Summer is here! And we all know what that means: outdoors with the pooch for a blast. Many of us are excited to take our dogs running, walking, swimming, hiking, and so much more! But we also hear about some dogs who are scared to get their fur wet in the lake or swimming pool; even if we know they would love it. While not all dogs like water, we’ve put together a short guide on how to make it an enjoyable experience for your dog and increase the chance they’ll want to go swimming again! 

Starting to water train

Dogs have so many different personalities; some are great to work with, some are stubborn. By the time you’re ready to test your dog in the water, you’ll know what to expect. Some dogs can jump right in and swim like fish, others need just a bit more coaxing and help. Regardless, if your dog is enthusiastic, you’ll have to slow them down and encourage patience, and if your dog is apprehensive, you’ll have to slow down and be patient. 

The best way to introduce a dog to water is to get your dog familiar to being around water. This means taking opportunities to go for walks along the beach, through parks, and by lakes without the expectation of going for a swim. If your dog is used to seeing water, then they’re less likely to shy away from it quickly. Getting them around it without pressure is key, if every time you go near water you try to force them in, they’re develop negative reinforcement and become more likely to resist it and even fear it. As they get used to walking by it, feel free to swim yourself and have a family member or friend watch your dog. Seeing you in the water having fun will help communicate a positive experience. 

Getting the feet wet

Ease your pup into the water. Beaches are great for this. The water is shallow near the shore, and your dog can go in a far as they’re comfortable while still having the comfort of knowing where their safe spot is. Often enough, dogs will be quite apprehensive until they get their chests wet. Once they’re that deep, the feeling of being wet won’t be so bad, and the water will be a lot less intimidating. Getting them to this point might take some doing, so remember that bit on patience. 

A great way to get your dog’s feet wet is to distract them with play. Throwing a ball or favorite toy along the side of the shore and then slowly coaxing them to run through the water while still playing. Eventually you can get a bit more ambitious and try to get them really in the water. 

Playing in the water

Once they’re comfortable with play by the shore, take full advantage of it. Spend a bunch of time with your pup just having them burn off energy in the water. Even spending the first couple of successful water outings like this is a great idea! Again, patience is key, and taking the chance to get some great positive reinforcement will really help out for the next step. 

Getting the first swim in

Getting your dog swimming might still take some doing. With some confidence at the edge of the water, they’re sure to know their safe spots picked out and know where not to venture. Simply throwing a toy might work for a few dogs, but the most cautious dogs will need to be guided out a bit further until they can’t touch the bottom and must swim. Do this carefully and encourage them to work those paws. After all, the doggy paddle is a lot like trotting. Once they get the hang of it, they’ll realize they can float and propel themselves. 

It’s helpful to let your dog get back to shore, and then repeat this a few times. This will positively reinforce the activity and help them understand that they’re swimming on their own terms. With this, you can start to get them farther out, and in more frequently. With a favorite toy, they can have a blast in the water. 

Things to note

We’ve mentioned patience a few times, and it is key to helping your dog swim. Keep in mind that your dog might take several tries to get in the water. 

Frequency is important; incredibly important. When you’re trying to get your dog in the water, plan on trips a few days in a row or several times in the summer. Just trying once or twice in season might not be enough to break the fear of water for some dogs. 

Safety Gear

Harnesses are much better in the water than a leash attached to a collar. Attach the leash to the top of the harness, allow your dog the maximum freedom of movement. Avoid restricting your dog’s movement or breathing, as this will make them more nervous. 

Lifejackets! - Once your dog gets the hang of the water, they’ll likely love swimming given the chance. When you’re out on the boat or away from shore, always, always, always bring a lifejacket for your dog. One of our founder’s fathers was a part of the Coast Guard, in the 20-some years he was in the Coast Guard, the rescue crews only found and saved one dog who did not have a lifejacket. It was the first thing they recommended of people out on the water with their dogs. 

Conclusion

Know your dog’s limits: every dog has a different personality and different response to the water. If your dog is acting out or exceptionally nervous, back off and try again another day. Make use of that frequency and patience!