While wolves are strong swimmers, many of their domestic descendants have lost the ability or instinct to swim. One reason this has happened is because humans have created some species with unusually short legs or short faces, traits that contrast with swimming. Accordingly, you must ensure that your dog is a strong swimmer before allowing him to reach the deep end for a swim, as well as protect him against accidentally falling into any body of water.
floating strains
Many breeds are just as comfortable in the water as they are out of the water. For example, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Portuguese Water Spaniels, English Water Spaniels, Irish Setters and Newfoundlands are often strong swimmers who enjoy the water. Humans created many of these breeds to perform water rescues or other tasks involving water. Labrador retrievers provide a good example of aquatic breeds, as they have historically been responsible for helping fishermen work nets and catch fleeing fish, according to the American Kennel Club.
See the sink spot
Because of their unusual body shapes, many dogs are unable to swim well, if at all. According to Dr. Marty Becker of VetStreet, dogs with short muzzles or those with large chest cavities relative to hind size often struggle to swim. Bulldogs are one of the best examples of this body type, and not surprisingly, they don’t swim well. This leads many bulldog rescue organizations to insist that adoptive owners install protective fences around their pool to ensure their new dog does not drown. Other breeds who are poor swimmers include dachshunds, pugs, crickets and chickens.
Teach a spot to swim
When you first plan to teach your dog to swim, do it in a quiet place in relatively shallow water. Do not force the dog into the water or throw it in suddenly. Instead, use encouragement, games, and praise to lure the dog into the water. If he doesn’t start tugging at the dogs, you have to support his waist to keep him open until he learns to move. It may be helpful to put a life jacket on your dog to help him float as he learns to swim. Make sure the dog has steps or a ramp to get out of the compound. Make sure he knows where they are.
Safety considerations
Whether your dog is a strong swimmer or not, your job is to keep him safe. Even breeds that swim well can drown if they become overexcited or cannot get out of the water. Dogs should not be allowed into deep water unless they are supervised. At a minimum, a fence or barrier should be placed around the compound. For additional protection, install an alarm when anything gets into the water.
bin team
WWF Global: Timber or Gray Wolf Animal Planet: Do all dogs know how to swim? VetStreet: Can all dogs swim? Today: From Pooches and Pools: Teaching Your Dog to Swim American Kennel Club: Labrador Retriever
