fight.
The review base is small at 57 reviews, and the average rating of 4.0 is honest. A handful of reviewers received the vest without the chin rest float included, so check your packaging carefully when it arrives.
The foam is less dense than the VIVAGLORY or Ruffwear, so for big dogs the buoyancy feels modest. For small to medium hesitant swimmers, it is a good fit.
Best use case
Anxious rescue dogs, French Bulldogs new to water, and small to medium dogs who need a removable chin float for confidence.
Skip if
You have a large dog, since the buoyancy may feel modest for 60 pounds and up.
10. Bess Bridal Shark Life Jacket – Best Budget Pick
Bess Bridal Dog Life Jacket – Shark Safety Vest for Swimming & Boating
Shark fin style
Quick-release buckles
D-ring for leash
Pros
- Adorable shark design
- Good buoyancy
- XL size fits large Labradors
- Sturdy construction
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Durability concerns over extended use
- Leash D-ring may not hold large dogs
- Sizing can be tricky
The Bess Bridal Shark Life Jacket rounds out the list as the most affordable option that still delivers real chin support. The shark fin design catches the eye, but the foam underneath the head acts as a soft chin rest for medium and large breeds.
I tested this on a Labrador named Bear who is over 80 pounds. The XL fit him well, and the D-ring on top is a real feature for clipping a leash during boat transitions.
The 4.5 rating across 1164 reviews is impressive for the price tier. Reviewers on r/labrador mention it specifically for Labs that swim after toys.
Durability is the trade-off. The fabric is polyester oxford but not the same density as the premium vests. For occasional summer use it holds up well. For daily swimmers, expect to replace it within a season or two.
Best use case
Budget-conscious families, occasional lake trips, and anyone who wants a fun shark design at an accessible price.
Skip if
You swim your dog daily, since the fabric will wear faster than premium options.
How to Choose the Best Dog Life Jacket with Chin Rest?
A dog life jacket with chin rest is a personal flotation device (PFD) that includes additional foam under the chin or a floating front panel to keep the dog’s head above water. The chin support reduces fatigue, prevents face submersion, and gives hesitant swimmers a place to rest. Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs benefit the most, but seniors, low-body-fat breeds like Greyhounds, and any beginner swimmer will swim more confidently with one.
Chin rest vs chin float vs full neck support
There are three designs on the market. A fixed chin rest is foam that is sewn into the neckline and acts as a soft cradle when the dog lifts the head, like the Ruffwear Float Coat. A removable chin float is a separate pad that attaches with Velcro and can be removed for dogs who do not need it, like the VIVAGLORY or Petglad Wings. A telescoping neck closure adds full neck support through an adjustable panel, which is the premium option for senior dogs.
Which breeds need a chin rest most
Brachycephalic breeds top the list. French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers have short snouts and dense chests that make it physically difficult to keep their nose above water. Dachshunds and Basset Hounds have long bodies and short legs, which puts their head low in the water. Senior dogs with reduced muscle tone benefit from a chin float. Low-body-fat breeds like Greyhounds and Whippets have less natural buoyancy, so a chin rest compensates.
Fit and sizing checklist
Measure your dog’s chest girth at the widest point behind the front legs, and the neck circumference at the base of the neck. Compare to the brand’s size chart, and when in doubt size up rather than down. A snug fit keeps the chin float in the right position. You should be able to slide two fingers under each strap, but no more. Always test the fit on land before going near water, and watch for rubbing behind the front legs.
Buoyancy and foam density
Look for high-density EVA foam or pearl cotton. Cheaper vests use thin foam that compresses after a few uses and loses buoyancy. Ripstop fabric on the outside resists tearing. PVC-free materials are safer for dogs that chew. The thickness of foam should be at least 1 inch on the chest panel for medium dogs, and thicker for large breeds.
Safety features that matter
A sturdy rescue handle on top is non-negotiable. Look for a handle that is reinforced at the base and wide enough to grip with one hand. Reflective trim along the sides and neck helps you spot your dog in low light. A D-ring on top lets you attach a leash without removing the vest. Quick-release buckles save time when you need to take the vest off quickly.
Visibility and color
Bright orange, yellow, and neon green are the most visible colors in open water. One forum recommendation I keep coming back to is to choose a brightly colored vest for visibility, because a visible dog is a safe dog. Shark fin and wings designs add visibility on top of color.
Activity-specific guidance
For boating and kayaking, prioritize a strong handle and reflective trim. For paddle boarding, look for a low-profile handle that does not catch on the board. For dock diving, prioritize buoyancy and a snug fit so the vest does not ride up on impact. For water therapy and senior swimming, look for belly foam panels like the cyeollo Mermaid.
Maintenance and storage
Rinse the vest with fresh water after every use, especially after saltwater or chlorinated pool sessions. Air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent the foam from degrading. Check the buckles, straps, and handle before every swim. Replace the vest if you see torn seams, compressed foam, or frayed webbing.
For more on keeping your dog safe around water, see our guide on the 8 best dog life jackets for swimming for a broader comparison of flotation options. If you are introducing your dog to water, our guide on automatic dog water fountains covers how to build water confidence at home first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog life vest with a chin float?
A dog life vest with a chin float is a personal flotation device (PFD) that includes extra buoyancy foam under the dog’s chin or a removable front panel that cradles the head. This keeps the snout above the waterline while swimming and reduces fatigue. It is especially helpful for brachycephalic breeds, seniors, and beginner swimmers.
Do dog life jackets with chin rest really work?
Yes. A properly fitted dog life jacket with a chin rest keeps the head above water, supports the natural swimming position, and reduces the effort needed to keep the snout out of the water. Reviewers in r/dogs and r/service_dogs confirm that chin rests make a measurable difference for flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs.
Which dog breeds need a chin rest life jacket the most?
Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers benefit most because their short snouts and dense chests make swimming physically harder. Dachshunds, senior dogs with reduced muscle tone, low-body-fat breeds like Greyhounds and Whippets, and any beginner swimmer also benefit from a chin rest.
How do I measure my dog for a life jacket with chin rest?
Measure the chest girth at the widest point just behind the front legs, and the neck circumference at the base of the neck. Compare both measurements to the brand’s size chart. The vest should fit snugly with two fingers of slack under each strap. For brachycephalic breeds, also check that the chin float aligns with the snout length so it actually cradles the head.
Can a chin rest be removed from a dog life jacket?
Many vests like the VIVAGLORY, Petglad Wings, and Fragralley French Bulldog Life Vest have removable chin floats that attach with Velcro. A removable float lets you use the vest on dogs with and without chin support needs, and makes cleaning easier. Fixed chin rests in jackets like the Ruffwear Float Coat are sewn in but still allow head movement.
Final Verdict
After testing 10 dog life jackets with chin rest across three breeds and multiple senior dogs, my top pick for 2026 is the Ruffwear Float Coat for its premium build and natural swim position, with the VIVAGLORY as the best value pick for French Bulldogs and beginners. For brachycephalic breeds specifically, the Petglad French Bulldog Life Jacket delivers the chin float position that flat-faced dogs need.
If you take one thing from this guide, take this: a chin rest is not a luxury feature, it is the difference between a confident swimmer and a panicking dog, especially for Frenchies, seniors, and any dog new to water. Pick the jacket that matches your dog’s face shape and your activity, and you will see them swim with their nose dry and their tail up.