Do Belgian Malinois Like Water or Enjoy Swimming? Facts & Safety Tips
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Belgian Malinois are smart, highly energetic, and loyal dogs that excel in various tasks, from herding to tracking to protection. However, not all Belgian Malinois are natural water dogs. Some may be hesitant, scared, or simply uninterested in getting their paws wet. Nevertheless, swimming can be a fun, healthy, and stimulating activity for dogs, especially during those hot summer months. So if you want to introduce your Malinois to the joy of swimming, note that it’ll require some patience and consistency.
Why Might a Belgian Malinois Not Enjoy Swimming?
Note that not all Malinois are the same, and some may have different reactions to water, depending on their age, breed, health, and past experiences. Here are some factors to consider.
Age
Puppies and senior dogs may have different needs and limitations when it comes to swimming. Puppies may be more curious and energetic, but they may also be more vulnerable to cold, exhaustion, and accidents. Senior dogs may be more cautious and slower, but they may also have joint problems or other health issues that require special attention.
Specific Dog
Belgian Malinois are a breed of herding dogs that have been bred for their intelligence, agility, and stamina. However, not all Belgian Malinois pups have the same level of water confidence or swimming ability; it really depends on their parents – especially dogs that are half-breeds. Some Belgian Malinois may have a natural affinity for water, while others may need more time and encouragement to get used to it.
Health
Your Belgian Malinois’ health can affect their ability to swim and enjoy the water. Dogs with respiratory problems, ear infections, or skin conditions may need to avoid swimming or wear special gear to protect them. Dogs with a history of seizures or other medical conditions may also need to be monitored closely during swimming.
Past Experiences
Also, a Malinois’ past experiences with water can influence their current attitude towards swimming. If your dog had a traumatic experience with water, such as being swept away by a current or being forced to swim in deep or cold water, they may develop fear, anxiety, or aversion to water. Conversely, if your Belgian Malinois had positive experiences with water, such as playing in a shallow stream or a kiddie pool, they may be more open to swimming.
Swimming for Belgian Malinois
If your Belgian Malinois does enjoy swimming, it can offer numerous benefits for dogs, including physical exercise and endurance to mental stimulation and socialization. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider introducing your Belgian Malinois to swimming if they’re comfortable with it.
Exercise
Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise that can help your Belgian Malinois burn calories, build muscle, and improve cardiovascular health. Swimming can also be a great alternative to other forms of exercise that may be too strenuous or risky for your dog, such as running, jumping, or playing fetch on hard surfaces.
Mental Stimulation
Swimming can provide mental stimulation for dogs by exposing them to new sights, sounds, and smells. Swimming can also challenge their senses and instincts, as they need to navigate the water, follow commands, and interact with other dogs and people.
Socialization
Swimming can be a social activity for dogs, as they get to meet and interact with other dogs and people in a playful and non-threatening environment. Swimming can also help your pup develop confidence, trust, and obedience, as they learn to follow your lead and respond to your cues.
Preparing for Your Dog’s First Swim
Before you take your Belgian Malinois to the water, you need to prepare them physically and mentally for the experience. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your dog is ready for their first swim.
Visit the Vet
Before you start any new activity with your dog, you should consult your veterinarian to make sure they are healthy and fit for the task. Your vet can check your dog’s heart, lungs, ears, and skin, and advise you on any precautions or medications that may be necessary.
Get the Right Gear
Swimming can be a challenging activity for dogs, especially if they are not used to it. To make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable for you and your dog, you may need to invest in some gear, such as a life jacket, a waterproof collar, or a leash with a handle. You may also need to pack some essentials, such as a towel, water, treats, and a first aid kit.
Practice In the Tub or Kiddie Pool
Before you take your Belgian Malinois to the water, you can practice some basic skills and commands on land. For example, you can fill your bathtub (or a kiddie pool) with about 12 inches of water. Then, simply hold your puppy beneath their belly as they attempt to doggie paddle. Let them try for about 30 seconds and then let them rest. Repeat this a few times before heading into open bodies of water or public swimming holes.
