The importance of physical activity for active dog breeds can’t be overstated. Walking and running are both great exercise for high-energy dogs (especially working dog breeds,) but swimming provides unique benefits for your dog. Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout for the active dog of any age, even senior dogs! There are certain dog breeds that take to the water much more naturally than other breeds, even earning them the phrase “water dogs” due to their genetic history. Even if your dog isn’t a Labrador Retriever or a Portuguese Water Dog, swimming offers health benefits that contribute to a balanced lifestyle for the active dog. Please keep in mind that even if your dog is a natural swimmer, it’s important to closely supervise your dog anytime they’re in the water. Getting them a life vest is always a good idea, even if they’re swimming in a pool!
1. It’s a Full-Body Workout That Builds Muscle!
More than half of dogs in the US are overweight, according to the American Kennel Club. I’ll never forget when I took my Labrador Retriever, Tucker, to the vet for a routine checkup. I was proud of the way I cared for Tucker, feeding him the best diet I could get my hands on, and taking him for multiple daily walks. But to my surprise, the vet told me he was overweight. Not only did his diet need to be adjusted, but he had to build more muscle and lose some fat. The veterinarian suggested one activity that could help him accomplish that: swimming! Swimming engages almost every muscle group in a dog’s body, building strength and stamina. With each stroke, swimming engages both the upper and lower body. This helps your dog pack on that muscle, giving them muscle tone, which not only looks good, but will help your active dog feel their absolute best.
2. Joint Pain? Swimming is Low-Impact!
Swimming is gentle on your dog’s joints, which makes it ideal for dogs with joint issues like arthritis, or dog breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia. If you own a German Shepherd or Golden Retriever, then you probably know what I’m talking about. When certain dog breeds get to be older, they pose a risk of hip problems that cause them a lot of pain. For dogs with severe joint pain, specialists even prescribe hydrotherapy for them using underwater treadmills or special hydrotherapy pools. (Pro tip: Warm water is ideal for dogs to swim in, as it will help relax stiffness and enhance circulation.) Even though hydrotherapy is surprisingly cost-effective, if you have access to a pool or body of water, your dog will still be able to experience the benefits of swimming. Consistent time in the water can help your dog maintain joint mobility, flexibility, and overall comfort.
3. Swimming Promotes Cardiovascular and Lung Health for Your Dog
Swimming is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can strengthen your dog’s heart and improve their circulation. (If your dog suffers from any type of heart condition, please consult your veterinarian before introducing them to any new exercise activity, including swimming.) And your dog’s heart health is closely related to their life expectancy! If that isn’t a good enough reason to allow your pup to jump into the pool, swimming can also improve your dog’s lung capacity. Having a good lung capacity will affect your dog’s respiratory health and overall physical performance, so you can see why this would be especially important for working dog breeds. Dogs who help their owners hunt, fish, or herd will be able to do their jobs with greater ease and enjoyment if their heart and lungs are in tip-top shape.
4. Mental Stimulation and Stress Relief
You know how stressed out us humans can get? Your dog can probably relate! Generally speaking, the more energy a dog has, the more stressed out it can get! The best ways to de-stress your energetic dog is through physical activity and metal stimulation. Swimming provides dogs with both. Tucker used to get himself into a lot of trouble because he had so much pent-up energy, which caused him to be bored, which caused him to chew things like shoes and remote controls. (Thank goodness he didn’t have a habit of trying to swallow the pieces he’d rip off!) After we incorporated swimming into his routine, trouble just doesn’t seem to find him as often. He’s simply too mentally and physically exerted after a nice swim to have interest in chewing random objects. There’s nothing more satisfying to an owner of a hyperactive dog breed than seeing your beloved good boy or girl sleeping peacefully after a fun and eventful day!
5. Ideal For Hot Weather Exercise
You know those scorching hot days during the summer when it simply isn’t safe to take your dog on a walk? Even if it isn’t 100 degrees outside, certain dog breeds just don’t do well in even moderately warm weather. Siberian huskies, German Shepherds, and other dog breeds that thrive in colder climates can get uncomfortably hot on long walks in the sun. Swimming helps cool them down while still providing an outlet for their energy. The water helps regulate body temperature, so your dog doesn’t have to be cooped up inside all summer!
Time For a Swim!
Veterinarians, dog behaviorists, and trainers alike attest to the vast health benefits of incorporating swimming into your dog’s routine for a happy, fit dog. Swimming is a full body, low-impact activity that your dog can enjoy even in hot weather. Make sure to consult your vet before beginning a new exercise routine for your dog, as well as introducing your dog to swimming gradually, always supervising them while in the water. If your dog will be swimming in your pool, here’s a heavy duty pool net that seamlessly removes pet hair from water according to thousands of dog owners!
Happy splashing!
