Mary Allen
Especially in summer, our dear four-legged friends are happy when they can escape the heat of the hot season while bathing. When dogs swim, this is not only refreshing but also represents gentle physical training.
When dogs swim, the buoyancy and resistance of the water are beneficial for the gentle training of joints, ligaments, muscles, and the spine. Up to 90 percent of the body is relieved by the water!
Nevertheless, swimming trains the entire body: the strength of the muscles and the cardiovascular system is strengthened, endurance is increased, the spine is mobilized and the flexibility of the joints is promoted. Swimming is a way of gently and painlessly moving joints and muscles, especially for overworked dog bodies.
What Do You Have to Pay Attention To?
In principle, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian before swimming. Because not every dog is suitable for this bathing fun. There are dogs whose swimming skills are only poorly developed. For example, very young dogs (less than six months old) cannot swim very well. Even dogs with short snouts (e.g. Bulldogs or Pugs ) or dogs with bulky bodies and short legs (e.g. Basset Hounds ) can sometimes find it difficult to keep their heads above water.
In general, when swimming with a dog, it is advisable NOT to dare the literal “jump into cold water”. The dog should slowly get used to the temperature of the water – especially if it deviates significantly from the outside temperature (e.g. very cold water on hot summer days). Apart from that, the dog must first become familiar with the buoyancy of the water.
In addition, care should be taken that…
- the dog has not eaten for two to three hours before swimming.
- the dog is healthy.
- the dog does not swim in heavily polluted waters (risk of infection).
- the dog can always get out of the water easily and comfortably.
- the dog is dried well after bathing.
- the dog does not drink too much-chlorinated water (danger of diarrhea).
- the dog may have been vaccinated (this is especially important when swimming in lakes).
If you go swimming with the dog in the sea, the saltwater may irritate the dog’s eyes. They may vomit if he drinks too much saltwater. You should make sure that he doesn’t choke or the dog should be rinsed off with clear water after his bath.
Health Benefits of Swimming at a Glance
- cooling
- gentle mobilization of joints and spine
- strengthening muscles
- stimulation of the metabolism
- improving fitness and mobility
- digestive stimulation
- stress relief
- strengthening of the cardiovascular system
Life Jacket for Dogs
It may be useful if the dog wears a life jacket when swimming. This allows the four-legged friend to concentrate fully on any exercises and locomotion, as the vest gives him security and stability.
When Dogs Swim – Gentle Training in the Pool
It is also possible to swim in a pool specially built for dogs. The advantage: the risk of infection is much lower. The temperature of the water can also be adjusted to suit the dog. A non-slip ramp also makes it easier to get in and out of the pool.