{"id":706,"date":"2016-06-20T13:42:39","date_gmt":"2016-06-20T20:42:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/?p=706"},"modified":"2024-07-25T05:04:56","modified_gmt":"2024-07-25T12:04:56","slug":"dog-to-swim","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/dog-to-swim\/","title":{"rendered":"Splash-Happy Fun: Teaching Your Dog to Swim"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"EnjoyingYou\u2019ve packed the beach towel and are about to grab your pet\u2019s leash for an awesome day on the water. But, hold up! Teaching your dog to swim is one of the most important requirements of pet water safety.<\/span><\/p>\n

While most owners assume dogs are natural swimmers, the truth is, many require training. So before hitting the water, be sure your pet knows the basics about canine swimming.<\/span><\/p>\n

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Your Dog to Swim<\/b><\/h3>\n
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  1. Begin by introducing your dog to water in a shallow pool, lake, or pond. Maintain control in case your pet needs assistance.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Be prepared to get in the water with your dog to reassure him or her that it\u2019s safe and enjoyable.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Throw a floatable toy or ball across the shallow water. Verbally praise your pal to retrieve it as he or she gets used to moving around.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. During these training sessions, keep a few small treats on hand to reward your dog\u2019s enthusiasm and efforts.<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. As your dog acclimates to the water, begin moving into deeper areas. If your dog is small enough, simply carry him or her.<\/span><\/li>\n
  6. Observe your dog\u2019s ability to swim by staying close and\/or holding on to his or her torso while paddling around.<\/span><\/li>\n
  7. After a few of these exercises, move to the shore or out of the pool, calling your dog to follow.<\/span><\/li>\n
  8. Repeat this process until your dog is comfortable swimming alone and responding to your commands.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Preparing for More Challenging Swims<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Once you have a good sense of your dog\u2019s swimming abilities and comfort level, you can start hitting the water in earnest. Keep in mind that no matter how adept your dog is at swimming, supervision is always required. Just like us, dogs can get tired and may need assistance getting out of the water.<\/span><\/p>\n

    In addition to teaching your dog to swim, heed the following safety tips:<\/span><\/p>\n