How to Teach a Dog to Swim: 5 Easy Steps

Dogs are our beloved companions and naturally, we want to take them everywhere we go, including when we are swimming. Some breeds of dogs are natural swimmers, but others are not the best swimmers—for example, French Bulldogs. Teaching your dog how to swim is crucial because it can help them avoid dangerous situations, no matter how proficient they may seem.

But don’t worry—we are going to give you easy tips on how to teach your dog how to swim and how to do it safely.

Keeping Your Dog Safe When Swimming

Before you let your dog in the water, you should first check if the water temperature is safe for them to be in. If the temperature is too low, it can cause problems like hypothermia in your dog. It is hazardous for puppies because cold water can cause a condition called “limber tail syndrome” which can be very dangerous.

The safest place to teach your dog how to swim is in the pool because you can control the water and take them out easily if they panic. If you let them swim in a natural body of water, you should be careful of other critters like snakes. And especially, avoid rivers because they can have strong currents that can put your dog in danger.

The 5 Steps for How to Teach a Dog to Swim

1. Use a Floating Device

Safety comes first when teaching your dog how to swim, so we suggest you use a life jacket or a life vest in the beginning. Life jackets can help them float on water, and the color makes them visible in the water. Life vests are more suitable for swimming pools, while you can use life jackets in any water. The floating device must fit your dog perfectly because, in a moment of panic, your dog can slip out of it if it is larger than needed. Using a floating device will make you more relaxed, and your dog will feel more comfortable swimming with it.

When choosing the right floating device, you should find one that has a handle that you can grab and pick your dog out of the water.

2. Start In Shallow Water

It is imperative that when you start your teaching, you start in shallow water where your dog can feel the ground. This way, they are in the water but still feel comfortable because their paws are on the ground. But as time passes and your dog gets more and more relaxed, you can slowly move into the deeper water. This way, it isn’t a big shock for your dog.

3. Make It a Positive Experience

You must assure your pup that this is a positive experience. Try making this as fun as possible. We suggest that you bring their toys and treats. When you go in the water, you can bring the toy with you, and when your dog sees that, they will want to come and join you. A similar thing goes with treats; when they come in water you can reward them with a treat. Also, you should pet them and give them praise every time they go in. But if the dog is nervous and anxious, take them out of the water and let them calm down first before trying again.

4. Introduce Them to a Dog Who Can Swim

If you have a friend with a dog who knows how to swim, you should go swimming together. Because just like humans, dogs learn by observation, so when your dog sees that the other dog is swimming normally, it will be easier for them to let loose. Let your dog follow them into the water if they behave well with each other. This can be very exciting for your dog but make sure that everything is going on safely and that your dog is wearing a life vest.

5. Be Supportive & Patient

You mustn’t leave their side in the beginning. Our dogs look at us as a source of comfort, so in these moments, your presence can cause them to feel more relaxed. If you are going into deeper water, you can even hold them and ensure that nothing bad will happen. But be careful because if they panic, they can scratch you or push you underwater. You must be patient because this can be a very stressful situation for them, but through time they will let loose and learn how to swim properly.

Conclusion

Some dogs, like Labradors, are born skilled swimmers, but many dogs are scared of water, and swimming can be a very stressful experience for them. Your role as a responsible owner is to make this experience as comfortable as possible. If you want to teach them, you should do it in the safest way possible, and if you sense that they are scared, get them out of the water.

We hope these tips will encourage your pup to get out there and enjoy all summer swimming with you.

Featured Image Credit: Lucamino, Shutterstock