As the weather turns warmer, dogs and humans alike start heading toward rivers, lakes and oceans for recreation and heat relief.

Especially confident and energetic dogs may jump right into water the first time they see it. Most dogs, however, will need encouragement before they can enjoy water rising above their bellies.

Calm lake water, or a still pool along a river, is ideal for swim training, especially if there it has a smooth, hard bottom for him to walk on. Beach surf may be too frightening for all but the most adventurous.


The first step is getting your dog comfortable around water. Start with your dog on a leash, and just walk him up to the water’s edge. If he is nervous at this point, pet him or give him a treat to encourage him and calm him down. Hold off on swimming lessons until he can walk comfortably around water.

The next step is walking with him into the water, just until it covers his feet. Repeat the calming and reward steps, and move him gradually until water reaches mid-leg. You can also pull him (not too hard) or carry him into the water and place him down, but only to mid-leg depth.

Now it is time to move on to the swimming. To do this, your dog will have learn to paddle his front and rear feet. Stand a few feet away from him, in deeper water, and call him to you. Encourage every step he takes until his feet leave the bottom and he starts paddling. You may have to support his belly a bit until he learns to get his hind legs paddling with the front.

Toys can be useful for encouraging your dog to stretch his comfort zone. Toss a floating toy a little deeper each time, and reward him for retrieving it. Also, your dog will gain confidence more quickly if he sees one of his water-trained canine friends swimming nearby.

Be careful of swimming too close to your dog, especially in his nervous first trips into the water. His paws will be moving quickly under the water and he will easily scratch you by mistake.

Final tip: Always rinse your dog with fresh water after a swim, and have a couple of old towels handy – one to dry him off, and the other for the car seat.

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And in honor of all dogs who just don't like the water....




We’ve tried to find the best sources we can for the information above, but you should always consult a veterinarian, professional trainer or other expert.