How to Teach Your Dog to Swim
How to Teach Your Dog to Swim
On hot summer days, a dip in the water is a quick and effective way for your dog to cool down but it’s important that your dog knows how to swim. Accidents can happen in the summer, such as your dog falling off a dock or into a pool, and in those cases, it's crucial that they know how to navigate in water. Here's how to teach your dog to swim safely and with confidence!
Never Force Your Dog to Swim
Even if you want your dog to learn how to swim, you should never force them into the water. If your goal is simply to help them cool down, letting them wade or paddle in shallow water near the shore is often enough. If your dog appears anxious or panicked near water, never push them further in. This can lead to lasting fear, and they may never go near water willingly again. While all dogs are technically capable of swimming, some breeds have a harder time and a scared dog can quickly become exhausted in the water.
Floating Toys and Dog Life Jackets
Before you begin swim training, it’s a good idea to invest in floating toys that encourage your dog to move into the water. A dog life vest can also help your dog feel safe, especially if they get tired or nervous in the water. Some dogs love sticks, but sticks can be sharp and dangerous in the water it's safer to use specially designed water toys.
A long training leash can help you maintain control, even while your dog is swimming. For dogs who are afraid of water, a small dog pool at home is a great starting point. Toss in some fun water toys or carrot slices to make it more inviting!
Practice Recall Before Teaching Your Dog to Swim
Before swim lessons, make sure your dog reliably comes when called. If not, consider working with a dog trainer for helpful tips and guidance this will be important if your dog ever needs to come back quickly while swimming.
Teach Your Dog to Swim Step by Step
If your dog is hesitant to enter the water or doesn’t like getting wet, take it slow. Let your dog get used to the water little by little, preferably on a gently sloping beach. Sudden drops in water depth can make a dog feel insecure, and even a small dip can cause them to lose footing.
Research shows that the willingness (or unwillingness) to swim is a strongly inherited trait in dogs. Once your dog is comfortable wading on their own, try tossing a toy a little further out so they have to take a few swim strokes to retrieve it. Repeat several times throughout the day. Gradually, your dog will grow more confident in their swimming skills.
Always check for blue-green algae before letting your dog into the water.
Teach Your Dog to Swim by Swimming Yourself
Some dogs are more likely to give swimming a try if their human joins them in the water. Confident, swim-loving dogs can also help encourage unsure dogs by showing them it’s safe and fun.
The Most Important Thing: Make It Fun!
When teaching your dog to swim, the most important thing is that they’re having fun. Keep in mind, though, that you might need to start again next summer — a long winter break can cause them to forget what they’ve learned. But don’t worry: it’ll go much faster the second time around.
What If Your Dog Loves Swimming and Won’t Come Back to Shore?
If your dog loves to swim, avoid beaches with obvious risks. Water-loving dogs can quickly swim too far or get caught in strong waves. For safety, keep your dog in a harness with a long leash when swimming or walking near water, so you stay in control. A life vest is also recommended in case your dog gets tired and can’t swim back.
5 Tips for Teaching Your Dog to Swim
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Never force your dog into the water
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Use floating toys to make swimming more fun
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Start in a small dog pool before moving to shallow water
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Use a life vest to keep your dog safe if they get tired
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Most importantly – make sure your dog is enjoying themselves!
