Does your dog paddle: Tips on how to teach your dog to swim
With proper guidance you and your pet can have lots of fun in the pool, and maybe he can teach you how to doggie paddle. The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers the following tips for teaching your dog how to swim.
The majority of dogs can swim, and they love it. But dogs entering the water for the first time should be trained. With proper guidance you and your pet can have lots of fun in the pool, and maybe he can teach you how to doggie paddle. The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers the following tips for teaching your dog how to swim.
Never throw your dog into the water. Some breeds, such as Bulldogs, are not natural swimmers, and even water-savvy breeds can panic at such a sudden introduction.
Start in shallow water, and call your dog's name. You can also try to coax him in with a treat or toy _ but always keep your dog within reach.
Another way to introduce your dog to the water is with a familiar dog that already swims. Let your dog follow his friend.
If your dog begins to dog-paddle with his front legs only, lift his hind legs and help him float. He should quickly catch on and will then keep his back end up.
Swimming is a great form of exercise, but don't let your dog overdo it. As with any work-out, swim time should be increased in small increments. He will be using new muscles and may tire quickly.
Be careful of strong tides or under currents that are hazardous for even the best swimmers.
Never leave your dog unattended. You should always be in a position to help him get out of the water.
Whether swimming in a pool or natural body of water, always rinse your dog after swimming to rid your dog's coat of harmful chemicals or parasites that he can pick up while swimming.
Additional tips can be found on the American Kennel Club Web site at
» READ MORE: www.akc.org
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