If you start teaching your dog to swim now, he will be ready by summer. Read on for more information from DealDash.

Swimming can be a lot of fun, but it is also an important skill that everyone should know how to do. Not only is learning how to swim important for humans but it is also important for dogs. Many people think that all dogs can swim, but that is not always true. Here are some tips to teach your dog how to swim, from DealDash.

Check with Your Vet First

The first thing you should do is to check with your vet to make sure that it is okay for your dog to swim. Swimming is a good exercise for all dogs, but not every dog can handle swimming.  You have to keep in mind that dogs that are more muscular will have a hard time swimming and they may sink to the bottom. Before you make a decision, you should call or schedule an appointment with your vet. Your vet can also determine if your dog can handle shorter or longer lessons, as well as if he might be too frail to swim.

Help Your Dog Get Used to the Water

Most dogs are not a fan of water. Water and swimming is something that they have to get used to.  Buying a kiddie pool for your dog can help them get acclimated to the water.

Now that winter is here, helping your dog learn how to swim in a kiddie pool in your basement or bathroom is a good idea. If he starts learning now he will be ready for swimming by summer. You should teach your dog how to get in and out of the pool when you command them to.  Throwing dog toys in the kiddie pool and having your dog retrieve them is a good technique to use.

Life Jacket

Life jackets are also important for dogs.  It will teach your dog how to swim well, and it will help them gain confidence.  Some dogs are always going to need life jackets. The way your dog catches on with swimming will determine if he will always need a life jacket. You’ll be able to tell if he is confident enough to swim without the life vest or if he needs to keep it on for longer. 

Thanks for Reading

Teaching your dog how to swim will take some time. Different dogs learn at different paces, so it is wise to have a lot of patience with your dog. If you are consistent with allowing your dog to get in the water, he will be swimming in no time.

I hope that you found this DealDash article on teaching your dog how to swim helpful. If you have any tips for pets and their owners please share them below in a comment. Also, if you have any questions about dogs, swimming, or DealDash, please leave them down below as well.

DealDash has plenty of pet auctions with items for dogs, cats, and other animals. DealDash has a great selection. Visit DealDash now to check out the auctions. Have fun on DealDash, and happy bidding everyone!

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 This sponsored DealDash blog article was written by Dawn E, a mother of 3 who loves DealDash. Dawn was compensated for writing this article. Read even more at DealDashBlog.com, DealDashTips.com, or on her own blog, DawnBlogtopus.