The question of how to teach a dog to swim can rather be asked in another way: how to rid it of hydrophobia. In fact, all dogs know how to swim from birth, this ability awakens in them instinctively. One has only to release the dog into the water, as it will immediately orient itself and instantly swim to the safest place - to the shore or into the hands of the owner. If your dog doesn't want to get into the water, then you can only try to rid him of his fear of water.
Instructions
Step 1
The love of swimming does not always depend on what breed your dog is, sometimes it is a character trait inherent only to her. Almost all hunting dogs gladly climb into the water, especially those who take part in bird hunting. Burrowing dogs, especially dachshunds, are also great swimmers. Shepherd dogs, Central Asian and Caucasian shepherds are not very fond of water. However, there are always exceptions. If your dog is afraid of water, and you want to relieve him of this fear, treat the process as training and education.
Step 2
In no case do not act according to the principle: "He wants to live - he will come out", pushing the dog into the water at a depth. You can be sure that she will easily reach the shore, but it is unlikely that after such a "bathing" she will fall in love with water more. Moreover, with this you can finally scare the animal, and such violent swims will always turn into real stress for him. The dog will perceive this as a punishment, but will not understand why.
Step 3
If your dog is still a puppy, then you can use his instinctive urge to learn and repeat the actions of the older member of the pack. A good reason to overcome hydrophobia is a game in the heat of which many dogs are so forgotten that they rush into the water after an abandoned toy or stick. At first, just walk along the water with your dog. She must get comfortable, understand that there is no danger. Let the puppy go into the water and drink it.
Step 4
After a while, get down to practical exercises. Holding the dog by the leash, but without dragging it, go together on a gentle, shallow place, move in the water along the coast. If your pet rests, take it in your arms, hold it, slightly dipping it into the water, hold it without hindering the dog's movements.
Step 5
Play with your dog by the water and take your favorite toy with you. Throw it first near the shore, then further away. Remember to give your dog something tasty when he gets the toy out of the water and brings it to you. Gradually, your patience will be rewarded and the dog will get used to the water, will start swimming with pleasure, especially in hot weather.
