Contrary to popular belief, the reality is that dogs do not naturally understand the way to swim. When they “dog paddle,” it’s more of a survival strategy than a swimming stroke, which is useless for moving in the waters. Here’s how to benefit your dog to develop more fluid strokes in the pool:
- Make sure you practice safe practice safe swimming. The water bodies present a myriad of hazards for dogs. They can be dangerous for them to play until exhaustion or heat stroke. “Water poisoning” (a frequently deadly disease that results from your body absorbing excess water that it can manage) and poisoning from harmful algae blooms are possible risks while working near waters. Find out where the nearest 24-hour emergency vet hospital can be found near home or when traveling.
- Get your dog an appropriate life jacket. An appropriately fitted life jacket will benefit your pet by allowing him to relax on the shore when he realizes he’s not sinking. This buoyancy can also help support breeds that are heavily muscled and makes it simpler for less active or older breeds to sustain their endurance.
- Take it slow. Some dogs don’t like water, which is fine. Please don’t throw your pet into the pool. I hope he’ll be able to figure it out. When you’re around the pool, create a positive relationship with the steps you’ll need to take – how your dog can safely walk out to ensure that he can exit. Offering treats or toys on the highest step will help. Also, you can increase your dog’s self-confidence by bringing the dog to a calm pool of water and letting the dog swim in his own way.
- Make sure you are practicing a smooth swim stroke. Work in calm waters where you can sit safely and comfortably. When your dog feels comfortable in the water, whether on the upper step or wading, as it’s possible to see the land below you, take him inside and lower yourself to the bottom of the pool. With the benefit of the handle in his life jacket or hands that gently support the middle of his back from below, direct your dog in the direction of the exit area and let him go after the dog is relaxed.
- Please don’t overdo it. Learning to swim is not just an exercise; it can be an intellectual workout. Ensure your sessions are short and fun, and give your dog enough time to recover after swimming.