Swimming does not come naturally to a cute pup. Your pup needs your help, or he could quickly get in over his head.
There are some tips for familiarizing your pup with water. The first tip to be considered is to know your dog. Some breeds, like Retrievers, Setters, and Spaniels, naturally take to the water and enjoy swimming. Some breeds, such as Pugs or Bulldogs, should be supervised around water. Those types of pups are not the best swimmers; they might need some help breathing and drowning quickly, and you want to avoid that happening. Some pups also do not like swimming, so they must not be forced to go in the water if they are afraid of it. The next tip to be considered is to start small.
Fill in enough water to a kiddie or small pool to reach the first joint on the pup’s front leg. Then, encourage your pup by tossing his favorite toys in or getting in yourself. As your pup gets used to the water, you can try now with a larger pool, a lake, and even the ocean. But always note that the “sink or swim” practice is not a fun game for your pups or children. It would help to avoid throwing your pup or children in the pool. The next tip to be considered is wearing a life vest. Just like the children with swimming, a life vest boosts your pup’s confidence, and it might as well make them feel safe. Some breeds that are not good swimmers might have to wear a life vest forever. The next tip to be considered is to get wet. Pups are very people-oriented, so if your pup sees you and your family or friends having fun in the water, he’s likelier to do the same. Plus, your pup might need you by his side for encouragement when your pup goes in the water the first few times. Make your dog feel you are always by his side and enjoy swimming. The next tip to be considered is following the leader. Bring your friend and his pup for the swimming lesson if you know someone with a pet who loves water and knows how to swim. This will boost your pup’s confidence, and your pup might learn through the other pup’s example. The last tip to be considered is to have fun. Praise your pup with lots and lots of love, give your pup attention, and lastly, give your pup toys that he likes. You can reward your pup with bits of food if he does it at first, then gradually remove the reward if your pup does it often. The more fun you make your pup’s experience, the better the chances your pup will want to do it again.
It’s not easy to make your pup like the water or swimming. You need patience and shower him with lots of love and enjoyment so your dog can enjoy it.
