- This post contains affiliate links. Read more this.
If you’re an aquatic baby, you may be wondering “can all dogs swim?” It’s actually a common misconception that dogs and swimming go hand in hand. Although many dogs have a knack for wading, not all dogs are born with a natural gift for swimming. And for pups with flat faces or short legs, swimming can be a huge physical challenge.
That said, with training (and proper safety gear), most dogs can learn to float in water. No matter which camp your dog falls into — prolific swimmer or novice — here’s what you need to know about your dog’s swimming habits before hitting the pool, lake, or beach.
Which dog breeds swim & which dog breeds don’t?
A preference for water is not common among dogs. So which dogs love it, and which are “hard to ban” when it comes to water activities?
Many water-loving breeds have built-in traits that enhance their swimming abilities like webbed paws and thick, waterproof coats (hello, Newfoundlands!). Retrievers and Spaniards also tend to enjoy swimming — and they’re often good at it.
But there are other dogs who struggle in the water because of their bodies. Think Brachycephalic dogs like puppies and boxers. These dogs tire easily and find it difficult to keep their muzzle above water. Short-legged dogs like Dachshunds and Corgis may not be self-powered through water. And stocky breeds with large breasts and smaller hind legs, like bulldogs, are often difficult to swim.
Finally, there are some dogs that can swim technically, but likes to be on dry land. These water-averse canines either worry about water or hate getting wet.
These are all generalizations, of course, and there are plenty of dogs that enjoy swimming — even if the majority of their breed members don’t. So while your Frenchie would not be the typical candidate for the swimming team, the love of swimming is really a personal preference.
| Dogs love to swim | Dogs don’t like swimming |
| American Water Spaniel | Papillon |
| Irish Water Spaniel | Flower warts |
| Chesapeake Bay Retriever | Beijing language |
| Britanny | Bull dog |
| English settlers | greyhound |
| Hound | Pug |
| Newfoundland | Shih Tzu |
| Otterhound | vine |
| Portuguese water dog | Yorkshire Terrier |
| Spanish water dog | Chihuahua |
| Standard Poodle | Pomeranian |
| Golden Retriever | Boston Terrier |
| Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever | Basset Hound |
| German Shepherd | Bichon Frize |
| Barbet | Dachshund |
Swim safety tips for dogs
Establishing safe water habits is important whether your dog is the next Michael Phelps or it’s his first time in the water. As a rule, beginners should start in calm, shallow water. If your shy dog needs extra reassurance, try wading in the water yourself to show him everything is safe. Gentleness may be encouraged here, but you should never throw a reluctant swimmer into the water — this can backfire and lead to a fear of water.
For first-timers and non-swimmers, a life jackets for dogs is the right investment. Life jackets keep your dog’s hind legs in the water and they’ll try to stay afloat. They also make your dog more visible and can even keep him warmer in the water.
Even the strongest dog swimmers can benefit from a dog life jacket Nicole Ellis, a certified dog trainer in Los Angeles and a member of Rover’s Dog People Panel. She tells us, “Dogs can get tired and tired from swimming (even the best swimmers), and having a life jacket keeps them safer.” Nicole also reminds us that “emergencies can happen at any time! I once heard about a dog having a convulsion in the water and the life jacket saved his life.”
Sunburn is another thing to watch for, report Dr. Gary Richter, Rover Resident Veterinarian on The Dog People Panel. While most dogs can rely on the coat and dark pigmentation of their noses for sun protection, Dr. Richter points out that there are some exceptions. “Dogs with light-colored noses and those with short, white or sparse coats will benefit from applying sunscreen to exposed areas of skin — usually the ear tips and nose.” Just be sure to choose one Sunscreen for dogsBecause human sunscreens contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
When your dog needs a swim break, keep him calm have access to shade and plenty of fresh drinking water. On super hot days, your dog can appreciate cooling collar or cute cooling cap to beat the heat.
And finally: is swimming lessons necessary? If your dog was born to swim, home lessons may be enough. But for hesitant pets and beginners, Learn to swim professionally Offering a safe introduction can help make your dog more comfortable in the water.
What equipment does my dog need to swim?
You don’t need much to enjoy water. But there are some helpful items that can make the experience safer and more enjoyable for you and your dog:
- Dog life jacket: this is a Smart safety precautions to keep dogs elevated, visible and above water.
- Towels for dogs: A function microfiber dog towel Dry your dog in a flash.
- Floating dog toys: Floating toys Increases swimming time and can spur your dog’s interest in swimming.
- Floating dog pool: You can avoid puncturing your swim float with durable dog-friendly swim floats.
- Waterproof dog collar: For those who regularly swim, a collar Avoiding damp and wet dog smells is a great idea.
- Sunscreen for dogs: Dogs can also get sunburnt. One Sunscreen for dogs Protect your pet’s skin from the harsh rays of the summer sun.
- Dog beetles: A durable pair dog shoes Protect your feet from burning sand and jagged rocks in the water.
Where can I take my dog swimming?
When you and Fido are ready to jump in, you’ll have a few options. Generally, pool considered safe for dogs (as long as you’re okay with some excess hair in the filter). In a well-maintained pool, chlorine level will be diluted enough not to damage the dog’s skin or coat. Just don’t expose your pet to large amounts of pool water, or they may develop an upset stomach.
No swimming pool? Check with your local community pool to see if they host doggy swim days, which are becoming increasingly popular. Another alternative is to buy your own dog doggy pool. While their smaller size may not allow your pet to swim fully, dog pools are a convenient way to cool off in hot weather.
For pet owners who enjoy the outdoors, lakes and ponds appeal. But are they safe? For the most part, yes. But in some lakes and ponds, the presence of Toxic green algae could be a problem, according to Dr. Richter. “During periods of heat, when nutrient levels in the water are high — often due to phosphorus runoff from farms — you may notice your backyard water looks dark green, or like pea soup or paint spilled”.
If that’s the case, Dr. Richter advises pet owners to have a clear direction: “DO NOT allow dogs to swim or drink water. Cyanotoxins can be present and can create major problems for your dog. Common signs of exposure include eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and coma.
As long as your dog enjoys it, swimming can be a great way to get some exercise together this summer. And don’t forget about camp, Long walkand Rowingor: sharing these warm weather activities with the family dog will make them even more memorable.
Read more:
