Obviously, not every dog is a water dog. But if you have a pool or enjoy going swimming in a creek or lake, then of course you want your dog to have fun with you.
So if you want to teach your dog how to swim, or at least play in the water, then you’ll want them to be comfortable about it.
If you have a pool, training them will be easier since you won’t have to leave your home. But it’s also a good idea to allow them to experience other types of swimming environments as well, such as a creek or lake. You can even use a sprinkler or kitty pool, if you have one.
Getting started
First, understand that you’ll want to encourage them and not force them into getting wet/into the water. You don’t want them to be traumatized and more fearful.
Also, you’ll want to start out shallow. Once they’re okay with the idea of getting wet, you can introduce walking in a shallow area of a creek or the steps of your pool. When you start increasing the depth of the water, it’s a good idea to introduce them to wearing a life vest.
Not every dog is bred for swimming, so a life vest is a must. It will also allow your dog to feel safe, and not worry about sinking. Make sure the vest is the correct size and is fitted properly before allowing them in the water.
At home
If you have a yard sprinkler, you can use this to get them wet, or even the mist function on your hose. Don’t spray it directly at them, just let the water gently fall around them. Make sure to let them know it’s okay, and give them praise!
If you have some sort of kitty pool, you can fill this up a tiny bit, so your dog can get used to their feet being wet. And, of course, get in there with them so they feel comfortable. You can gradually increase the amount of water each time.
If you have a pool, you’ll want to get them used to a life vest as mentioned above. You can use a leash and give them a gentle tug, not too hard so they don’t feel forced into it. Encourage them with your voice, a treat, and/or their favorite toy to come onto the first step into the pool. When they’ve accomplished this, give them plenty of praise!
Continue to slowly guide them into the water. If they’re eager to follow you farther into the water, can support them by lightly holding their midsection. If they start to panic, let them know it’s okay. Take them back to the steps from where they entered the pool, and reward them with a treat and praise. Repeat this process until they’re comfortable to do it completely on their own.
On the go
If you have some type of body of water near your home, walk by it every so often with your dog. Each time, walk closer and closer to it, so your pup knows it’s okay. Let them explore the area and sniff around. If they’re still a bit fearful, let them know it’s okay by comforting them. You can also give them some treats, or have their favorite toy with you.
Once they get used to walking next to the water, try getting their feet wet. You should get your feet wet with them as well, so they know it’s safe. Give them lots of praise when they accomplish this step! From then on, you can increase the distance into the water with them.
Getting your dog used to the water can lead to a lot of other fun activities to do with them, such as kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, and more!