How to teach a dog to swim – Dogster

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Swimming is a fun activity for dogs, and while some automatically know how to swim, many dogs aren’t comfortable with water and need to learn how. Teaching your dog to swim or taking your dog to swimming lessons reinforces the idea that being in and around water is going to be a positive experience.

Before teaching your dog to swim: Follow these three water safety tips:

  • Wear bathing suits so you can go in the water with your dog.
  • Bring a properly fitting life jacket or dog vest. These dog life jackets, also called dog flotation devices, are specially designed to keep dogs floating in water. Not only can this keep your dog safe while learning to swim, but it can also help your dog be more confident. Brachial dog breeds such as French Bulldogs and Pugs should never swim or be near water without a life jacket for their own safety. (Here’s our guide to the best dog life jackets and how to fit your dog for one.)
  • If you are going to teach your dog to swim in an area of ​​natural water, use a long leash so you can keep your dog attached to you in the water.

Next, find the right dog-friendly swimming spot

Dog pools or dog swim centers are great places to start introducing a dog to water. Choose a location where distractions are minimal. Natural settings, such as lakes and rivers, should have minimal waves, which can scare dogs, and a gentle slope into the water, which is more comfortable for dogs than a downhill entry.

It’s time to introduce your dog to water

Always supervise your dog when swimming or even near water. The key to teaching your dog to love swimming and to become confident in the water is to go slow and make sure your dog is having fun. Don’t force your dog to go into deeper water than he is comfortable with, as this can make him fearful of swimming. Make sure she’s wearing her dog swim vest.

Follow these 5 steps to introduce your dog to the water and teach him to swim:

Step 1: Go at your dog’s pace by letting him explore and play at the water’s edge, entering the water when he’s comfortable. Praise and reward your dog for all interest and engagement in the water, including splashing and wading.

2nd step: As your dog plays, encourage him to slowly move deeper into the water. If your dog seems suspicious or uncomfortable, encourage him to step back into shallow water.

Step 3: Keep encouraging your dog to go into slightly deeper water by praising him until he’s swimming. Introduce water-safe, buoyant toys to encourage your dog to stay and play in the water.

Step 4: Use treats and toys to lure your dog to where he can get out of the water. This shows him how to get out of the water safely, which is especially important for dogs learning to swim in a pool where they need to find a specific ramp or stairs to get out.

Step 5: Stay close to your dog during the swimming session. If your dog seems worried, encourage him to move back to an area shallow enough for him to stand on.

Swimming lessons for dogs: what to expect

If you feel unsure or worried about teaching your dog to swim, sign up for lessons. Many veterinary physical therapy/rehabilitation centers offer recreational swimming lessons, and dog pools that hold dockside diving events often offer introductory swimming lessons for dogs and puppies. During lessons, a qualified instructor stays in the water with your dog, which is especially helpful for nervous dogs (and dog guardians). Another benefit of swimming lessons is that facilities usually have dog flotation devices in a wide range of sizes.

Ready to make a splash?

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