Jesse,
I looked at the life jackets and Dr Foster and Smith, they looked like pretty good jackets. The only thing I didn't really like was how wide the strap across the chest was. On a bigger dog I don't think that would matter to much but on a smaller dog it would be uncomfortable. I have not order the life jackets for my Golden Retrievers but my parents beagles both have the vests from REI.
Dr Fosters vest did not say if if had a d ring for a leash, which is really handy if you want to take the dog on a potty break but still leave the vest on.
Good luck.