We see on television shows and movies how great dogs are as swimmers. It is as if they possess the innate ability to swim right from the start.
However, dogs are not born natural swimmers. They are the same as human babies that only have reflexes to rely on to survive.
Dogs have the reflexes to paddle when they are underwater. This “reflex” is known as the dog paddle, and it is not similar to swimming in any form.
We have to be extra vigilant when we start swimming lessons with them. Here are some of the tips that could help you begin your exciting water journey with your pet.
Have your dog complete obedience training first.
This is the most crucial of all the tips in dog water safety. A dog who does not know how to heed his owner’s commands is a threat to his own safety when placed in the water.
It is imperative that you should complete this. This will ultimately allow the both of you to get to know each other more, and develop a healthy owner-dog relationship.
Be knowledgeable with dog breeds.
Not all dog breeds are made for the water, just like not all babies grow up to become swimmers. Do your own research about your dog’s breed and their capabilities.
Avoid leaving your dog unattended near water.
Dogs are very curious animals, so it is not unusual for them to explore how the water feels like. However, not all dogs have the same level of fear for the water.
It is best to be always present whenever you find yourselves in a family outing or party that involves going near water.
Teach your dog how to swim.
Teaching a dog how to swim is not like how we teach babies and kids to swim. The most important thing that we teach our furry friends is the proper way of exiting a body of water. Practice getting out of the pool together until he gets the idea of where the safe exit points are.
This is where all the hard work during obedience training comes in. If your dog can follow commands easily, then you will be perfectly fine when teaching them water safety basics.
Learn the basics of life saving measures for dogs.
Accidents are inevitable, and they come unannounced when we’re least prepared for it. To prepare for such incidents, it is best to keep ourselves trained with first aid and dog CPR.
Always bring potable water for your dogs.
Drinking unsafe water for your dogs is harmful to them as well. For all we know, the water they tread in has parasites and microorganisms that can cause illnesses.
Bathe your dogs after having a swim.
This is especially true when we expose our dogs to bodies of water with high salt and chlorine content (seawater and pools, respectively). These chemicals can dry their skin out, and the most effective measure to avert their deleterious effects is to bathe your pets.
After bathing them, always keep them dry and cozy by drying them up with a towel. Do not forget to dry the ears as well; you wouldn’t want any ear infections to set in.
Dogs are inevitably born not fully equipped with the right skills to tread safely in water. But, with the proper training and knowledge on water safety tips, swimming can totally be a fun and memorable experience for the both of you.