It's warm weather ... what could be better than taking a dip in the water? That's probably what your dog thinks too! Or, have you noticed that your dog is not such a big water rat? With our tips, you can ensure that your dog can safely enjoy his swimming experience. Not to mention, swimming is also very healthy for your four-legged friend. Always check in advance where your dog can swim during the summer months!
- Never throw your dog into the water
If your dog remains doubtful at the water's edge and afraid to go in, it may be tempting to give your dog a hand by throwing him into the water. However, this is counterproductive. Your dog's fear of the water will only increase, and it's likely that your dog won't like you after throwing him in either!
2. Find the shallow water
If the water is very deep, it increases your dog's fear of jumping into the water there. It is nicer if he can get used to the temperature of the water for a while. At the beach, for example, he can quietly walk into the water and decide for himself whether he wants to go deeper or not. To practice swimming in shallow water, you can also throw toys so that your dog goes a little further each time and can experience that it is not scary.
3. Build trust
If you want to teach your dog to swim well, it is important that your dog gains confidence in his own swimming abilities. Build up the swimming more and more by throwing toys further into the water and then rewarding him with a treat. You can also tie a rope to the toy so that you can always pull him back if you have just thrown it a little too far. However, it is important that there is no strong current in the water and that it is clean water. Also, stay away from bird nests, as birds can become aggressive if their young/eggs are disturbed.
4. A tub in the garden
Should your dog not dare to swim in open water, but it is still very warm? Then set up a bathtub in your garden or on your balcony. This way your dog can still enjoy the cooling effect of the water and does not have to be afraid to step into the shallow water of the pool. If your dog still does not want to go into the tub, then it is still a matter of accepting that he is not a water rat!
5. Make sure you dry your dog properly
We all know it - a dog that is still wet and running through the house as if possessed. Along all the walls and on the floor he will want to wipe himself and the smell of a wet dog is not exactly pleasant either. So make sure that when your dog gets wet, you dry him well with a towel! Do this with care, because not every dog likes to dry off.
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