Swimming Lessons for Your Pet Dog

No doubt about it, one of the best things you can do this summer is to cool off at the local pool.

Swimming becomes extra fun when you can take your buddy with you. In the event you live near

a beach or a lake that is dog-friendly or have your own pool in the backyard, it is a good idea to

take your dog out swimming. On the other hand, if your pet dog has never gone swimming in the

past, you might want him or her to learn a few basics beforehand.

Being Safe

Contrary to popular belief, just because you have a new pet dog does not automatically indicate

that he or she will automatically know how to swim. As a matter of fact, bulldogs and other

breeds are unable to swim. If tossed in the water, these breeds will sink straight to the bottom if

they don’t have a floatation device that holds them afloat. Dogs that you plan to take on a boat

into deeper waters, or have shorter legs and are light weight should wear a life jacket.

Start Slowly

Keep in mind that too much activity and noise can be a distraction. Start with a quiet pool, river

or lake and keep the leash on your pet the entire time. Until your pup is able to swim without

assistance, the leash should not come off at all. At no time should you leave your dog unattended

while he or she is in the water. Also, for the first swim, make sure you don’t throw your pooch

straight into the waves. This may just frighten her to a degree that she may never want to do that

again.

Shallow Water

When taking your pet out for swimming lessons, make sure you begin in an area that is shallow

where you can guide your dog. If needed, put on the vest for flotation. Walk slowly into the

water after you attach the leash, and let your pet get used to wetting his or her paws.

Learning to Swim
When you meet with a reluctant pet swimmer, bringing in a few treats or toys to help convince

your pet to go in further is a good idea. Use a lot of verbal praise and a positive tone of voice.

Take your pet in deeper gradually until she can paddle to remain floating. When this happens,

this is the time you can support the belly of your dog for extra support. This will convince your

pet to paddle both front and rear legs. Keep doing this until your dog becomes an expert

swimmer who enjoys the water. The time you take to give your dog swimming lessons will truly

be worth the enjoyment you will both have swimming in hot summer weather.