Why won't my dog swim?

Can all dogs swim?

First of all, unlike humans, dogs don’t need to be taught to swim. They all have an inbuilt instinct and will be able to make the right swimming movements. However due to their differing shapes and size – and conformation – this doesn’t mean that all dogs are good swimmers!

Dogs with very short legs, such as Dachshunds and Corgis, will struggle to move through the water, while flat-faced dogs like Pugs and French Bulldogs have to tilt their faces up to keep water out of their nostrils, which puts their bodies at an angle that makes them sink.

Others, just like humans, might be able to swim but just don’t want to.

Why won’t my dog swim?

First of all, consider what job your dog’s breed was originally designed to do. If this includes water retrieval – such as Labradors – then they are likely to be enthusiastic swimmers. Most of the gundog breeds, even if not actual water retrievers, will still be expected to plunge through lakes, streams and rivers, and so they are also often water babies.

If, however, your dog was bred to be a pampered lap dog, or an elegant sight hound, the idea of splashing around in muddy water is going to be a total anathema. And guess what? That is totally fine! It is natural behaviour for them and you shouldn’t try to change them – and you might find yourself being totally smug when your dog avoids all the muddy puddles rather than jumping gleefully into them!.

Some dogs can learn to enjoy water – but might lack confidence or have had a bad experience. For them, gentle slow introductions can have them splashing around in no time.

How can I help my dog to enjoy swimming?

The first thing to ask is do I really want my dog to swim? And will it benefit my dog to swim? Unlike children who need to be taught to swim so that if they fall in water, they are less likely to drown, a dog who falls in water will be able to swim.

Sometimes people encourage their dogs to swim – and then find that they have to keep them on the lead around lakes (especially in the summer when there is blue-green algae around), drag them out of every muddy puddle, and spend a lot of the time washing and drying wet muddy dogs!

However, having a dog who enjoys a paddle is always great – especially in hot weather.

There are lots of ways to encourage your dog to feel more confident in the water.

A great way to start is with a pet pool or child’s paddling pool. You can make this a fun experience for your dog by filling it with just a couple of inches of warm water, having some favourite toys (and a few treats!) to hand. You can encourage your dog to go in and out at will – maybe to chase a toy – or just to explore in their own time. This will start introducing them to the joys of water – and you can get a good idea if they are going to want to take this new experience further.

If you live by the sea side, just walking along the sea edge on calm days – maybe with a water-loving canine friend – can encourage them to have a paddle or explore rock pools.

If you discover your dog has a passion for water, you can consider taking it further.

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a canine hydrotherapy pool, this can provide a safe way for your dog to learn to swim with floatation aids and with qualified staff who are used to teaching dogs to swim. Some pools will even let you swim with your dog (but consider wearing a wet suit as getting caught by your dog’s claws when they are swimming will hurt and can cause injury).

If you decide to venture to open water, a calm shallow lake or stream will be less daunting than rough water and large waves. Do watch out for blue-green algae however as that is toxic and highly poisonous to dogs.

Wherever you swim, choose an area that will be easy for your dog to get in and out of. This applies if you have your own swimming pool too. Make sure there is a ramp – especially if your dog is ever able to access it on their own.

Have fun and never try to push your dog past what they are happy to do themselves. If your dog can see you having fun in and around the water, this will make them more likely to join in.

A water-loving dog friend can work wonders to show your more reluctant dog what a great place the water can be.

If you swim in a pool – whether a human swimming pool or a canine hydrotherapy pool, always wash your dog with doggie shampoo afterwards to remove any chemicals there may be in the water to keep it clean and disinfected.

Just as you would with anything new for your dog, take it at their pace with plenty of positive reinforcement and praise – if they aren’t ready to get in the water, never force them.

And if they don’t want to swim… well that’s absolutely fine! Every dog is an individual and for every dog who loves there water, there is one who hates it!

The most important thing is that your dog has fun – and who knows... with a bit of encouragement and patience, your dog might well come to love swimming!

Dog life jackets

If you’re heading to open water with your dog, especially one who’s not the most confident swimmer, a dog life jacket can be a good investment. Whether you’re paddleboarding, sailing, or just trying to build your dog’s confidence in the water, a well-fitted dog life vest adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

Are dog life jackets a good idea?

Yes, absolutely – although supervision is still essential. 
As mentioned, even though most dogs can instinctively swim, that doesn’t mean they’re all strong or enthusiastic swimmers. Meanwhile, some breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, or Dachshunds, have a body shape that makes staying afloat more difficult – Frenchies in particular are known to be poor swimmers. Others may get tired more quickly, panic in the water, or struggle with mobility. For these dogs, a canine life jacket can help prevent accidents and make time in the water less stressful for everyone.

Life jackets for dogs aren’t just for poor swimmers either. They’re also useful in emergencies or open water where conditions may be unpredictable.

Should you put a life jacket on a dog?

If your dog’s swimming in a pool under close supervision and is a confident swimmer, a life jacket might not be essential. But if you're out on the sea in a boat, swimming in rivers, lakes, or anywhere where there’s a current or it’s deep, it’s a good precaution - even for strong swimmers.

Small dogs can particularly benefit from a small dog life jacket designed to keep them buoyant without restricting their movement. Older dogs or those recovering from surgery can also gain confidence with a dog swim vest, as it helps them stay afloat while they rebuild their strength.

Also, if your dog’s new to swimming, a life jacket can offer reassurance as they learn at their own pace.

What is the safest life jacket for a dog?

The best dog life jacket will depend on things like your dog’s size, shape, and activity level. A few key features to look for include:

•    Bright colour or reflective strips – to help you spot your dog in the water easily.
•    Strong handle on the back – essential for lifting your dog out of the water if needed.
•    Secure fastenings around the neck and belly – to keep the jacket snug without rubbing.
•    Buoyancy panels - that help your dog stay balanced and supported in the water.
•    Adjustable straps – for a tailored fit, especially important for deep-chested breeds like Frenchies.

If you have a brachycephalic breed such as a Frenchie, look specifically for a French Bulldog life jacket or French Bulldog life vest. These are designed to support their build and help keep their head above water, reducing the effort they need to make while swimming. You could even get a dog shark life jacket featuring a fin on the back - fun and safe! 

How to choose a dog life jacket

To ensure your dog’s safe and comfortable, always measure them carefully and follow the manufacturer’s size guidelines. A jacket that’s too loose might slip off, while one that’s too tight can be uncomfortable or restrict their movement. First, try the jacket on them at home, letting your dog walk around and get used to the feel, while you practice putting it on and taking it off.

Let your dog wear the life jacket for short sessions to begin with (ideally during play or treat time) so they associate it with positive experiences. Once they’re comfortable in the vest on dry land, you can gradually introduce them to shallow water.

Just keep an eye on any signs of rubbing or chafing, especially around the straps, and adjust if needed. 

What is an alternative to a dog life jacket?

For dogs who are reluctant to wear a life jacket, swimming alongside them in shallow water, playing with floating toys, or sticking to gentle splashing in ankle-deep water may still allow them to enjoy water in their own way.