Splash Safety: Essential Water Safety Tips for Your Dog
When the sun is shining and temperatures rise, many of us head to the beach, pool, lake, or river to cool off and naturally, our dogs are often right beside us. While water play can be a fantastic way for your pup to exercise and have fun, it’s important to remember that not every dog is born a swimmer, and even confident canines can encounter unexpected dangers.
Before you dive in, here are some water safety tips to help keep your four-legged friend happy and protected around water this season.
Know your dogs swimming ability
Just like humans dogs vary in their swimming skills. Some breeds are better swimmers than others.
Dog breeds that may not be as strong swimmers:
- Breeds with short snouts that often struggle with breathing (like Bulldogs or Pugs)
- Heavy muscled or dense bodied breeds (like Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Basset Hounds) these breeds tend to sink more easily due to their heavy frames
- Short-legged breeds (like Dachshunds or Corgis), find it harder to paddle efficiently and can tire quickly
- Toy Breeds (like Yorkshire Terriers or Chihuahuas) may get cold quicky or become overwhelmed by waves and currents
Smith’s Tip: We recommend that all dogs, (even strong swimmers) should wear a canine fitted life jacket with a handle on top so you can guide or lift your dog if needed when swimming in open water.
Beach Safety
Beach days are a blast, but salty seawater and hot sand can cause trouble.
How to keep your dog safe:
- Bring fresh water – prevents salt water drinking which can cause an upset tummy and dehydration.
- Protect their paws – Hot sand can burn paw pads, always test sand with your hands first or visit the beach at cooler parts of the day
- Watch for hazards – things like broken glass, sharp shells and fish hooks can be found on beaches, make sure to supervise what your dog sniff, licks and chews.
- Protect against sunburn and heat – It can get really hot at the beach, it is important you protect your dog from sunburn and Heat Stroke by providing shade, applying pet safe suncream and taking breaks to ensure your dog cools down
Lake and river safety:
Freshwater spots like lakes and rivers can seem safer than the ocean, but they often hide risks beneath their calm surfaces. Knowing what to watch for helps keep your dog’s adventure both safe and fun.
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Be aware of strong currents – Even slow-looking rivers can have powerful undercurrents. Keep your dog on a long-line lead and use a well-fitted life jacket with a handle for extra control
- Avoid algae covered water – Blue-green algae found in warm, stagnant ponds or lakes can be highly toxic if licked or swallowed. Skip water that looks green, foamy, or very dirty.
- Watch for hidden hazards under the surface – Submerged rocks, branches, and fishing hooks can cause injuries. Choose clear, shallow areas for safer splashing.
- Bring clean drinking water – Prevents your dog from gulping untreated river or lake water that may carry parasites like giardia or bacteria like leptospirosis.
- Pick safe entry points – Muddy or steep banks can make it hard for dogs to climb out. Always check access areas before letting your dog in.
Smith’s Tip: When in doubt, keep your dog out. Not every water source is safe to splash in. Your dog depends on you to decide when it’s time to dive in or move on if it does not look safe.
Pack a canine safety kit:
Don’t leave home without:
- A collapsible water bowl
- Fresh water supply
- Towel
- Doggy suncream
- A canine fitted life jacket with a handle
- Treats (great for recall in busy areas)
- Doggy first-aid basics
Visit Smith’s for summer safety essentials and tips
With a little preparation and the right precautions, water adventures can be safe, fun, and unforgettable for you and your dog. Whether you’re heading to the beach, pool, lake, or river, staying informed is the best way to protect your furry friend. For more summer safety tips and pet care advice, pop in and see us at Smith’s Pets and don’t forget to follow our social media so you don’t miss our unmissable offers, seasonal fun, and exciting activities for both kids and pets this summer!