Swimming offers a fantastic way for dogs to burn off extra energy and cool down during hot weather. While some breeds take to water like ducks, others need a bit more encouragement and safety precautions. Before your pup makes a splash, you need to understand the basics of pool safety and training. These are our best tips for dogs in pools, giving pet owners a crash course in doggy paddle 101.
Assess Your Dog’s Swimming Ability
Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Breeds with long bodies and short legs, like Dachshunds or Corgis, often struggle to stay afloat. Similarly, dogs with flat faces, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, find breathing difficult while swimming due to their anatomy.
Start slowly. Introduce your dog to shallow water first. Watch their reaction. If they seem panicked or struggle to keep their head above water, they might not be ready for the deep end. You can support their initial attempts by holding them gently under the belly as they paddle.
Invest in a Life Vest
Even strong swimmers can tire quickly or get disoriented if they fall in unexpectedly. A properly fitted life vest provides buoyancy and visibility. Look for a vest with a handle on the back. This handle allows you to lift your dog out of the water easily if they get into trouble or become exhausted.
Make sure the vest fits snugly but allows for free movement. Let your dog wear it around the house for short periods to get used to the feeling before heading to the pool.
Teach Exit Strategies
Your dog must know how to get out of the pool. Dogs often panic when they can’t find a way out, which leads to exhaustion and potential drowning.
- Show Them the Steps: Guide your dog to the pool steps repeatedly.
- Use Visual Cues: Place a large plant or a flag near the steps so that they can see the exit from the water.
- Practice Regularly: Have your dog enter the water and immediately guide them to the exit. Do this until it becomes second nature.
Maintain the Right Environment
Water temperature matters just as much for dogs as it does for humans. Cold water can cause shock or muscle cramps, while water that is too warm can lead to overheating. Aim for the perfect swimming pool temperature, which generally falls between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit for most dogs.
Also, keep fresh drinking water nearby. Pool water contains chemicals like chlorine that can upset a dog’s stomach. If your dog gets thirsty, encourage them to drink from their bowl rather than the pool.
Rinse Off After Swimming
Chemicals in pool water dry out your dog’s skin and fur. Chlorine can also cause irritation if left on for too long. After every swim session, rinse your dog thoroughly with fresh water.
Pay special attention to their ears. Moisture trapped in the ear canal often leads to infections. Dry their ears gently with a towel or use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to remove excess water.
Never leave your dog unattended near a pool. Pool accidents happen in seconds and are often silent. Even if your pool has a cover, dogs can slip underneath or get trapped on top. Active supervision ensures you can react immediately if your dog needs help. With a crash course in doggy paddle 101, you’re ready to get your dog in the pool come summer.
