Newfoundland Training: Teaching Your Dog How To Swim

Many stories have been told about a Newfoundland saving a person from the water. Even those without professional Newfoundland training in water rescue or swimming have showed heroic deeds to help those who are in need. This is made possible given that this breed likes to swim and is known to lay in water if opportunity allows. Having a Newfoundland that cannot frolic in the water or with no love for water is definitely unusual however if you are one of those who wasn't able to bring home a swimmer and life-saver, you don't have to feel bad over it since there is always a way in which you can teach your four-legged to swim.

To train your dog how to swim, the first thing is to procure the gear your pet must have – canine life jacket with d rings if possible and leash that can be linked to d rings. With life jacket, mastering how to swim can be easier due to the buoyancy the jacket provides. On top of that, life jacket can make it easy for you to manage and lift a alarmed dog out of the water thus keeping it safe. The leash on the other hand permits your dog to swim a greater distance from you yet stays safe. Once you have procured the needed stuff, it's crucial that you get your pet used to donning a life jacket. It's vital to help make your furry friend at ease with the life jacket first prior to taking him in the water.

Next is to be in the water with your dog. Being near you in the pool or lake can raise the confidence especially if it is scared to venture out in the water by itself. Encourage it to feel confident while being there by saying encouraging words and praise in addition to giving of treats. This will also help your pet associate the activity with fun and something desirable thus will anticipate the next swimming session.

Similar with other Newfoundland training activities, swimming need not last for hours. Make the first few sessions short not to prevent boredom but to restore strength and body heat. The training session can be lengthened gradually as your dog increases strength and endurance.

Training a Newfoundland how to swim isn't meant to be a challenging task. With this breed's webbed feet and water-resistance coat along with their calm and docile disposition and strength, surely it will not take months for these gentle giants to master an activity what their breed is famous for – swimming and saving lives.