Can Australian Shepherds Swim? Do They Like Water?
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Australian Shepherds are a versatile breed of dog that is known for their herding and working abilities. They are also popular as family pets. Many people wonder if Australian Shepherds can swim and if they like water. The answer to both of these questions is that most Aussies can be taught to swim and most Australian Shepherds do enjoy swimming and playing in the water. They are not an inherently water-loving breed, but they do enjoy the occasional dip in a pool or lake.
Although it is not necessarily their favorite activity, many owners find that their Aussie will enjoy a splash around to cool off on a hot day. Even initially water-shy Australian Shepherds can come to enjoy swimming because as a breed they are intelligent and easily trained. So, if you want your Aussie to enjoy the water, it’s definitely an achievable goal.
There are a few things to keep in mind when introducing your Australian Shepherd to swimming, though, and we’re going to cover everything you need to know to keep your dog cool, safe, and happy.
Australian Shepherd Dogs Love Physical Activity
Australian Shepherds were bred to work on farms and ranches all day, and they still have that same energy and drive today. As high-energy herding dogs, Aussies need a lot of physical activity to stay happy and healthy. This breed is very intelligent and easily bored, so they need an active owner who can keep them mentally and physically stimulated. A good rule of thumb is that your Aussie should get at least an hour of vigorous exercise per day. This can be in the form of a long walk, run, or hike.
While they may naturally prefer daily walks or running and playing off-leash, they can also enjoy swimming as a form of physical exercise. Swimming is a great way for them to cool off in the summer heat, and it is also a good workout for their muscles. Taking part in swimming allows them to release energy and engage in physical activity while having fun in new ways. You can up the ante by playing interactive games in the water to provide them with even more mental stimulation.
Can Australian Shepherds Instinctively Swim? Or Do They Need to Be Taught How?
Many people are under the false assumption that all dogs can instinctively swim. This is not the case for all breeds or all individual dogs. Some breeds—such as the Australian Shepherd—may not be as predisposed to swim as other breeds—such as Labradors. Within the Aussie breed, you will find dogs who jump in and swim from day one, and others who will have to be gently coaxed into the water. While not known to universally take to swimming instinctively, almost all Aussies can be taught how to swim with a little bit of patience and practice.
Teaching Your Australian Shepherd to Swim
There are a few things to keep in mind when teaching your Aussie to swim. First, start in shallow water and gradually work your way up to deeper depths. Secondly, don’t force them into the water if they seem reticent or scared: this will only make the experience more stressful for both of you. Finally, be sure to praise them when they do something right and provide encouragement throughout the process.
If your dog is extremely freaked out and is just not getting it, you might consider buying them an inflatable life jacket to maintain buoyancy with less effort, which in turn should help increase their initial confidence. With a little bit of time and effort, you can teach even a hesitant Australian Shepherd to enjoy swimming as much as any other dog breed!
Do Aussies Make Good Swimmers Once They Learn?
All Australian Shepherds, regardless of whether they have been self-taught or have been trained by their owners, are capable swimmers. Many attributes make these dogs suitable for this activity. Their athletic build makes them agile. As a result of their deep chests, slim frames, and strength, they can move effortlessly through the water. The Australian Shepherd is also very energetic and strong. Swimming is a great activity for them since they don’t get tired easily. They generally excel in the water once they get their paws wet.
Keeping Your Aussie Safe While Swimming
As the weather heats up, most Australian Shepherds will want to cool off by taking a dip in the nearest body of water. While swimming can be a great way for them to exercise, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure their safety. First, always keep a less skilled Aussie on a leash while near water. This way, you can quickly pull them out if they begin to struggle. Second, observe your dog while they’re swimming and look for any signs that they’re getting tired or are in distress. If they start to seem to be tiring or gasping for breath, it’s time to get them out. Finally, don’t let them drink salt water. The high levels of salt can cause dehydration and make them sick.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the majority of Australian Shepherds can swim and many dogs of this breed seem to enjoy it. They have a lot of energy and need to be exercised regularly. Swimming is a great way to do this. They are not, however, all natural-born swimmers like some other breeds. This means that if you do take your Aussie for a swim, you’ll need to help them out and make sure they’re comfortable.
Featured Image Credit: Nancy_Zonneveld, Shutterstock
