Author: Amy Carotenuto, the Executive Director of Flagler Humane Society

My dogs decided that it’s summer. Last weekend, they all hit the pool, enjoying every minute, long before the pool was warm enough for us. So why do some dogs love swimming and some avoid it at all costs?

Some of it has to do with breed. Some breeds, like labs, were bred to work in and around water, so they have webbed toes to help them swim. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have oily coats that help repel water. Newfoundlands have a strong chest and shoulders, perfect for swimming. Despite their modern reputation as a fancy show dog, standard poodles are natural swimmers, originally bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters.

On the other hand, some breeds might be less likely to love the water. They might be breeds with flat faces (called brachycephalic), which makes it more difficult to breathe while swimming, such as English bulldogs, pugs, boxers, and French bulldogs. They might be breeds with super short legs, like basset hounds or dachshunds, that struggle to paddle well enough to stay afloat.

Beyond breed, a dog’s past experience may influence whether or not they enjoy a day at the pool. Has the dog slipped and fallen into a cold pool with no one around to scoop them out right away? Has the dog been introduced to water via the ocean and been hit with big, scary waves? Is the only water experience a bath? Nobody likes baths, partly because dogs are restrained during them; it’s never a choice, often with water sprayed in their faces.

Or have their water experiences been positive? A slow introduction, maybe even with a doggie life vest, or being held by a trusted family member? Perhaps your dog learned from other dogs in the family, watching them play and have doggie parties in the water.

A dog’s personality will make a difference, too. Dogs that are naturally adventurous, confident, and playful are much more likely to enjoy water sports than shy or easily stressed dogs. My dogs jump in from all sides of the pool, over and over and over… all six of them. By the time they’re tired out, we have to add water to the pool.

Pool time can be more than just fun. Swimming is great for their joints. It’s an exercise that doesn’t put stress on the hips or knees. Swimming supports cardiovascular health, promotes muscle strength, eases arthritis, and helps heal injuries. It’s unofficial hydrotherapy.

So enjoy summer with your pets. Watch them closely to make sure everyone stays safe, then swim, play, and have a blast!