Is your dog a water enthusiast, or is he wary of anything wet? Just like humans, every dog has its unique relationship with water, and some might need a little encouragement to embrace swimming. Whether your furry friend is a natural swimmer or apprehensive about taking the plunge, this beginner’s guide will help you introduce your dog to the joys of swimming.
In this article from Warholprints Dog Blog, we’ll explore various aspects of teaching your dog to swim, including the best and worst dog breeds for swimming, the duration your dog can safely swim, and tips on water safety. So, let’s dive into the world of dog swimming!
Can All Dog Breeds Swim?
Contrary to the common myth that all dogs can instinctively swim, the reality is more nuanced. While most dogs will attempt a doggy paddle if they find themselves in the water, their swimming skills might be limited. A dog’s ability to swim can vary depending on their breed, personality, and prior experiences. However, with short, supervised swimming lessons and the aid of a dog life jacket, virtually any breed can learn to swim.
Best Swimmer Dog Breeds
Certain dog breeds are natural-born swimmers due to their historical roles in water-related tasks. These breeds include standard poodles, Labrador retrievers, Boykin spaniels, Newfoundland, Portuguese water dogs, American water spaniels, Irish water dogs, and Spanish water dogs. Their breeding and physical characteristics make them well-suited to water activities, such as retrieving, water rescues, and herding.
Worst Swimmer Dog Breeds
On the other hand, some dog breeds may struggle with swimming due to their physical characteristics. Brachycephalic breeds, like French bulldogs and Pugs, might enjoy playing in shallow water but are not strong swimmers. Barrel-chested breeds, such as boxers and Boston terriers, and dogs with long chests and short legs, like Pembroke Welsh corgis, may also have difficulty swimming. Additionally, breeds with long, double coats like Pekingese and Shih Tzus, as well as hairless breeds like the Chinese crested dog, can face challenges in the water.
Swimming Duration for Dogs
The duration of time a dog should spend swimming depends on their health, age, and breed. Here’s a general guideline:
Long-nosed puppies like whippets can start learning to swim at around 2 months of age, while puppies with smushed faces can begin at 5 months. Puppies should have supervised swimming sessions in small, shallow bodies of water for 5-10 minutes.
Small dog breeds can swim for about 10-15 minutes per day, while sporting and herding dog breeds can manage up to 30 minutes per day.
Senior, sick, or obese dogs should limit their swimming to 15-20 minutes. Their swimming sessions can be split into shorter periods, such as three 5-minute sessions.
How to Teach Your Dog to Like Water
If your dog is water-phobic, you can help them build a positive association with water by following these steps:
Start by ensuring your dog is not afraid of water-related elements, such as the sound of crashing waves or their water bowl. You can introduce them to water using a kiddie pool with no water. To prevent slipping, use non-slip drainage mats or kennel decking in the pool. Provide praise and high-value dog treats when your dog enters the pool.
Gradually fill the kiddie pool with an inch of lukewarm water and continue to offer praise and treats as your dog becomes more comfortable with the water. Encourage your dog to enter the pool, and reward them with treats for engaging in water activities.
Add another inch or two of water to the kiddie pool and repeat step 2. You can introduce toys like a floating frisbee or tennis ball to make the experience more enjoyable for your dog.
How to Teach Your Dog to Swim
If your dog is already inclined toward water but needs to learn how to swim, you can use the following steps:
Start by ensuring your dog’s safety with a high-quality dog life jacket and a water-friendly dog leash. In a swimming pool, teach your dog how to stand and walk safely in the pool. For natural water bodies, use high-value dog treats to encourage your dog to approach the water’s edge.
Carry your dog in the shallow end of the water while holding the handle of their life jacket and leash. If your dog initially paddles with their front legs while the back legs dangle, support their body until they use all four limbs for swimming. Keep this initial session short, lasting no more than 5-10 minutes. Your goal is to make your dog comfortable in the water with your presence. If your dog displays signs of fear or anxiety, exit the water and comfort them until they are completely calm.
Gradually move your dog into deeper water, still holding onto their life jacket and leash. Reward your dog with treats and praise for their water-friendly behavior. If your dog becomes anxious, return to shallower waters or dry land. Ensure your dog is completely calm before trying again.
Additional Tips for Success
For dogs that lack confidence in water, consider allowing them to observe other dogs swimming on DOGTV or at the beach.
If you have a friend with a seasoned swimmer dog, let your dog accompany them for a swim, which can boost their confidence.
Avoid forcefully pulling your puppy or young dog into the water, as this can intensify their hesitation and fear.
If your dog is sensitive to the chlorine in pool water, consider introducing them to swimming in natural bodies of water like streams or ponds.
Always prioritize safety, both for your dog and yourself, when teaching your dog to swim.
Safety Tips for Dog Swimming
Here are some important safety tips to ensure your dog’s well-being during water activities:
Install a pet pool fence and use a mesh or solid safety pool cover.
Consider a pool safety alarm if your dog weighs over 15 pounds, as it will alert you if they fall into the water.
Be mindful of your dog’s digestion. Small dogs need 4 hours to digest their food, while large dogs require 8 hours. To prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus, wait 1.5-2 hours after eating before swimming.
Chlorine levels in swimming pools can affect your dog’s coat and skin. Ensure pool chemicals are balanced, and use a coat conditioner with sunscreen for added protection.
Use dog sunscreen with an SPF of 30 for dogs with thin hair, light fur, or pink noses to prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
When swimming in lakes or rivers, be cautious of shells, rocks, and water snakes that can harm your dog.
Pay attention to ocean water and air temperatures. Ensure the total is at least 100°F (37°C) before letting your dog swim. In water below 50°F (10°C), dogs are at risk of limber tail.
Avoid hot tubs, as high water temperatures can cause heat stroke in dogs.
Maintain water hygiene, as dogs may swallow water while swimming. Offer your dog fresh, clean drinking water.
Beware of blue-green algae in freshwater bodies during sunny weather, as it can be toxic to dogs and humans. Rinse your dog thoroughly after swimming in potentially affected water.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the water with your canine companion, and by following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog.
