Did you know all dogs know how to swim? While not all dogs like to swim and get wet, many of them will enjoy a vacation of fun by the water. Here are a couple of tips to make your dog’s vacation as fun as yours. Enjoy a dip in the ocean or lake with your pup.
Hydration is key. You want to make sure you have plenty of fresh water available for your dog at all times. We don’t want her getting tempted by big bodies of water like the ocean or lake since these can upset her stomach. While one sip is nothing to worry about, letting your pup quench her thirst with pond water can make her quite sick.
Keep those nails short. As your pup treads water, she will naturally spread out her paws, exposing those lovely webbed toes that make her such a good swimmer. But if you are planning on being anywhere near her while she swims, those nails can be quite painful on your skin.
Some dog lovers will buy little booties to protect not just the dog’s paws, but any inflatable raft or toy that has that soft, easy to puncture surface. These can also be super useful to help stabilize your dog on the slippery surfaces of a boat.
We like to have something to grab the pup by, especially if the dog is going on a boat. There are many different types of vests, some come with floatation integrated. The most important thing for us though is being able to lift the pup back into the boat, raft or kayak after their swim.
Never force your dog into the water, it will be a much nicer experience for both of you if you just entice her the first few times until she gets used to it. Dogs who are forced into the water will very often become fearful of it. It is much more fun to play with your pup near the shore to help her relax and then little by little put one foot in. Most pups will need help getting on a boat, we suggest picking the pup up so there is no dragging involved. Always reward your dog’s brave attempts as she is getting used to the boat and water.
Provide shade. Dogs can easily get overheated, especially breeds that have shorter snouts like bulldogs and boxers. It is important to provide a cool spot with shade where your dog can relax both on the shores and on the boat. Remember, dogs can sunburn too! While there are sunblocks out there made specifically for dogs, shade is always necessary. And if the sand is too hot on your feet then odds are it’s too hot for her paws too!
Enjoy your time with your dog on your lake vacation this year. Take lots of pictures and make sure you share them with us, we’d love to see them!
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