In South Louisiana, ça fait CHAUD, and summer has just begun! With late May temps hitting the 90s, and early June looking like 95s, everyone wants in on the pool action — including dogs! Swimming with dogs can be a fun family activity, but as with all water activities, it should be undertaken only after safety precautions are in place. Here are some things to consider from the pros at Bask Pools + Outdoors in Lafayette, LA, when having a pooch pool day.
Breeds
Knowing the breed of your dog can inform whether or not water play will be an activity they are capable of enjoying. Certain breeds were born to swim because they were developed for water jobs, like the labrador retriever. These dogs were bred to retrieve water birds for hunters. Some breeds even have water in their name, like the Portuguese Water Dog. These dogs have the physical structure that allows them to be excellent swimmers. Some breeds seem to know how to swim from the moment they see a body of water, whereas others just don’t see the point of swimming. However, there are some breeds — bulldogs for example — whose physical structure makes it impossible for them to swim well without a life jacket. Although not all dogs are natural swimmers, with a life vest and some dog swimming lessons from you, any breed should be able to get around safely in the water.
Dog Flotation Devices
Let’s talk dog flotation devices! Purchasing and fitting a dog flotation device should be the first step in dog swimming lessons. It is important to purchase a dog flotation device that fits your dog comfortably so their first water experience is fun and not scary. Dogs need guidance in approaching water for the first time, so treating this experience gently is key. A first-time swimmer in a life vest will have more confidence and feel braver than one without. But even dogs who seem confident, such as those running into the water as they chase a toy or another dog, can end up in trouble, panicking after realizing the ground has disappeared from under their paws. Using a life vest when near water eliminates this possibility because they will simply float while they get their bearings and realize they can paddle their feet. Without a flotation device the dog may panic, gulp water, and drown in the few seconds it takes for the paddling reflex to kick in. Initially, this paddle reflex will trigger a response from the front feet only, while the dog’s rear legs dangle down attempting to locate the bottom. A dog wearing a life vest, however, will have a back that stays level with the water, providing a gentle prompt to paddle with all four legs and promoting correct form when swimming. This makes the mind-body connection easier for your pup to access, and before you know it, your dog will move through the water smoothly and confidently.
Other Flotation Device Factors to Consider
Look for a life jacket that is durable and made of waterproof materials. It should be adjustable so you can ensure a snug fit on your dog. If you plan on any evening water-based activities, additional reflective trim would make your pup more visible. Brightly colored fabric is another way to increase visibility. If your dog needs extra head support, look for an extra flotation piece under the chin to help keep your dog’s head above water. Also, ensure the device has a handle that is sturdy enough to actually lift the dog out of the water. In addition to lifting your dog out of the water, the handle can help you grab him if he’s struggling, and guide him as he learns to swim. You might also look for a D-ring that will allow you to attach a leash.
Teach Your Dog to Swim
When you start dog swimming lessons, it’s key that you create a sense of play and calm to encourage your flotation-device-wearing dog into the water. Whether it’s playing with you or with a toy, create a situation that encourages your dog to enter the water on its own. Don’t pull your dog into the water and be sure to wear a life vest of your own. If your dog panics, they might climb on you to escape, putting your safety at risk – particularly if you are working with a large breed. Another option is to set up a pool date with a friend who has a dog who is a confident swimmer. Allow your dog to watch the other dog swim, and if they are friendly, let your dog follow the other around while wearing a life vest. This way, your dog can watch and learn and see how fun the water can be. If possible, start in shallow water and be close to your dog. Let your dog get used to simply having wet feet. Don’t move out of the shallows until your dog seems happy where they are. Encourage gradual movement into deeper water, and use lots of praise and positive reinforcement. Anytime your dog seems overwhelmed, move to shallower water or the dry land and let your dog calm down before trying again.
Just as careful entry is important, it’s also important to teach your dog how to exit the water. If you are in the water with your dog, point them to the shore or pool ramp. If you’re not in the water with your dog, it’s important you stay near the exit to help your dog find the way. Continue to repeat these steps until your dog understands how to get out of the water. Teaching your dog only to enter and exit the pool via the steps cements the idea of the steps in the dog’s head, which helps navigate them back there in order to safely exit the pool.
Water Safety Tips for Dogs
Temperature
Ensure the water temperature plus the air temperature equals at least 100°F before letting your dog swim. When the water temperature is too cold, you risk your dog suffering from a cold tail, also known as a limber tail or swimmer’s tail. This is a condition where the tail will droop and no longer wag or lift up. Your dog could also experience hypothermia, which is even more serious. Puppies are particularly sensitive.
Water Toxicity
This is when a dog swallows too much water while swimming. A common sign is vomiting, lethargy, bloating, loss of coordination, restlessness, drooling, pale gums, dilated pupils, or glazed eyes after swimming. To prevent water toxicity keep swimming sessions short — approximately 10 minutes maximum. After your dog comes out of the pool, feed him some dehydrated or freeze-dried food to help absorb the excess water in their stomach.
Sun
Whenever your dog is outside in the sun, be sure to provide access to shade as well as fresh, clean drinking water. Don’t forget the sun protection on their precious pink noses! Hairless breeds or even light-coated dogs can get bad sunburns.
Let your pup love the pool by keeping them safe, calm, and hydrated, and let the dog days of summer come with a side of fun in the pool!
PRO TIP
If you have a water-loving pet at home, adding an enzyme remover to your water needs to become part of your regular pool maintenance due to the additional oils from their skin. Don’t forget to clean that filter more frequently as it can become clogged with shed fur! Additionally, you can contact Bask Pools + Outdoors in Lafayette for pool maintenance services and more!