Not all dogs take to water. Some have to be coaxed or taught to do so. In an advice column about pets, one owner of a young labrador can't get the pup into the water. The columnist replies:
Jake is still young. His water instincts could kick in at any moment. Until that happens, do not force him into deeper water. Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are natural swimmers.I see it with Newfoundlands, (from which Labrador, Chesapeake Bay and Golden retrievers are descended). We all fantasize our Newfs performing heroic rescues in the high seas, but the truth is some enjoy water more than others. Those that require coaxing are encouraged with playtime and simple retrieves in shallow water until they are comfortable enough to move farther off shore.
Thus, the label of ''water dog'' doesn't mean you automatically have a canine Mark Spitz or Esther Williams on your hands. Enthusiastic young dogs who dash into water the first time often turn into splashing, panicky messes when they reach swimming depth because they don't know what to do with their paws. It can be very frightening, particularly to a young dog.
Professor Barney, now 9 months, is a good example of a dog genetically wired for water work, but a clunky swimmer. He's dives in and out of the water like a porpoise, but hasn't learned how to paddle with his back legs. So I'm careful to keep him near wading depth until he figures it out. Hannah, my other Newf, is a virtual swimming machine, gliding through water with power and ease. You just never know.
When introducing any dog to water, assume a learning curve and work at their pace. Don't expect Jake to perform like the other dogs. The fact that he needs a little jumpstart is not unusual. Walk him through shallow water, let him explore, fetch things and very gradually move out to swimming depth assuring he can quickly plant his paws if he gets into trouble.
So there you go. Remember, though, never force your dog to swim if he/she simply doesn't want to and always go with them in case they get into trouble.
Posted by Jeff Soyer at September 1, 2006 06:51 AM