Is it Safe to Take a Dog Swimming?

As we move into the summer months, many of us will be venturing outdoors in search of recreation on boats, in pools, and on the beach. But is it safe to bring your dog in the water?

For some dogs, swimming is in their DNA. Their breeds have been working in water for centuries. Take the Portuguese Water Dog, for example. This breed has a long history as the fisherman’s helper, trained to carry objects between ships or from ship to shore. Now, that’s an experienced swimmer!

But not all dogs take naturally to water. Here’s what you need to know before you take your four-legged bestie swimming.
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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Veterinarian, physician or other qualified care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before taking your pet swimming, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Some Dogs Aren’t Swimmers
Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are born to swim.

Some breeds have unique physical features that may make them susceptible to drowning, such as those with short legs, a stocky build, or short nose. Their bodies aren’t made to stay afloat, and short legs take short strokes which may not be enough to keep them above water. Short-nosed dogs can become quickly overcome because their nasal passages are narrow and not suited to sustained deep breathing.

Other dogs may be too weak to swim safely and comfortably. This includes dogs who are:

• Puppies
• Elderly
• Sick
• Overweight
• Recovering from an injury or surgery

Water Can Scare Your Dog
Water can be scary for your dog, especially when:

• They’re unfamiliar with water
• They’ve had an unsettling experience around water
• On some level, they’re cognizant of their own inability to swim.

Grabbing a dog and throwing them into water to “sink or swim” is not only dangerous, but it can be cruel if they’re terrified. It may also create a fear of water for dogs that are young or strangers to water.
Instead of traumatizing a dog, help them gain a sense of confidence so they can know the fun of water play and avoid panicking in a hairy situation.

Life Jackets Are Important for All Dogs – Even Strong Swimmers
Every dog, no matter how strong and capable in water, should wear a life jacket.

Dogs can tire out. They can also encounter the unexpected, panic, and swallow water. They can get caught in currents that are stronger than they are and get carried far away from safety. Life jackets are made to save their lives.

When shopping for a life vest for your dog, here are some things to keep in mind:

• The right size, so it stays on the dog without being too constricting
• Adjustable, so it will continue to fit if your dog’s body changes
• A light, bright color that’s easy to see against a dark water surface
• Trimmed in reflective material for better visibility
• An under-chin floatation feature to help keep the dog’s head above water
• Has a substantial handle, so the dog can be lifted out of the water
• Waterproof material
• Durability

Good News: Most Dogs Can Learn to Swim
If your dog isn’t built for swimming but still shows an interest in water, it’s still possible to enjoy time in the water together. Many dogs can be taught to swim, but it’s crucial that your dog wear a life jacket, even when they’re supervised and taking lessons.   

Many dog training facilities and even some doggy daycare centers offer swimming lessons for dogs. However, if you’re up for the DIY approach, here are some tips to help give your dog a positive experience:

• Join your dog in the water whenever possible. If you’re unable, stand by the exit so you can guide him out.
• Wear your own life jacket. If your dog clings to you in fear, it will help both of you stay afloat.
• Make sure your dog knows how to get out of the water, not just for his safety, but to prevent his panic. Point to the shoreline or the pool stairs he gets his bearings.
• Avoid forcing your dog to go into the water. If he’s timid, try enticing him gently with encouraging words or a toy, all while holding the handle of his life jacket to give him confidence and support.
• Let your dog decide how comfortable he feels going into deeper water. Give him room to progress at his own pace.
• As your dog progresses, pay attention for signs of fatigue or overwhelm and steer him back to shallower water if they appear.
• If someone you know has a water-friendly dog, set up a play date so your dog can observe and potentially emulate his buddy.
• Reward your dog for his courage with a treat and words of praise.

More Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe in Water
Water can present a variety of perils to your dog. It’s especially important to be aware of these:

Cold. Frigid water can cause hypothermia, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition in which the dog’s body temperature drops below its normal range. In addition to serious physical consequences, it can also impact a dog’s ability to swim, making them susceptible to drowning. With hypothermia, a dog’s blood travels to his major organs in order to keep them warm. That means there’s less blood in his legs, making swimming difficult.

If your dog is shivering or cannot move his tail, get him to a vet immediately.

Here’s an easy math equation to help keep your dog safe:
​
Air temperature + water temperature = 100° or higher
If the sum is under 100°, your dog will be safer out of the water.

Heat. Extreme heat, just like extreme cold, can be fatal to your beloved pet. Prevent heat stroke and dehydration in your dog by making sure he has plenty of shade and clean water to drink. Even better, employ a cooling pad or cooling vest for added comfort and safety.

Sun Damage. Yes, dogs get sunburn, too, especially those with lighter coats that allow the sun’s rays through to the skin. But even a dog with a thick, dense coat can be easily burned on the nose. Pack your doggie sunscreen.

Swallowing Water. It’s inevitable that your dog is going to swallow some water while swimming. But swallowing too much could make him sick. A snack of freeze-dried or dehydrated food can help soak up some of the excess water in your dog’s stomach. A better option, of course, is prevention. Keep swimming sessions short and sweet, about 10 minutes or less.

Critters. When swimming in a natural body of water, your dog is going to share space with other creatures. Some may not be so friendly. For example, in fresh water, snakes and snapping turtles may bite. In some areas, alligators are a very real danger and can take your dog down in the blink of an eye. And in the ocean…well, there’s no shortage of dangers lurking there, including stinging jelly fish, barbed rays, sharks and more.

​There are few ways to entirely protect your dog from water critters, but it’s important to steer clear of areas where aggressive predators are known to be present, and to keep an eye on your dog at all times.
Sharp Objects. Rivers, ponds and oceans are littered with rocks and seashells, some of them quite sharp, which can slice a dog’s paw. Walk through the water yourself first to checks things out.

Fish Hooks. Be aware of the possibility of discarded fish hooks in natural bodies of water. A hook containing juicy, delicious bait will be irresistible to a dog, and the hook itself will almost certainly injure him. If your dog gets a hook in his mouth, rush him to a vet immediately.

​Toxic Algae. In the past few years, it’s become increasingly common for natural bodies of water to be closed for human recreation due to toxic blue-green algae. It can make both people and animals ill. Be aware of local alerts concerning toxic algae blooms and avoid waters where harmful algae is present.

Strong Currents. Powerful water currents are an all-too-common cause of drowning, because currents can come from out of nowhere, and are often stronger than even the strongest swimmer. To be safe, keep your dog on an extra-long leash (about 30 feet), so in the event that a current starts to carry your dog away, you can tow him back to safety.

Exhaustion. Even without the danger of strong currents, dogs can tire easily in water, including in a pool. They may get lost in their own enthusiasm, and then when the reality of their exhaustion seems to hit from out of nowhere, they can flounder. Keep a close eye on your dog, and encourage frequent breaks.

​Dogs are our best friends. No wonder we love their company wherever we go! But when planning a day of water fun, it’s important to consider a dog’s comfort and safety. By taking the right precautions, we can enjoy the warm-weather pleasures of a refreshing swim with our four-legged friend and remember it fondly, forever.

CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW

Kim Brittingham

Kim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice.