Will you take your dog to water?
AS the temperature heats up is an excellent time to introduce your puppy to water.
There is no point saying she doesn’t like swimming.
You never know when she is going to need to swim.
My new dog Del got accidentally nudged off the canal tow path recently and would have panicked were she not an accomplished swimmer.
There was no point me saying she doesn’t like swimming then.
The best time to introduce a new pup or dog to water is early summer when most dogs love to splash around.
For her first experience choose an easy entry that enables her to walk into the water rather than dive in.
Take your wellies and walk in with her.
If she likes treats take some in your pocket and flick them onto the water just in front of her.
Let her take her time and if you have an older experienced dog with you allow him to join in.
You want the whole exercise to be fun so no coercion.
Let her splash around and wade in the water as long as she likes.
For dogs addicted to tennis balls drop one a meter in front of her and encourage her to go for it.
Better still take a more experienced dog that loves going for balls.
When she sees him having lots of fun in the water she will want to go and get her ball back.
Not all dogs are crazy about swimming but all dogs can swim.
I used the above technique to encourage our little Chihuahua to swim.
She was not fantastic but she was good enough to swim to safety at any time.
If you are nervous about doing any of this have your dog on an extension lead or a long line so that you have hold of her as she splashes around.
Do not start fussing or panicking or she will recognise your fear which will immediately affect her confidence.
As far as swimming in the sea I just don’t do it with my dogs. I have been dragged along on a rip current in the past and I don’t intend to let my dogs have the same experience. It is scary.
I stick to local ponds and small rivers.
If you would like to join one of my classes just text me on 07590 560012.