Swimming is an excellent form of enrichment for our dogs and a great way for them to stay fit without putting strain on their joints! Activities in water are also a perfect way to cool down during the summer and, most importantly, to have fun together and create lovely memories.

However, it’s important to remember that not all dogs are natural swimmers. If at first your dog doesn’t seem interested in swimming, don’t worry, it’s something that they can be taught! Forcing a dog into the water can have negative consequences, such as a loss of trust in you or a traumatic association with water. This can significantly slow down their progress in learning to swim and enjoying the experience. Instead, try motivating your dog with treats, a toy, or by getting into the water yourself and calling them to you.

Regardless of your dog’s swimming ability, here are some things you need for a safe, dog-friendly water day:

What to pack?

Water and a water bowl

Keep your dog well-hydrated, even more than usual, to help prevent heatstroke and limit your dog’s urge to drink from questionable water sources: rivers and lakes may be contaminated or if you’re at the beach, remember that drinking salt water is very harmful.

A dog life jacket

The most important item to bring with you on any water adventure is a life jacket!

The AQUA Dog Life Jacket is more than a safety precaution, it also:

• Helps your dog gain confidence in the water.
• Allows you to guide your dog using the handles.
• Allows you to help your dog into and out of the water.
• Creates resistance to help your dog build strength and endurance.
• Encourages proper swimming form, engaging both front and back legs with a straight back.
• Helps conserve your dog’s energy during longer swim sessions.
• Keeps your pup safe on a boat, canoe or SUP!

The AQUA Dog Life Jacket has an ergonomic shape that lets dogs swim freely and offers high buoyancy for maximum flotation.

A tracking lead

If your dog doesn’t have reliable recall, you can keep them on a tracking lead while they swim. The AQUA Dog Life Jacket features a ring that allows you to keep your dog safely under control!

A floating toy

If your dog is a pro at playing fetch, now is the perfect time to use their toy drive!
A great way to encourage beginner swimmers to enter the water is by throwing a floating toy for them to retrieve, such as the Pippen! Even for dogs that already enjoy swimming, playing fetch can help you work on specific swimming goals and encourages your dog to put more energy into their swim time.

First Aid Kit

Make sure you also have all the basic essentials needed to treat open wounds or potential heatstroke!

Waterproof gear

Fabric equipment can easily get damaged and takes a long time to dry out after use in water. For your water adventures, it’s better to use PVC collars and leashes, as they are fully waterproof.

Cooling equipment

Our All rounder vest can be soaked in water to help keep your dog cool. It also has a great feature for short-haired or hairless dogs: UV filter technology for added sun protection.

Booties

Sand can get extremely hot in the sun. To stop your dog’s paw pads from burning at the beach, you could consider using booties.

You might also want to bring a towel to dry your dog off or if you’re planning to stay by the water for a while then you’ll need something to provide shade for your dog!

When you get home:

• Rinse your dog with fresh water, as chlorine and salt can irritate their skin
• Dry your dog thoroughly, including their ears, to help prevent infections
• Rinse your dog’s accessories and toys, as salt and chlorine can cause damage over time
• Apply paw ointment to soothe and protect paw pads, which can become dry from the heat and exposure to salt water

Water and summer dangers

Water can be dangerous, and taking your dog into any body of water requires preparation.

First, pick the right location: whether you’re heading to the beach, a lake or a swimming pool, make sure it’s dog-friendly! Try to avoid areas with strong currents, big waves or which are crowded. Once you’re there, your dog needs constant supervision, just like a child!

Dangers to be aware of:

Distress in water

Even good swimmers can suddenly panic or get a cramp. If your dog starts paddling frantically, appears to be sinking and/or vocalizes more than usual, you should get them out of the water as soon as possible!

Swimmer’s tail

When a dog spends too much time swimming, especially in cold water, their tail may go limp or appear broken. This condition is usually mild and reversible, causing only slight discomfort, but should not be taken lightly. Several days of rest are typically needed for the tail to return to normal.
If your dog seems to be in a lot of pain, seek advice from your vet!

Salt water consumption

If a dog drinks salt water, symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhoea to more severe, life-threatening issues such as lethargy, loss of coordination or even seizures.
In extreme cases, it can lead to brain swelling, kidney damage, coma, or death.
To help prevent this, give your dog plenty of fresh water before and during your time at the beach to limit their thirst and keep a close eye on them to ensure they are not drinking seawater.

Water intoxication

Drinking too much water, even if clean, can be dangerous. It can cause brain swelling or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), both of which can be fatal.
Even a seemingly normal amount of water after exercise can pose a risk, so try to monitor your dog’s water intake closely.

Exhaustion

Many dogs are not aware of their physical limits and will keep exercising as long as it makes them or you happy. Unfortunately, an exhausted dog can drown. Start with short swimming sessions and gradually increase the length to better understand your dog’s abilities and limits.

Heatstroke

Dogs are especially sensitive to heat because they don’t sweat through their skin. Instead, they regulate their body temperature by panting and sweating through their paws and noses, which is only moderately effective. If dogs are too active in hot conditions or don’t get enough water and rest in the shade, they can suffer from heatstroke.
If your dog begins to pant excessively, drool, vomit, or has diarrhoea, a rapid heartbeat or even faints… immediately move them to a cooler place immediately, rehydrate them slowly and wet them with room-temperature water, never ice-cold water. Always get your dog checked by a vet after heatstroke!

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)

Cyanobacteria grow in stagnant bodies of water and are deadly to dogs. If you notice unusually coloured water or algae blooming where you planned to let your dog swim, you can call local authorities to check if the water has been tested recently. However, it's safest to not let your dog near the water. If you suspect your dog has come into contact with cyanobacteria, seek veterinary care immediately.

Hidden hazards

Dangerous objects such as fishing gear or broken glass may be hidden in the sand or underwater. While it’s difficult to prevent this type of injury, always carry a pet first aid kit and learn basic wound care so you can deal with minor accidents.