a group of dogs sitting next to each other.
30% Off
for New Dog
Boarding Clients!
Valid thru 9/30/23. *not applicable during major holidays
dog swimming in summer

Swimming Safety Tips for Your Dog

Allowing your four-legged friend to enjoy a refreshing swim on a hot summer day can be a great way to help him keep cool while getting in some exercise time. Of course, safety should always be top priority whenever your pets are involved, so put these swimming safety tips to good use before letting the fun begin.

Do Not Presume That All Dogs Are Excellent Swimmers

dog wearing life jacket to swim
Dogs will naturally start paddling when they find themselves in water, but that doesn’t mean that they can stay afloat for any length of time.

While many dog breeds such as Labrador retrievers and poodles were literally bred for the water, there are other breeds such as pugs and bulldogs whose anatomy makes swimming difficult and even dangerous. If your dog has very short legs, a large chest with small hindquarters, or a very short muzzle, chances are good that he will struggle in the water. A life jacket designed for dogs is a good idea if your pup isn’t built for the water.

Both puppies and elderly dogs can tire quite easily, so keep an extra close eye on them. A first-time swimmer may need some encouragement from you until he gains some confidence and gets the hang of swimming. Keep your hand underneath his belly at first to encourage him to use all four legs, and stay in the water with him in case he panics.

Give Dogs a Drink Before the Swim

Pools usually contain chlorine, so drinking this water should not be allowed. Natural bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, and oceans can all be teeming with harmful germs and bacteria. Make sure your dog is well hydrated before a swim so that he won’t be tempted to sample the water.

Watch Out For Hidden Dangers

dog getting out of lake
No matter where your dog does their swimming, be sure to clean and dry their ears afterwards.

Natural bodies of fresh water can be home to things like venomous snakes, snapping turtles and alligators. Know what is commonly found in your area before attempting a swim session. Jellyfish are commonly found in the ocean and can deliver painful stings. Things like riptides, broken glass, and sharp shells also can pose a hazard.

Diseases like giardia and leptospirosis are sometimes lurking in bodies of water and can cause serious illness. Talk with your vet about vaccine options available for your pets before letting them swim.

Lakes, ponds, and swamps sometimes are home to blue-green algae, which are actually not algae at all but rather a toxic form of bacteria. Contaminated water will often have warning signs posted. Take them seriously, as blue-green algae can be fatal.

Provide a Way Out

If you are making use of a backyard pool, take the time to teach your furry friend how to exit the pool, just in case he ever takes a dip when you are not around. If there are no stairs in the pool, provide a ramp of some sort so that no animal ever becomes trapped in the pool.

Clean Up After

It is a good idea to thoroughly bathe your pet after a swim to remove any harmful bacteria that might be clinging to the fur. Be sure to always use a pet-safe shampoo and to pay close attention to those ears. A dog’s ears are particularly prone to infection because of the warm, moist environment inside. There are ear cleaning solutions available at most pet supply stores, or you can use apple cider vinegar and a gauze pad.

Let the Fun Begin

With some preventative measures, your canine companion can enjoy going for a swim while getting some great exercise too!

Fon Jon Pet Care has been serving the San Diego area for more than 30 years. We can help you with your dog training, daycare, and boarding. Call us today at 858-280-3657

The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, it should not be considered as a substitute for professional veterinary guidance. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for specific advice tailored to your pet’s individual needs and health condition.

a group of dogs sitting next to each other.

20% Off
for New
Boarding Clients!
*not applicable during major holidays

a blue rectangle with a blue background.

Petcare articles

view all articles
A group of dogs and cats on a pink background.
August 31, 2023

The Benefits of Pet Socialization: A Guide to Safe and Effective Practices

Introduction Pet Socialization is an often overlooked yet essential part of pet ownership. No matter what age you got your pet, it’s important to teach them to learn to get along with other animals and people. Let’s explore the value…

A boston terrier dog yawning.
August 31, 2023

Understanding Pet Body Language: A Guide to Reading Your Canine Friend

Introduction Every day, without saying a word, our pets tell us what they’re thinking and feeling through their body language. Animals, like people, have their own distinct ways of communicating feelings, wants, and even danger. Understanding these nonverbal signs is…

dogs running on a grassland surrounded by fence
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
July 18, 2023

10 Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Facility

When it comes to finding the right dog boarding facility, it’s essential to select one that ensures the well-being and happiness of your furry friend. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make the best choice. However,…

a dog is petting a person's hand.
July 18, 2023

​​Making the Separation Easier: Pre-Boarding Tips for Dog Owners

Preparing your dog for a boarding stay is of utmost importance to ensure their well-being and reduce separation anxiety. Dogs are social creatures that thrive on routine and familiarity, so being separated from their owners can be stressful. However, with…

a dog eating out of a bowl with a frog on it.
July 18, 2023

What to Pack for Your Dog’s Boarding Stay: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to your furry friend’s boarding stay, thorough preparation is key to ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being. Just like when you’re packing for your own trip, having a comprehensive packing list specifically tailored to your dog’s needs…

Gray Tabby cat in cat boarding house
July 1, 2023

Meow-tastic Escapes: Exploring the Benefits of Cat Boarding

We’ve all been there, right? Picture this: The palm trees are swaying in the images of the sun-soaked beach on your screen, beckoning you towards that much-needed vacation. But just as you’re about to click “book,” a set of gleaming…

a woman putting a towel on a cat.
July 1, 2023

Summer Bathing Guide: Keeping Your Cat Fresh and Clean in the Heat

As summer rolls in, a familiar scene unfolds for many cat owners. Amidst the swaying backyard foliage bathed in the golden sunlight, you spot your cat, gracefully stretched out, basking in the warm glow. Their fur, a magnificent coat that…

a group of dogs being walked on a leash.
June 5, 2023

Good Dog Etiquette for Happy Outings in Public

Good dog etiquette? It’s all about how we, as dog owners, make sure our furry friends behave nicely, especially when they’re around other folks or animals. We’re talking about things like keeping our dogs under control, making sure they’re not…

a dog running through the water with a tennis ball in its mouth.
June 5, 2023

Summer Fun with Your Dog: Beat the Heat and Keep Your Pup Happy

The season of sunshine, beach days, and ice cream cones has arrived, and what better way to enjoy it than with your beloved canine companion by your side? Let’s unleash the summer vibes and venture on a tail-wagging adventure! We’re…

a group of dogs standing next to each other.
June 2, 2023

Pawsitively Happy and Healthy Expert Care Tips for Your Canine Companion

Welcome, dog lovers, to a tail-wagging adventure filled with tips and tricks to keep your four-legged buddies pawsitively happy and healthy! We all know that our canine companions bring boundless joy to our lives, so it’s only fair that we…

a group of dogs standing next to each other.
May 16, 2023

Why Daycare Socialization is Pawsitively Good for Dogs

As a pet owner, you want nothing but the best for your furry friend. One of the ways to ensure that your dog lives a healthy and happy life is to provide them with opportunities for socialization. Daycare socialization for…

a dog is being examined by a veterinator.
May 2, 2023

Identifying And Alleviating Your Dog’s Seasonal Allergies

Common Allergies Affecting Dogs In Spring As the world comes back to life after winter’s slumber, there are a few pesky allergens lurking around that can make our dogs lives a little less enjoyable. Let’s dive into some of the…

Have a
question?

Get a response within 24 hours

50% Off For New Special Clients!

Request Your Boarding Dates

20% Off For New Boarding Clients!

Request Your Boarding Dates