How to Teach your Dog to Swim
Swimming is a perfect way to cool off in the summer. But, contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are natural swimmers. Learn some tips below on how to teach your dog to swim.
Dog Swimming Safety Tips
Most people assume that any dog can swim right when off the bat when they're born, but some may have a difficult time staying afloat. The "doggie paddle" is really a swimming form entrenched in myths. Not all dogs know how to swim! The less body fat they have, the harder it is to for them to stay afloat. If you're dog is young, old, weak or skinny, they may have a hard time keeping their heads above the water.
The best solution for beginner pets and parents, is to get them a dog life jacket! InfiniteWags has many different kinds of dog life jackets available for all types of sizes and breeds.
How to Teach Your Dog to Swim
Step 1
The first step is to train your dog to get in and out of the water; this may mean walking down to the beach or walking down a set of stairs in a pool. Going up and down stairs will teach them how to access the body of water safely. A great way to lure them is with some dog treats!
Step 2
The second step is to make sure that you keep your first couple swimming sessions within five minutes. Dogs need to build up their strength before they start something knew. While most dogs know naturally how to swim, they can tire quickly if new to it. Ideally, be able to get in the water with your pet to make sure they're safe. A panicked dog may swim in circles with no idea how to get out.
If you would like to include swim time with dogie play time, make sure safety comes first! A dog will naturally sink deeper when chasing a toy than when they walk in. It's important they are comfortable in the water before taking on another task.
Step 3
The third step is to create a routine of exiting a body of water. Staying wet may cause your pet to be uncomfortable. To minimize possible effects of water - rinse your dog with a hose after every swim to ensure their comfortable and safe. Make sure not to bathe your dog too much as shampoo can irritate their skin.
