We go to the lake a lot during the summer. Now we have a new dog, a mixed-breed from a local rescue group. Osgood is midsize, about 36 pounds. We hope he's a swimmer, but we don't know yet. We want to take him out on the boat. Does he need a life jacket? Any tips on getting him used to water would be appreciated.
Many dogs go into a full-body thrill wag at the sight of water and can't wait to leap in and start splashing. Some pups are natural swimmers while other dogs are hesitant but enjoy dipping their paws in the water once they've learned how to keep themselves afloat. Then there are dogs, usually those with dense and heavy body types, that seem to sink like medicine balls and are simply unsuited for water activities.
All types of pooches -- swimmers as well as nonswimmers -- can benefit from a life jacket, especially when first learning to swim, according to the American Kennel Club. When choosing a canine flotation vest or life jacket, keep in mind:
• The dog should be able to move easily and swim in the vest. If possible, take your dog to the store with you and try vests on him to find the correct size. Make sure the dog can walk comfortably while wearing the vest. It shouldn't restrict movement of his legs, be tight around the belly or cause him to tip forward when he walks.
• The jacket should have a handle that makes it possible for you to easily grab him and lift him from the water if necessary. The handle ideally would be positioned between the shoulder blades, with the first strap capable of being placed around the body behind the front legs. Having the handle forward on the body ensures that the dog's upper body and head will be lifted from the water first. Avoid vests that have the primary straps under the belly and a handle at the middle of the back.
• Take time to research the variety of doggy life jackets available. Choose one that's properly sized for your dog, lightweight and sturdy, and doesn't restrict movement or cause pressure on the belly. Among the more highly rated brands are Ruffwear, Kurgo Surf N Turf Live Vest and Outward Hound.
Before your first trip to the lake, you might want to give Osgood a chance to get used to wearing the life jacket. You could put it on him in the evening, let him walk around in it or eat his dinner. When you first put it on him, keep the straps a little loose. Give him a treat and praise him. Next time, tighten the straps as you would if he were wearing it at the lake. He probably won't mind wearing the vest but make it a positive experience.
Since you don't know if he's the kind of dog that enjoys swimming, you can test the waters at home. Pets.webmd.com suggests buying a small plastic child's pool and filling it with a few inches of water. Toss a floatable toy into the pool. If he goes in to retrieve it, he'll likely have no trouble with the water. If he seems uncertain, encourage him to step in by leading him with a treat or the toy. Don't force the issue. Try to avoid lifting him into the pool because he needs to learn to enter and exit on his own.
At the lake, introduce him to the water in a quiet, shallow area. Keep him on a leash while he learns. He might want to go right in. If so, just go with him and stay as long as he enjoys it. When he begins paddling with his front legs, praise him. Build his confidence. If he doesn't do it on his own, you could lift his hind legs and let him know that he can float.
Remember to always be confident and encouraging and you'll both enjoy your time in the water.
Family on 06/21/2017