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Can All Dogs Swim? How to Teach a Dog to Swim
Does your dog run excitedly to every water in sight? If your pup isn’t diving into the water, you may not be able to walk across the creek or pond. Or your dog may treat the water like an enemy and will do anything to stay dry. Every dog is different, and not all dogs are born with a penchant for getting wet. But do all dogs know how to swim?
Depending on the breed, your dog may be natural in the water, or swimming may be challenging. However, whether your dog likes adventure or prefers to stay on land, it’s vital that your dog learns to feel comfortable in and around water for safety. You may want to go boating together, go to the beach or enjoy a cabin vacation. You may even have a backyard pool or visit someone who does. Read on for tips on training your dog in swimming techniques and water safety tips.
Not every breed is a natural swimmer
If you consider a breed for traditional purposes, it’s clear that some will be attracted to the water. Certain breeds are natural swimmers because they were developed for water work. Consider the Labrador Retriever or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. These dogs were bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Some breeds even have water in their name, such as the Portuguese Water Spaniel, which was developed to be in the water as a fisherman’s helper or the Irish Water Spaniel, with its unique curly and waterproof coat. These dogs have the body structure of excellent swimmers, most of whom just love to play in the water.
According to Michele Godlevski, NADD dock dive judge, certified professional dog trainer, certified dog behavior consultant and owner of Teamworks Dog Training in Raleigh, N.C., some breeds seem to know how to swim from the moment they see a body of water, while others just don’t see the point of swimming. “There are also breeds that have such a weight distribution (like bulldogs) that they can’t swim very well without a life jacket.” Short-legged, long-bodied breeds like Dachshunds can also struggle in the water. So, can all dogs swim? While it’s a myth that all dogs are natural swimmers, you’ll wear a life jacket and some dog swimming lessons, but every breed should be able to swim in the water.
The importance of dog life jackets
Godlevski says life jackets are always a good idea. Buying and fitting a dog floatation device is the first step in her dog swimming lessons. She recommends, “Get a dog life jacket that fits your dog comfortably. No matter what breed you own, you always want the first experience to be fun, not scary.”
That means never throwing your dog in the water and letting him work things out on his own. According to Godlevski, “Not only is throwing a puppy or young dog into the water a scary idea, but it can actually damage a dog’s lifelong swimming courage.” Having taught many dogs to swim over the years, Godlevski is a firm believer that dog swimming is all about courage. Here’s another reason for life jackets. People who swim in a life jacket for the first time will be more confident and therefore braver than those who don’t wear one.
Even seemingly confident dogs, such as those who run into the water while chasing a toy or another dog, can get into trouble, says Godlevski: “They often just chase that dog into the water without realizing that the water has changed.” You don’t want your dog to panic when it realizes the ground has disappeared.
Godlevski says, “In my experience, the first time a dog runs into the water, it’s like a cartoon character running off a cliff. In other words, the descent is a complete surprise.” Dogs wearing life jackets will simply float on their bearings and realize they can paddle with their feet. But a dog without a floatation device may panic, gulp water and drown within seconds of the paddle reflex kicking in.
Another reason for life jackets for novice dog swimmers is what Godrevsky calls “front-wheel drive. In other words, dogs learning to swim use only their front feet to paddle, while their hind legs usually drop down to try to find the bottom. “On the other hand, if you put a life jacket on a dog, the dog’s back will be level with the water. When the dog’s back is level, the dog will think that they actually do have “four-wheel drive” and that all four paws can paddle. Without realizing it, your dog is moving smoothly and confidently through the water.”
Choosing a dog floatation device
Whether your dog is a beginning swimmer or a breed that needs extra buoyancy, be sure to choose the most appropriate style of life jacket. Even experienced swimmers should have a well-fitting life jacket. Your dog may become tired or disoriented and the extra buoyancy will help with safety and confidence. Finally, a puppy floatation device is essential for boating. If your dog falls into the water, there may be a rough current or strong currents and that life jacket may be a lifesaver.
Look for a life jacket that is durable and made of waterproof material. It should also be adjustable so you can make sure your dog fits comfortably. If you are planning any nighttime water activities, consider reflective trim. Again, brightly colored fabric is a bonus for visibility. If this extra support is needed, you can also look for an extra float under the chin to help keep your dog’s head above the water.
Also, make sure the device has a handle. This can help you lift your dog out of the water, grab him if he’s struggling, and guide him as he learns to swim. However, Godlewski suggests that the handle should be strong enough to actually lift the dog out of the water. You may also be looking for a D-ring that will allow you to attach the leash. This may be useful at a public beach, for example.
Teaching your dog to swim
When you start dog swimming lessons, the key is that you draw your floating device into the water. Whether it’s playing with you or a toy, create an environment that encourages your dog to get in the water on his own. godlevski suggests, “Bring a toy or ball. If your dog will come to you from the shore or the edge, you can take your dog in the water, hold the handles of the life jacket and let your dog paddle.” Don’t pull your dog into the water; always put on your own life jacket. If your dog panics, he may climb on top of you and escape, especially for a large dog, which can put your safety at risk. 8 Steps to Learn to Swim.
Another method Godlevski recommends is to find a friend who is already a strong swimmer with a dog. “Schedule a time for your dog to watch another dog swim. If the two dogs are friendly, have your dog follow the other dog, wearing a life jacket.” Using this technique, your dog can watch and learn, but more importantly, see how much fun the water can be.
If possible, start in shallow water, close to your dog. Get your dog used to simply getting wet feet. Don’t leave the shallow water until your dog looks like he’s having fun. Encourage gradual movement to deeper water and use lots of praise and positive reinforcement – if you reward your dog for being in the water, your dog will want to get in again. Whenever your dog seems overwhelmed, move to shallower water or dry land and allow your dog to calm down before trying again.
It is also important to teach your dog how to get out of the water. godlevski recommends pointing your dog toward the shore or pool ramp while you are swimming together. If you can’t get in the water with your dog, she says it’s important that you stay near the exit to help your dog find his way. Keep repeating these steps until your dog knows how to get out of the water.
There are plenty of places to teach your dog to swim, from lakes to pools, but Godlevski suggests that a gradual incline in the water definitely helps. Plus, she says the bright blue water in a pool may look unnatural to dogs, which may discourage them from entering. (Another reason to get in with them!) However, she stresses, “Often ponds or lakes look like they are a little more natural for dogs, but water is water. If they don’t like to get wet, it doesn’t matter what color the water is!”
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
