The Summer season is here and you’re wanting to train your Miniature Schnauzer Puppy to Swim. Oh what fun can be had with a puppy’s first encounter with a swimming pool, pond or perhaps a lake. Whatever your puppy will swim in it will be interesting to see how he takes to the water.
Some dogs love the water from the start. Others have to be encouraged to dip their paws into what they see as strange stuff moving in front of them. Then there are dogs that will not have anything to do with entering water, other than their usual bath tub!
Training Your Miniature Schnauzer Puppy to Swim May Need Patience
A small swimming pool is ideal for introducing a puppy to the water. If your puppy is happy to jump in the water right from the start, then you are very fortunate.
It is more likely you will need to introduce puppy to the water by sitting at the side of the pool and gently splashing some water on his feet.
Ideally, if you can get in the pool that may encourage puppy to test the water. You could hold puppy in your arms and gently show him how much fun the water is, but just take it slowly. If a puppy gets a fright at the start, it is more than likely he will never be a swimmer.
Most Importantly
Do not force your Miniature Schnauzer puppy, or any other breed of puppy, to enter the water. If your puppy is going to be a swimmer, he will do it in his own time. Never force him into the water or that will be end of it. He will never swim if he is forced.
Playing in the Water with Other Dogs
An opportunity to take your puppy swimming with others dogs, preferably that you know, is a good way to introduce puppy to the water. When puppy sees the other dogs having fun he could want to join in and be part of the fun.
I thought you might enjoy this video!
Your Puppy Building Confidence
Whatever way you approach training your Miniature Schnauzer puppy to swim he will need to build his confidence. Just give him the time he needs to get the feel of water. Your puppy might not take to the water immediately. Several trips to the swimming area may be necessary before a puppy is confident enough to get in the water and start swimming.
Life Jackets for Dogs
Life Jackets are available for dogs as can be seen in the picture at the top of this page, as well as the image below. There is a wide range of Life Jackets to choose from in varying styles, colours and sizes to suit individual dogs. If your puppy appears nervous swimming, a Life Jacket may be of help.
Also if you intend taking your dog on a boat excursion, even for a short spin on the harbour, it is essential that he/she wears a Life Jacket.
This image shows one popular style currently available from Amazon. There are many other styles available and although some may not look as cute as this one, they each have different features. Clicking on the image will take you to Amazon. Also, you may find Customer Reviews helpful.
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Puppy Swimming in Public Areas
In many locations, dogs are not allowed on public beaches and around lakes where there is a vast population. Usually, though, there are times when dogs are allowed on a beach or around lake areas.
Please never let your dog or puppy, however confident he may be, loose in the water on his own. There is nothing more fearful than seeing a dog swim out into the deep water, with no-one nearby.
I feel sure you wouldn’t do that, but I have seen it happen and it is frightening. Whatever the strength of the dog, they could get way of their depth. Not a good thought!