Summer holidays are near!
If we have chosen a seaside resort such as the sea or a lake, it is important that our 4-legged friend knows how to swim . Most dog breeds can swim very well if they are properly accustomed to water.
But what is the best way to approach the dog to the water? What are the fundamental steps to follow?
1. Rule number one, never throw the dog into the water: the most wrong thing to do is to “throw” your pet into the water, there is the risk that it may be traumatized.
2. Look for a suitable place: for the first few times, it is better to look for a small lake or a stream that is not very frequented and above all without current . Let your four-legged friend explore the place without the leash and to encourage him, every time he gets his paws wet, compliment him, in this way he will understand that at that moment he is not in a dangerous place.
3. Bring a game with you: A ball is perfect, or just bring their favorite game and start throwing it towards the shore so that Fido gets used to the contact with the water.
4. Encourage him: if you see him becoming familiar with the water, call him and encourage him, if he does not enter the water by himself, pick him up and when he moves his paws rhythmically then you can let him go, but stay close to him anyway.
5. Play the game! If you notice that your puppy is enjoying himself, throw his toy or ball at him so that he moves away from you a little and is swimming on his own . When he comes back, give him a treat , such as a cookie or a small snack, so that he associates water with something positive. If, on the other hand, you see that the dog is afraid, do not insist. Take him out of the water, let him relax and try a second time when he is safer.
These are some small tips to teach your little dog to swim and to become familiar with the water.
If you take your dog to the sea or the lake, remember to always follow the basic rules: give him a drink, rinse him and dry him after a bath and above all make sure he does not feel too hot.
