Go Dog Training

Teaching Dogs to "Swim"

Not All Dogs Like Water...

And, not all dogs CAN swim!

But, waders can have fun too!

Tips for Hydrophobic (behaviorally, not clinically) Dogs

If you want your dog to like or love something, you must find a way for them to associate that thing with good things.  If they are too nervous, scared or shy to try the thing you want them to like then you have to start really slow.  

Starting slow means:

REWARD (toys & treats work the fastest) any and all interest in the activity or item.  This can mean praising and treating the dog for looking at the pool of water, moving towards it or sniffing the edge.

REPEAT the same exercise over and over again in SHORT intervals.  Try starting with 5-minutes at a time, then leave and go do something else for 10-15 minutes.  Try 3 or 4 short sessions once or twice a day.

JACKPOT your dog with a huge surprise of yummy treats of an extra special version of a toy (squeaky tennis ball vs. regular ball) for any extra brave attempts or sudden bursts of enthusiasm.

OBSERVE & IMPROVE on the required level of interest only when your dog is clearly ready to move onto the next level.  If they aren't consistently sniff putting one paw on the edge they are NOT ready for putting one paw IN the water.  Wait and keep rewarding just one paw on the edge.  

***Fatal Errors***

Forcing a dog to do something and hoping they will figure out it isn't so bad.

Forcing a dog to do something and then letting them ESCAPE and giving them semi-interesting rewards/good stuff.

Trying to sooth a dog with words and kind petting while they are freaking out.

Forcing a dog to stay in water once they decide to go it = punishment for trying (let them escape so they can do it again).

Filling the pool with a big scary hose while the dog is learning.

Doing swim/play in the bath area.

DO...

Let your dog escape once they go in.

Let your dog decide they are done for the day.

Try using toys/food as a bribe to get in, BUT be sure to REWARD (more treats/play) AFTER the dog gets in even if they pop out.

Use really, really tasty treats or your dog favorite toy.

Start with a shallow pool and clear water with no waves or spray.