Taking your dog swimming in Hong Kong: Are all dogs born knowing how to swim? What are the benefits of dog swimming?
What are the benefits of dog swimming?
Summer is a great time for dogs and owners to play in the water together. It can also increase a dog's muscle strength, reduce joint pressure, improve body control, and foster the bond with its owner. However, while enjoying the coolness, it's also important to pay attention to your dog's safety and health.
This article introduces 5 considerations for taking your dog swimming. We hope these tips help you and your dog enjoy a fun and safe time in the water. Here are some things to keep in mind when taking your dog swimming:
5 Key Safety Points for Dog Water Play in Summer
1. Choose a suitable body of water
Not all bodies of water are suitable for dogs to swim in. Some places may have dangerous objects like trash, oyster shells, or fishing hooks, or poor water quality, which can easily cause injuries or bacterial infections in dogs.
Therefore, before taking your dog swimming, observe whether the environment of the body of water is safe and avoid taking your dog to places with varying depths or strong currents.
If you're going to the beach or river, pay attention to tidal and water temperature changes. Try to avoid letting your dog swim or run on the beach during strong sunlight, as excessive sun exposure can cause UV allergies and sunburn.
If you're going to a swimming pool, make sure the chemicals in the water are not harmful to your dog, and train your dog how to exit the pool.
When taking your dog to a swimming pool, after entering the water, first show your dog where the steps and ramps are, so it knows where it can get out. This way, whether it wants to stop swimming or accidentally falls in, it can leave the pool on its own.
2. Put a life vest on your dog
While some dogs are naturally good swimmers, others may not be due to their body shape, stamina, or snout length.
For example, bulldogs, dachshunds, corgis, etc. Even dogs that can swim may have accidents due to panic, fatigue, or drowning. Therefore, when taking your dog swimming, it's best to put a life vest on it, just in case.
A life vest can help dogs maintain balance and buoyancy, and also makes it easier for owners to grab or pull them out.
Dog Swimming Supplies
3. Gradually teach your dog to swim
Not every dog can swim. The common misconception is that if you throw a dog into the water, it will learn to swim on its own, but this is a critical point: swimming is not an innate ability.
If it's your first time taking your dog swimming, never throw it directly into the water, as this will make it scared and distrustful.
First, let it gradually get used to the feeling of being in the water in a shallow area, then guide it forward with toys or treats, and encourage it with positive words and actions.
If it shows unwillingness or fear, do not force it, but give it some time and space. During the teaching process, always pay attention to its movements and physical condition. If you find it panting, shivering, or trembling, immediately take it out of the water to rest.
4. Pay attention to hydration and food replenishment
Swimming is an energy-consuming exercise, and dogs also sweat and drool when swimming, so it's important to replenish water to avoid dehydration or heatstroke.
Let your dog drink water regularly on land and choose clean drinking water. Do not let it drink seawater, river water, or pool water.
Excessive consumption of these waters can lead to electrolyte imbalance, gastrointestinal upset, or bacterial infections. In addition, avoid feeding your dog too much food before and after swimming to prevent gastric torsion or vomiting.
Also, staying in cold water for too long can cause hypothermia in dogs. Generally, if you feel cold in the water, your dog probably does too, and that's when it's time for both of you to get out.
If your dog swims too much and gets too tired, or accidentally cramps up, it must be dealt with immediately and given enough time to rest. If such situations are not handled promptly, they could endanger its life.
5. Cleaning and maintenance
After swimming, always rinse your dog's entire body with clean water to remove salt, sand, chemicals, etc., as these can damage its skin and coat.
If possible, you can also use pet-specific shampoo or conditioner to clean and moisturize its fur.
In addition, clean your dog's ears with ear cleaner to prevent water retention from causing ear infections. If you notice any abnormal signs in your dog, such as redness, itching, inflammation, or bleeding, take it to the vet immediately.
Conclusion
Dog swimming is an effective form of exercise that strengthens cardiovascular function, expends excess energy, and prevents obesity and joint problems. However, not all dogs are suitable for swimming, and not all bodies of water are suitable for dogs to swim in, as each dog's water abilities vary.
Therefore, while taking your dog swimming, don't forget to prioritize its safety. We hope these tips help you and your furry friend have a pleasant and safe summer!
