Menu

Download our Petland App today for information on your local Petland's Available Pets and Pet Supplies. All at the tips of your fingers!

Petland Logo
Login/Register

Please create a free account below, or login by clicking here.

Pet Store Banner Pet Store Banner

10 Ways to Make Swimming Safer With Your Canine

March 23, 2020

Spring and summer are great times to take Fido for a swim. Even though swimming comes naturally to most dogs, there are a few things you can do to help your dog stay safe while swimming.

Dog life jacket

Whether he’s a strong swimmer or this is the first time out on your boat on the lake, it’s always best to keep a life jacket around for your pup. Dogs can often lose stamina quickly while swimming which can result in drowning. He may not love wearing the life jacket at first, but he will quickly adjust to wearing and it will be a great protective measure from drowning. Life jackets for dogs are usually bulkier and cover more of your dog and are great for boating, lake, and beach activities.

A life best for dogs are perfect for younger and smaller dogs in smaller settings like pools and wading around at the lake in shallower waters. They aren’t as bulky, cover less of your pooch, and definitely perfect for those casual swims. 

Life jacket vs Life vest

Either way, it’s best to consider the water activities you plan on doing with your furry pal and make sure that you have the right equipment. Hey, you can even find a life jacket with a shark fin on it for even more fun!

Know the depth

The ocean can often have a steep shelf that can cause the depth of the ocean to drop quickly. The Atlantic side has a longer shelf resulting in shallower and warmer waters whereas the Pacific has a shorter shelf that results in deeper waters and rougher waves. Research any body of water you plan to take your dog and understand the depth before bringing Fido. While there may be lifeguards on duty, always make sure that you and Fido only swim in waters where both of you are comfortable and can easily make it to shore without needing rescue. 

Always accompany

Playing fetch on the shoreside is great with your dog, but if you plan on letting him swim, it’s best if you accompany him. Staying close to your dog can help you decrease the distance you will have to swim in the event that you have to rescue your dog. If you aren’t a strong swimmer use caution when allowing your dog to explore water alone or make sure that he’s on a retractable leash. 

Know the tide at the beach

If the tide is high, your dog might not be able to hold on. Don’t underestimate the power of mother nature. Each wave that crashes against the tide is followed by a strong pull. Your dog can quickly be pulled into a deeper area of the ocean. If the tide is high, avoid entering the water with your dog that day and be mindful to beach flag warnings and know what each color means: 

Go where dogs are allowed

Check to ensure that dogs are allowed. Some public pools and beaches don’t allow dogs to swim. But not to worry there are plenty of dog-friendly places you can visit. Do your research before going to ensure Fido will be welcomed.

What other tips and tricks have you learned while going out for some water play? Share your stories on your social media!

Related Articles

View All Articles

  • Easy Sustainable Enrichment Ideas

    ,

    Easy Sustainable Enrichment Ideas

    Shoppers have become acutely aware of the brands they choose to support. Millennials have been the most outspoken generation to pride themselves in smart choices in brand loyalty a...

    Read This Blog

  • Fall Dog Essentials

    ,

    Fall Dog Essentials

    After a year of being stuck inside there’s no better time to leash up your pup and get moving. With cooler weather approaching outside is a given but depending on your area and a...

    Read This Blog

  • Recipes for Layering Stuffable Toys

    ,

    Recipes for Layering Stuffable Toys

    There are so many ways to entertain your pup. With work-from-home becoming a new option for many Americans, there are tons of perks – one of which is being able to snuggle with y...

    Read This Blog

  • Tips for City-based Dog Parents

    ,

    Tips for City-based Dog Parents

    Yes, having a yard is always the ideal for a dog owner. However, sometimes because of work goals, financial components, or that you simply love the hustle and bustle,  you might b...

    Read This Blog

  • The Surprising Ways Our Pups Keep Us Happy and Grounded

    The Surprising Ways Our Pups Keep Us Happy and Grounded

    Breaking down Eckhart Tolle’s theory about dogs (and cats) – guardians of being In 2020, many people took to shelters across the United States to get a furry addition to th...

    Read This Blog

  • Tips for Beating Flea and Tick Season

    Tips for Beating Flea and Tick Season

    Depending on where you live, the high season for parasites can vary but the general rule is that warm weather yields increased numbers of both fleas and ticks. Known for their pote...

    Read This Blog

  • Essentials to Leave for Any Dog-Sitter

    Essentials to Leave for Any Dog-Sitter

    So, you’re on your way to a sunny vacation destination – finally! A new level of excitement about going on an adventure after months inside is something really special. The big...

    Read This Blog

  • Dog Toys Matched to Each Astrological Zodiac Sign

    Dog Toys Matched to Each Astrological Zodiac Sign

    It feels like the stars align when you finally get to take your dog home and you probably picked up every adorable toy you could find in the store when you first got them. After a ...

    Read This Blog

  • 5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Pup’s Birthday

    5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Pup’s Birthday

    Our pets are a constant source of joy and amusement in our daily lives so it’s only fitting that on their special day we aim to go above and beyond! Whether you’re a dog parent...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Pet Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

    Like all insurance, the general idea is that you never want to have to use it, but if you do, it’s there. The same stands for pet insurance. Pet insurance can be a polarizing top...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Canine Careers

    Have Your Dog Work from Home & if you’re thinking “Dog With a Blog” from Disney Channel, that’s not exactly what we mean Dogs were originally domesticated and bred to h...

    Read This Blog

  • Ways to Keep Your Pup Cool All Summer

    Ways to Keep Your Pup Cool All Summer

    Depending on where you live, summer is just around the corner or it’s already begun. Soaking up some vitamin D is much needed for all of us – including your pet! Getting outdoo...

    Read This Blog

Help Need Help?