10 Summer Water Safety Tips for Dogs

Importance of Water Safety for Dogs

Selecting safe water environments for your dog is very important. A constructive and compassionate approach is necessary to ensure the well-being of dogs in aquatic environments, as raising dogs has their own set of obstacles. These vital dog water safety recommendations can help you keep your best buddy happy and safe while they're in the water. You may provide your dog with a safe and fun water experience this summer by following these ten tips for dog water safety.

1. Always Supervise Your Dog Around Water

Assessing your dog's swimming abilities and comfort level is essential for their safety. Understanding their specific traits is important, especially for dogs that are new to swimming. Always supervising them and gradually introducing them to water activities is an important step in building their confidence and skill development.

2. Teach Your Dog How to Swim

Teaching basic water skills to dogs involves gradually introducing them to water using positive reinforcement and rewards. Pool safety for dogs is crucial. You should gradually introduce water entry and exit in shallow areas and progress to deeper areas. If needed, practice getting in and out together until your dog feels comfortable entering and exiting on their own. Retrieving objects from the water can be fun and useful for fetching or water rescue. Water recall exercises are essential for safety and preventing dogs from getting lost or going too far.

3. Provide Your Dog With a Life Jacket

Although dog life jackets might offer an additional degree of safety, use them carefully and sensibly. Keep in mind that active supervision should never be substituted by life dog water safety vests. Whether or not your dog is wearing a life jacket, you should still be watchful and considerate of their well-being.

4. Avoid Strong Currents and Tides

Choose calm, controlled water like swimming pools, dog-friendly beaches, or designated parks, but exercise caution. Avoid unfamiliar bodies of water like rivers or lakes, as they may present unknown risks. Research on water environments and avoid Leptospira bacteria, which can cause fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

5. Be Cautious of Underwater Hazards

You should be cautious of potential water hazards for dogs, like strong currents and tides. Also keep an eye out for potential threats such as dangerous wildlife, submerged objects, including water pollution, and toxic algae.

6. Rinse Off Your Dog After Swimming

Dogs should be rinsed off after swimming to remove salt water and chlorine, which can dry up their skin. To further aid avoid infection, dry their ears afterward. 

Our Dog Lover's Towel is a super-absorbent solution for quick drying, attracting 50% more water than cotton or microfiber towels, making it easier to clean and dry your pet.

7. Offer Plenty of Fresh Water to Prevent Dehydration

Make sure to keep a dish of clean water available for your pet to avoid dehydration. This can be frequently forgotten while taking your dog swimming, so it's important to encourage your dog to drink frequently.

8. Avoid Letting Your Dog Drink From Lakes or Ponds

Don’t let your dog drink the water they are swimming in. Lakes and rivers can host parasites and algae. Pool water is chlorinated and ocean water is salty. None of these are good for your dog to ingest.

9. Keep an Eye Out for Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Swimming is exhausting, and a panting dog is more likely to drown. It is your responsibility to remove your dog from the water sometimes so they may relax.

10. Have a Plan in Case of Emergency

Learn how to identify signs of discomfort or distress in dogs, such as extreme weariness or nervousness, and how to deal with water-related situations and use first aid.

Ensure a Safe and Fun Summer for Your Furry Friend

Dogs and their families can enjoy summer water activities by taking the appropriate safety precautions and according to the provided water safety advice. Recognize your dog's limits, choose safe swimming areas, teach them basic water skills, be vigilant about potential dangers, and provide proper attention to hydration and care.

When you’re done with the fun, dry off your dog with the super-absorbent Absorber from Dog Lovers Towel after you rinse them off. We have sizes that accommodate every dog breed!