Few things beat cooling off on a hot summer day by having a little fun in the water - and our dogs tend to agree! Whether it's jumping into a lake, dipping their paws in the pool, or splashing in a kiddie pool in the backyard, there are numerous ways for your dog to enjoy water this summer. While giving your pup access to water is a great way to help them cool down and have fun this summer, there are many safety considerations to remember while splashing around. In this blog, we’ll explain how to keep your pup safe while still allowing them to live their best lives this summer!

Get familiar with your dog’s comfort level

Just like people, every dog has a different level of comfort around water. Some dogs absolutely LOVE water, while some are curious, and others are not going near it. Some dogs just don’t like water, and that’s okay, too! Remember never to force your dog into water - it can scare them and create adverse reactions to water. Encourage small, baby steps if your dog is nervous or unsure. Reward them when they show interest or interact with the water. 

It’s also important to remember that not all dogs are born swimmers. Some need to learn how to swim! If your dog needs some help getting used to the water, start in a shallow place where their feet can touch the ground. A kiddie pool in the backyard is a great place to start a nervous swimmer because it’s completely in your control and free of big distractions. Let them explore at their own pace and encourage them with toys and treats. Try tossing in a floating toy to pique their interest! 

Using a life jacket is critical to ensuring your dog’s safety around water, and it can also help you support and guide them through the water. As your dog becomes more used to swimming by themselves, you can take them into deeper water and encourage them to paddle when their feet can’t touch the bottom. Using a lifejacket with a handle, you can help lift them above the ground so they can feel what it’s like to swim without their feet touching the bottom. Keep sessions short and positive, and remember to stop if your dog becomes uncomfortable at any point. 

Stay prepared

Gearing up with the proper equipment before you go swimming is a must. Your dog should always wear a lifejacket when around bodies of water (even if they’re not planning on getting in). To learn how to fit your dog in a lifejacket, check out this article. Lifejackets are not only critical for safety, they can also be useful when teaching your dog how to swim. Look for ones with a handle so you can help guide your pup in the water or keep them close to you. 

New this year is Goo-eez - CoolTek Light Blue/Multicolored Life Vest for Dogs - Whether you're heading to the beach, lake, or pool, this premium life vest delivers the perfect blend of safety, comfort, and performance for dogs of all sizes. Featuring high buoyancy foam and breathable cooling mesh, it helps regulate your dog’s body temperature while keeping them afloat. The quick-drying, reflective material ensures visibility even in low light, and the secure fit keeps your dog comfortable during active water play.

Supervise, supervise, supervise

No matter what you and your pup choose to do with water this summer, make sure you always, always, supervise around water. Stay close and make sure you can keep an eye on your pup at all times. It can be tempting to talk to friends or spend time on your phone, but distractions can be dangerous when it comes to keeping your pup safe. Stay focused on your dog and where they are at all times. 

Make sure to also keep an eye out for fatigue in your pup when they’re around water. Look for heavy panting, slow swimming, or signs that your dog is trying to get out of the water. While some dogs will excitedly jump into pools or other bodies of water, some dogs won’t know how to get out. Show them where the stairs or exit is to make sure they can get out of the water on their own, and guide them to the exit a few times so they get the hang of getting out on their own.       

Encourage clean drinking 

It can be tempting for your dog to want to drink water out of streams, lakes, and pools, but drinking from unknown bodies of water can have detrimental effects on your dog. Unsanitary water can contain parasites, harmful bacteria, and infectious organisms that can make your dog sick if swallowed. Make sure to always have clean and fresh water available for your dog, and always bring a travel bowl and water with you. Praise your dog whenever they drink from their approved water source and gently redirect them if they try to drink from unapproved water sources. Keeping clean water available to your pup will keep them healthy and happy while you explore the great outdoors!

Recognize the warning signs 

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even dogs who are good swimmers can find themselves in trouble. Always watch your dog closely around water, and if they exhibit any of these signs, help them out of the water and get them to solid ground.

• Reluctance and/or fear 

• Frantic movements

• Sinking body level

• Rapid paddling with no progression

• Heavy panting and decreased speed

If your pup is exhibiting signs of severe distress, take them to the nearest hospital immediately. 

Check out our other blog post on Water Toxicity in Dogs

In addition to these signs, you should also keep an eye on the elements where you’re swimming. Some of these potentially dangerous area elements include:

• Strong currents, flowing water, and waves

• Sharp rocks and algae

• No clear exit point 

Make sure to keep your pup safe at all times by always keeping an eye on them and ensuring that wherever they swim is safe and free from harmful objects. If you’re ever not sure, err on the side of caution and don’t let them swim there. It’s not worth the risk!

Any questions you have about water safety or keeping your pup cool this summer, let us know! We’re here to help you and your pup have the best summer ever. 

Until next time,

🐾 Woofs & Wags
- Melissa & Oaklee 🐾
@unleashthepawsitive