Top Tips to Exercising Your Dog Safely in the Water

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This summer is a scorcher!  With heat stroke at the top of our minds, sometimes it can be difficult to get in those 30 minutes of rigorous exercise for your dog.  So, what do you do?  How about swimming?  Swimming is one of the best aerobic exercises for dog and you!  Swimming is something you can enjoy together.  You’ll build that bond with your dog and meet his needs for stimulation at the same time. As your dog’s pet sitter, we want to remind you of some safety tips so before you jump in, read ahead to learn how to make the swimming experience safe and fun!

  • Never assume that your dog can swim!  Not all dogs are natural swimmers! They will instinctively paddle but may not be able to swim.  Bulldogs, Pugs and French bulldogs tend to sink in water because of their short legs.
  • Your first experience in the water with your dog should be in shallow water, never deep water.
  • Never throw your dog in the water!
  • A life vest will ensure your dog does not drown.
  • Slow and steady wins the race!  Ease into the shallow water talking in a happy, calm voice.
  • As she eases into the water and seems comfortable, you can guide her into deeper water.  Hold your hands under her chest so that she will have support as she begins to paddle with her from and rear legs.
  • Exercise patience and give plenty of praise!
  • If your dog panics, gently guide her back into shallow water.
  • Never let her of your sight!  Your dog should always be supervised in the water.  Never assume that he will be safe for just a minute while you run inside to use the bathroom or get a drink.

Swim

 

  • Never leave your dog around any body of water by herself.  If you own a pool, it should have a fence around it or a pool cover that your dog can walk across – not one of those flimsy ones because she can still fall in and drown that way.
  • Spend a lot of time showing your dog how things should go!  Keep in mind that even dogs that swim need to be shown how to get out of the water in a safe way – whether it’s out of a pool or back onto your boat.
  • If you have a pool at home, invest in a scamper ramp! It provides your dog with a safe way to get out of the water!  This ramp also works well dockside!
  • Think about  getting a
  • Once your dog is a seasoned swimmer, up the ante by adding toys to the mix! There are many toys specifically designed for use in the water.  This will make the experience even more mentally stimulating.
  • Always rinse your dog off after swimming so that her fur is free of any chemicals.  Even salt water can be toxic on your dog’s fur.  Remember, she licks her fur and paws.

Enjoy pet authority Michael Baugh’s video on swimming enjoyment with your pet:

 

 

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