Taking a plunge in the water is a great way for dogs and their owners to cool off together during a scorching summer day. Whether you’re at a dog-friendly beach, lake or in your backyard, getting your furry friend acclimated to the water can lead to countless memories and moments of fun. However, while the doggy stroke is universally known to us, not all canine companions are natural swimmers, and some might be hesitant to dive in.
The process of graduating your companion from the doggy pool to the lake or swimming pool can be a rewarding one. With patience, encouragement and the right approach, your dog will be making waves in no time – and they’ll enjoy doing so!
Safety First: Prioritize Their Wellbeing
Before diving into teaching your dog how to swim, owners should familiarize themselves with safety best practices. Just like humans, dogs can tire easily in the water, which is why you must prioritize safety at all times when in the water with your pet.
Important safety considerations include:
Use a Dog Life Vest
Dog life jackets are essential when teaching your dog how to swim, as they help with buoyancy, keep your dog afloat and include a handle that allows you to quickly pull them out of the water if necessary. Canine life vests range in size, from jackets for extra small to extra-large dogs and everything in between. The buckle or zipper closure ensures a proper fit for a reliable added layer of water safety.
Supervise Them at All Times
Just as if you were teaching a child how to swim, never leave your dog unsupervised while they are in the water, no matter if it’s a pool, lake or ocean. Even if your canine is an experienced swimmer, there are always risks when in the water. Therefore, it is always safer to keep an eye on them.
Check Water Conditions
Before you or your dog enters the water, it is crucial to always first check the condition to ensure it’s safe. Bodies of water with strong currents or murky conditions should be avoided, as it can be difficult for your dog to identify hazards. Additionally, test the water’s temperature by dipping your hand or toe in. If you believe the water is too cold or hot for your skin, it won’t be safe for your dog either.
Know Your Dog’s Limits
As a pet owner, you probably acknowledge that your dog is unique. This goes for swimming as well. While some dogs are natural swimmers, others might struggle or tire quickly. Understanding your canine’s limitations is a key point in teaching them how to swim. Always pay attention to your dog’s energy level and give them a break if they show signs of exhaustion or anxiousness. You may want to keep a portable water container on hand, ensuring they’re not drinking the water they’re swimming in.
Be Mindful of Other Dangers
In natural bodies of water, such as lakes or oceans, potential dangers lurk. Pet owners should keep an eye on their dogs, while also looking out for sharp rocks, strong waves and wildlife. You should always avoid areas with jellyfish, algae or other hazardous conditions that threaten your dog’s well-being.
How to Teach Your Dog to Swim
When giving your dog swimming lessons, follow this approach:
Slowly Introduce Your Dog to the Water
Before jumping in a pool, start by getting your dog comfortable being in water. A dog swimming pool is a shallow and safe environment, which allows your canine to get acclimated to the feeling of being in the water. Let your dog explore at their pace and praise them with scratches or training treats when they step in or move around. This helps make the experience less stressful and daunting for your loyal companion.
You can entice your canine companion to dip their toes in the dog pool by splashing the water with your hand or using a floating dog toy. Whether it’s playing with you or a toy, creating a situation that encourages them to enter the water unassisted is key.
Show Them How It’s Done
Once your canine graduates from the doggy pool, promote them to larger bodies of water, while still giving them time to explore their surroundings. This new experience may seem overwhelming at first, so be sure to avoid sudden splashes or frightening sounds.
Dogs are highly observant animals and often pay attention to various situations. If you are comfortable in the water, your dog may feel more confident following your lead. By getting in the water first, your four-legged companion might deem the environment safe and join you. For this step, patience is key, and you should never force your pet in if they are hesitant.
Swimming in Deeper Water
After your dog demonstrates signs that they are comfortable in standing water, you can begin moving to deeper areas. During this time, always be close by to offer support. For canines unsure, try gently guiding them through the water with a leash attached to their life jacket. As they gain confidence, they will likely begin swimming on their own.
Additional Tips for Swimming with Your Dog
For owners seeking additional tips on how to teach their dog to swim, we’ve got you covered – consider the following:
Make It a Fun Experience
The key to a successful swimming lesson for your dog is making it an enjoyable experience. Bring their favorite toy or ball to get them excited about swimming and help them associate water with playtime. You can even play fetch in the water to keep them engaged.
When teaching your dog how to swim, positive reinforcement is another critical component. Always praise your furry friend when they show interest in the water or make progress.
Keep Sessions Short
When introducing your dog to deeper bodies of water and swimming, keep the session brief to prevent the risk of overdoing it. Even the most energetic dog can get worn out from swimming, which is why it is important to always listen to your dog’s needs. If you notice signs of your dog’s energy levels fading, take a break. This is crucial for keeping the experience enjoyable and not overwhelming. As your companion becomes more comfortable and better acclimated to the water, you can gradually increase swimming time.
Don’t Forget to Dry Off
After your swimming adventures, it is important to always properly dry your dog off to keep them comfortable and healthy. Wet fur can cause discomfort for your pet and your nose. In addition, it can lead to skin infections if moisture is trapped for too long. Gently pat dry their coat with an absorbent dog towel to soak up as much water from their fur as possible. Make sure not to neglect your dog’s paws, as water can get trapped between their pads.
Dog Swimming Essentials for Safe Water Activity at Tractor Supply
Teaching your dog how to swim can be an incredibly rewarding experience. With the right approach and training supplies found in our inventory, your dog can learn to love the water and join you For Life Out Here. Visit your local Tractor Supply store today or shop online to browse our selection of pet training supplies.