Water Safety Tips for Dogs

    

There’s nothing like a dip in cool water to beat the summer heat—and for many of our pups, swimming is the best part of the season. Whether it’s by the pool, at the lake, or wading in a creek, dogs love to join in the fun.

But before you toss that tennis ball into the water, are your dog’s vaccines and parasite prevention (including heartworm) up to date? If so, let’s dive into how to keep your pup safe, happy and healthy in and around water with these safety tips–including life jackets and more!

Water safety for dogs

First things first: Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Even confident pups can get tired or disoriented in the water. That’s why water safety is essential, no matter how experienced your pet might be.

Start by checking with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is healthy enough for swimming—conditions like heart disease, arthritis or seizures can make water play risky.

Don’t assume your pup knows how to swim. Take it slow, and never force your dog into the water. If they seem hesitant, they might be uncomfortable or in pain.

Always supervise your dog. Even seasoned swimmers can run into trouble if there are strong currents or they can’t find a way out of the water.

Is it safe for dogs to swim in lakes?

Ah, the lake—the ultimate summer hangout spot. But is it safe for dogs to swim in lakes? It can be, as long as you choose the right place and stay alert.

• Look out for signs of blue-green algae, which can be toxic to pets.

• Stick to calm, clean areas without a lot of debris or sharp objects.

• Avoid letting your dog gulp down lake water, as it may be contaminated. Bring fresh water to keep them hydrated and safe.

• And don’t forget: Dogs should always wear a life jacket when swimming in open water or riding on a boat. It’s not just a cute look—it could save their life.

Is it safe for dogs to swim in pools?

Is it safe for dogs to swim in chlorinated pools? Generally, yes—pools can be a controlled and fun way for your dog to cool off. But there are still some precautions to take.

• Make sure your pup knows how to get out of the pool easily—whether it’s a special dog ramp or showing them where the steps are.

• Never leave your dog alone around the water. Even strong swimmers can panic if they get stuck or tired.

• Fence off your pool when not in use to prevent unsupervised dips that can lead to injury or drowning.

Quick water safety tips for dogs

Before you pack your beach bag, check out these quick water safety tips:

• Always supervise your dog near any body of water.

• Invest in a good-quality dog life jacket, especially for boating or swimming in open water.

• Watch for signs of fatigue—swimming is hard work, and dogs can tire quickly.

• Avoid swimming during very cold weather or in strong currents.

• Keep your dog's leptospirosis vaccine up to date, as streams, rivers, ponds and lakes can harbor the bacteria that cause this serious disease.

• Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove salt, chlorine or debris.

• Offer plenty of clean water to prevent your dog from drinking from lakes or pools.

Swimming can be one of the best parts of summer for your dog—with the right precautions. By following these water safety tips and being prepared, you’ll help ensure your pup has a fun, splashy and safe summer season.

For more summer safety tips, learn how to keep your dog cool in the summer heat >>