How to Swim With Dogs
Many dogs enjoy playing in the water just as much as people do, and enjoy the chance to cool off in a lake, river or other body of water, especially on a hot day. While water-loving dogs will be more than happy to swim on their own, they will likely enjoy being able to swim alongside their human companions. There are some basic rules of thumb to consider before you and your pooch take a dip.
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Instructions
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Use patience when introducing your dog to the water. If your dog has never been swimming before, you should not throw or force your dog into deep water. Instead, allow a dog to become acclimated to the water by gradually walking in. This can be done along a lake or ocean shoreline or on concrete steps leading into a swimming pool. Some dogs take naturally to the water, but others may be hesitant about stepping into water. Use positive reinforcement to encourage your dog to enter the water. Praise your dog as he places his paws into the water and takes steps out into the water. You may also use treats to reward your dog for stepping into the water. It may take several days for your dog to become comfortable enough in the water to venture out over his head. Never force them to go into water if they are scared or uncomfortable. That will only make them avoid water in the future. Some dog breeds do not do well in water including basset hounds, bulldogs, dachshunds, pugs, corgis, Scottish and Boston terriers and greyhounds.
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Make sure your dog will listen to voice commands before you let him go swimming in a public area. If your dog responds to voice commands on land, they will likely do the same when in the water. You will need to let your dog off the leash for swimming, which means the dog will have to be trained to listen to you when you call him. If a dog does not come when called, do not let him off leash for swimming until he has mastered this skill. First try training the dog in your home, then on land outside before venturing into the water. Otherwise a dog may swim off too far or may run off when you get back on dry land.
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Take several breaks during your swimming to go back on land and rest. Because of the height difference between people and dogs, your dog will need to paddle even when you are standing in shallow water and can become very tired. Taking breaks to sit in a shady spot and relax will prevent a dog from becoming too exhausted while in water over his head.
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Stay near, but not too close to your dog when you are swimming together. You don't want your dog to get too far away from you, but at the same time you want to avoid having the dog accidentally kick you with one of his powerful paws. To avoid getting kicked stay at least six inches from your dog. You will want to make sure your dog is always within sight of you when you are swimming together in case any trouble arises.
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Avoid swimming in areas that may house snapping turtles or alligators and avoid any water that contains blue-green algae. Snapping turtles can be found in many ponds and some lakes throughout the United States. Alligators are common in ponds and lakes in southern states. Blue-green algae can be seen on the surface of the water and can make people and pets sick if swallowed. It can also cause skin irritation.
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Tips & Warnings
When spending a lot of time outdoors, it is a good idea to use sunscreen for both yourself and your dog. Sunscreen that is specially formulated for dogs is available from pet supply stores and will help prevent sunburn, which dogs with thin or light coats can be prone to.
Never leave your dog unattended in water. Even if you cannot be in the water with him, make sure that you are standing at a spot where you can see him at all times. If he gets too far out, make sure to call him back. (References, 2)
References
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