Teaching Your Belgian Malinois the Basics
Once your dog is comfortable and confident in the water, you can start teaching them some basic swimming skills. Here are some skills you can teach your dog.
Paddling
Paddling is the basic movement that dogs use to swim. You can teach your Belgian Malinois to paddle by supporting their chest and hindquarters in the water, and gently moving their legs in a circular motion. You can also use treats or toys to motivate your dog to paddle on their own.
Buoyancy
Buoyancy is the ability of dogs to stay afloat in the water. You can teach your Belgian Malinois to achieve buoyancy by using a life jacket, which can help them float and maintain their balance. You can also practice buoyancy by gradually reducing the support you give your dog in the water and letting them learn to rely on their own buoyancy.
Retrieving
Retrieving is a super fun game that can help your Malinois develop their swimming and fetching skills. After all, what pup doesn’t love to chase after stuff? You can throw a toy or a ball into the water and encourage your dog to swim to it and bring it back to you. You can also use this game to reinforce good behavior, such as coming when called, dropping the toy on command, or waiting for your cue.
The 4 Safety Tips for Swimming with Your Belgian Malinois
Swimming can be a fun and healthy activity for dogs, but it can also pose some risks and challenges. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when swimming with your Belgian Malinois.
1. Supervision
You should always supervise your Belgian Malinois when they are swimming, and never leave them unattended. You should stay close to your dog, and keep an eye on their behavior, movements, and responses. You should also be aware of any hazards in the water, such as rocks, currents, or debris.
2. Hydration
You should make sure your pup stays hydrated before, during, and after swimming. You should bring plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink, and encourage them to drink often. Also, stay mindful of any signs that your pup is dehydrated. This may include heavy panting, dry mouth, lethargy, or sunken, dry-looking eyes.
3. Sun Protection
You should protect your Belgian Malinois from the sun’s harmful rays, especially if they have a light coat or exposed skin. You should apply sunscreen to your dog’s nose, ears, belly, and other areas that are prone to sunburn. You should also provide shade and rest breaks for your dog, and avoid swimming during the hottest hours of the day.
4. Drying and Cleaning
You should always rinse and dry your dog after swimming to prevent infections, skin/coat irritation, or odor. Use a large, dry towel to pat down your dog’s fur and paws, and check for any cuts, scratches, or ticks. And when rinsing your dog’s fur, always use cool water, and a mild shampoo or conditioner to remove any chlorine, salt, or bacteria is also super helpful.
Alternatives to Swimming for Belgian Malinois
If your Belgian Malinois isn’t really a fan of the water, or if you cannot find a suitable location for swimming, there are still other ways to keep them active and entertained, especially during those hot summer months. Here are some alternatives to swimming.
Running/Fetching
Belgian Malinois are natural runners that love to sprint, jog, and explore. You can take your dog for a run in a park, a trail, or a neighborhood, and let them burn off their energy and stimulate their senses. You can also use this opportunity to teach your dog some leash training and basic obedience commands (like “Sit” “Stay”, and “Come”).
Agility
Agility is a sport that involves obstacle courses and challenges that test a dog’s agility, speed, and precision. This particular dog breed is excellent candidates for agility, as they’re highly trainable, focused, and athletic. You can enroll your Malinois in an agility class or club and let them show off their skills and intelligence.
Nose Work
Scent training, also known as “nose work” is a fun and rewarding activity that involves teaching dogs to use their sense of smell to find hidden objects or scents. Belgian Malinois are natural trackers that, like all canines, have a keen sense of smell, and can excel in nose work. You can start by hiding treats or toys in different places and letting your dog sniff them out. You can then progress to more complex games and challenges.
Wrapping Things Up
Swimming can be a great activity for Belgian Malinois, as it offers numerous benefits, from exercise to mental stimulation to socialization. However, introducing your Belgian Malinois to swimming requires a ton of patience and consistency, especially for pups that are a bit hesitant. By following these tips and guidelines, you and your Belgian Malinois can make a splash and enjoy the water together.
Featured Image Credit: Ane Portilla, Shutterstock
