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Swimming isn't just a fun activity for dogs; it’s also a fantastic exercise that can offer several big health benefits (and cool them down on a hot day). Whether you're looking to keep your pup fit, help them recover from an injury, or provide relief from chronic conditions, swimming could be the perfect solution.
Of course, before launching into aquatic adventures with your pup, talk to your vet. Your dog's breed, life stage, and health conditions all come into play here.
Now let's explore the many advantages of swimming for dogs and answer some common questions about canine aquatic activities!
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Benefits of swimming for dogs
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Full-body exercise
Swimming engages nearly every muscle in a dog’s body, providing a thorough workout that enhances cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance.
Weight management
For overweight dogs, swimming is an excellent way to burn calories without putting stress on their joints.
Joint health
The buoyancy of water supports a dog’s weight, reducing the strain on their joints and minimising the risk of injury—helpful for dogs that suffer from joint conditions.
You've probably heard of hydrotherapy, a controlled form of swimming often used in rehabilitation for reasons just like this. It’s a therapeutic exercise conducted in warm water that helps soothe your pup's muscles and improve circulation.
Mental stimulation
Swimming can also be mentally stimulating, offering a change of scenery and the challenge of navigating water. Throw in some dog-safe water toys, and you've got a whole new world of enrichment possibilities.
Can all dogs swim?
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Dogs bred for retrieving and water-based activities, like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Newfoundlands, typically excel at swimming. Their water-resistant coats, webbed feet, and strong limbs make them well-suited for aquatic adventures.
But not all breeds share this affinity for water, and some dogs may struggle with swimming due to their physical characteristics or lack of experience.
Dog breeds that may struggle with swimming
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Here's a list of a few dog breeds that tend to struggle with swimming, and why:
Bulldogs: With their heavy, muscular build and short snouts, Bulldogs are not well-suited for swimming. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure makes breathing difficult, and their bulky bodies can make it hard for them to stay afloat.
Pugs: Like Bulldogs, Pugs have brachycephalic faces, which can cause breathing difficulties. Their compact bodies and short legs also make swimming challenging.
Boxers: Boxers are strong and muscular, but their deep chests and short noses can make swimming difficult. They can tire quickly and struggle to keep their heads above the water.
Dachshunds: With their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds might find swimming tough. Their body shape makes it hard for them to stay afloat and manoeuvre in the water.
Basset Hounds: Basset Hounds have short legs and long bodies, making them poor swimmers. Their dense bone structure can also cause them to sink rather than float.
Corgis: Both Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis have short legs and long bodies, which can make swimming a challenge. They may struggle to stay buoyant and tire easily in the water.
Shih Tzus: Shih Tzus have a brachycephalic face and a dense coat, making swimming difficult. They might struggle to keep their heads above the water.
Chihuahuas: Chihuahuas are not natural swimmers. Their small size and delicate build make them vulnerable in the water, and they can tire quickly.
Our list of the best dog breeds for swimming can help.
Does this mean you can't ever take your Corgi swimming?
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Not necessarily.
For every Dachshund that struggles in the water, there could be another with swimming skills that closely rival your Lab. (OK, maybe not THAT closely).
The main thing is to keep safety at the forefront and weigh the risks vs. benefits for your dog. And it's extra important to introduce them to the water gradually and always supervise them closely!
Using a doggy life jacket can also provide safety and increase confidence for dogs that aren't natural swimmers. They typically have handles you can use to pluck your pup out of the water if you need to, and they're pretty cute to boot.
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Remember, even breeds that are generally good swimmers should be introduced to water carefully. Start in a shallow area where your dog can stand, and gradually increase the depth as they become more comfortable.
Always keep their safety at the forefront, and never force them into the water if they seem frightened or anxious.
Tips for making the most of your dog's swim sessions
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Once your vet's given you the OK to take your pup out for swim sessions, there are a few steps you can take to help your dog adjust:
Start slow: Begin with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as your dog builds stamina and confidence in the water.
Use a life jacket: A doggy life jacket can provide buoyancy and increase safety, especially for novice swimmers or breeds that struggle in the water.
Choose the right location: Opt for calm, shallow water where your dog can touch the bottom and feel secure. Avoid areas with strong currents or steep drop-offs.
Supervise at all times: Never leave your dog unattended while swimming. Keep a close eye on them to make sure they aren't struggling or getting fatigued.
Rinse off: After swimming, rinse your dog with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, or any other irritants that might be in the water.
Dry thoroughly: Make sure to dry your dog well, especially their ears, to prevent infections.
FAQs about dog swimming
More questions? Here are some more commonly asked questions about dogs swimming.
Is swimming good exercise for dogs?
Absolutely! Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs. It’s a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility. Unlike running on hard surfaces, swimming reduces the risk of impact injuries, making it ideal for dogs of all ages and activity levels.
Is swimming good for dogs with arthritis?
Yes, swimming can be extremely beneficial for dogs with arthritis. The buoyancy of water reduces the strain on their joints, allowing them to exercise without pain. The resistance of water also helps build muscle mass, which supports and stabilises arthritic joints. Warm water swimming, as part of hydrotherapy, can further relieve pain and improve mobility.
Is swimming good for dogs with hip dysplasia?
Swimming can be one of the best exercises for dogs with hip dysplasia. The buoyancy provided by water supports their body weight, reducing the pressure on their hips. This allows them to move more freely and build muscle strength around the hip joint, which can help stabilise it and reduce pain.
Is swimming good for dogs with a torn ACL?
For dogs recovering from an ACL injury, swimming can be an excellent part of their rehabilitation program. It allows them to exercise without putting stress on the injured ligament. Swimming helps maintain muscle mass and joint flexibility during recovery, which is crucial for a full return to normal activity.
Is swimming good for old dogs?
Older dogs often suffer from conditions like arthritis or reduced mobility, making high-impact exercises challenging. Swimming provides a gentle, low-impact workout that can help keep senior dogs active and maintain their muscle tone. The resistance of the water also helps strengthen muscles without putting undue stress on their aging joints.
The bottom line?
Whether your pup is young and energetic or a senior needing gentle exercise, swimming can be a great addition to their routine.
Remember to always supervise your dog around water and consult your vet before starting any new exercise program!
And while you're planning out how to give your pup their best life, it's impossible to predict the health troubles they'll run into.
That's where dog insurance comes in. It's designed to reimburse you for those unexpected vet expenses for accidents and illnesses (minus pre-existing conditions. As always, review your policy for details).
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