Most of us know that almost all dogs like to swim… particularly retrievers and other sporting dogs. However, regardless of your dog’s breed or mix of breeds, it’s very important that your pet be taught how to swim, rather than just assuming he will automatically know how.
Have you ever met a Labrador retriever that hates swimming? I have! Although it is rare, I have seen the occasional dog who is so terrified, they won’t go anywhere near the water! The reason? The owners just “threw him in” figuring he’d know how to swim on his own.
Instead, the best way to teach your pet how to swim is in a place where you can walk into the water gradually, such as a lake. Begin with your pet on a leash and buckle-type collar, so you can coax him in and make sure he doesn’t swim too far away at once.
Using the “heel” command and lots of motivation, encourage your pet to walk into the water. For many dogs, tossing a ball just a few feet into the water will also be an excellent incentive. As the water begins to get deep enough to make your pet float, place your hand under his rib cage to provide support. Be careful not to get scratched, as your dog will instinctively paddle with all four paws.
As your dog’s swimming improves, he may graduate to swimming in places such as the ocean, swimming pools, jumping off of docks or boats, etc. One of the most important things to do is to make sure you teach your pet how to get out of the water, too! Remember, he won’t automatically realize that if he jumps off the dock he has to swim to shore, or if he goes in the pool, how to get back to the steps.
Some additional safety measures include getting your dog a canine life jacket if he’ll be riding on a boat, being sure to rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming, applying pet sunscreen to short-coated pets (and all dog noses), and making sure to provide fresh drinking water so your pet stays hydrated and doesn’t drink the swimming water.
If you have a pool in your yard or live in a waterfront location, you may also consider installing a Lifesaver Pool Fence or using a Safety Turtle system to additionally protect your pet and children. To learn more about these products, visit www.NCPoolSafety.com.
