Do you like swimming? Swimming is one of the best ways to cool off on a hot day. Several of our canine patients enjoy swimming. Fido looks adorable when he’s happily playing and splashing in a pool. However, like people, dogs have to learn how to swim. Continue reading for tips from a Plano, TX veterinarian on teaching Fido to swim.
Don’t Expect Fido To Swim Right Away
Not usually. Most canines can learn to doggy paddle or navigate in water while wearing a flotation device. However, this does not mean that they can swim safely. Puppies with long spines and/or small legs, like Corgis and Dachshunds, for instance, simply cannot steer properly in water and will soon run into issues. A few inches of water will drown toy breeds such as Pomeranians. Because of their tiny airways, brachycephalic puppies—bulldogs and pugs—are quite likely to drown. Moreover, some seniors and many big canines are not suited for it. Get further information from your veterinarian.
Time It Right
Generally speaking, a good age is about four months. By then Fido has gotten pretty good command of all those legs, and he most likely at least knows the principles of dog behavior. Since this is inside that vital socializing window, it is also the time to expose your pet to novel events. Your canine friend can also grow scared of the water if you wait much longer. If Fido were too young, he might not be strong enough to learn safe swimming techniques.
Of course, take the advice of your vet should your puppy have any medical problems. If your dog has lately been spayed or neutered, wait until she or him is completely healed. Ask your vet to provide specific guidance.
Don’t Skip Seniors
Swimming can be a great exercise for elderly dogs. It’s also a great way for them to cool off during hot summer months. However, you don’t want to force the matter. You’ll also need to take precautions. Senior dogs, for instance, are more sensitive to variations in temperature. They will also wear out faster than younger dogs. Ask your vet for advice.
Get Fido A Lifejacket
Starting Fido with a pet life jacket makes sense. This will make Fido more stable and buoyant. Helping your pet adjust is also vital for safety. Should you take him boating or camping close to bodies of water, he would definitely need to wear one. This can also help him feel more confident about his ability to swim.
Have your dog wear his life jacket around the house to get used to it. Make sure it fits your canine pal well! (This is also a great time for taking adorable pictures.)
Prepare Your Puppy for Swimming
Before taking Fido swimming, go for a little walk with him. You want to somewhat warm him up. Just don’t go overboard. Your pooch shouldn’t be overly tired before his swim class!
Choose The Right Moment.
Pick a time when the water seems smooth and comfortable. Fido may not enjoy swimming in cold or rough water. (Also, it shouldn’t be too hot.)
Choose A Pawesome Location
You wouldn’t want to toss Fido into the deep end, hoping he will sort out the basics. That is dangerous! Moreover, even if your dog picks up doggy paddling, the experience could be disheartening for him. He could end up with a lifelong fear of water.
You will want to go somewhere shallow, ideally with a gentle slope. A beach that allows dogs is a great option.
Fido’s Swim Instruction
When you’re ready to dip your toes—that is, technically, your pet’s paws—into the water, you can start. Talk softly to Fido. You may want to go into the water with him. Swimming with your furry friend is a lot of fun. Plus, Fido will feel safer as a result. You can also help him in the water by either holding him or by clutching the handle of his dog life jacket.
Usually, when teaching, we advise employing prizes as a motivating factor. In this case, though, you should keep praising and complimenting your furry student: hold off on snacks until he has all four paws on firm ground.
After The Lesson
Rinse Fido off to get any chlorine, salt, or sand from his fur once he comes out of the water.
You’ll also want to be cautious about your dog’s furry feet. His paws will be quite sensitive following a swim. Like our skin, dogs’ toe beans get sensitive and wrinkled after soaking.
Keep your dog on soft ground following the workout. Running on hot or abrasive surfaces like sand or swimming pool decks could cause him to have painful blisters and abrasions following swimming.
Of course, Fido probably won’t mind a special treat, either! Stick with healthy options. Ask your Plano, TX vet for more information.
Which Dogs Are Good Swimmers?
Many of our dogs were first assigned swimming chores. For their owners, many retrievers—for example, would bring back ducks and other game. Actually, some dogs have slippery coats and webbed feet to help with this.
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Standard Poodle
- Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever
- English Setter
- Otterhound
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Labrador Retriever
- Newfoundland
- Curly-Coated Retriever
- Boykin Spaniel
- Barbet
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Irish Setter
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Schipperke
Even dogs that are usually great swimmers, including Golden Retrievers, do not always take to water like fluffy ducks. Figo still has to learn how to swim. He might also just hate it.
Pool Safety for Dogs
You will need to take particular safety measures if you have a pool or are taking Fido somewhere with one.
First, we suggest showing your four-legged friend where the steps are. This could save Fido’s life if he ever falls in while nobody is watching! Take your time with this training and put your furry buddy through a few tests, so you can be sure the material truly sinks in. You might also think about putting a visible sign—like a life buoy—alongside the pool stairs.
Something else should you think about when it comes to pools? The pool’s cover. They might not be able to bear Fido’s weight. Your dog might, however, run out onto it, thinking of it as a solid surface. We strongly advise you to be cautious and keep the pool gate closed while it is not in use.
Of course, the most crucial thing is not to let your animal buddy near water by himself. Always keep a very close eye on your pet, and don’t leave him unattended, even for a minute.
Conclusion: Swimming can be fun and safe for dogs. It’s also a great way for them to get some exercise and, of course, just cool off. However, it’s important to realize that not all pooches take to water naturally. Many must be taught to swim. Others just aren’t cut out for the water. It’s best to talk to your vet before getting your pet started out with swimming.
Schedule A Visit To Your Plano, TX Pet Clinic
Do you have questions or concerns about your canine friend’s health or care? Contact us, at your local pet Plano, TX hospital, anytime. We are dedicated to providing top-notch care, and are always happy to help!
