I am a Lab mix. Water is my thing. But even I have learned that water comes with rules.
I’m Jasper, and I want to talk about swimming safety because it’s genuinely important and because I’ve seen some things over the years that I want other dogs (and their humans) to avoid.
Not All Dogs Are Built for Water
I am a Lab mix. This means my relationship with water is close to biological. I don’t have to be taught to swim. I don’t have to be convinced. My instinct, when presented with water, is to get in it.
Not every dog is like this. A lot of dogs can learn to swim and enjoy it. Some dogs physically struggle: short-legged breeds (dachshunds, basset hounds), brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs), heavily muscled breeds — these dogs can have a harder time staying afloat and shouldn’t be assumed to be natural swimmers.
Knowing your dog’s swimming type matters before you let them near deep water.
The Life Vest Situation
I wore a life vest my first time on a kayak. I was not enthusiastic about this.
I was wrong to be unenthusiastic. Life vests for dogs are genuinely useful. Not just for kayaking — for any water situation where conditions are unpredictable. Current in a river, waves at the beach, deep open water, a dog who’s newer to swimming.
A good dog life vest should: fit snugly without restricting movement, have a handle on top for pulling a dog out of water, be a bright color, and be rated for the dog’s weight.
I have one. I use it. I don’t love wearing it but I understand why.
Pool Safety Specifically
Pools seem safe because they’re contained. They’re not entirely without risk.
Ramps and exits matter a lot. If a dog gets into a pool, they need to be able to get out. Dogs can panic if they can’t find the steps. My pool has steps and I know where they are, but it took time to teach me. This is real training that should happen before any unsupervised pool time.
Supervision. I don’t swim in the pool without someone around. This is non-negotiable in my household. Even experienced swimmers can get tired, can catch themselves on something, can need help. Someone should always be watching.
Pool chemicals. Chlorinated pool water isn’t great in large amounts. I’m not supposed to drink the pool water. (I sometimes drink the pool water. My humans are working on this.) Rinsing after swimming helps reduce chemical exposure on skin and coat.
Watch for fatigue signs. Dogs don’t always stop themselves when they’re tired. Labored breathing, slowing down, struggling to keep head up — these are signs to end the swim.
Open Water vs. Pool
Open water has additional considerations: current, depth, temperature, visibility, other watercraft, wildlife. My humans do a quick assessment of any open water before I go in. Is there current? How’s the bank for getting out? Any obvious hazards?
Most water is fine. The assessment takes about thirty seconds. It’s worth doing.
The Most Important Thing
The most important thing is that water play should be fun, not frightening. A dog who has a bad water experience early can develop fear that takes a long time to work through.
Start shallow. Let the dog approach the water at their own pace. Don’t force it. The goal is a dog who loves water, not a dog who tolerates it because they had no choice.
I love water. I want every dog to have the chance to love it too.
Do it safely. Do it together. It’s one of the best things we do. 💧🐾