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When we go to the lake my dachshund desperately wants to get in the water, but I'm not sure if he can actually swim well enough to be safe. The kids and I go in with him (where we can all stand) and he paddles around but he reminds me of a three year old kid swimming in that he always looks like he is just a minute or two from drowning. His nose is pointed up but most of his body is under water and he does an occasional barrell roll.
So far we have never let him in the water without us right by his side, but I worry that he might accidently fall off the dock and not be able to swim. My husband says that any dog that willingly wants to go in to the water is confident that he can swim. Is that true?
Some dogs are top heavy (bulldogs etc), would keep a very close eye on your dachsie and for safety's sake, get a doggie swim vest for him. Also every year some fall into pools and can't get out.
My dog loves the water, but has that same problem.. (I think she is too heavy). She does go in the water all the time, but will not jump in unless she sees us. I think she knows we'll help her. I did buy her a life jacket.. too funny.. she really hates it.
All dogs swim naturally, it's a survival instinct. If dog falls into the water, it will swim! Same with cats.
Dogs however, can be afraid of the water and not go in because of the fear. You can sure encourage them to go in. As pups, they will need proper introduction to the water, just like children do.
I had a Scotty we went to the beach and it was hot-she was put in the water
and yes could do the dog swim, and hated the water. she when to the nearest person
and the look was do not make me swim. I never ever did.
I'll never forget the day my current dog decided to try swimming. We were walking on a beach and there was another owner with a lab who was throwing sticks and stuff for the lab to retrieve. So, I threw one in.. He went running in after it.
All of the sudden, he realized that his feet weren't on the ground and he looked at me and started sinking for a second.. (I had a moment of terror) ... and, then he figured it out.
Now, he loves to retrieve - as long as it's close to shore!
As far as your dashaund goes, I think he needs a life jacket, too! Their little bodies are too long and their legs are too short. I just don't think they're engineered for swimming!
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