Do dogs know how to swim?

Every dog ​​is different. Even if many dogs can swim, they are not good at swimming. Owners should not forcefully throw the dog into the water regardless of the dog's fear. Some dogs are born to swim, such as retrievers, Labrador retrievers, poodles, Newfoundlands, and English setters, which naturally love water. They themselves are water dogs and have well-developed limbs and are good at swimming. He is a natural swimmer. Most dogs can learn to swim through training, and it all depends on the owner's guidance. A small number of dogs are not suitable for swimming. For example, dogs with short stature and stable lower body have difficulty maintaining buoyancy in the water because of their short legs. They have poor physical strength and are prone to fatigue. Swimming is very dangerous for these dogs. kind of movement.

How to teach a dog to swim

1. Prepare towels, hair dryers, swimming rings, etc. in advance to familiarize the dog with the swimming environment.
2. Lift the dog above the water and gradually lower the height so that the dog’s feet touch a little bit of water, so as not to put the dog under psychological pressure.
3. After the dog adapts to contact with water, you can put a buoyancy suit on the dog and let it paddle in the swimming pool by itself.

Things to note when teaching a dog to swim

1. Wear a leash
The leash can effectively control the dog’s swimming Ensure their safety in emergencies during swimming. For example, if the dog swims to the center of the swimming pool, but suddenly twitches, the owner can pull them back through the leash.

2. Prevent water poisoning
Dogs will inevitably drink a little water when swimming, as will people learning to swim for the first time. When a dog accidentally consumes too much water, it can lead to electrolyte imbalance and water intoxication, also known as "hyponatremia." Therefore, don’t give your dog a lot of water immediately after exercising, for the same reason.

3. Situations that cannot swim
Dogs that have just been vaccinated, dewormed, eaten, or are sick are not suitable for swimming. Swimming at this time will have a great impact on the dog's health. It is best to swim one week after vaccination and deworming, and two hours after eating.

4. Don’t go to places where pets are prohibited
Don’t take your dog to places where there are too many people or where pets are prohibited. After all, not everyone can accept it. Swim with your dog. Remember to clean up the trash after taking your dog for a swim and be a civilized dog owner.