If your dog isn’t a natural-born swimmer who dives into water at every chance, don’t worry! You can still teach your dog to love swimming and spending time in the water—you just need to learn how to teach a dog to swim!
Can all dogs swim?
Many dog owners wonder if their dog can swim—so, is it true—can all dogs swim? While many breeds instinctively know how to paddle, not every dog is built for buoyancy. Breeds like retrievers and spaniels often take to water like ducks, but others—like bulldogs or dachshunds—might have a harder time due to their body structure.
Even if your pup isn’t a natural swimmer, that doesn’t mean they can’t learn to love the water. With the right guidance, most dog can become comfortable, confident swimmers—even teaching a scared dog to swim is possible and can be a rewarding journey filled with trust, fun and plenty of splashes!
How to teach a dog to swim
Whether you’re introducing a young dog or helping an adult dog get their sea legs, follow these tips for safe and successful canine swim lessons:
Always play lifeguard and never leave your dog unsupervised!
Even dogs who are strong, experienced swimmers can get into trouble—for example, by jumping into a pool they don’t know how to get back out of or into a river with a strong current.
Use a doggie life jacket.
All dogs should wear a life jacket when they are learning how to swim. Some stocky breeds with short legs, like bulldogs and pugs, always need a life jacket when they swim. Be sure to purchase a life jacket with a secure attachment for a leash as well as a strong handle so you can pull your dog out of the water if needed.
Make pool time safe and structured.
Pools can be a great place to practice swimming, but knowing how to teach a dog to swim in a pool is different than in a lake or beach. If you’re teaching a scared dog to swim, a calm pool environment with gradual entry can help ease their anxiety and help them gain confidence. Start with steps or a ramp so your dog knows how to get in and, most importantly, get out. Pool safety matters in the pool too! Use a life jacket and don’t forget a post-swim rinse to wash off any chlorine!
Ease into beach time with calm, shallow water.
Learning how to teach a dog to swim at the beach can be a fun bonding experience. But it’s important to take it slow, especially when you’re teaching a scared dog to swim. Waves, tides, and unfamiliar sights can be overwhelming. Start shallow and begin by simply having your dog get their paws wet. Start with a backyard kiddie pool before heading to the beach if big bodies of water scare your dog. Play together in the shallow water on calm days to show your dog what fun it can be.
Gradually increase the depth.
Over several sessions, gradually prompt your dog to go farther into the water. Try to do this in water you feel comfortable going into as well, so you can call your dog to you. You can also throw a toy or a ball into the water to encourage your dog to swim after it.
Keep it positive!
Make swimming a fun playtime, with lots of toys, treats and encouragements so your dog learns to love water time. Never push your dog to go beyond what they feel comfortable doing. If they are hesitating to go deeper, keep the session at their comfort level and try again next time.
With a little patience and lots of enthusiasm, you’ll have a water-loving dog in no time!
Plus, remember to be ready for a little cleanup after all your aquatic fun.
Browse our veterinarian-recommended shampoos, conditioners and ear cleaners to keep your water dog smelling good >>
