How to get a scared dog into the pool

In this video we show you how to get a scared dog into the pool.  When doing this, make sure you have a lot of patience.  Remain calm, but confident.  We are going to pull on the leash just enough to get the dog moving toward the pool.  The steps are like the edge of a cliff to the dog, so we need to show them that it is safe.  Take your time and lure the dog into the pool by pulling on the leash.  If you have a shallow end, as we do in this pool, stay in the shallow end for a bit to get the dog used to the idea of just being in water.  Be sure to not allow the dog to bolt out of the pool.  Exit the pool in a calm manner.  Enter and exit the pool several times to get the dog comfortable with it.  Once the dog is doing this well, move onto actually swimming.  You will again need to use the leash to gently pull your dog into the pool and get them swimming.  Once the dog is in the deep water, one helpful thing you can do is hold the dog along the sides and allow them to get a good swimming rhythm going before releasing them onto the steps.  Keep repeating this training until your dog becomes more and more comfortable.  Eventually the dog will no longer fear the steps or the edge of the pool.  Some dogs are more naturally inclined to want to swim and some are not.  If you have a breed of dog that has a pushed in face or has a more solid body mass (such as a Bulldog), adding a lifejacket can be very helpful.  If your dog is into a toy, you can use that to help coax them into the pool as well.  Remember to be patient and have fun.  Once your dog starts to get more comfortable and calm down, you can add treats to help make it a positive experience.


Other helpful blog articles:

Teaching your dog to Swim in the Pool
Ocean Swimming:  Step One
Ocean Swimming:  Step Two
How to get a scared or timid dog moving on leash

VIDEO: Teaching your dog to swim in the ocean: Step Two

Here is the video for Step Two of teaching your dog to swim in the ocean.  Keep in mind that these videos do go together for training.  Teaching your dog to swim in the ocean Step One should be one day of training.  Step 2 should be done over several training sessions, while also mixing in Step One when your dog is feeling relaxed.

Always remember to stay calm during any training, especially when the training involves something new and intimidating, such as ocean waves.  Take training slowly...ease your dog into new things.  You should never rush a dog that is obviously nervous or afraid.  Don't feel bad if it takes more time than you think it should.  If you do not rush your dog, you will have him loving the beach in no time. Also remember that it's important for the dog to witness you (and if possible other dogs) having fun at the beach.  This tells the dog that this is a fun place to be.  Encourage your dog with praise when they are calm and/or relaxed.

See Step One of Teaching your dog to Swim here.

We hope you enjoy the video...

VIDEO: How to teach a dog to swim in the ocean: Step One

Here is the new video on "How to teach your dog to start swimming in the ocean."

For dogs who are new to the ocean, or are seeing it for the first time, the waves of the ocean are the really scary part.  To get a dog comfortable with swimming in the ocean, you must teach them how the ocean waves work.  Doing this helps the dog understand what the ocean does and what might happen and therefore gets them more comfortable with swimming in the waves.

See Also Step Two of Teaching your dog to Swim.

Video: How to teach a dog to swim in the ocean.

We finally reached our last Parvovirus shot for our 4-month-old puppy DEVO.  Once your pup has all their Parvo shots, you are finally able to take them anywhere, including the beach.  We have been patiently waiting for 3 weeks (since we first adopted him) to take him to the beach.  I'm very happy to say that today was finally the day.

Below is a video I did of DEVO's first swim.  The video gives some quick instructions on how to help teach your dog to swim in the ocean.  I hope you enjoy it.

Check out Such Good Dogs YouTube Page!