Dogs are born with strong natural instincts, including barking, digging and being totally lovable to humans. Some people also think that swimming is a skill that all dogs naturally have. Why would they call it the ‘doggie paddle’ unless it was something all canines could do? But swimming isn’t necessarily an innate ability for dogs. Believe it or not, some dogs are uncomfortable in the water! Just because they paddle doesn’t mean they can stay afloat. It’s true that some pooches, such as water spaniels and retrievers, are natural swimmers. In fact, many are born knowing how to swim it’s their instinct! But others have to be taught, and still others simply can’t swim well. For example, dogs with heavy chests (such as bulldogs) sink in the water. Some dogs learn to swim by being rewarded with praise as they become more comfortable in the water, or by playing games such as fetch, which helps introduce them to deeper water little by little.
How do Dogs Learn to Swim?
